Bailey’s Phoenix has a long and distinguished lineage, from the late 1990s, when the brand had a strong presence in the entry-level market with the value-for-money Ranger.

When Bailey switched to its Alu-Tech construction system, the Rangers were dropped in favour of the Orions, but these never really caught on and were soon replaced by the Pursuit.

Although the Pursuit did well, Bailey decided to go back to the drawing board and later came up with a range that was designed specifically to appeal to buyers looking for the best budget caravans.

The Bristol manufacturer was now also up against other makes of caravans such as the Sprite, Lunar’s Venus and the Elddis Xplore.

The spacious lounge
Spacious lounge easily accommodates a family of up to six

Its answer was to launch the Phoenix, a range that was a big improvement over the Orion and the Pursuit. Offering family layouts, the Phoenix proved a worthy contender and dealer specials added to the appeal. The new range sold very well and can make an enticing prospect for caravanners looking for the best secondhand caravan.

Model history

The Phoenix Series 1, launched in 2018, offered a choice of seven layouts, from a two-berth to the six-berth, twin-axle 760. By 2020, the range was better specified and renamed Phoenix Plus. Sadly, the 760 only lasted for two seasons before being dropped from the Plus range.

The Series 1 proved very successful, so there are more used examples turning up on forecourts. The 760 offered a family of up to six a large, lightweight caravan, which was ideal for touring or for those who liked seasonal caravan pitches.

The interior of the tourer
Well provided with useful storage, the bedroom can also be separated off

Providing fixed bunks and a rear side dinette, the 760 gives children their own space. The spacious midship washroom houses excellent facilities for family use. Good storage and a large, comfortable front lounge add to its appeal for those after the best 6 berth caravan for touring as a family.

Price checker

It was only produced for two seasons, so the 760 is a rarer find on the forecourts, but I tracked down a few examples, priced from £17,995 to £18,995. The model reviewed here was on for £18,995, but came with a mover, a barbecue point and ATC – all valuable extras.

The kitchen in the Bailey Phoenix 760
Kitchen here was in great condition; it houses a four-burner hob and the Truma heating controls

Private sales might offer some slightly cheaper prices, while dealer specials will command slightly higher prices, because of their extra spec. It’s definitely worth shopping around! For the rest of the range, you can expect to pay:

  • 420: £12,950-£14,495
  • 440: £14,995-£16,495
  • 640: £16,995-£18,495
  • 642: £16,995-£17,595
  • 644: £14,995-£16,995
  • 650: £16,495-£17,195

What to look out for in a 2019 Bailey Phoenix 760

  • Evidence of damp in the underseat storage areas
  • Rot in corners of floor
  • Damage and water ingress in rear exterior mouldings
  • Warped cupboard doors
  • Sagging upholstery
  • Loose catches on cupboards
  • Functional water heater

Verdict on the 2019 Bailey Phoenix 760

The Phoenix Series 1 set the way for a more successful range from Bailey in this market sector: the Phoenix Plus offered even more valuable extras.

The 420 makes a great lightweight van for couples, but the 760 is ideal for families. A used one represents a good buy; just do the usual checks, especially if it’s a private sale.

Technical spec

  • Berths: 6
  • MiRO: 1420kg
  • Payload: 180kg
  • MTPLM: 1600kg
  • Internal length: 6.30m
  • Width: 2.21m

Alternatives to consider

For those who are after a cheaper pre-owned family van, a 2008 Abbey Freestyle 500 is well worth considering, especially for first-timers. The dealer special is a five-berth van with a great spec and a well-equipped kitchen. The 2017 Sterling Eccles 590 is another family-friendly option which has an excellent spec and a great build quality.

Or perhaps you’re looking for a more recent six-berth from Bailey? In which case the 2024 Bailey Phoenix GT75 762 could be an option, a stylish tourer with a bright interior and adaptable beds that was released as a part of the brand’s 75th anniversary celebrations.

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