Eccles, a name that’s as old as the car-pulled trailer caravan itself, and one that helped to establish caravanning as a hobby for thousands of people, is no longer a current brand. But the name can still be spotted on pre-owned forecourts, as is the case with a 2020 Swift Eccles X 880. But how does it shape up? Is it worth considering if you’re looking for the best used caravan?
Eccles became part of the Swift Group in 1994/95, and production moved from its Newmarket base to Swift’s Cottingham plant.
For years, Swift positioned Eccles as an innovator in style and interior design. The name celebrated 100 years in 2019, with a special range to mark the occasion. Eccles was marketed as Sterling for many years, with its own dealers. Towards the end of the production run, the Swift badge replaced Sterling.
Model history
In 2019, the Eccles ranges received a new interior look and a special ‘100 years’ badge. Seven layouts were available with the revamped interiors, and other additions included
a solar panel, Alde heating and an alarm, which formed part of the line-up’s excellent spec.
In 2020, Swift’s decision to manufacture four eight-footers and brand them as ‘X’ meant the company went for caravan layouts with a proven record.
The new models, four-berths with fixed beds, included the 865, with twin single beds and a rear washroom. You can always look at our tips on how to make a caravan bed more comfortable if you’re after tips on how to improve your sleeping experience too.
The X range offered more internal space and storage, and the 2020 line-up came with a superb spec, including a solar panel, Alde heating, an alarm, external gas and BBQ points, GRP sides, a full oven and a microwave – the list went on.
The 880 is an island bed caravan that was produced in the Swift line-up as an X, offering a different interior. It proved very popular, with its transverse fixed bed, end washroom, large lounge and well-equipped central kitchen. However, the Eccles X range was discontinued for 2021.
Price checker
Browsing for the 880, we came across prices from £19,995 to £21,995. The model reviewed here was at the top of this range, but if you’re buying a used caravan and shop around, you might spot a competitively priced private sale. You will have to do your research, as these tourers are not often seen on the used market.
For the rest of the range, you can expect to pay:
- 865 X: £19,495-£19,995
- 835 X: £20,495-£20,995
- 850 X: £22,950-£24,995
What to look out for
- Loose or missing screws in the front gas locker
- Cracking in sunroof seals
- Loss of support in seating
- Signs of interior damage
- Loss of support in the mattress on fixed beds
- Clamps coming loose in gas bottle locker
- Bubbling in furniture finish
- Leaking seals on gas locker
Verdict
The 880 X boasts superb good looks outside and in, and comes with a host of tempting kit.
The condition of the model reviewed here was very good. Everything looked little used and we found no faults at all.
The Eccles X was only made for the 2020 year, so they are rarely seen on forecourts, but they are worth looking out for.
As usual, do the checks and ask about service records and repairs, to make sure they have been carried out correctly. Still looking very stylish, the Eccles X has massive kerb appeal.
Technical spec of the 2020 Swift Eccles X 880
- Price: £21,995
- Berths: 4
- MiRO: 1481kg
- Payload: 161kg
- MTPLM: 1642kg
- Internal length: 5.83m
- Width: 2.45m
Alternative models
You could consider the 2018 Swift Conqueror 560. It’s a tempting caravan for couples, offering a luxurious base for touring. Alternatively, if you’re a couple who would be happy with a two-berth, the 2021 Bailey Phoenix Plus 420 is lightweight and comfortable, providing caravanners with a bright and airy lounge.
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