Perhaps most famous for ‘The Needles’ – the chalk rock stacks which rise strikingly out of the sea off the island’s western extremity – the Isle of Wight has actually been a popular holiday destination since Victorian times. Queen Victoria had a well-loved summer residence called Osborne House at East Cowes situated in the north, which contributed no doubt to the island’s rise in visitors and holiday makers during this historical period.

Beach lovers will be drawn by the 57 miles of coast and high sunshine hours, while keen walkers, cyclists and sailors will be spoiled for choice. The Isle of Wight’s maritime heritage is well known with the island hosting Cowes Week annually in August – the world’s largest sailing regatta of its kind.

Nature lovers too will be in their element as the island boasts a natural heritage rich in both wildlife and geological interest. A variety of rare British species thrive here – including the red squirrel, bats and butterflies – and the island also features as one of the most important European sites for dinosaur fossils, frequently uncovered from cliff erosion.

Spectacular scenery, beaches, holiday resorts, castles, museums, botanical gardens – the list goes on – there is something here for everyone.

Carpenters Farm Campsite

Carpenters Road, St. Helens, Ryde, PO33 1YN

www.carpentersfarm.co.uk

If you are looking for a slice of traditional family camping with the convenience and comforts of modern facilities you are going to love the 16 acre camp site of Carpenters Farm located on the eastern side of the island. The camping here is uncrowded and natural with red squirrels frequently seen around the site.

The village of St Helens is just ½ a mile away where you can complete your English idyll picture by watching the cricketers play in the summer evenings on the village green. The nearest beach of St Helens Duver is within walking distance and there are several more beaches close by.
Horse riding, sailing and a whole range of activities from coasteering to surfing and ocean fishing to kayaking are offered in the area and a host of restaurants, pubs and cafes, which cater for all budget types, are on your doorstep.

Facilities: Electric hook-up, shower and toilet block, laundry room, Wi-Fi access, dedicated mobile and laptop charging points, disabled facilities, children’s playground, dogs welcome

Open: All year

Cost: Prices per night – from £6.50 per adult, children 0-4 £1/ 5-12 £2.50/ 13-16 £3.50, dogs £1

Stoats Farm

Weston Lane, Totland Bay, Isle of Wight, PO39 0HE

www.stoats-farm.co.uk

Many caravanners and motor-homers understandably place ‘want a good view’ high on their priority list and you will get that here in spades. With a coveted entry into ‘The Guardian’ newspaper’s 10 best views camp sites list, your nestled valley position with sweeping Tennyson Downs vistas ensure you wake each morning with something to feast your eyes on.

A short walk will bring you to some more stunning scenery, this time of the coastal variety with plunging cliffs and ocean views.

There is a pub next door and 5 beaches all within close proximity to Stoats Farm which comes with its very own centuries old farmhouse and romantically ramshackle outbuildings.

However you are looking to fill your time Stoats Farm offers a great base for those interested in walking, cycling, bird watching, pleasure boat trips, plain and simple beach lazing or for those who want to visit a range of other island attractions and sights.

Facilities: Toilets and showers, electric hook-up, washing up areas, laundry service, barbeque area, disabled facilities, on-site shop, tourist information and literature, dogs allowed, dog exercise area

Open: 1 April to 31 October

Cost: From £16 per night per pitch for 2 persons. Extra persons and children over 4 – £3, electric hook up £6

Grange Farm

Grange Chine, Brighstone Bay, PO30 4DA

www.grangefarmholidays.com

There are no fancy frills here. This beautiful south-west coast site, located on a family run working farm, is deliberately undeveloped offering a simple, back to nature camping experience with the bonus of site facility conveniences.

Its trump card is its location – a field which runs all the way to the cliff edge with ocean views and plenty of fresh sea air. A short 100 metre stroll down the coast path will bring you to the sandy beach of Brighstone Bay where you can hunt for fossils and dinosaur remains.

Kids are allowed contact with the animals which feature your usual farm variety of pigs, goats and chickens but there are also a few unusual inclusions such as llamas and water buffalo too.

Although you may feel rather removed from civilisation here, the village of Brighstone is just ¾ mile away offering pubs, tea-rooms and shops, so you can have the best of both worlds.

Facilities: Shower and toilet block (including coin-op bath), launderette, dish-washing sinks, electric hook up, hard standing, dogs allowed, children’s play area, small shop

Open: March to November

Cost: From £13.50 per pitch for 2 adults, electric hook up pitches from £17 for 2 adults, child 4-13 £2.50

Ninham Country Holidays

Ninham, Shanklin, PO37 7PL

www.ninham-holidays.co.uk

This family run and owned park offers a great in-between choice for those who like a few facilities but don’t want all the hustle and bustle of a busy commercial holiday park.

You are located in a quiet valley surrounded by bluebell woods – the natural setting of which attracts badgers, red squirrels and plenty of birds – making serenity and relaxation the easy order of the day. However, you are close to Shanklin’s holiday resort facilities and beaches should you want a change of pace.

There are plenty of adventure and outdoor activities on offer in the area, some of which you can get a discount with as Ninham Country Holiday guests. Some are right on your doorstep – such as the try scuba diving opportunity in the park’s outdoor heated swimming pool.
This park gives you a little bit of everything – chilling or fun stuff – you decide.

Facilities: Electric hook-up, laundry, dish-washing facilities, toilet and shower blocks, outdoor swimming pool, course fishing, games room, Wi-Fi, pets welcome, choice of 2 areas one of which is families and couples only

Open: 22 April to 1 October

Cost: From £11.50 per night for 2 adults

Village Way Caravan and Camping

Village Way, Newprot Road, Sandown, PO36 9PJ

www.villagewaypark.co.uk

A quaint family run three star site that enjoys fantastic views of Brading Down and Culver Cliff. The beautiful countryside, picturesque walks and lure of the sandy beaches just a short skip away in Sandown and Shanklin makes Village Way ideal for all types of getaway.

Village Way is the perfect base to explore the rest of the Isle of Wight and boasts fantastic facilities for campers, touring caravans and RV camper vans. There’s a supermarket less than half a mile away meaning you can stock up on those necessary provisions or head into town and explore the many restaurants, eateries and pubs that you’ll discover.

If you’re the outdoors or active type then Village Way is the perfect spot for indulging in your hobby. Walking/rambling, biking and watersports are all possible in this area of the island.

Facilities: Modern toilet/shower block, laundry room, dish washing area, electrical hook-ups, chemical and RV disposal points.

Open: Open all year but best to contact for availability

Cost: Call for prices

Heading to this area of Cumbria with your camping gear or caravan in tow is a fantastic way to experience the fells and escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Here are our top 5 suggestions on offer in the Lake District for your camping and caravan pitch needs.

Park Foot

Howtown Road, Pooley Bridge, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2NA, 017684 86309

www.parkfootullswater.co.uk

There are two fields available within the Park Foot camping and touring site. The first is located just below the shop and has electrical hook ups, with the second situated underneath the club and is for tents and motor homes.

There’s also a camping field beside the lake (Ullswater) which is perfect when the heat is on during summer. This is where you’ll find toilets and showering facilities.

Park Foot is especially welcoming of families and couples – they unfortunately don’t allow single sex groups.

Facilities – Drinking taps are conveniently placed around the site, modern and clean showering and toilet facilities are available. Onsite shop. Electrical hook ups.

Open – March  to November

Cost – Prices start at £14 (includes tent, car and 2 adults), motor home (includes 2 adults), caravans (includes 2 adults, car, awning and electric).

Skye Farm Camping Ground

Buttermere Village, Buttermere, Cumbria, CA13 9X, 01768 770222

(image courtesy of The Guardian)

It’s nice to know there are still places in the world where you can completely get away from it all. Even in such busy tourist hubs as the Lake District, campsites like Skye Farm still exist – a minimalist place where you can totally unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Skye Farm has very basic amenities – no reception or shop – instead you’ll have to source your provisions from the farmhouse in the village, which are scant.

Having said that, sitting there taking stock of your stunning environment or idly listening to the babbling beck flow past while sucking on a locally made ice cream is pure self-indulgence.

Facilities – Minimal but sufficient.

Open – Unknown, give the site a call for opening times.

Cost – Adults £7 per night, children £3 per night. Cars are free.

Gillside Farm, Glenridding

Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0QQ, 01768 482346

www.gillsidecaravanandcampingsite.co.uk

Standing in the intimidating shadow of Helvellyn, Gillside Farm offers some of the best views across the Lakes – all from the comfort of your tent or caravan.

Local wildlife such as rabbits and sheep roam freely so don’t be too surprised to be roused from your slumbers by the early morning sound of a ewe snacking on grass outside your tent or ‘van.

The farmhouse is where you’ll be able to stock up on fresh milk and eggs or you can take a short walk down a track to a small hut that serves hearty English breakfasts. Chowing down on bacon and eggs with such picturesque views for company is the perfect start to your day.

Gillside Farm is low-key camping and caravanning at its finest.

Facilities – Minimal facilities, but there’s a farmhouse selling milk and eggs.

Open – Unknown, Give the site a call for opening times.

Cost – Pitches cost £1, plus adults £7.50, children £3.60 and vehicle £1 per night.

Park Cliffe

Birks Road, Windermere, Cumbria, LA23 3PG

www.parkcliffe.co.uk

Featuring 25 acres of picture postcard scenery, Park Cliffe has won numerous awards and nestles on the eastern shores of Windermere Lake.

A family owned site, the park is a tranquil and peaceful haven boasting fans such as TV botanist David Bellamy. He in fact presented Park Cliffe with the prestigious Golden Conservation Award for its continued environmental work.

The site offers a warm welcome to all kinds of camper – its modern facilities are enough to tempt even the most discerning of visitor.

For those looking towards different experiences then Park Cliffe offers the option of camping pods; quaint timber framed huts with a wraparound roof. If you fancy this then bring all your camping gear just not your tent.

Facilities – First rate facilities are available for campers including electrical hook ups and ample shower/toilet amenities.

Open – March – November

Cost – Low season – £26, high season – £31

Hawkshead Campsite

Hawkshead Hall Farm, Hawkshead, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0NN, 01539 436221

www.hawksheadhall-campsite.com

You’ll find the Hawkshead campsite extremely close to Windermere and Coniston, right in the heart of Beatrix Potter country – ideally placed for exploring the whole of the Lake District National Park.

With an unrivalled mix of historical and picturesque, Hawkshead is a scenic part of the Lakes that boasts a fabulous community spirit with fantastic pubs offering local ales and exquisite culinary delights.

The campsite boasts great washroom and toilet facilities with a separate utility room and a daily milk delivery!

Although there isn’t a kiddie’s play area on site, the village playground, football pitch and tennis court are a short stroll away.

Hawkshead is a working farm that allows dogs but insists they are tethered at all times to not spook livestock.

With plenty to see and do close by Hawkshead is great choice for those seeking the easily accessible.

Facilities – Great shower block with continuous hot water and plug sockets. Daily milk delivery. The farmhouse is available for mobile phone charging during the day.

Open – March – October

Cost – Tents, caravans and motor home pitch prices are £16.50 throughout low season and £17 during high. Electrical hook up pitches are £18 in low season and £20 in high season. Car £3, extra adult £2.50, child £1 and one person with small tent and no vehicle is £10.

Aires

‘Aires’ (the French word for areas or places) are incredibly varied in what they provide but all will offer at least a place to stop and camp overnight. Additionally, some may offer one or all of the following -

• fresh water
• electric hook-up
• grey waste disposal
• chemical toilet disposal point
• shower facilities

Much of the signage and instruction labelling at aires are done by pictures to make it more easily understood by non-French speakers. However, an English-French dictionary may come in handy for some translations.

Costs

Some of the aires are effectively free camping as they only charge if you wish to use the facilities.

Where their use attracts a fee this can usually be paid on site and most commonly by automated coin machines (costs vary considerably). In some cases you must purchase a ticket prior to parking up and camping which is usually obtained at local town council offices or tourist information centres.

Aire locations and how to find them

The location of aires is also highly variable. For example, some are spaced along auto-routes, some are on farms and some are a set aside area which is actually part of a designated camp ground. You may be staring at concrete or you may find yourself in the most stunningly beautiful locations – by a lake or riverside, surrounded by majestic mountain scenery or looking out at the ocean.

Some of the real gems are well tucked away and, although it is possible to come across aires as you go, you will often miss the best without something to help you. Many of the road maps of France have larger aires marked on them, particularly the auto-route ones but for comprehensive listings buy one of the many aire guide books which include maps and details of each and every aire’s facilities and costs. One of the best of these is ‘Aires de Services – Camping Cars’ by Martine Duparc and Collectif. Most of the aire guides also have a useful section on French words that you may come across at aires to help you follow any instructions for paying or using the facilities.

A word of warning on auto-route aires…..you may feel safer surrounded by other camper-vans and motorhomes but the crime rate at these sites is alarmingly high. You are highly visible and an easy target and statistics show that opportunistic thefts occur much more commonly in these circumstances. Many motorhomers have returned to their vans after using restaurants and shops to find them broken into and even more alarmingly break-ins do occur while the occupants sleep.

Other Camping Areas

Many French towns provide a set aside area for motorhomers to park up and camp overnight, often for free and with a rather different mentality towards this than you may be used to in the UK. The thinking is simple – get the tourists into town and they will spend money even if it just breakfast at the bakery and of course it works.

Wild Camping

Although this is somewhat of a grey area with regard to French law, there are many who wild camp (a term for camping away from official areas, also called freedom camping) and typically speaking there is a high tolerance to this practice. However, as with wild camping anywhere there are a few unwritten rules that should be observed which could all come under the umbrella of ‘respect’.

• Don’t park up on private property or where another’s privacy is likely to be invaded
• Take all your rubbish with you
• Don’t light fires or otherwise damage and disturb the area you are camped in
• Be sensitive to any environmental issues such as protected flora and fauna
• Keep noise to a minimum
• Observe any signage which expressly forbids overnight camping or gives directions on doing so

Perhaps most importantly of all you might need to question whether in a country that bends over backwards to provide a vast network of cheap (and often free) safe camping options, wild camping is appropriate at all. The decision is yours.

Road systems

These can feel like a breath of fresh air to the average Brit inured to traffic jams and poorly maintained roads. France has a highly efficient and superior quality road network which makes getting from A to B easy and quick.

The express routes or auto-routes will typically attract tolls unless they are near large towns or cities and if you plan to cover a lot of miles these fees can considerably add to your holiday costs. On the other hand they are super-fast and super-clear if not especially inspiring scenically.

There is always a free alternative to the fee paying roads and bizarrely these sometimes run completely parallel to the auto-routes for large sections of the journey. Generally speaking they are prettier routes and although they will usually take longer they are still by no means slow or heavily crowded.

Things can get a little chaotic around cities and trying to find the right road isn’t always simple especially if your French is a little rusty. This is where a Sat-Nav would come in especially useful to avoid taking your large unit into inappropriately small or tricky places.

Ferry Crossings

Depending on which company you sail with, your desired crossing route, the size of your motorhome and the times and dates you wish to sail, prices vary considerably. Paying for the ferry can be the most expensive part of your holiday by far. However, many caravan or camping clubs offer significant discounts and savings to members when making bookings through them. Additionally, some insurance companies also offer the same to their customers so do check with both before making any bookings to see if you can save money.

Nore Valley Park

Bennettsbridge, County Kilkenny, Ireland

www.norevalleypark.com

The working farm, in which this 60 pitch family orientated camp site is set, provides the main focus of the park and is understandably one of the main draws for those customers who return year after year.

All camp guests have free access to the farm and are actively encouraged to help with small farm tasks and feeding the animals, which of course appeals enormously to children of all ages. There is a wide range of activities on offer – mainly of the outdoors fun variety and include straw play areas, go-karts and a giant chess set. Some of the activities attract a small extra charge.

Nore Valley Park are proud holders of an impressive set of tourism industry accolades bestowed through the ‘Failte Ireland Awards’ scheme which include ‘Best Family Friendly Site’, ‘Best 3 Star Park’, ‘Environmentally Friendly Award’ and an ‘Ambience Award’.

Facilities: Toilets and showers, electric hook-up, children’s play area and straw play area, giant chess, pool room, sand-pit with diggers, crazy golf, go-karts, trailer rides, animal feeding, 3D maze, small shop, home baked bread/scones/pizza/quiches and continental breakfast available

Open: Beginning of March to end of November

Cost: Per night charges – caravan pitch €12/motor-home pitch €11, adults €4, children over two €4, electric €4

Hidden Valley Holiday Park

Rathdrum, County Wicklow, Ireland

www.irelandholidaypark.com

Located at the edge of the Wicklows Mountains National Park, the Hidden Valley is surrounded by a wealth of attractions of both the natural, historical and modern man-made variety. However, without even stepping off the site there is so much to occupy holiday makers that many won’t feel the need to tear themselves away and explore further afield.

There is lots and lots of entertainment, both organised and otherwise, laid on for children and adults of all ages but it is rather more of the earthy variety than that often associated with holiday parks. Many of the activities centre around the Avonmore River which flows through the park and a private lake. The river has its own sandy beach and is gently flowing and shallow enough to make it safe and fun for swimming and beautiful enough for generally lazing about.

Kayaks and rowing boats can be hired from the site, while for something a little less serene but rather more fun try one of the bumper boats (think dodgems on water) complete with water blasters.

If you fancy something a little less wet then go exploring on one of the walking trails which lead directly from the park where wildlife and bird-life abounds.

If, as a parent, you dread the words ‘I’m bored’ then rest assured this will not be an issue here. If, on the other hand you have no kids in tow then this is a site which will equally appeal. In fact, there truly is something for everyone here.

Facilities: Electric hook-up, choice of hard standing and grass pitches, super pitches available with individual water supply and waste disposal, toilets and showers, laundry room, camp kitchen with dish wash and cooking facilities, kids’ outdoor adventure fun park, café serving hot drinks and cakes, fishing, kayak and row boat hire, bumper boats, football coaching and organised matches, cinema nights, family bingo, kids’ disco, walking trails, kayak lessons and certification, camp-fires allowed at river

Open: 16TH March to 30TH September and October bank holiday

Cost: Per night charges – pitch+unit per night – from €10, each adult €6, each child (aged 2 – 15) €4, electric €4

Lough Key Forest and Adventure Park

Boyle, County Roscommon

www.loughkey.ie

Lough Key is not so much a camp site as its own little kingdom complete with such things as a fairy bridge, follies, souterrain, lake, viewing tower, a network of 19^th century servants’ tunnels and gardens. That is because it is part of a vast estate of parkland, forest and woodland and home to an activity centre – the type of place which children’s dreams are made of.

The natural world, wildlife and walking trails amid beautiful scenery sit cheek by jowl with 21^st century entertainment options giving campers and caravanners easy access to the best of both worlds. Action packed and exciting or laid back and lazy – you choose.

One of the highly unusual features of Lough Key is its Swedish boda borg, a 2 storey, 47 room building which alone could keep every member of your party occupied for the holiday duration. If you remember the TV show the ‘Crystal Maze’ then you might be able to picture the concept.

Boredom will not be an issue here – but trying to fit everything in before the holiday draws to a close might be.

Facilities: Electric hook-up, toilets and showers, launderette, recreation room, outdoor play area, lakeside café, shop, gift shop, forest and park walking trails, tree canopy walk, observation tower, adventure play kingdom, boda borg, 19^th century servants tunnels, bog gardens

Open: March to November

Cost: Per night charges – €22 per pitch, €5 per adult, €5 per child, €3 electric

Wave Crest Caravan Park

Caherdaniel, County Kerry, Ireland

www.wavecrestcamping.com

This is one of those sites which has all the must-have facilities as well as a few extras but still manages to retain that small, friendly and informal camp site feel.

The number one thing going for Wave Crest is its location – bang smack on the shore front but with the advantage of a slightly elevated position meaning that the beaches, coves and mountains which surround this site can be viewed in all their splendour. Basking sharks, the gentle and majestic giants of the ocean, as well as pods of dolphins are regularly seen cruising the waters of the bays and bird-life abounds so nature lovers will be satisfied. It is little wonder then that this site was voted ‘Best Coastal Site’ by the ‘Irish Caravan and Camping Council’ in 2009.

As could perhaps be easily guessed, much of the entertainment here comes in the form of water based activities so boating, sailing, fishing and swimming are all hugely popular while the area around Wave Crest has a host of attractions from every category – historical, cultural, archaeological, sporting and 21^st century family entertainment.

Facilities: Electric hook-up, showers and toilets, dish wash area, laundry, TV room, children’s play area, shop and deli, fishing supplies, café, games room, Internet access

Open: All year

Cost: Per night charges – €19 per pitch, €2 each adult, €2 per child, €4 electric

Acton’s Beachside Caravan and Camping Eco-Park

Claddaghduff, Clifden, Connemara, County Galway

www.actonsbeachsidecamping.com

Acton’s Eco-Park, part of an organic farm, is the ideal camping base if you love the idea of wild camping but don’t want the inconveniences it entails. It’s also the perfect choice if your vision of the perfect holiday involves days spent surrounded by natural beauty, gazing across Atlantic seascapes over a white sand beach and spending starlit nights around a camp fire (which isn’t just allowed here but encouraged).

There are times when it can feel like there is no-one else here which is partly thanks to the way the site owners have set out the pitches amongst sand dunes and machair to make them private and secluded.

As if all this wasn’t enough then rest assured that you can camp here knowing that while you holiday you are helping to do your bit towards conservation and all things eco-friendly. Acton’s is totally committed to operating on a sustainable, green, environmental and ethical basis. Some of it is obvious such as the recycling and electricity supplied through wind power while some things are rather more subtle and behind the scenes.

If playing at the beach or ocean gazing won’t keep you stimulated enough then check out the many things to see and do in the area which range from the low impact such as bird-watching, exploring ancient remains, walking to the tidal island of Omey or scuba diving to high energy and thrill packed options such as surfing.

Facilities: Electric hook-up (supplied by wind power), toilets and showers, laundry, fishing points, dog friendly site (no charge), eco-friendly fire pits for camp fires, fully enforced child protection policy, recycling, shop service, boat mooring, Wi-Fi, scheduled events calendar, free telephone calls to UK and Ireland

Open: All year

Cost: Per night charges – €10 per pitch, €5 each adult, €3 each child, €4/5 eco-tricity

While some of us are looking for sites that offer every modern convenience and amenity, the rest of us are seeking somewhere natural and want to be as far removed as possible from the sounds of jangling slot machines and karaoke performers.

Here we try and include something for everyone so that whether you are looking for party central or wilderness hide-away you should find something to suit.

Here are C4Caravan’s top picks for the best caravan and camp sites in Wales…

Caerfai Bay Caravan and Tent Park

Fford Caerfai, St Davids, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales, SA62 6QT

www.caerfaibay.co.uk

Nature lovers, beach bunnies and all those who enjoy lying back in their camp chair and ocean gazing will love this camp-site. Pembrokeshire is not short of dazzling beach scenery but the location of this site, perched on the cliffs of Caerfai Bay, is about as good as it gets. The beach, where dolphins are often seen cruising past, is a natural playground of rock pools, caves and crystal clear calm waters perfect for snorkelling – all guaranteed to keep the younger family members (and perhaps the not so young) occupied for hours if not the entire holiday.

Although you could laze away every day without stepping outside the camp-site there is plenty to see and do should you manage to tear yourself away. Canoe trips, kayaking, coastal boat cruises, whale and dolphin watching tours, surf lessons and jet boating are just a few of the options open to water and nature lovers while history and culture enthusiasts are equally catered for.

Pembrokeshire is home to more than 50 hill forts and castles which range from the wonderfully preserved to the romantically ruined. Or step back even further in time and check out standing stones, ancient settlement remains, barrows and dolmens – a type of Neolithic burial chamber.

So what do you fancy? Walking, fishing, climbing, rock-pool adventuring, swimming or joining one of the many tours on offer such as learning how to forage for wild food? The problem here won’t be finding enough to do – it will be puzzling out how to fit it all in.

Facilities: Showers and toilets, electric hook-up, dogs allowed (on a lead at all times), telephone, laundry, dish washing area, Internet, disabled toilet and shower, rest area, tourist information, recycling, farm shop (100 yards)

Open: 1^st March to second week in November

Cost: from £11.50 per night for 1 unit and 2 people + £4 per night electric hook-up

Cenarth Falls Holiday Park

Cenarth, Newcastle Emlyn, Ceredigion, Wales, SA38 9JS

www.cenarth-holipark.co.uk

It’s not really surprising that this holiday park boasts an impressive trophy cabinet – a David Bellamy Gold Award, Calor Gas ‘Best Park in Wales, a 5 star rating from ‘Visit Wales’ tourism board and proud holders of ‘Loo of the Year Awards’ held every year since 1994!

From these ratings alone we can deduce that the park is eco-friendly, has exceptional facilities and is spotlessly clean. However, sparkling toilets and shower-rooms are just the tip of the bragging rights iceberg for site owners, the Davies family. This site has all the facilities you would associate with something that has ‘holiday park’ in the title such as swimming pools (indoor and out); a health and country club with Jacuzzi, fitness suite, sauna, restaurant and live entertainment every weekend; children’s playground, games room and the like, but it is all planned out in such a way that you can immerse yourself in this atmosphere or enjoy peace and quiet instead.

The 2 acre field of 29 pitches is set aside from all that is going on and is surrounded by beautiful, unspoiled countryside. Just a short walk away is Cenarth Falls where the salmon leap when the season is right and the picture postcard pretty historical village of Cenarth. The stunning Cardigan Bay coast is just 7 miles away too.

Cenarth Falls Holiday Park is for those who want the best of both worlds – a quality holiday park with exceptional facilities but with a chance to escape easily to peace and solitude when the mood takes them.

Facilities: Toilets and showers; Coracles Health and Country Club with indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, fitness suite, bar and restaurant and live entertainment (pay as you go or discounted membership passes available for park guests); outdoor pool (not heated); children’s playground; games room with pool table and video games machines; Wi-Fi; launderette; dog friendly site; hard standing; electric hook-up.

Open: March to November

Cost: From £16 to £27 per pitch per night for one unit and up to 4 people (includes electric hook-up)

Gwern Gof Isaf Campsite

Capel Curig, Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia, North Wales, LL24 0EU

www.gwerngofisaf.co.uk

Although much frequented by those hardy outdoor types, Gwern Gof Isaf camp-site is also a firm favourite with those who want to surround themselves with spectacular mountain scenery without necessarily feeling the urge to scale the peaks towering over them. Of course should you feel energetic then there is plenty to occupy you – a wealth of walking and climbing options which range from easy strolls to kamikaze; the National Mountain Centre 2 miles from the site which offers, amongst other things, canoeing, orienteering and abseiling and also mountain biking and pony trekking within a few miles.

The camp-site itself is part of a 750 acre National Trust farm and so special is the location deemed that in 2006 Gwern Gof Isaf camp-site featured in the Independent’s ’50 Best Campsites in the World’ list.

The site can take touring caravans and larger motor-homes but space for these is limited so be sure to call ahead to check availability.

Facilities: Wash-rooms, toilets and hot showers, electric hook-up, chemical toilet disposal, washing up area

Open: All year

Cost: £10 per night per pitch (includes electric) for vans and caravans

Pilbach Holiday Park

Betws Ifan, Rhydlewis, Newcastle Emlyn, Cardiganshire, Wales, SA44 5RT

www.barkersleisure.com/holidayparks/pilbach_holiday_park

This site, set in 15 acres of parkland, is particularly suited to families and those who want a range of modern facilities and entertainment options without over-commercialism. Touring caravans and motor-homes have a choice of three large fields to choose from and there is also a choice of pitches between standard and fully-serviced super-pitches which offer electric, hard-standing, water and instant drainage of grey water.

The company, which also owns sites at Aberaeron (a coastal park) and Aberdwylan, has frequent special holiday offers which include large discounts.

The site is located just three miles from Aberporth – an award winning, safe swimming beach and, listed on the park’s website, are a diverse range of attractions in the immediate and wider area which will suit all pockets, ages and tastes.

Facilities: Showers, toilets, electric hook-up, super pitches available (hard-standing, individual water point and grey waste drainage), heated pool with toddler’s area, bar and restaurant, amusement arcade, all-sports field, play area, laundry facilities, on-site shop, dog friendly site with dog walking field, entertainment (karaoke competitions, bingo and cabaret acts)

Open: All year

Cost: From £17 per pitch per night (£19 super pitch) including electric hook-up

Llyn Gwynant Campsite

Nantgwynant, Snowdonia, Wales, LN55 4NW

www.gwynant.com

(NOTE: The is no electrical hook up on this site)

This is the type of camp-site which although not unusual for tent campers is as rare as hen’s teeth for those who want to pitch a caravan or motor-home. It is true, back to basics holidaying for those who love the outdoors and comes complete with camp-fires and breathtaking scenery.

The metre deep river which runs through the site would probably provide all the opportunity for adult and kids fun that is needed, but there is much more at this action packed natural playground! Rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, kayaking, lake coasteering (a combination of swimming, climbing, scrambling and cliff jumping), raft building and orienteering…..and the list goes on. Kids can be passed over to the professional instructors leaving parents free to laze away their days by the lakeside or maybe hire a boat from on-site to cruise the river. Of course if they want to they can get stuck in with the kids.

Most of the activities take place from June to September when the site is lively and sometimes full of school groups. Outside of school summer holidays the camp-site is about as quiet and secluded as you are likely to get in the UK. There is only licensing and room for ten caravans/motor-homes at any one time (15 allowed during bank holidays) so do check ahead to avoid disappointment.

Facilities: Hot water showers, toilets, chemical disposal point, dish washing area, freezer for ice packs

Open: Easter to November

Cost: £8 per person per night, children 5 – 15 are £4 per night (under 5s free)

Consider our list as offering a little taster for everyone looking to visit Scotland for an outdoor holiday– from those with a wild camping heart to those looking for something to keep the whole family entertained.

Camusdarach

Arisaig, Inverness-shire, PH39 4NT

www.91.186.160.184/camusdarach-campsite.html

This award winning, eco-friendly camp site is a stone’s throw from white sand beaches and stunningly clear blue sea – a sight familiar along Scotland’s west coast but one which is usually associated with rather more exotic locations.

The camp site’s aim is to provide its guests with a beautiful natural place in which to rest and relax whilst maintaining a commitment to all matters green. From the reed beds which filter and detoxify the shower block run-off thus avoiding environmental contamination, to the toilet block constructed from renewable softwood sources, the watch words are sustainability and low impact camping.

The views from here are all about the ocean and the Hebridean islands of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Skye which sit on the horizon. There are various options for boat trips to any of these islands as well as wildlife cruises and island tours. Sea kayaking is another popular choice for holiday makers and campers who want to get out on that impossibly blue water.

There is a great deal of things to see and do in the local area, of both the land based and ocean going variety but for those who love the outdoors, beach and dune playgrounds and the natural world they are going to be in seventh heaven.

Facilities: electric-hook-up, toilets and showers, disabled facilities, dish wash area, laundry, dog friendly, Internet access, some hard standing, twice weekly mobile shop, direct access to beach.

Open: March to October.

Cost: £21 per pitch per night for unit (caravan/motor-home) and 2 adults.

Port Ban Holiday Park

Nr Kilberry, Knapdale Peninsular, Argyll and Bute, PA29 6YD

www.portban.com

This is the perfect choice for those who want to escape urban chaos and every day hustle and bustle but still want all the comforts of modern facilities and 101 things to keep the kids occupied.

Port Ban Holiday Park sits right at the ocean’s edge and so offers the natural playground of the beach complete with rock pools for those who want to make their own entertainment. Fishing, cycling, walking and canoeing are also popular choices in an area rich in wide open spaces and beautiful, natural surroundings. However, should you like something a little more organised then this holiday park offers an incredible variety of things to do and join in with – from kids clubs to quizzes and from ceilidhs to crazy golf.

Additionally, there are many day trips and tours on offer by local companies including boat trips to the islands of Jura and Islay which are part of the panoramic ocean view here.

Most of the organised activities on-site are available in high season only which means outside of school and bank holidays this holiday park is somewhat quieter. Whether you are old or young, a couple or a family, looking for an active holiday or just want to relax, Port Ban has something to suit every taste.

Facilities: electric hook-up, toilets, showers, laundry, payphone, shop, café, games field, tennis court, crazy golf, bowling green, volleyball court, children’s play park, mountain bike hire, games hall, lounge with library, organised schedule of activities and entertainment (ceilidhs, barbecues, youth nights, kids’ club), dog friendly.

Open: March to October.

Cost: per night – standard pitch £8 – £10, adults £3, child (age 6 to 15) £1, electric £2, dog £1 – there are discounts and offers available for week bookings and longer.

Resipole Holiday Park

Resipole Farm, Loch Sunart, Acharade, Argyll, PH36 4HX

www.resipole.co.uk

Scottish camp sites seem to have rather a monopoly on stunning locations and Resipole is no exception. Picture a loch-side camp site, nestled in the Scottish Highlands, with a back drop of majestic mountains and surrounded by ancient woodland and you are starting to get the idea.

This little oasis of calm is particularly popular with those hardy outdoor types of the mountain biking, hard-core hiking or climbing variety but is also well beloved by nature lovers, fishermen and bird watchers or anyone in fact looking for tranquillity and serenity.

The 19 mile long, highly sheltered sea loch is naturally a focus for many with boating, kayaking and canoeing all possible, while boat trips which take you out seal, whale and dolphin watching are also on offer. However, without budging an inch from your camp site you may spot otters, red deer, badgers, foxes and a wide variety of bird-life, all of which call Resipole home.

Facilities: electric hook-up, hard-standing, showers and toilets, disabled facilities, dish wash area, laundry, dog friendly, payphone, motor-home service point, reception area (selling milk, bread and newspapers).

Open: all year.

Cost: per night, hard standing pitch including electric £13, adults £3, child (age 5 to 16) £2.

Noah’s Ark Caravan Park

Newhouse Farm, Western Edge, Perth, PH1 1QF

www.noahsarkcaravanpark.co.uk

Visitors to this rural ‘gateway-to-the-Highlands’ camp site will get the mountain vistas they might expect in Scotland while being situated just a stone’s throw from urban Perth and all the 21^st century conveniences this offers. Skipping between the two worlds is easy but should you not want to stray too far then Noah’s Ark Caravan Park has an impressive menu of facilities which are guaranteed to keep everyone occupied and happy.

The surrounding area provides the perfect playground for those who are into walking, climbing, horse riding or mountain biking while on-site options include karting, bowling, and a golf driving range.

Facilities: electric hook-up, toilets and showers, laundry, disabled facilities, dog friendly, book library, Wi-Fi, barbecue area, outdoor activity centre, children’s play barn with restaurant, karting, bowling, golf driving range.

Open: March to November.

Cost: £20 to £22 for pitch and 2 persons per night including electric, extra person £2. Various discounts and offers available including pensioners’ midweek specials.

Glenbrittle Camp Site

Glenbrittle, Carbost, Isle of Skye, IV47 8TA

For caravanners and motor-homers, enjoying the splendours of the Inner and Outer Hebrides is not impossible but it can be tricky and ferry prices make it unaffordable for many. However, the Isle of Skye is an exception thanks to the (now) toll-free bridge which arcs from mainland to island.

A short drive over to the rugged western coast of the island will bring you to one of the best located camp sites anywhere in the world – a serious claim but totally justified. Here you can watch the sun rise over the awe-inspiring Black Cuillin mountains, which this camp site nestles at the foot of, and then watch it set over the ocean as you sit on the shores of Loch Brittle. The star studded sky which emerges as night descends is probably unlike anything you have ever seen.

And the magic is not just reserved for on-site. Just down the road from Glenbrittle is a series of almost impossibly coloured natural pools known as the ‘Fairy Pools’. Looking like a scene from ‘Lord of the Rings’ these pools are perfect for wild swimming (often with not another soul in sight) but should you take the plunge be prepared for icy temperatures as the pools are fed from chilly  mountain rivers and streams.

Another extra-special treat is the Glendale Toy Museum where playing with the exhibits is not just allowed but positively encouraged. The museum may be small but losing whole days here is not uncommon and constant cries of ‘I had one of those’ fill its rooms.

However, all this aside, this is not a camp site for those who want holiday park facilities and laid on entertainment. Staying here is all about the quiet, the beautiful and the natural and, with the exception of a few modern conveniences, is more akin to wild camping than your usual caravan holiday.

Facilities: electric hook-up, hard standing, toilets and showers, washing up area, small shop on-site, dog friendly, fishing on site, direct access to loch/beach.

Open: April to September.

Cost: per night, adults £7, child £4.50, electric £6.

If you enjoy a caravanning as a holiday past time you’ll have no difficulty what-so-ever to adjust something you love into a full-time way of life. If you’re a home dweller with little experience looking to live in a static home for whatever reason, be it freedom or saving money, you might find the adjustment a little bit harder but it is still easily attainable.

Here are some options that are available to those looking to move into a static home or caravan for the long haul.

Living in a Static Caravan Park Home

If you want to be able to live in a static caravan for the whole year then you can live in a Park Home. Normally this will involve buying a static caravan from the owners of the park. You will then rent the pitch from them and be liable to pay a variety of fees to live there. This will include council tax, maintenance fees and utility bills. Don’t take any risks when choosing a residential static caravan park, always ask the owners the exact costs of renting the pitch and bear in mind that although you will have bought the caravan the owners may claim a portion of the sale price if you want to sell it on.

Park Homes have a license to operate twelve months of the year as residential housing, which is why you will have to pay council tax. However you can use your static caravan as a permanent address and be entered onto the electoral role.

Living in a Static Caravan Site Home

Site homes for static caravans are holiday homes. This means that their license only extends for about 10 months of the year, so you will have to vacate your caravan for two or three months every year. The result of this is that the caravan can not be regarded as a permanent residence and you cannot use the address to be on the electoral role.

Static caravan parks of this type will often allow you to bring your own caravan. Again you will be liable for pitch rental fees and often a maintenance surcharge plus the costs of your bills. Don’t forget to ask the owners the exact amount of time you must be away from your caravan and factor in the cost of staying elsewhere during this period.

Living in a Static Caravan On Your Own Land

There is a lot of contradictory information about using static caravans on your own land. The reason is that different areas have different rules and in the majority of cases you will need some kind of permit in order to use a caravan. As a general rule you are not allowed to live in a caravan on your own land without planning permission. What you can do varies from council to council so you should check with them before making any plans. The law states that outbuildings, including caravans, cannot be used for sleeping in unless permission has been obtained.

Word of mouth suggests that you are unlikely to get planning permission for a permanent caravan residence unless the land is already used for caravans or you are planning to live their temporarily whilst carrying out renovations.

However the best course of action would be to speak to a solicitor who specialises in local planning applications because there is a huge amount of variance across the country as to what is and what isn’t permitted. For instance some new build homes stipulate in the deeds that caravans may not be parked on their land. Some councils will insist upon waste water being dealt with in a particular way, which can make your costs shoot up. Get legal advice before doing anything, otherwise you may be issued with an legal warning telling you to leave.

If you want to dig deeper into the legal side of living in a static home, make sure you read the Mobile Homes Act 1983.

When you are choosing somewhere to stay it is worth considering what you need from your holiday destination. Here are 10 things that could affect your choice of pitch:

1. Animals – Not all sites allow pets, some may charge if you do take them.

2. Adults – Some sites are adult only sites, creating a completely different atmosphere.

3. Children – Some sites will have lots of child friendly facilities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, tennis courts and even petting zoos.

4. Privacy – If you want a high degree of privacy it may be worth looking for somewhere with en-suite facilities and secluded pitches.

5. Facilities – Sports facilities, food and drink availability and social events all differ from place to place. If you want to cycle, many sites offer cycle hire facilities.

6. Public Transport Connections – If you wish to see the local area you should find out about the local transport system. Check how close the train station or bus stop is to the site.

7. Locations – If you want lots of things to do during your holiday, check the local area or your intended destination site for information about areas of natural beauty, tourist attractions, water parks, beaches, local events and other things to do.

8. Locality – It is worth finding out how long it will take you to get to the site, and how much that journey will cost you.

9. Price – Price varies enormously, from £3 a night upwards, you may find that it is beneficial to join a club so that you can take advantage of their reduced rates.

10. Booking – Book well in advance if you have a specific site in mind. During peak times some sites get completely booked up.

Once you have decided upon what you need from a site you can start looking at the different kinds of sites available.

Static Caravan Sites

There are lots of static caravan sites in the U.K. They are available to buy and to rent. If you particularly like a certain area and wish for the comfort of having your own things around you then buying a static caravan may be a good idea. You can also rent static caravans. This is excellent if you do not have the means to transport a touring caravan. The parks that static caravans are located on will normally offer a range of facilities.

Touring Caravan Sites

Touring caravans are flexible homes. You can stay in large parks with many facilities or you can retreat to small rustic pitches in the countryside, the choice is yours!

Certified Locations

The smallest sites known as Certified Locations to the Caravan Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club, are suitable for no more than 5 caravans at any one time. They offer seclusion and basic amenities. Certified locations are casual, normally rural caravan sites designed to facilitate your enjoyment of the local area rather than to provide you with on-site activities. Many sites of this size are affiliated to a caravan club so they are only available to use if you are a member. The cost of staying in a site of this size starts at about £3, which makes it great value for money if you can entertain yourself.

Starred Caravan Sites – The British Graded Holiday Park Scheme

There is a system in place to evaluate holiday parks and caravan sites. It is the traditional 5* system. Private sites, holiday parks owned by commercial operators and the club sites that are open to non-members will generally all be rated under the star system. It is organised by the tourist boards of the U.K. As you would expect 5* is the top rating; caravan sites with this accolade will have groceries available daily, 24 hour access to a public telephone, good lighting, heated toilets and 75% of pitches will have electrical hook ups. 5* sites will have extremely high levels of cleanliness and all facilities will be in good order.

The other sites are graded according to where they fall in comparison to this. 5* means exceptional standards, 4* excellent quality, 3* is the industry standard, 2* is good, 1* is acceptable. Any parks that fall below these standards will not be awarded a star.

The star system is not an indication of the types of facilities available, but of the quality of the facilities that are there. Star status is reviewed annually. Always check individual brochures for details about the exact facilities that will be available.

Other Criteria for Judging Holiday Parks

The Camping and Caravanning Club and The Caravan Club have their own criteria for judging their own caravan sites. This information is available to members. Both of the clubs have a good reputation and many choose these sites because they have a high minimum standard.

The David Bellamy Conservation Award is given to all of the caravan sites in the U.K. that are making a comprehensive effort and having a positive affect on local wildlife. There are 600+ awarded sites at the moment. Many of the sites are in areas of great natural beauty and some are completely eco-friendly.

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