IIf you’re thinking about a few days – or even longer – in your caravan this Christmas, you’d better go prepared. With less than a month to go, the weather will undoubtedly get colder, but as long as your prepared, you can enjoy a cosy Christmas somewhere different in your caravan. (Our Winter caravanning: What to pack and where to go blog has lots of useful ideas and tips).

Here are six Christmas trip ideas …

1. Bournemouth

If you fancy a trip to the south of England, Christmas comes early in Bournemouth where you’ll find a bustling, German-themed seasonal market open from mid-November right through until the end of December.

When you’ve had your fill of Bratwurst, German beer, and Glühwein (mulled wine) in the market’s Alpine Lodge, it’s only a hop, skip, and a jump to the tranquil wintry delights of the New Forest or a bracing walk along the cliff paths.

2. Blenheim Palace

It might not be among the first places you’d think of for a Christmas market, but even the upper classes, it would seem, enter the festive spirit with gusto. The lavish surroundings of Blenheim Palace offer perhaps one of the most unusual settings for a Christmas market that’s open from mid-November until the 3rd of January.

You’ll find no shortage of touring sites at which to berth your caravan in the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside.

3. Birmingham

Venture just a little further north to England’s second city and you’ll find that Birmingham also hosts Christmas festivities in Victoria Square. The Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market is said to be the biggest of its kind outside Germany or Austria.

It’s open from the beginning of November until the 24th of December.

4. Cardiff

While many caravanners head westwards during the warmer summer months, you’ll find relatively few of them making that kind of journey in the wintertime – but it’s well worth the mileage.

The South Wales coastline is attractive at any time of the year but from the 13^th of November until the 23^rd of December the Principality’s capital Cardiff also hosts a Christmas Market that gives full expression to local traders, craftsmen, and artists.

5. Bath

It’s historic, it’s picturesque, it’s quiet and laid back – not for nothing is the elegant city of Bath described as “the original wellbeing destination”.

The city is full of thriving independent shops, with bars and restaurants in which to relax and unwind at the end of any day. If you’re quick about it – from the 27^th of November until the 14^th of December – you can also experience a Christmas Market in cobbled streets that could be plucked directly from a Jane Austen novel.

6. Manchester

For the past quarter of a century or so, Manchester has hosted its own series of Christmas Markets around the city centre’s Piccadilly Gardens. This year, there will be over 200 stalls across no fewer than nine sites – most of them open from the 7^th of November until the 22^nd of December.

The Burrs Country Park Club Campsite – a Caravan and Motorhome Club site – in the Lancashire countryside of nearby Bury is open all year.

Further reading:

 Top 5 UK destinations for Christmas in your ‘van

Guide to winter caravanning

Winter caravanning tips.

Owning a static caravan is one of life’s great pleasures – your own bolt-hole by the sea, in the countryside, or on your favourite static caravan park. But just like any asset, your caravan needs the most appropriate protection.

Choosing suitable static caravan insurance ensures you’re covered against unexpected events such as damage, theft, or loss.

Before you buy, it’s worth understanding what static caravan insurance includes, your obligations under the policy, and why you don’t generally have to stick with the park’s recommended policy.

You’re not tied to the park’s insurance

Many holiday parks offer their own insurance, but in most cases, you’re not obliged to buy it. UK caravan owners are typically free to choose their own insurer, if the policy meets the park’s requirements – such as having public liability cover for a set amount.

Buying independent static caravan insurance often gives you more flexibility and can often work out more cost-effective. You can compare specialist providers, tailor your cover to your caravan’s age and location, and make sure you’re not paying for extras you don’t need.

If you source your own caravan insurance, typically the park operator may ask for sight of the cover  – and may change a small admin fee for doing so – but even so, you may still be able to make attractive savings on the cost of insuring your static home overall.

What static caravan insurance usually covers

Static caravan insurance is designed to protect both your caravan and what’s inside it. Policy features and benefits may vary depending on the policy and provider, so it’s important that you understand exactly what your cover entails. Typically, it may include:

• accidental damage, fire, storm or other extreme weather, helping to repair or replace your caravan if it’s affected by bad weather, fire, or an accident (exceptions apply);
• theft and vandalism protection, covering your caravan and its contents (if required) if they are stolen or damaged by intruders;
• static caravan contents insurance typically protects the items you keep inside, such as furniture, kitchen appliances and personal belongings;
• public liability cover safeguards you if someone is injured or their property is damaged while visiting your caravan and they take legal action (limits apply);
• finally, keys and locks cover can help with replacement costs if your keys are lost or stolen.(Not all providers offer this element of protection).

Setting the correct value for your caravan and contents

When arranging static caravan insurance, ensure you accurately estimate the full replacement cost of your ‘van – this is known as the “sum insured” on the policy.

If you undervalue it, in the event of a successful claim, you may not receive enough to replace or repair it after a major loss. The same goes for contents – keep an up-to-date list of what’s inside, including TVs, soft furnishings, and kitchenware.

Review these values every year, especially if you’ve upgraded or added new items.

Location and flood risk matter

Where your caravan is sited plays a big role in determining your insurance premium. Caravans in coastal areas or near rivers may be more exposed to flooding or storms, while those on rural or remote sites might have a higher theft risk.

If your park has a history of flooding, ask what flood defences or safety measures are in place. Some specialist caravan insurance providers offer cover for high-risk locations, though you might pay a slightly higher premium.

Seasonal use, winter storage and unoccupancy

How often you use your caravan may affect the cover you need. Some policies are tailored for seasonal use, while others cover you year-round. If your caravan is left unoccupied during the winter, check what conditions apply – insurers may require that you drain down water systems or leave heating on an ambient setting to prevent frost damage.

Failing to follow these conditions could invalidate your static caravan insurance, so it’s worth reading the small print carefully – or checking with your insurance broker.

Understand excesses and exclusions

Every caravan insurance policy includes an excess (the amount you’ll pay if you make a successful claim) and certain exclusions. Common exclusions include general wear and tear, vermin damage, or poor maintenance.

Storm and flood cover may also have specific conditions, particularly if your caravan isn’t permanently sited or properly anchored.

If you have awnings, specific conditions may apply to them too – our blog Awning insurance: need to know explains more.

Reading your policy documents before you buy is essential. That way, you’ll know exactly what is – and isn’t – covered. If you are unsure of anything relating to your static home insurance quote or cover, then please speak to your insurance broker for clarification. They will be happy to help.

Final thoughts

Buying static caravan insuranceisn’t just about ticking a box for your holiday home – it’s about safeguarding your investment and your peace of mind.

By taking the time to compare cover options, check for exclusions, and keeping your details up to date, you’ll know your static caravan is protected – leaving you free to focus on what really matters: enjoying your time away.

Further reading:

Making an informed choice – static caravan insurance
Static caravan insurance discounts and other need to knows

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 25^th of September.

On the 12^th 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 14^th to the 19^th 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 21^st 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.

With winter on its way, now might be the time to give thought to storm-proofing your caravan and protecting it against the ravages of wind and rain.

Why are caravans at higher risk during storms?

You’ve only to compare the structure and materials used in the construction of a house versus a caravan to see why the latter is at higher risk. Caravans are manufactured from relatively lightweight materials, designed to be space-saving and compact.

Little wonder, then, that your caravan will be considerably more vulnerable to damage from the wind, rain, flooding, hailstones, and flying debris – all manner of risks that storm damage caravan insurance will need to acknowledge. Having the most suitable cover in place and preparing your caravan for the winter’s onslaught is critical.

How can I choose a safer pitch to reduce wind and rain damage?

Wherever it’s pitched, your caravan will be exposed to the elements, so careful site selection is a must, while you consider any natural forms of protection.

Do nearby buildings, hillsides, or treelines provide natural windbreaks, for example, what’s the direction of the prevailing wind and does the slope of the ground suggest safe drainage of your chosen site?

As the storm clouds begin to gather, you’ll realise that securing your caravan in windy weather starts with choosing the right pitch.

When should I take down or retract my awning in bad weather?

One of the most important precautions caravan owners can take is to remove or retract awning during storm warnings. It’s vital not to leave the decision too late – by the time winds become dangerously strong, it may no longer be safe to dismantle the awning. Acting early is always the safer and more sensible choice.

Insurers are also clear on this point. If your awning remains up during severe weather and suffers damage, any claim could be rejected on the basis that reasonable precautions weren’t taken. This type of exclusion is common in caravan insurance policies, so it’s important you understand your obligations.

Finally, don’t assume your awning is automatically covered under your standard caravan insurance. Many policies require awnings to be listed separately on the insurance schedule, so check your documents and speak to your caravan insurance broker if you’re unsure.

Further reading: Guide to awnings.

How can I prevent leaks and water ingress in heavy rain?

Preventing leaks and water ingress of your caravan in heavy rain is essentially a question of preparing for the winter ahead.

Without blocking the essential ventilation openings, check that the door and windows are not only firmly closed but that the sealant around all the frames remains watertight. Preparing for winter can become part of your annual maintenance routine.

Don’t forget to include – and keep up to date – a storm emergency kit for your caravan. The list of items for inclusion in any such emergency kit is not exhaustive but might certainly involve storm straps, ropes, a sturdy tarpaulin, first aid kit, torch, mobile ‘phone (and charger), and your caravan and motor insurance documents.

What exclusions should I check in my caravan insurance policy?

As with any kind of general insurance, always check your caravan insurance policy to make sure you meet the conditions. This might reveal certain caravan insurance policy exclusions such as unsecured awnings, belongings that have been left outside, or even a general failure to properly maintain your caravan.

Caravan insurance policy and exclusions may vary depending on the policy, so never assume that everything is covered. If you are unsure as to what your caravan insurance policy entails (and excludes), then speak to your insurance provider.

How can I make sure my caravan is storm-ready this season?

You’ve given the current insurance policy a once-over and you’ve prepared for the coming wind, rain, sleet, and snow of the coming winter.

Now you can relax in the knowledge that securing your caravan in windy weather and checking your caravan insurance policy gives peace of mind.

We’re delighted to welcome Billy Roy as the new Manager at Cover4. With a strong background in the residential and commercial property owners’ markets, he brings over 9 years of expertise in key areas such as customer service, regulations, and delivering the best possible outcomes for customers.

Billy began his career in insurance with Cover4 in January 2018 as a Trainee Account Handler. Since then, he’s gained experience across different departments, progressing to Assistant Manager. Now, he is returning to Cover4, the department that first inspired his passion for insurance. In his new role, Billywill be focusing on leading our Cover4 team to continue providing a first-class customer service. Billy’s experience in Cover4 and the insurance industry makes him well-placed to continue delivering the high level of service our customers expect.

Talking about his new position, Billy says:
“Having started my insurance career at Cover4, I’m excited to step into this role and give back to the team and clients who’ve supported me along the way. My goal is to continue building on our strong reputation while ensuring customers always receive the right advice and cover for their needs.”

Away from work, Billy is a keen runner. Most weekends you’ll find him training on long runs, with the ambitious goal of one day completing a 200-mile ultra marathon such as the Bigfoot 200 in Washington State’s Cascade Mountain Range.

We look forward to working with him as he helps take Cover4 into its next chapter, ensuring our clients continue to benefit from expert advice and the most suitable cover for their needs.