Company Blog

5 of the Best Places to Take Your Caravan This Winter

Caravans are a convenient way to travel up and down the country, allowing you the freedom to set out and drive away from busy home life. Finding the most inspirational caravan hotspots this Winter, we have found five destinations to inspire you for your festive break this Winter.

James Roper says:

“Rounding up your staycation options for the festive season ahead can be tricky. Especially if you’re trying to determine a cost-effective but also enjoyable experience for the family. Here at Roper’s, we’ve gathered five locations that are perfect for your caravan this winter. We looked into a number of factors, being the most scenic destinations to the most popular. We’re sure there’s something here for any household looking to take a break this holidaying season.”

5 Ideal Places to Take Your Caravan This Winter

1. Devon

Devon is a scenic county in Southwest England that is perfect for a winter getaway. There are many picturesque villages to explore, along with the coastlines and countryside. The National Park of Dartmoor is also well worth a visit, especially during the colder months.

2. Cornwall

The Cornish coast is another great place for a winter caravan holiday. Its sandy beaches and rugged coastline make it the perfect place to relax or explore. Several towns and villages offer unique charms to explore along the way.

3. Bridlington, Yorkshire

Bridlington is the perfect place to spend a winter break. The Yorkshire coastline extends both north and south from the site, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Seaside resorts like Bridlington and Scarborough are easily accessible.

4. The Lake District

There is no doubt that the Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in the UK. The park contains some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, including 16 breathtaking lakes. You can find the most scenic spots for walks and hikes, and even still persuasive during the colder months for your winter staycation.

5. Dumfries and Galloway, South West Scotland

It’s easy to see why Coastal Kippford holiday park is so popular in Dumfries and Galloway, South West Scotland. The Solway Firth is known as Scotland’s Riviera Coast because of the picturesque seaside village of Kippford.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to caravan holidays in the UK. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to relax or somewhere to explore this winter, there’s sure to be a destination for you.

These are just five of the finest places to take your caravan this winter – has our list inspired you? If so, where will you go?

A Beginner’s Guide to Caravan Maintenance

A caravan is a great way to travel and experience the outdoors. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your caravan in peak condition and to guarantee a safe and enjoyable journey. We’ll go over important caravan maintenance advice in this beginner’s guide and emphasise the value of warranties, like those provided by Bailey Caravans.

Image of a Baileys Unicorn caravan

Understanding Your Warranty

When looking at purchasing a caravan, it’s crucial to understand the warranty terms. For example, all Bailey caravans and motorhomes are supplied with a 6-year body shell integrity warranty and a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty. This level of protection offers peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected should any issues arise during the warranty period.

Essential Caravan Maintenance Tips

1. Regular Inspections

Inspect your caravan regularly for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or damage. Check the seals around windows, doors, and vents, as well as the roof and floor for any signs of water ingress. If you’re considering a used Bailey Caravan, ensure you thoroughly inspect each department of the caravan. Here at Ropers, our expert team walks through every aspect of the caravan with you and answers all questions you may have.

2. Tyre Maintenance

Check your caravan’s tyres for wear, damage, and proper inflation regularly. Keep in mind that underinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even blowouts.

3. Cleaning and Protecting

Clean your caravan’s exterior using a mild detergent and a soft brush to remove dirt and any grime. Regular cleaning not only keeps your caravan looking its best but also helps prevent the build-up of mould, which can cause long-term damage. Apply a quality wax or sealant to protect the paintwork from UV rays and environmental pollutants.

4. Servicing and Repairs

Have your caravan serviced regularly by our professional team to ensure all systems are functioning correctly and efficiently. This includes checking the brakes, suspension, electrical systems, and appliances.

5. Interior Maintenance

Keep the interior of your caravan clean and clutter-free. Regularly inspect and clean all soft furnishings, such as curtains, cushions, and bedding. Vacuum the floor and upholstery to remove dust and dirt, and wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.

6. Gas Safety

Regularly check your caravan’s gas system for leaks, corrosion, or damage. Always ensure gas bottles are stored correctly and secured when not in use.

7. Electrical Systems

Inspect your caravan’s electrical systems, including wiring, batteries, and appliances, for any signs of wear or damage. Test all lights, sockets, and switches to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Regularly recharging your caravan’s leisure battery to extend its lifespan.

8. Moisture and Damp Prevention

Dampness can cause serious issues in a caravan, leading to mould and structural damage. Use a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products to help control humidity levels. Regularly air out your caravan by opening the windows and vents, especially after cooking or showering. Always address any leaks or water ingress immediately to prevent further damage.

9. Winterising Your Caravan

When your caravan is not in use during the winter months, it’s essential to protect it from freezing temperatures and potential damage. This includes draining the water system, disconnecting the gas supply, and removing any perishable items. You may consider using a breathable cover to protect the exterior from the elements.

10. Security Measures

It’s essential to take appropriate security measures to protect your caravan. This can include fitting a hitch lock, and wheel clamp, and installing an alarm system or tracking device. Always store your caravan in a secure location when not in use, and consider joining a caravan security registration scheme.

By adhering to these maintenance tips and guidelines, you can prolong the life of your caravan and enjoy countless adventures on the road. Remember that regular maintenance is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable caravanning experience, and always be proactive in addressing any issues that may arise.

If you would like to speak to a member of our team for further maintenance advise, call us on 01748 818 666. You can also reach us via email: enquiries@ropersleisure.co.uk. You can find our full contact details and where we are located on our contact page.

Ropers win Gold & Second Place at the Caravan Owner Satisfaction Awards 2023

Hosted by Practical Caravan Magazine & The Camping and Caravanning Club, the annual caravan awards showcase results that are divided into new and pre-owned caravans, overall dealership service and almost 5,000 responses submitted from customers and experts in the field. Britain’s most popular caravan magazine is Practical Caravan.

Firstly, we’re absolutely delighted to have won this award and to see the progress of our company over the years. It’s a real honour and privilege for our company to have won the Gold Award across the entire caravan market in the UK.

We also learnt that we are the only Northern company to get a mention! So we are delighted to hear this!

Category: “Best New Caravan Supplying Dealers”

Ropers Leisure

We can see our progression as a company over the years by reading the caravan owner satisfaction awards 2023 update. Back in 2020, we positioned third place and now we move into second place for 2023.

We have a special team here at Ropers, and being a family-run business for over 40 years, we love nothing more than bringing that family atmosphere forward to our staff and customers. We strive for professional and quality service for our customers, and we are absolutely thrilled with the news!

At our family-run dealership in Catterick Bridge, North Yorkshire, we offer both new and used caravans and motorhomes. We also have a showroom, shop and cafe available to the public! So come down and visit us!

If you would like to speak to a member of our team today, call us on 01748 818 666. You can also reach us via email: enquiries@ropersleisure.co.uk.You can find our full contact details and where we are located on our contact page.