ESS rules, Swift range 2026, new caravan park planned for Northern Ireland, caravan park for sale near Cheddar Gorge and other UK caravanning news

The final days of summer may be done and dusted, but the world of caravanning never sleeps, and the news goes on.

Here we take a brief glimpse behind some of the latest UK caravan and motorhome news headlines …

Warning to anyone with a caravan or motorhome over new driving rule

If you own a caravan or motorhome and are planning on a trip to Europe, simply gaining entry to the mainland could prove more challenging, according to a story in the Sun newspaper on the 25th of September.

On the 12th of October 2025, a new Entry/Exit System (EES) was introduced throughout the EU, requiring non-EU residents to complete new immigration formalities, including those at the land and sea crossings such as Dover, Eurostar, and Eurotunnel.

Your stay in Europe will be limited to up to just 90 days in any 180-day period, and the additional border checks, including biometric identification, are almost certain to add extra time when clearing customs and immigration – especially if you are towing a caravan or driving a motorhome.

Swift launch caravan, motorhome & campervan 2026 range at the NEC show

UK manufacturer of caravans, motorhomes, and campervans Swift launches its new range of models for the coming year at the major National Motorhome and Caravan Show – to be held at the NEC near Birmingham from the 14th to the 19th of October.

The highlights from their range include refreshed designs and upgraded specifications across some of their models as well. For example, the Conqueror and Conqueror Grande return with enhanced layouts and premium styling, while the Elegance Grande showcases refined finishes and a boutique-inspired interior.

The popular Sprite range continues to make caravanning more accessible, combining quality with value. Challenger and Challenger Grande models build on the essentials with greater comfort and the addition of the latest Truma CombiNeo heating system. Meanwhile, Basecamp retains its signature sporty, adventurous appeal – proving style and practicality can go hand in hand.

Visit the Swift stand (6.33) in Hall 6.

Irvinestown site eyed for new tourist caravan park

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in Northern Ireland is considering planning permission for a new touring caravan park alongside the Bawnacre Centre on Castle Street in Irvinestown, according to a recent news story.

The application for 31 pitches for caravans, plus an amenity centre, storage shed, and package treatment plant, promises to attract welcome investment into a site that was previously used as overflow parking for the neighbouring Necarne Equestrian Centre.

The council’s planning department is understood to support the application from developer George Deane, who also promises a children’s play area and a footpath from the caravan park to nearby recreational facilities.

Caravan park for sale ‘next to Somerset’s biggest tourist attraction’

Cheddar Bridge Touring Park – a neighbour to Somerset’s “biggest tourist attraction”  – is up for sale, according to a story by Somerset Live on the 21st of September.

The 3-acre park with planning permission for up to 48 touring caravans and 7 static caravans has been under the same ownership for the past 20 years.

Local estate agents praise the site’s “tranquil rural position” in the lee of the Mendip Hills, close to the town of Cheddar, and neighbouring the world-famous Cheddar Gorge.