Forest Holidays for Caravanners this Autumn
Enjoy the crisp Autumn air with a caravan holiday! Find out from our blog the best places to go and all you need to know from packing to insurance.
The UK is home to some of the most beautiful forests, offering the perfect escape for caravanners looking to experience the great outdoors. Whether you're after a peaceful adults-only retreat or a family-friendly holiday with the kids, there are plenty of forest destinations to explore. With autumn’s vibrant foliage and crisp air making everything even more magical, now is the perfect time to plan your caravan holiday amidst nature’s splendour.
Adults-Only Forest Caravan Destinations
For those seeking tranquillity and an escape from the hustle and bustle, adults-only caravan sites in the UK’s forests offer serenity and relaxation. Here are some top picks:
Back of Beyond Touring Park, Dorset
- This tranquil retreat is nestled among 30 acres of woodland and lakes, making it a perfect adults-only spot for a quiet escape. In autumn, the park is especially beautiful as the trees turn shades of amber and red. Activities include nature walks, birdwatching, and fishing on-site. The park is also close to the New Forest, where you can explore stunning woodland and quaint villages.
Old Oaks Touring Park, Glastonbury
- Surrounded by countryside and close to several woodland walks, Old Oaks is a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature. The park is equipped with luxury facilities and even has private bathrooms for some pitches. During autumn, the nearby Mendip Hills and Quantock Hills offer breathtaking walking trails through forests, making it ideal for a serene holiday. Don’t forget to visit Glastonbury Tor for panoramic views!
Family-Friendly Forest Caravan Destinations
For families, forest holidays offer endless fun and exploration. With plenty of kid-friendly caravan parks offering forest trails, outdoor activities, and nearby attractions, the whole family can enjoy an unforgettable autumn holiday.
Sherwood Forest Holiday Park, Nottinghamshire
- What better way to immerse the kids in nature than a trip to the legendary Sherwood Forest, home of Robin Hood? This park offers riverside pitches set amongst woodland, with plenty of family-friendly activities nearby. Explore Sherwood Pines, where you can cycle the family trails, embark on nature walks, or even try Go Ape for a thrilling tree-top adventure.
Kielder Forest Park, Northumberland
- Kielder Water & Forest Park is a vast outdoor playground, perfect for family caravanning. The site has pitches with scenic views, and autumn transforms the forest into a golden wonderland. The whole family can enjoy cycling, stargazing, and walking along the lakeside trails. Kielder Forest is part of a designated Dark Sky Park, so a night of stargazing is a must.
Autumn Activities for Caravanners
Autumn is a spectacular time to explore UK forests. The crisp air, colourful leaves, and wildlife make it a special season to enjoy outdoor activities. Here are a few autumn-specific activities perfect for your caravan holiday:
Nature Walks & Forest Trails
- Autumn is the best time for leisurely strolls through the woods, with vibrant foliage providing a stunning backdrop. Many forest caravan sites offer direct access to walking trails or are close to major walking areas like the Lake District or Snowdonia. Bring a camera along to capture the beauty of the season.
Wildlife Watching
- Autumn is a time of migration and preparation for winter. Red squirrels, deer, and various birds are active during this season. Bring binoculars and keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly in places like the New Forest, where ponies and deer roam freely.
Foraging & Autumn Picnics
- Autumn is the season of harvest, making it a great time to forage for berries, nuts, and mushrooms. Some caravan parks even offer foraging tours, where you can learn about edible plants and fungi. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by the natural beauty of the forest.
Campfires & Starry Nights
- As the nights draw in earlier, there's no better way to end the day than around a campfire. Toast marshmallows, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the warmth while gazing at the stars. Many forest sites, especially in rural areas, offer excellent stargazing opportunities, especially if you’re in a designated Dark Sky area.
Caravan Insurance: Protecting Your Adventure
Whether you’re off on an adults-only retreat or a family holiday, having the right caravan insurance is crucial. Caravan insurance can protect you from unexpected costs that may arise from accidents, theft, or damages. Most policies offer cover for both touring and static caravans, but it's important to tailor your policy to your needs.
When choosing insurance, look for features like:
- Comprehensive Cover: This should cover accidental damage, fire, theft, and weather damage (especially important when caravanning in the unpredictable UK climate).
- Liability Insurance: Covers third-party damages, such as if your caravan causes damage to another vehicle or property.
- Contents Insurance: Protects the personal belongings in your caravan, such as camping gear, electronics, and even outdoor furniture.
Be sure to check if your chosen caravan site requires specific types of insurance, especially for high-value caravans or luxury motorhomes.
Conclusion
A forest holiday in the UK is an ideal way to embrace nature, especially in the autumn months when the woods come alive with colour. Whether you're seeking an adults-only escape or a fun family-friendly adventure, the UK has plenty of stunning forest caravan sites to choose from. With activities like nature walks, wildlife watching, and cozy campfire evenings, there’s no shortage of things to do. And don't forget to protect your trip with reliable caravan insurance to ensure a worry-free getaway.
Pack your bags, hitch up your caravan, and get ready to explore the enchanting forests of the UK this autumn!