Sterling, Škoda, steps and more star in our new TV show

This episode of our show on The Caravan Channel starts with our Sterling Continental 570 review, as Practical Caravan’s Group Editor Alastair Clements takes a look around this van. Discreet yet stylish on the outside, it’s the inside of this tourer that might split opinion. Here, the sharp, two-tone colour scheme is ‘love it or hate it’, but the layout is sure to be popular. There’s a parallel front lounge, a central kitchen, a fixed French bed on the nearside and a full width end washroom. That kitchen is smart and stylish, but still meets most caravanners’ requirements with a Dometic fridge/freezer, a dual fuel four-ring hob, a separate oven and grill, and a microwave, plus there’s a chic cocktail cabinet opposite. It is the same in the washroom where style meets substance – and size, with a well-proportioned shower. Tune in for our full Sterling Continental 570 review.

To watch our TV shows, head for The Caravan Channel on Sky 192 and Freesat 402 (look out for Showcase TV) at the times listed at the foot of this page. You can also see every show live online on the Information TV website, so no one needs to miss out!

Next, John Wickersham’s back with more expert caravanning advice. This time he’s talking steps. From single and double steps, to metal and plastic ones, he’s looking at what makes a good caravan step so you don’t trip when going into or coming out of your van.

Then our Tow Car Editor David Motton tests the Škoda Octavia Scout, and with four-wheel drive and a raised ride height, it might be a good tow car if you’re a fan of all-weather, 12-month touring. The 2.0-litre diesel 148bhp manual Octavia Scout we’re testing has a 1526kg kerbweight, which gives an 85% match figure of 1297kg. It has plenty of pulling power and is a strong, stable tow car, plus it’s not too thirsty and it’s spacious and practical inside. To see all this and more for yourself, watch on The Caravan Channel, either live online or on Freesat 402 or Sky 192.

We also visit France in our latest TV show, catching up with Practical Caravan’s Bryony Symes at Camping la Pindière, which is a short drive north of Nantes. Near a main road making it good for exploring the area, this campsite still has a peaceful atmosphere while a security barrier brings peace of mind. All the pitches are spacious, neatly divided and have access to electric hook-ups, plus there’s a play area for children, table football on the patio and a clean amenities block. Stay in the high season and you can dine in the restaurant or take a dip in the site’s own swimming pool!

After that, John’s back with a 2008 Bailey Pageant Series 7 Burgundy, an impressive secondhand caravan. He explains how the construction method used on this tourer differs from that of its successors and how to ensure you buy one in good condition. Inside, our expert has no complaints with this Bailey’s comfortable and spacious lounge, well specced kitchen and clever bathroom.

With so much to see, you won’t want to miss our TV show – and as it’s broadcast 10 times across a two-week period, you’ve plenty of opportunities. So tune in to The Caravan Channel on Sky 192 or Freesat 402 (look for Showcase TV), or watch live online on the Information TV website, between Monday 25 May and Sunday 7 June 2015, at these times and on these days: