Further information and photographs of CLs and CSs can be found in the March 2008 issue of Practical Caravan. For back issues telephone 08456 777812. Admission Price and Opening Times were correct at the time of publishing. Please check for latest information before visiting.

The area around Gatehouse of Fleet in Dumfries and Galloway is rich in farms operating five-pitch CLs and CSs.
This CL is set a fair distance from Newton farm itself, but it is near something far more important to your holiday: its own private bay. So, along with a beautiful view and uninterrupted peace, you get your own sandy, rock-pooled beach where you can play with the kids.
As well as offering good local food, there's plenty to do. Amid the unspoilt and secluded landscape are miles of cycle routes in the foothills and valleys behind the farm. For days out there are also castles, gardens and many other attractions to visit.
One drawback, though, is the tap water at the bay is really only suitable for rinsing out your Thetford, so you face a bit of a walk, back up a long track, to the farm to fill your Aquaroll.
Price £4 per night
Address Newton Farm CL, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway DG7 2ER
Tel 01557 840 234

The South-West is a renowned holiday hotspot but if you have a long drive to get there, this CL just off the M5 motorway lets you turn a stopover into the first night of your holiday, and it’s open all year. If you’re making a full stay of it during the summer, you’ll enjoy the nearby beach. The CL itself is fairly isolated, with gorgeous views. However, it is also equipped with toilets, showers, hook-up and electric shaving points. It’s only a five-van site, but has enough charm and facilities to rival larger commercial sites.
Price £4 per night (+ £1 for full awning)
Address Ebdon Bow CL, Wick St Lawrence, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset BS22 9NZ
Tel 01934 515 716

This award-winning, adults-only CL has hardstandings and electric hook-ups. Each pitch even has its own lawn, which is ideal for your awning, as well as trees that provide a little extra privacy. The entrance is lined by a wall of honeyed Cotswold stone, which gives a flavour of the local area. The site is on three-quarters of an acre of countryside, which is right near plenty of nature walks. While strolling, you may spot wild deer roaming in the adjacent field. There’s also a good chance of seeing owls and foxes, making this CL a nature-lover’s dream.
Price £8.50 (+ £1 for full awning; 50p for a porch awning)
Address Oakleaze CL, South Cerney Road, Cirencester GL7 6HT
Tel 01285 860 332

What makes this site different from most is the warm welcome of site owner Shirley Davis. When we visited, she was attentive and friendly, and spent most of our stay chatting to visitors. Make sure you book well in advance though, because the site’s location and personal touch mean it fills quickly. On site there are toilets, showers and hook-up points. Shops, restaurants and lovely country pubs, as well as the obligatory New Forest pony rides are all close by. There are tennis courts for children or those looking for a little exercise while away.
Price £9-£10 (with hook-up)
Address Miranda, Vaggs Lane, Hordle, Lymington, Hampshire SO41 0FP
Tel 01425 621 561

This CS is perfectly located for caravanners searching for a little peace and quiet. The pitches are dotted about the farm, which is located on the southern edge of the North Yorkshire moors and has its own shop and tearoom. The moors offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor excursions, such as rambling on the rugged landscape or horse riding through the heather. York and Scarborough are also a drive away, so there’s city and seaside to enjoy. The site has the usual basic facilities and a dishwashing area.
Price £8 with electric hook-up
Address Beadlam Grange, Pockley, Helmsley, North Yorkshire YO62 7TD
Tel 01439 770 303

Further information and photographs of these CLs and CSs can be found in the March 2008 issue of Practical Caravan. For back issues telephone 08456 777812. Admission Price and Opening Times were correct at the time of publishing. Please check for latest information before visiting.