In addition to the launch of Bailey’s super-luxurious, 8ft-wide Alicanto Grande, the Bristol-based company pulled a surprise new line-up out of the hat – enter the three-model, compact Discovery.

While the Alicanto Grande is Bailey’s upmarket range, the Discovery sits at the entry-level end of the company’s offering, and is primarily aimed at those who’ve never owned a caravan before, and who are looking to take adventurous tours. All three models are short in length and light in weight (with MTPLMs under 1206kg), so won’t require a large vehicle to tow them. Their compact size also means they should be easy to pitch and store.

The smallest of the three new models is the two-berth Discovery D4-2, which features the traditional two-berth end-washroom layout, with facing sofas up front. The three-berth D4-3 has a twin-lounge layout, while the four-berth D4-4, the largest model, has a rear fixed double bed, with a transverse end-washroom and facing sofas.

Excellent spec

Despite being entry-level, the Discovery kit count is fairly high. Kitchens have a Dometic 103-litre fridge and Triplex combination oven and grill with three-burner hob, while washrooms have a shower.

Truma Combi programmable heating makes an appearance, meaning that owners should remain comfortable no matter what time of year they might be planning to tour.

Bailey was keen to stress that the Discovery models are ‘proper’ caravans, rather than crossovers; all feel spacious and thoughtfully designed.

Inside, Discovery models come in ‘Mendip Ash’, ‘Lana grey’ and ‘Anthracite’ furniture finishes – these combine to look modern and stylish.

The ‘Java’ soft furnishings in all three models, meanwhile, feel very hardwearing, and the spring base cushions provide a good level of comfort.

Alu-Tech construction

As with all Bailey’s caravans, the Discovery is constructed using the company’s patented Alu-Tech methods, which cuts the number of bodywork joints and fixings, to reduce the chance of water ingress and increase structural integrity.

Discovery also features a newly designed rear panel, which Bailey claims is more aerodynamic to improve stability and fuel economy.

Exteriors are finished in a duotone colour scheme: ‘Polar White’ and ‘Slate Grey’ GRP hues combine with bold graphics and 14-inch alloys to create a funky, modern look.

Our sole reservation on the exterior design was with the slim front window, which combines with the skylight: buyers will need to decide for themselves whether they feel this allows enough daylight into the front lounge.

Adventure tours

Bailey is aiming the Discovery at those who want to use their caravan to enjoy adventures, and that’s why it’s offering a special range of accessories for the line-up via its Prima Leisure arm.

Each Discovery model has a bespoke air awning (£1199), which wraps right around the back of the van. Buyers can also have an optional sleeping tent within the awning (£89).

Other accessories include a Prima A-frame-mounted storage box (£349) and Thule bike rack (£599).

A bespoke bedding set is also available, from £229.99.

Prices range from £16,199 for the Discovery D4-2, to £17,499 for the D4-4 model. The Discovery D4-3, meanwhile, is set to cost £16,999 (all model prices here are exclusive of delivery).