Updated April 2026

Introduction

Britain’s theme parks are home to some of the best and some of the biggest in Europe. If you want faster, bigger and better rides, therefore, you could do a lot worse than a trip that takes you to a different part of the country yet still only a stone’s throw or two away from your own doorstep.

As with many good ideas for trips away from home, though, finding a place to stay once you get there might be tiresome – not to say expensive – especially if you have one or two youngsters along with you on holiday or a few days break.

That is where you are likely to win hands down, of course if you are able to tow your caravan behind the car, pitch up at a nearby camp site, and make as many forays to and from the theme park as the fancy takes you.

This guide offers a tour through some of the country’s most notable theme parks, identifying not only where they are and what they have to offer, but also identifying some of the caravan sites within easy striking distance of each park.

Before we dive in, just a reminder that opening times and facilities etc. may change due to any ongoing Covid restrictions. So please do check directly with the venue and camp sites.

Alton Towers

Alton, Staffordshire, England

What’s there?

Since its opening at the beginning of the 1980’s the theme park at Alton Towers has grown in size, added still further attractions and become perhaps the best known of all the UK’s parks.

It is situated on an extensive site – now including a water park in addition to the rides – set in the Staffordshire countryside, easily accessible from either the M1 or M6 motorways.

Perhaps best known for its innovation when it comes to the rides – and roller coasters in particular – Alton Towers arranged around major themes such as Theme Park, Waterpark, CBeebies Land, Extraordinary Golf and the Alton Towers Dungeon. There is also an adult spa there too.

Places to stay

1. The Star, a Camping and Caravanning Club site, in Alton itself, has a bus stop right outside and a short ride from there to Alton Towers – there are pitches for 195 caravans;
2. Also just half a mile outside the village of Alton, and 2 miles from the theme park itself, is the much smaller Lower Micklin Touring Park, with 10 hard standing and 5 grass pitches;
3. Occupying 16 acres on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Hales Hall Caravan and Camping Park offers the best of both worlds – the relaxation of a country setting with views over the old market town of Cheadle yet still only a 10 minute drive away from Alton Towers;
4. All grass pitches are offered at New Broom Camping and Caravan Site where its two acres offer probably more basic accommodation for you and your caravan, yet still just four and a half miles from Alton Towers.

Thorpe Park

Chertsey and Staines, Surrey, England

What’s there?

Thorpe Park Resort – to give it its formal name – is only 20 miles from the capital and access from junctions 11 and 13 of the London orbital M25.

In the midst of an otherwise completely built-up conurbation, Thorpe Park’s advertising slogan is “an island like no other”. It opened in 1979 and is currently under the same ownership as Alton Towers.

Thorpe Park currently boasts a total of over 30 rides – seven of them roller coasters and five of them water splashes.

Places to stay

1. 1. At the Camping and Caravanning Club Site Chertsey you are spoilt for choice when it comes to theme parks – not only Thorpe Park, but also Legoland and Chessington are all within just a stone’s throw away;It may be just a 30 minute train journey from central London, yet the location beside a peaceful stretch of the River Thames gives it a calm and relaxing ambience;It is a large site, too, with around 150 pitches, so you are more likely to be successful when making a booking;
   2. The Caravan Club’s Crystal Palace Site is, of course, even closer to central London – yet set in pleasantly leafy surroundings nonetheless – and within easy striking distance to Thorpe Park;The site has a total of 89 pitches, 60 of them on hard standing.

Chessington

Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, England

What’s there?

Practically everyone knows it simply as Chessington, but its full title is Chessington World of Adventures Resort and, so, has a somewhat better ring about the thrills on offer.

It lies just 12 miles southwest of central London in the borough of Kingston upon Thames. Although currently under the same ownership (Merlin Entertainments) as both Alton Towers and Thorpe Park, it has a somewhat longer history, opening first as a zoo in 1931.

The adventure park opened in 1987 and was to all intents and purposes the very first theme park in the country. Today, it boasts over 30 rides – four of which are roller coasters and two water splashes.

Places to stay

1. The Camping and Caravanning Club’s site at Walton on Thames is one of the oldest to bear the Club’s name and Chessington can be reached in just 40 minutes or so by bus – a distance of just over six miles;
2. The club also has a site at East Horsley in Surrey, which is around 12 miles from Chessington or 43 minutes by train and bus – with some 130 pitches, the site is open from the end of March until the beginning of November;
3. It may be small – only 5 pitches – but Willow Tree Farm Campsite is only a four-mile drive away from the Chessington World of Adventure.

Drayton Manor

Tamworth, Staffordshire, England

What’s there?

Drayton Manor is a theme park near Tamworth in Staffordshire, situated in a massive 280-acre site which was once the estate of Drayton Manor, in a village called Drayton Bassett.

It is estimated that around a million and a half people visit the theme park every year and it has a number of unique rides – the only stood-up roller coaster in Europe, for instance – and the five-sided drop tower called Apocalypse.

The park is fully open from the middle of March until the beginning of November, but also has occasional open days from late November until the end of January.

Places to stay

1. You are unlikely to get your caravan much closer to the theme park than the Camping and Caravanning Club’s site at Drayton Manor – it is right next door, and offers 90 pitches, both hardstanding and grass, with and without electric hook-ups;
2. Certified by the Camping and Caravanning Club, Willows Farm is conveniently placed in nearby Tamworth, a mere stone’s throw from the theme park at Drayton Manor.

Legoland

Windsor, Berkshire. England

What’s there?

Legoland can be found just outside the royal town of Windsor in Berkshire.

The park is themed, of course, around the building toy for children and was opened in 1996 on the site of the former Windsor Safari Park. When it opened it was second only to its original home, Lego Billund, in Denmark.

In terms of visitor numbers Legoland at Windsor – which attracts more than two million a year – is second only to Alton Towers and is designed to attract children between the ages of 2 and 12 in particular.

Places to stay

1. Practically on the banks of the Thames, Hurley Riverside Park caravan and camping site is just 11 miles from Legoland and merits a listing on the official website of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead;
2. A further possibility, still in the Windsor area, is another family run site for up to five caravans at the Queen’s Acre Caravan and Campsite.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Blackpool, Lancashire, England

What’s there?

Amusement parks tend not to come more traditional or with such an illustrious history as Blackpool Pleasure Beach, situated on the appropriately named Ocean Boulevard in Blackpool, Lancashire.

Places to stay

1. Blackpool South is a Caravan Club site about five miles due east of the Pleasure Beach – it offers a total of 95 pitches, all on hardstanding;
2. Kneps Farm Holiday Park is 7 miles from Blackpool and 2 miles from the coast at Cleverleys – it is a family owned and run caravan site aiming to offer peace and quiet, with all pitches on level hard standing, all with electric hook-ups;
3. Eastham Hall Caravan Park is less than 5 miles from Blackpool in the seaside town of Lytham St Annes, where this caravan park is open from the 1^st of March to the 1^st of December – it offers 28 nightly touring pitches for caravans (13 of which are described as “super pitches” with your own personal water tap and a 16 amp electrical hook-up, whilst the 15 standard pitches have a 10 amp electrical supply).

Lightwater Valley

Ripon, North Yorkshire, England

What’s there?

If you are after one of Europe’s firsts, you might want to visit Lightwater Valley theme park in North Yorkshire for the The Ultimate – the continent’s longest roller coaster ride.

The park can be found at North Stainley in North Yorkshire and is, in fact, one of the country’s longest established venues which opened as long ago as 1969. Today it has more than 40 rides and incorporates a novel “Angry Birds” park, falconry centre, shopping village and restaurant.

It boasts more than half a million visitors a year.

Places to stay

1. Riverside Meadows Holiday Park is situated just outside the historic city of Ripon in the Yorkshire Dales, on the banks of the River Ure and a little more than four miles away from the Lightwater Valley theme park – it is one of the Flower of May sites in Yorkshire and offers fully serviced pitches, most of which are on hardstanding;
2. If you are happy to travel a little further – 40 miles or so in this case – you might enjoy the rugged scenery of Rosedale Abbey on the North York Moors, at another Flower of May site, Rosedale Abbey Touring Caravan Park, before setting off on your day trip to the theme park;
3. The two-acre Bluebell Caravan Park is situated in Kirby Hill near Boroughbridge, and is but a short distance from the theme park at Lightwater Valley

M & D’s Amusement Park

Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell, Scotland

What’s there?

“M & D’s is Scotland’s theme park” goes the advertising tagline – and with good reason too. It boasts more than 40 rides, including five roller coasters, two water splashes, a covered reptile house called Amazonia, ten-pin bowling, a theatre and an amusement arcade.

M & D’s is near Motherwell, in North Lanarkshire and is open from March until October.

Places to stay

1. Only three miles away is the Caravan Club’s Strathclyde Country Park which has 107 pitches, all of hard standing and 12 of which are fully serviced – the park is close to Strathclyde Loch and is open all the year round;
2. Blair Drummond Caravan Park may be some 25 miles away but is also conveniently situated for the town of Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park – the eight and a half acre site has 90 pitches;
3. At a similar distance of just over 25 miles is The Woods Caravan Park, near Alva in Clackmannanshire – set in 14 acres of a landscaped site in central Scotland, there are 10 fully serviced pitches;
4. The Camping and Caravanning Club has a site at Milarrochy Bay on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, some 26 miles or so from M & D’s theme park – the site has 150 pitches and is also handily located for day trips into the city of Glasgow.

The Milky Way Adventure Park

Clovelly, Bideford, Devon, England

What’s there?

The Milky Way Adventure Park is situated in North Devon, between Bude (15 miles) in one direction and Bideford (10 Miles) in the other.

The Cosmic Typhoon is Devon’s biggest and fastest roller coaster, but the park also features displays by birds of prey and ferrets, together with a farm and country enclosure.

Places to stay

This being Devon, there is no shortage of sites for touring caravans, so the following are just a very few that you might want to consider when visiting the Milky Way Adventure Park:

1. One such is Watermouth Cove Holiday Park, just over 30 miles from the theme park – it has recently installed all weather pitches for touring caravans that include electrical hook-up, TV, personal water tap and grey water waste;
2. Just outside Bude, and an easy striking distance of just 15 miles, you can find the Wooda Farm Holiday Park – in addition to its hard standing and grass pitches, the site also offers both covered and open storage facilities for your touring caravan when it is not in use;
3. Some 30 miles or so from the theme park, between Ilfracombe & Braunton, is Hidden Valley, a park offering four different types of pitch for touring caravans, all of which are all weather, supplied with a 16 amp electrical hook-up and on hard standing.

Wicksteed Park

Kettering, Northamptonshire, England

What’s there?

Wicksteed Park is said to be the second oldest amusement park in Britain, having been opened in 1921, the result of a bequest by Northampton factory owner Charles Wicksteed.

Since its humble beginnings with little more than a handful of swings for children, the theme park now boasts a total of 26 major rides, including three roller coasters and four water splashes.

The park is located near Kettering in Northamptonshire.

Places to stay

1. Wicksteed Park is one of the few theme parks to incorporate a caravan site within its estate so you have nothing but a short walk to start enjoying the rides – pitches are on grass and since you are actually staying on the site, it is easy to qualify for discounted entry to the theme park with a “second day” wristband;
2. Slightly further afield in the south of the county, between Milton Keynes and the county capital, about 40 miles from Wicksteed, is the small but tranquil Ekeney House for touring caravans.

Paultons Park

Romsey, Hampshire, England

What’s there?

A place for all the family, Paultons Park, is a part of a 140-acre estate in the village of Ower, near Romsey, Hampshire.

It has around 60 rides and attractions, a small zoo of around 80 birds and animals, but perhaps its main claim to fame is that it is home to the favourite children’s TV character Peppa Pig.

Although first opened in 1983, it has since grown in size, with new rides and attractions being added almost every year.

Places to stay

1. Just as the name suggests, Paultons Campsite is but a short walk to the main gates of Paultons Park – accredited by the Camping and Caravanning Club, it is purposely restricted to just five touring caravans;
2. Also very nearby, in the same village of Ower is Green Pastures Farm, a caravan site which is open from mid-March until the end of October and has the added advantage of being within easy striking distance of the New Forest National Park;
3. If you are looking to base your holiday in the New Forest itself, Long Meadow Campsite in Brockenhurst also gives you the option of a short drive of less than 10 miles to Paultons Park.

Flamingo Land

Malton, North Yorkshire, England

What’s there?

As the name suggests, Flamingo Land began life – in 1959 – essentially as a zoo. The entire park now spans 375 acres and offers a total of 52 rides – nine of which are roller coasters and two water splashes.

Flamingo Land is located near Malton, on the A64, in North Yorkshire.

Places to stay

Close to both the historic city of York and the majesty of the North York Moors, Flamingo Land attracts a number of caravanners to surrounding campsites which include:

1. Flamingo Land has their own Holiday Village with a touring field, toilet blocks, electricity pitches, supermarket and laundrette.
2. In the village of Slingsby, near Malton (and therefore Flamingo Land) is the Robin Hood Caravan and Camping Park – there are both grassed and hard standing pitches, all of which have water, electric and waste water disposal;
3. Vale of Pickering Caravan Park is close to Pickering itself and, so, only one and a half miles from Flamingo Land, as well as the Moors and the coastal resorts of Scarborough and Bridlington – the site’s all weather pitches can be pre-booked and allocated when making a reservation;
4. Six hard standing and six grassed pitches may be found at York Meadows Caravan Park, which just as the name suggests is close to the city of York, but still only 16 miles or so from Flamingo Land;
5. Jasmine Park is a caravan site located between Pickering and the coast at Scarborough, so only 20 miles or so from Flamingo Land – the all weather gravel pitches are all fully serviced and described as “super pitches”.

Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, Scotland

What’s there?

Landmark Forest Adventure Park is within the boundaries of the Cairngorm National Park in Scotland, near to the ski resort of Aviemore.

It offers a range of attractions – for the young, and not so young – such as a trail for “Wee Monkeys”, a Wild Water Coaster, Tarzan Trail, Ropeworx, and Lost Labyrinth to name but a few.

The park opened in 2010.

Places to stay

The rugged beauty of the Cairngorms naturally attracts more than its fair share of caravanners, whose needs are especially well met by sites such as:

1. Set in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the 10-acre Auchnahillin Holiday Park has 45 touring pitches – it is located about 30 miles from the Landmark Forest park;
2. Glenmore Campsite is also in the heart of the Cairngorms, near to Aviemore and little more than a five mile drive to Landmark Forest – it offers a huge total of more than 200 pitches for caravans )on both hard standing and grass) and tents.

Special bonus park: Disneyland Paris

Paris, France

What’s there?

Quite right! It is not a British theme park, but Disneyland Paris is still readily accessible after a short hop across the Channel and the name alone still proves a huge draw.

Places to stay

In fact, there are two connected parks – Disneyland Park (which opened in 1992) and the Walt Disney Studios Park (which opened in 2002).

The original park has all the attractions and entertainment that have come to be associated with the Disney name, from thrilling, vertiginous rides to real life cartoon characters, across five different and equally magical “lands”. Just as the name suggests, the Studios focuses more on the continuing film making history of Disney.

Disneyland Paris is situated in the new town of Marne-la-Vallée, about 20 miles east of Paris.

Places to stay

1. Campsite Caravaning des 4 Vents is just a 15 minute drive from Disneyland (entrance tickets are for sale onsite) and is set in the quiet rural location of Crécecoeur-en-Brie – pitches are large grassed areas;
2. A similar distance away, and also on the Ile de France is L’International de Jablines – there are 150 pitches, each with a 10 amp electrical supply and waste water disposal point.

Summary

As big a surprise as the sheer number of theme parks in the UK (allowing for a bonus one near Paris) is the range, standard and choice of places to stay nearby in your touring caravan.

Hopefully, this guide has helped to identify just what goes to make each theme park unique, how it fits into the surrounding countryside and has given a flavour of the amenities and facilities you are likely to find at the many caravan sites mentioned.

Disclaimer:
Information in this guide was correct at the time of writing. Theme park facilities, opening times, pricing and access arrangements can change, so we recommend checking directly with individual venues before making travel plans.

Caravanning is an increasingly popular option for people looking to take their holidays within the UK. It’s a home from home, with no worries about having to book hotel accommodation or fitting everything in to a suitcase for a flight.

We love a caravan holiday! Here we share:

• why staycations are so popular;
• reasons to buy a caravan; and,
• considerations before you buy.

Why a staycation? (Or, 10 good reasons to buy a caravan!)

Rising travel costs, changing travel requirements and the appeal of exploring more of the UK have encouraged many people to consider holidaying closer to home.

By staying within the UK’s varied countryside, coastline and national parks, a caravan holiday can offer flexibility and familiarity alongside the opportunity to travel more frequently throughout the year.

Travel hassle

For some travellers, airports and overseas travel arrangements can feel increasingly time-consuming. Flight delays, security procedures and baggage restrictions may all add complexity to planning a trip abroad.

By choosing a caravanning staycation, you may avoid some of these issues and travel with fewer restrictions on what you can take with you.

Staycationing caravanners

Buying your own caravan may provide a convenient base for regular short breaks or longer holidays without the need to arrange accommodation each time you travel.

With a touring caravan, you have the flexibility to explore different parts of the UK. (Our website includes destination ideas and useful guides).

Alternatively, a static caravan located on a holiday park can provide a familiar retreat that is ready when you are.

Freedom v planning

Planning an overseas holiday often involves booking flights, arranging accommodation, organising transfers and budgeting for additional travel costs.

By contrast, a caravan-based staycation can sometimes be arranged more quickly, particularly outside peak seasons, allowing greater flexibility when deciding when and where to travel.

Home comforts

Many caravan owners value the ability to travel with their own belongings and maintain familiar routines while away from home. This can make breaks feel more relaxed and comfortable compared with staying in unfamiliar accommodation.

Over time, owners often personalise their caravan space to suit their preferences, helping create a genuine “home from home” environment.

Making every day count

Travelling abroad can involve significant time in transit. With a caravan, your holiday may begin as soon as you set off, and you can often make more use of shorter breaks throughout the year.

This flexibility may make it easier to take spontaneous trips or long weekends without extensive planning.

Boredom breakers and spontaneity with a caravan holiday

If you own a touring caravan, you can change locations whenever you choose, subject to site availability. This flexibility allows you to adapt your plans depending on the weather, local events or personal preference.

Even short notice weekend breaks can become more achievable when accommodation is already available to you.

Taking your pets

For many owners, travelling with pets is an important consideration. Provided the caravan site permits animals, your pet can often accompany you, removing the need for kennels or pet-sitting arrangements.

Our guide to caravanning with pets provides further information on preparing for travel with animals.

The cost

Depending on how often you travel and where you stay, owning a caravan may offer a cost-effective alternative to repeated hotel bookings or overseas trips.

However, it is important to remember that there are ongoing costs associated with caravan ownership. These may include site fees, maintenance, storage, insurance and servicing, all of which should be considered when planning your budget.

Access to fresh air

Caravanning is closely associated with outdoor lifestyles. Many caravan sites are located near coastlines, countryside walks and national parks, making it easier to spend time outdoors and explore different regions of the UK.

Caravans and holiday homes are fun!

Caravan holidays can suit a wide range of travellers, from families looking for regular weekend escapes to couples seeking quieter rural retreats. Many holiday parks also offer facilities such as leisure centres, restaurants and organised activities.

These features can help make caravanning an enjoyable and flexible way to travel.

H2: Things you may need to think about before you buy a caravan

Here we touch on some considerations before you buy. At the end of the section, we have provided links to more detailed guides.

Mobility

If you have found a location you particularly enjoy visiting, a static caravan may suit your needs. Static caravans are usually located on licensed holiday parks and are not intended to be moved frequently.

If you prefer exploring different destinations, a touring caravan or motorhome may provide greater flexibility.

It is worth checking the terms of any holiday park agreement before purchasing a static caravan, as parks often have rules relating to occupancy periods, age limits on caravans and permitted usage throughout the year.

Protection

If you are investing in a caravan, you may wish to consider arranging suitable insurance to help protect against risks such as theft, accidental damage or severe weather events, depending on the policy selected.

Insurance may also be required by some caravan parks or storage providers as part of their site conditions.

Here at Cover4Caravans, we aim to help customers compare both touring caravan insurance and static caravan insurance options so they can compare cover options that reflect how their caravan is used.

The level of protection available will depend on the insurer, policy wording and individual circumstances, so it is important to review documentation carefully before arranging cover.

Storage and security considerations

If you own a touring caravan, you may need to think about where it will be stored when not in use. Some owners keep their caravan at home, while others choose secure storage compounds.

Insurers sometimes take storage arrangements into account when assessing risk, so security features such as wheel clamps, hitch locks or approved storage sites may influence the cover available or the premium payable.

At Cover4Caravans, storing your caravan at a CaSSOA-approved site may help reduce the premium, depending on individual underwriting criteria.

Running and maintenance costs

Like any vehicle or holiday property, caravans require ongoing maintenance. Regular servicing helps ensure that gas systems, electrical equipment and structural components remain safe and in good working order.

Other ongoing costs may include:

• site fees;
• storage charges;
• servicing inspections;
• replacement tyres;
• cleaning and upkeep;
• insurance; and
• winter preparation where relevant.

Understanding these costs in advance may help you decide whether caravan ownership is suitable for your lifestyle.

Weighty matters

If you opt for a tourer, your driving licence will normally allow you to tow up to a certain weight, but this depends on when your licence was issued and the combined weight of the towing vehicle and caravan. Please read the Gov.UK website for further information.

Your car manufacturer will also specify the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle, and it is important to ensure your caravan falls within this limit.

Site rules and usage restrictions

Static caravan ownership often involves entering into an agreement with the site operator. These agreements may include rules relating to:

• how long the caravan can remain on site;
• whether sub-letting is permitted;
• seasonal occupancy limits;
• maintenance responsibilities; and
• pitch fee increases over time.

Understanding these conditions before purchase can help avoid unexpected costs later.

Resale and depreciation

As with most leisure vehicles, caravans may reduce in value over time. Factors such as condition, age and manufacturer reputation can influence resale value.

Some holiday parks also apply age limits to caravans kept on site, which may affect how long a static caravan can remain in its original location.

Considering resale potential at the outset may help you make a more informed purchasing decision.

Further reading:

• Cover4Caravans’ Guide to buying a tourer
• Guide to buying a static home

Summary

The above highlights some of the reasons people choose to buy a caravan, together with some practical considerations to review before making a purchase decision. For many owners, caravanning offers flexibility, convenience and the opportunity to explore more of the UK at their own pace.

If you’re still considering whether caravan ownership is right for you, researching the different types of caravans available and understanding the ongoing commitments involved may help you decide whether it suits your travel plans and lifestyle.

Date of Visit:    March/April 2026

Overall View

This is a privately owned and operated caravan and camping site a few miles outside the market town of Barnard Castle. It is both a dog friendly and child friendly site. It is a level site with well-spaced pitches and facilities.

Access is from the A66, please see arrival video HERE.

The site also has a large rally field and some caravan storage.

Facilities

Each pitch, whether hard standing or grass, in the caravan area has its own 16amp EHU.

There are two shower blocks, one which also houses the accessible toilet and shower.

There are water filling points at each of the facilities blocks including CDP points and grey water disposal. 

The central facilities block also has a drive over motorhome waste disposal point to the side.

The facilities block nearest to the farmhouse has a dish washing room to the side.

At the far end of the farmhouse there is also a laundry, (at charge) with a large washing machine and dryer.  There are also two further ladies and gents toilets here too.

A public footpath at the top end of the site doubles as the dog walk and there is a doggy bin there as well.

Security at the site is very strong with two, numbered, barriers in order to gain entrance to the site.  The outer one, nearer the road entrance, is open during the day but closes at night.  You can still access the site with both the key numbers.

Rubbish and recycling is kept in a shed by the entrance – good practice to take your rubbish in your car on your way out.

Fire extinguishers are placed across the site.  There is a defibrillator in Reception.

Reception has leaflets about the area and also books to exchange.  Fresh eggs are also available at cost.  The owners are very friendly and approachable, making for a very pleasant atmosphere.

A bus service connecting you with Barnard Castle and onwards to Bishops Auckland stops right outside the entrance.  A useful addition for motorhome owners etc.

Review of Site Pitch

The majority of tourer pitches are laid to gravel and predominantly level.  Most will take a caravan and awning side by side, parking the car at the front.  The pitches are well tended and clean.

TV and radio reception was fine. Mobile wise we had no issues with EE 5G though their coverage checker suggested poor to no signal indoors. Vodafone was fine up to 4G both inside and out. The coverage checkers for O2 and Three suggested the same.

There was no WiFi offering.

Around and about

The nearest town which has shops is Barnard Castle, a 15 minute drive from the site.  It has a Lidl and Home Bargains on the far side of town from the site.  In the town itself there are a wide range of independent shops and pubs/cafes.  There is a Co-Operative shop on Horsemarket.  A smaller Morrisons is found behind the main street with a car park and toilets.  A dog friendly pub/restaurant is also on Horsemarket called The Raby Arms Hotel.  Great food and dogs are allowed in all parts of the bar, restaurants etc.

There are also a wide range of independent antique shops selling all types of products.  Barnard Castle is well known for this.

There are various street markets held throughout the week/month.  Best to check as times do vary.

Finally, there is the Castle itself, from which the town derived its name.  It is run by English Heritage.  Please note there is no parking in the immediate vicinity and access is down a tarmac slope.

Slightly further afield is Bishops Auckland, where the major supermarkets are plus the corresponding fuel stations.  Most of the shopping is to be found within several out of town shopping centres which are mainly on the ring road around the town.

There is also a railway station here which connects with the East Coast mainline and in the opposite direction a Heritage railway.  The Weardale Railway is easily accessible from the national railway station by walking along the platform and boarding the train.  If you require a ramp, please ring ahead in plenty of time to ensure they have one available.  Currently, the railway goes as far as Stainhope, although it is hoped that it will be extended further up the dale as Weardale which is where the original railway terminated.  There is a lovely station at Stainhope, the rebuilt station and canopy have won a number of awards.  There are full toilet facilities here, plus a small shop and a small cafe.  It can get very full in there and is not really set up for wheelchairs.  There are sheltered seats and tables on the platform if required.  A very pleasant afternoon out, an hours journey each way.

Another half day out is to Eggleston Hall, Nursery and Gardens.  Entrance is free, although donation box is available by the entrance.  There is a guided walk around the site with the leaflet available from the Cafe.  It also takes in the Hall’s derelict church and graveyard which is very old indeed.  Depending on the season, you will see a good range of plants and flowers on show, daffodils were everywhere when we visited.  A beautiful sight indeed.

There is a lovely, dog friendly and fully accessible cafe and their offering of a toasted teacake, butter with half a fresh strawberry, slice of apple, slice of kiwi fruit and a slice of orange was a complete but delightful surprise!  Their coffee was just as good too.  There is a small section where you can purchase plants – roses were much in evidence.  To a non-gardener, the quality looked really good.  There are also a couple of artists by the entrance in their individual studios selling their products.  Alongside the cafe is an antique/bric-a-bac shop with all manner of goods for sale.  An enjoyable visit, although possibly not so much if it was raining. 

A slightly further afield visit is to Durham – major historical monuments are here.  The Cathedral is probably the best well known.  Access is dependent upon your accessibility needs.  We parked at Bishops Street Car Park  and strolled up the High Street – easiest route is to turn left and follow the road round until you enter the Cathedral quadrant.  You can go from the other end of the High Street but that involves steep steps and a hill climb from the River level.  The Cathedral is very welcoming and allows dogs in there as well.  Photography is allowed but not while there are services underway  Please also note that there is a congestion charge – payable every 24 hours.  It is done entirely on-line and is simple to use.

If you enjoy scenic drives with amazing views, then a good half days trip out is to Stanhope, via the moors route, B6278/Roman Road.  We were lucky that it was a dry, clear day and you could literally see for miles in all directions.  It does take a while but there are plenty of photo opportunities. It was interesting to note the snow markers on the road size; one can only imagine the scenery in the winter.  

Stanhope is a sizeable village, which we had not realised when we visited it on the Weardale Railway a few days ago.  Our destination was the Durham Dales Centre.

There is plenty of parking, accessible facilities and some lovely craft shops.  The Easter displays were particularly good.  Unfortunately, the cafe recently closed – looked like it was permanent too.  We were a little disappointed that there was not more there – the website was perhaps done some time ago. 

It is possible to drive further up Weardale to a Museum, however, please check before setting off as it is privately run and does not always open all the time.  We returned along the dale floor, driving through some pretty little villages – some with shops and cafes.  We were aiming for The 68 Cafe – we were able to buy a cup of tea and sit in the car admiring the views and eat our pre-packed lunch  We returned via Barnard’s Castle back to the site.

For a superb meal, good range of beers and wines, plus dog friendly evening out, then you would do well to visit Fox & Hounds pub in Cotherstone village – about a 5 minute drive from the site.  We had the most delicious, home cooked meal – the range of drinks on offer was excellent and they were most accommodating of our dog.

Summary

A lovely quiet, independent site.  Owners take a real pride in what they do and that is evident by the high standards across the site.  It is a site to which we would return.

It probably won’t have escaped your attention that flooding over recent years appears to be becoming more and more commonplace.  Scientists continue to study the extent to which climate change may be influencing flooding patterns in the UK.

Interesting as that debate is, the issues for static caravan owners are rather more prosaic and pragmatic.

Flooding and your static caravan

Bad weather (whatever the season) brings a degree of concern amongst the owners of static caravans for the battering that might be brought on by storms – for good reason, too, given the amount of damage that might be caused.

In an island nation such as Britain, given its many rivers which might become swollen by torrential winter rains, damage – or in some cases total loss – as a result of flooding may be a concern for some static caravan owners.

Whatever the actual conditions and damage from one winter to the next, however, some issues seem indisputable:

• many caravan sites are located in low lying areas either directly adjacent to large areas of water or indeed the coast and sea itself;
• the news broadcasts over recent years have regularly featured worrying shots of damage caused to caravans as well as some being swept away in torrents of water; and
• this type of risk may remain relevant for the foreseeable future.

So, what options do holiday caravan owners have in this area? The good news is that you might still be able to arrange for cover of your static caravan against the risk of flooding, subject to underwriting criteria and policy terms.

The risk of flooding – is it a “material fact”?

A basic tenet of English law is that insurance contracts are based on the principle of “utmost good faith”.

This requires the insured to declare at the outset – or subsequently if the situation changes – any “material fact” likely to affect the risks that are insured. A material fact, in other words, is an event or information which makes a risk greater than usual.

If the site on which your static caravan is pitched has been subject to flooding in the past, therefore, this is generally considered a material fact and should be disclosed – if it is not, the insurer may treat the policy as invalid or decline a claim.

What is the risk of flooding?

Nobody can tell you, unconditionally, whether or not your caravan and its site are going to be subject to flooding – the effects of which can obviously be severe. Different parts of the country, of course, each have a different level of risk.

Because of their very nature as holiday homes, caravan parks are often situated close to the coast or along the banks of some scenic inland waterway.

Research the risks in your area, therefore, by searching the Environment Agency’s scalable map of the risk of flooding from rivers and the sea in any given part of England and Wales.

It is not just the geographical location of your static caravans park which may determine the risk, but your actual pitch within it – if you are worried about the risk of flooding you might consider bidding for an alternative pitch on higher ground.

Check your static caravan insurance policy

Make sure to look carefully at your static caravan insurance policy quote so that you choose the most suitable insurance solution. While you will need to make sure you have the standard type of cover – such as loss, damage, and theft – you may also need to choose one that covers flood insurance.

Some static caravan insurance policies may have complete exclusion for flood risks, others may cover them but with numerous conditions and yet others may impose punitive additional premiums for caravans in flood risk areas.

Speak to your static caravan insurance provider if you are unsure as to what your policy cover entails.

What you may need to be particularly careful of is being in a caravan with an insurance policy that specifically excludes flood risk because even on caravan sites with no previous history of problems, flooding may arise unexpectedly.

You have probably given serious thought to insurance cover for your caravan – if you are also worried about the risk of your caravan flooding, you might want to consult a specialist insurer, such as us here at Cover4Caravans, on the subject, and here’s why:

• whenever you arrange insurance cover for your caravan, your insurer naturally needs to be able to assess the risks of its loss or damage – that is what insurance is all about;
• if the siting of your static caravan is in an area perceived to be vulnerable to flooding or has been affected by it in the past, the insurers take this into account when offering to insure the risk;
• the assessment may result in no change to the policy proposal, or caravan insurance premiums may be increased to reflect the heightened risk or your request for cover may be rejected;
• a specialist caravan insurance provider is familiar with the particular problems likely to be faced by owners of static caravans and to have established contacts with those niche insurers prepared to advance cover in areas of risk;
• if you consider the cost of caravan insurance premiums too expensive, however, a specialist provider may instead offer caravan insurance quotes on alternative policies which provide comprehensive cover (such as theft and contents cover), with the exclusion of flood risks in particular.

Although the risk of flooding is likely to be a particular worry for the owners of static caravans sited in vulnerable areas, caravan insurance is not always out of the question, provided certain basic considerations are taken into account.

Is my proposal for insurance cover going to be rejected if there has been flooding in the past?

If you tell any existing or prospective insurer that there has been a problem with flooding in the past, it does not automatically follow that your application for cover is going to be declined.

Instead, the risk of it happening again is considered by the insurer and, if it is deemed necessary, an adjustment of the premiums payable may be made.

Naturally, some parts of the country might be more vulnerable to the possibility of flooding than others – even where there has been no apparent problem in the past.

So, different insurers are likely to adopt significantly different criteria when assessing the current risk.

Some providers may offer cover against flooding whereas others may not.

Specialist providers

It is for just that reason you might want to consult a specialist provider of static caravan insurance – such as those of us here at Cover4Caravans.

Based on our experience of the insurance market, we may be able to identify those insurers prepared to offer cover for static caravans in areas vulnerable to flooding.

Is your static caravan park prepared?

When choosing the site for your static caravan, you might want to investigate the extent to which the park’s management might be prepared for the risk of flooding.

The government has published quite detailed guidance for static caravan park owners where there is any likelihood of flooding. The local authority licence granted to your park owners may also contain conditions relating to their displaying flood warning notices and information, together with a flood plan where appropriate.

Naturally, you should make yourself aware of any such information provided and enquire whether a flood plan exists – and if it does, be sure to read it.

Any flood plan relating to the park on which your static caravan is pitched also needs to be incorporated into the management’s overall site plan, to show such important information as gas and electricity isolation points (so they can be turned off in an emergency), assembly points and evacuation routes, the location of life-rings and the formulation of traffic management plans.

On vulnerable sites, you are likely to find that static caravans may be:

• located on higher ground where appropriate;
• fitted with flotation devices on the underside;
• raised by approximately 0.5 metres above ground on axle stands; and
• firmly anchored into position.

Specifics for high flood risk areas

If it appears that your chosen site or caravan park is in a high flood risk area, check that the caravan site owners are aware of the government’s guidelines for mitigating those risks.

Be certain that you know where the emergency assembly and evacuation points are for your site. Do not leave trying to find this out until a crisis has struck.

It would also be sensible to check that you fully understand your static caravan insurance position in terms of the provider’s requirements relating to maintaining your cover in place and any specific conditions that might apply.

Review of the general principles for avoiding flooding risks

Whether your caravan site is low or high risk, it might be prudent to consider some of the following to mitigate any potential flood damage:

• try to select caravan berths that are located on higher ground within the site rather than lower;
• with the help of any relevant expert advice, carefully construct your own flood plan. Essentially, that should be designed to tell you exactly what you have to do should you be, however unexpectedly, hit by flooding;
• you should be absolutely clear where your gas, water and electrical master switches are. Ensure these are all switched off in the event of flooding. While a caravan site owner should also have such a plan, don’t rely on what they may do in these areas but take your own steps to keep yourself safe;
• check that you have adequate emergency lighting and perhaps portable heating of types that cannot be put at risk by a flood;
• keep a supply of good waterproof clothes and boots to hand. Remember, clothing that can cope with heavy rainfall is not the same as that required to protect you if you are wading through perhaps knee-deep water;
• store some emergency high energy foodstuffs with a long shelf life in waterproof containers in your caravan.

We hope this article has provided some useful tips and advice. If you require any clarification on what your static caravan insurance policy covers, please do contact us. We’d be very happy to help.

Disclaimer:
Information in this article is intended as general guidance only and was correct at the time of writing. Insurance cover, underwriting criteria and flood-risk assessments vary between providers and locations. You should always check policy wording and speak to your insurer or broker to confirm the cover available for your circumstances.

There’s nothing quite as cosy and welcoming as a caravan holiday. But whether you choose a static caravan or a touring caravan, the ownership experience – and the insurance considerations – can differ significantly.

A static caravan is typically installed on a fixed pitch within a licensed leisure park, while a touring caravan is designed to be towed between locations. Because they are stored, transported, and used differently, insurers usually assess them under separate risk categories.

Understanding the differences between static caravan vs touring caravan insurance can help you arrange cover that more closely reflects how your caravan is actually used.

What is a static caravan?

A static caravan is typically sited on a permanent or semi-permanent pitch within a purpose-built holiday park.

These caravans are usually connected to utilities such as electricity, water, and drainage, and their use is commonly governed by site licence agreements. These agreements may include occupancy rules, seasonal usage limits, and maintenance responsibilities.

Static caravan insurance is normally designed to reflect risks associated with a fixed location. Depending on the park’s setting, this may include exposure to storm damage, flooding, falling trees or debris, vandalism while parks are closed, and public liability risks linked to the pitch.

You can read more about what may typically be included under static caravan insurance.

Although some park operators may offer their own insurance schemes, in most cases, owners are not usually required to purchase caravan insurance cover through the site provider.

Arranging specialist static caravan insurance independently may provide greater flexibility, provided the policy meets the park’s licence requirements and conditions.

It may also be sensible to check whether your park specifies minimum liability limits as part of its static caravan site licence insurance requirements.

What is a touring caravan?

A touring caravan is designed for mobility and can be towed between destinations throughout the year.

This flexibility introduces a different set of risks compared with static caravan ownership. Touring caravans may be exposed to towing incidents, accidental damage while travelling, theft from temporary locations, or damage while stored between trips.

Touring caravan insurance is therefore typically structured around how the caravan is transported, secured, and stored when not in use. You can learn more about touring caravan insurance here.

Storage arrangements can be especially important. While some touring caravans are kept at home, in storage compounds, or on campsites, insurers often apply conditions about acceptable locations.

Informal storage sites such as open farmland or unsecured fields may typically be unsuitable because they present a higher theft risk and limited physical protection.

Many insurers set minimum expectations around storage arrangements, particularly where caravans are not kept at recognised secure facilities such as those described in secure caravan storage guidance. Some insurance providers, such as us here at Cover4Caravans, may offer discounted premiums where caravans are stored at Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA) approved sites.

Additional precautions such as wheel clamps, hitch locks, or tracking devices may also form part of insurer security requirements, depending on where the caravan is stored. Read more: Guide to caravan storage and security.

Key ownership differences that affect insurance risk

Comparing a static caravan vs touring caravan highlights several practical differences that insurers typically take into account:

• static caravans usually remain on a licensed pitch throughout the season;
• touring caravans are regularly transported between destinations;
• site licence rules often restrict how static caravans may be occupied;
• touring caravans may face additional transit and towing risks;
• static caravans may be exposed to environmental risks linked to their permanent setting, especially on coastal or elevated parks;
• touring caravans usually require secure off-season storage that meets insurer expectations;
• static caravan owners may need to comply with maintenance conditions set out in pitch agreements.

Because these risks differ, static caravan insurance and touring caravan insurance are usually arranged under separate policy types rather than interchangeable cover.

Understanding how caravan storage and usage affect insurance cover can help ensure the protection arranged reflects your circumstances.

It is also important to notify insurers of changes affecting the caravan’s location, storage arrangements, or use. Further guidance is available in our caravan insurance FAQs.

Static caravan vs touring caravan insurance: what’s the difference?

Static caravan insurance typically focuses on risks associated with a fixed pitch location, including weather-related damage, site-specific hazards, and public liability linked to the caravan’s position within the park.

Touring caravan insurance, by contrast, generally reflects risks linked to mobility, including towing incidents, temporary siting risks, accidental damage away from storage locations, and theft while travelling or parked.

Some policies may also offer features such as:

• new-for-old caravan insurance cover;
• optional caravan contents insurance;
• protection for caravan awnings;
• loss of use caravan insurance cover.

Availability will depend on the insurer and the terms and conditions of the policy.

Choosing insurance that reflects how your caravan is used

When comparing static caravan vs touring caravan insurance, it may be helpful to consider where the caravan is located for most of the year and how often it is moved.

For example:

• static caravan policies may place greater emphasis on site-based risks such as storms, flooding, and third-party liability;
• touring caravan policies may place greater emphasis on transit damage, theft risk, and storage security arrangements.

Before arranging cover, you may wish to:

• check any insurance requirements set out in your park licence agreement;
• confirm whether your storage arrangements meet insurer expectations;
• notify your insurer if the caravan’s use or location changes;
• review cover limits periodically so they continue to reflect replacement values.

Understanding the differences between static caravan vs touring caravan insurance can help ensure your policy reflects how your caravan is stored, used, and protected throughout the year.

FAQs: static caravan vs touring caravan insurance

Do static caravans need different insurance from touring caravans?

Yes. Static caravans are typically insured under policies designed for fixed-pitch risks, while touring caravans are usually insured under policies that reflect transit exposure and storage requirements. See static caravan insurance for more details.

Do I have to buy insurance through my static caravan park?

In many cases, no. Some park operators offer insurance schemes, but owners can often arrange independent specialist cover provided it meets site licence requirements.

Where can I store a touring caravan when not in use?

Touring caravans may sometimes be stored at home, on campsites, or in recognised storage compounds. Insurers often set security conditions, and informal locations such as unsecured farmland are typically not acceptable.

Does touring caravan insurance include towing cover?

Some policies may include protection against damage while the caravan is being towed, although the level of cover varies and will depend on policy terms and conditions. Further details are explained here: touring caravan insurance.

Is CaSSOA storage required for touring caravan insurance?

It is not always required, but some insurers may offer improved terms if the caravan is stored at a Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association approved facility because of the higher security standards.