John Kelly is the owner and admin of www.SongofthePaddle.co.uk – the UK’s premier canoe forum and website.

John talks here about growing up with boats, paddling on Loch Lomond, winter camping and why England’s access laws need to change.

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Where did you get your passion for the outdoors?

I grew up in Glasgow. My parents had a boat on the Clyde. We sailed a lot at weekends.  When I was three years old the boat sank and we got a caravan instead.  It was at Rowardenan on the banks of Loch Lomond. We were there most weeks.  In the summer holidays my brother and I used to run wild.

We also had a speed boat and my big brother and my dad went water skiing.

And canoes?

I must have been seven or eight. I was in the caravan. The water was calm and clear and this canoe came round the corner. He had camping stuff and a dog up front.

I can remember watching as he slowly paddled up the loch and thinking, ‘I want to do that.’

But I didn’t get round to it for years.

So what changed?

I started a bit of wild life photography as an excuse to get outdoors. That led me to thinking about bushcraft; and then canoes because you can carry a lot of stuff with you.

Have you got a favourite overnight spot?

Loch Lomond.

During the summer the loch is heaving with people in power boats. But there are two or three islands you can have all to yourself, where you can get a campfire going and just relax.

Sometimes I’ll finish work on a Friday, load the canoe up, go to Loch Lomond and paddle out to an island for a relaxing night.

It’s very convenient. Only half an hour away from home.

What is the essential gear you take?

Tarpaulin to keep the rain and sun off. A hammock and under-blanket. A mat. Sleeping bag. Knife. Saw.

A pot. It’s a thing you would sell your soul for if you forget it.  Cooking or boiling water is almost impossible without it.

I can go without a stove. I take a stove on every trip and it rarely gets lit. I cook over the fire almost all the time.

Even when it’s wet?

Yeah, because I’ve got the tarp up.

Clothing?

Muck boots because they are warm and comfy. Lightweight, polycotton trousers that won’t hold the water. Merino tops and a Merino t-shirt.  I layer up to keep warm. And a windproof waterproof.

Gore-Tex?

Yeah. Occasionally I have the full waterproof trousers and jacket. I don’t mind paddling in the rain as long as I’ve got the right clothes.

Do you canoe and camp in the winter?

More than I do in the summer. I get two weeks off over Christmas and New Year. I enjoy doing stuff when it’s snowing and frozen. I’ve been out in -10 to -11 and have been cosy and warm.

I usually get one or two trips in between Christmas and the New Year. The water is quieter at that time of year.

Do you wear a wetsuit?

No. My plan is very much not to fall in. I do have a change of clothes with me though.

Favourite camp meal?

I quite like Jerky, but I have an almost set menu for two-day trips.

Lunch on the first day will be soft baked bars. Dinner is always a proper haggis, a vegetarian haggis and instant mash that we mix together in a Crusader Mug.  That’s pretty filling. Then we have a Heather Cream Liqueur.

Day two?

In the morning we have square sausage or black pudding in a tortilla wrap.  After that we will make pancakes with maple syrup.

So you take flour with you?

Yes. And I’ve got hens in the back garden so I take eggs along too.

For lunch on the second day we might end up with soft baked bars again.

Dinner time it can be handmade pizza.  And the next morning we will have a black pudding or sausage again.

Top tips for beating the summer midges?

Find midge free areas. Other than that, pick sites with a bit of a breeze. We’ve got head nets and things like that. It helps keep them off your face and I have an insect net that hangs with the hammock.

Have you canoed in England and Wales?

I’ve paddled in Ullswater.  I would like to paddle the Norfolk Broads. It looks fantastic.

But the laws preventing access are absolutely insane. If I lived in England and Wales I would paddle anywhere I bloody wanted, I would be almost desperate for someone to try and sue me for it.

How different is it in Scotland?

You see a piece of water, and you know you can paddle on it. A loch, a lake, a ditch.

Any thoughts on the boom in sea fishing and kayaking?

There’s quite a big forum for that, and they seem to be big and successful. Again, it allows you to get to places others can’t easily access.

You like that?

Castle Semple Loch is 200 yards from my house. One side is always busy with people. A third of a kilometre across the other side is just trees. There’s no footpath and nobody can get there. It’s no distance at all on that other side, but you are in a different world.

How often do you get on the Loch?

I try to make Tuesday night a regular thing, with three or four friends.

Have you tried canoe sailing?

At the most basic level. I’ve got a downwind sail and I’ll use it if the wind is at my back.

I fought against it for a while as I felt it was cheating, but now I always carry a pop sail on the canoe.

Pick five paddling companions living or dead?

The first is Russell Kennedy He’s a good friend.  There’s no machine on earth that can gather firewood and split it like Russell. He will light a fire in any conditions.  Russell and me, we gel well that way.

Bill Bryson the author because he would write a good blog.

From a sentimental point of view – my dad.  He died when I was 10. So as much as we got to hang around Loch Lomond, it would be good to let dad see how I’ve turned out, and then go do some more outdoor stuff with him.

And of course my two daughters. It’s always good to spend time with the family. That’s one of the great things I like about canoeing. The fact that it gives you time to spend with your family in a relaxing way.  You will just always end up talking, joking and laughing.

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More Top 10 Campsites (by category)

Certificated Sites, care of the Camping and Caravanning Club (C&CC), are for me what camping is all about. Back to nature, back to basics and a chance to explore a tiny envelope of Britain in beautiful peace.

The number 1 in this list represents all of that. But don’t get hung up on it. The C&CC has more than 1,400 of these little sister sites to explore, with more being added each month.

A list of the 95 waterside CS camps I like best is here. They took a while to compile. By the time you read this some of them will have vanished. That’s the magic. If you go discover some new ones for yourself, let me know and I’ll add them.

I’ve also listed what I consider C&CC’s 20+ best full service pitches here. My top 10 faves from that list is here.

What follows is my top 10 favourite Camping and Caravanning Club Certified Sites in 2012. Hope you like them.

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1) Sunk Island, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, East Yorkshire

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Until now, the best kept secret in UK camping – but here it is! Sail on the Humber Estuary from the campsite entrance, canoe on the canals to the rear. more info

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2) River Tame, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Staffordshire

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Fishing, walking and cycling beside river and lake, as well a great base for Drayton Manor. If you can get the right pitch, enjoy views across the river or lake. more info

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3) River Avon, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Worcestershire

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A private members social club on the River Avon, with camping, canoeing, sailing and overlooking the Avon valley and Bredon Hill. more info.

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4)    Loch Lomond, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Argyll

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Scenery that will take your breath away. The Number 1 site for many campers. Shops are a short walk. Bring the kayaks and fishing rods. more info

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5)    River Frome, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Wiltshire

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Traditional camping on the River Frome, next to the UK’s last official river swimming club. New members are always welcome, so why not take a plunge into the unknown. more info

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6)    River Ivel, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Northamptonshire

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Riverside walks, lakes and footpaths. A site for anglers, with an onsite tackle shop, combine camping, fishing, walking and conservation. more info

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7)  River Trent, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Staffordshire

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No sailing or canoes allowed here, but this is a place for walkers. Take a 45 minutes ramble around the lake that sits in front of the campsite or head off along the adjoining River Trent. more info

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 River Cleddau, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, New Shipping Farm, Pembrokeshire

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Bring canoes, kayaks and fishing rods to camp riverside. The River Cleddau provided a great opportunity to launch, but check the wind and tides. more info

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9) Thorn House Lakes, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Lincolnshire

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Lakeside next to Boston Golf Club. more info

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10) River Twrch, Camping and Caravanning Club CS, Gwynedd

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Free fishing on the River Twrch and close to Lake Bala. more info

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More Top 10 Campsites (by category)

The Camping and Caravanning Club is the oldest camping organisation in the world.

With almost 500,000 members, and hundreds of wardens and volunteers, The Camping and Caravanning Club manages more than 100 main sites and 1,400 smaller ones, known as Certificated Sites (CSs).

Like its main rival the Caravan Club, The Camping and Caravanning Club has hundreds of  pitches beside beaches, rivers, lakes, fish ponds and canals. There are also 20 sites in Forestry Commission woodland – five of them I’ve listed here.

What I consider to be the club’s 15+ best full service pitches are here. I’ve also visited many of the privately owned CSs. A list of 95 waterside CS camps I like is here and my Top 10 is here. Please let me know if you have a favourite of your own. Visit the Club website if your want to join.

My Top 10 Camping and Caravanning Club favourites for 2012 features an unusual geographic mix – three from Scotland and three from Surrey. Here they are (not including CSs):

1)  Loch Lomond, Cashel Caravan Park and Campsite, Rowardennan

By mike138

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It’s possible here to launch a small boat, to explore one of Scotland’s most beautiful lochs, from waterside pitches. more info

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2)  Loch Long , Ardgarton Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Arrochar, Dunbartonshire

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CHOICE: Fish or canoe (by mike138)

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Catch sea trout or take to your kayaks directly from the camp. more info

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3)  Folkestone Camping and Caravanning Club, The Warren, Kent

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CHANNEL: A cliff-top site (by Between a Rock)

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A cliff-top site that’s the perfect stop over en route to the either the Channel Tunnel or ferries, and mainland Europe. more info

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4)  River Ure, Boroughbridge Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Roecliffe, North Yorkshire

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By Sheffield Tiger

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Fish for roach, perch, dace, pike, chub, trout and grayling from this riverside site. more info

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5)  Derwentwater, Keswick Camping and Caravanning Site, Crow Park Road, Cumbria

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CUMBRIA: Camp by the water in the Lake District (by BinaryApe)

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Pitch beside Derwentwater, within a short walk away of the town centre. more info

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6)  Loch Greshornish, Skye Camping and Caravanning Site, Portree, Isle Of Skye

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By HBarrison

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A working croft on the shore of Loch Greshornish. more info

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7)  The Great Ouse, St Neots Camping and Caravanning Club, Eynesbury, Cambridgeshire

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By jon smith 'una nos lucror'

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On the banks of the Great Ouse. The town of St Neots is less than two miles away. more info

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 River Thames, Walton on Thames Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Fieldcommon Lane, Surrey

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by Maxwell Hamilton

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Fifteen minutes from London, on the banks of the Thames. more info

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9)  Horsley Lake, Horsley Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Ockham Road, Surrey

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By Dimitry B

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Lakeside on the edge of the North Downs, with fishing available. more info

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10)  River Thames, Chertsey Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Surrey

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Launch canoes and boats next to the Thames Path National Trail. more info

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By Stephen Neale

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The National Trust is one of the biggest member organisation’s in the world.

This may be the year when it asserts its unofficial position as the largest ‘camping organisation’ – taking over from the Caravan Club and its one million members. The Trust announced plans to add to its portfolio of 50 campsites (some managed by the Caravan Club), in February 2011.

The charity is one of the largest land owners in the UK, responsible for managing 630,000 acres of countryside (almost 1.5% of England, Wales and Northern Ireland).

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Stourhead (by obenson)

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Revenue is generated from the National Trust’s 3.8 million members who will pay an annual direct debit subscription of £63.38 (for a family) in 2011.

We joined in 2005. It’s probably fair to say we don’t always take full advantage of the free entry and parking at the 300+ historic houses and gardens, so a shift in the trust’s priorities could be a bonus.

The 50 official campsites are mostly run by tenant farmers and other camping organisations like the Caravan Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club.

Fifteen National Trust campsites are next to water, so I’ve listed them all here. My favourite is Stourhead, in Wiltshire, mainly because the 1,072-hectare estate is one of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in the UK.

On Wednesday Februay 9, 2011, the National Trust revealed plans to create a network of new, ‘simple campsites’ in what it described as ‘stunning locations’.  This announcement coincided with a general boom in popularity in UK camping holidays and outdoor activities.

The trust described its plan as a ‘major shift’ to promote camping, walking, mountain biking, kayaking and surfing. The main activity for 2011 will be walking, with plans to create 100 miles of new paths over the next 11 months, and 1,000 miles by 2020.

Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust, said: “For too long it’s felt that outdoor spaces have been the Trust’s best kept secret.  We want to play our part in helping to reconnect the nation with outdoor spaces, whether in the Lake District or a local park.”

The Trust owns about a quarter of the Lake District; one fifth of the coast in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (704 miles, 1126 km), and has a campaign, Project Neptune, which seeks to acquire more.

Thousands of members will be encouraged to help design local routes.

Jo Burgon, Outdoors Programme Director at the National Trust, said: “It’s clear that people simply love being outdoors surrounded by nature and walking is the easiest way to do that.  We want to work with our local communities to help shape and create new walking routes on our land for people to explore and get closer to nature.”

FOOTPATH: Gurnard's Head (by treehouse1977)

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A series of seven cycling challenge rides are planned for 2011 on Trust  from Pembrokeshire to Cambridgeshire. In July the Trust’s first ever cycling festival will take place at more than twenty places throughout the country including an evening community bike ride at Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire and a kids On Your Bike weekend at Scotney Castle in Kent.

Further details of the festival will be published on the National Trust website at: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walkin

There are over 240 free downloadable walks on the National Trust website at: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks.

These include some of the most iconic sites in the UK with bracing coastal walks at the White Cliffs of Dover to wandering through Constable country in Essex.  The walks provide a map with directions and details of what you might see en route.

The legality of overnight camping on public highways is unclear. But if you decide to do it, the best advice is to park late and quiet, and then move off early and without a trace.

For those that like to know their rights, here is the legal position:

The legislation that controls overnighting in caravans and motorhomes is the Caravan Sites & Control of Development Act.

The act defines a caravan as:

” … any structure designed or adapted for human habitation which is capable of being moved from one place to another (whether by being towed, or by being transported on a motor vehicle or trailer) and any motor vehicle so designed or adapted …”

Caravan sites must be licensed under the terms of the act, but there are license exemptions:

” … the use of land as a caravan site if the use is incidental to the enjoyment as such of a dwellinghouse within the curtilage of which the land is situated.” (this means you can live in a caravan in your back garden without a license.)

” … the use of land as a caravan site by a person travelling with a caravan who brings the caravan on to the land for a period which includes not more than two nights—

i) if during that period no other caravan is stationed for the purposes of human habitation on that land or any adjoining land in the same occupation, and

ii) if, in the period of twelve months ending with the day on which the caravan is brought on to the land, the number of days on which a caravan was stationed anywhere on that land or the said adjoining land for the purposes of human habitation did not exceed twenty-eight. “

This exemption allows hotels, pubs and restaurants to permit a single motorhomer to camp overnight on their car park, as long as the area isn’t used for camping more than 28 days a year.

” … land occupied by the local authority in whose area the land is situated.”

This is an important exemption, as it allows local authorities to approve motorhome stopovers on car parks, roads and other land in their control.

Some council don’t clarify the position, but a list of caravan friendly councils is here.

Above all else, the attitude of local people, police and council officials to your caravan/motorhome is the most important factor in determining whether you are moved on or not. Always remember there is no ‘right’ to park any vehicle on the road.

For more on ‘wild camping’ visit here.

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More Top 10 Campsites (by category)

The Caravan Club is the second oldest camping organisation in the world. Its Certificated Locations have a little bit of new-age magic about them.

It’s the sense of getting away from it all I like. CLs are small campsites (max five pitches) set on private land.

We stayed on a Caravan Club CL within a few hours of buying our first motorhome in Preston, and will never forget it. Paid £2.50 (no electricity or showers) but it was a wonderful adventure. Many campers choose CLs over the CC’s Full Services sites because other than peaceful, seclusion they offer great value for money.

A list of 92 waterside CL camps I like best is here. I’ve also listed what I consider CC’s 50+ best full service pitches here. Please let me know if I’ve missed out one of your favourites. Visit the Caravan Club website if your want to join up as a member.

Here’s my top 10 favourite Caravan Club Certificated Locations.

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1) River Thames, Friars Court, Caravan Club CL, Oxfordshire

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An island campsits on the non-tidal River Thames. One of the best canoe and fishing areas in England, just a few miles from Oxford. There’s no electric, but water, litter and a waste dump are provided. more info

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2) Traigh Beach, Inverness-shire, Caravan Club CL, Highlands

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On the west coast of Scotland, this quiet site sits next to a beautiful beach of sand and clear water. The campsite is part of the wonderful Traigh Golf Course, from where you can see the Hebridian island of Eigg and Rum and the Cuillins of Skye. more info

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3) Atlantic Ocean, Fegla Fach Farm, Caravan Club CL, Gwynedd, Wales

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WALK: The Maddack Train (by Andy Armstrong)

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Basic facilities don’t detract from this stunning coastal site. A boat ramp offers access to the water for boat users. Arthog is renowned as a centre for outdoor activities and Cregennen lakes are nearby. more info

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4) River Chet, Gale Cruisers Moorings, Norfolk Broads

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RIVERSIDE: Camp next to the River Chet (by Wit)

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A campsite based on a marina next the River Chet. Canoes are available onsite. There’s fishing too. This riverside position is pretty special, with plenty of facilities. more info

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5) Loch Soulseat, Greenloch House, Dumfries and Galloway, Stranraer

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FERRY: The boat to Belfast (by yellowbook)

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This site is almost entirely surrounded by Loch Soulseat. Perfect for kayaking, fishing or just watching the wildlife. The Belfast ferry is nearby. more info

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6) River Nene, Bill Fen Marina, Cambridgeshire

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HUNTINGDON: The Great Ouse (by sean_hickin)

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Camp at the centre of the Middle Level Navigations. With a name like a setting from Lord of the Rings trilogy, these waterways are a unique network of routes between the River Nene and Great Ouse. more info

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7) River Torridge, Atlantic Seaviews, Devon

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BEACHSIDE: Coast at Appledore (by me'nthedogs)

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The clue is the name, because the nicest thing about this campsite really is the panoramic sea-view. Great for coastal walks. Dogs are allowed, but children aren’t. more info

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Westhorpe Water Sports Centre, Buckinghamshire

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Five lakes for fishing, water-skiing, jet-skiing and waterboarding. A fully licensed members’ bar is open seven days a week, with bar snacks available from 9.30 am until 7pm. Just a 40 minute drive from London. more info

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9) Loch Earn, Drummond Estates Boat Hire, Lochearnhead

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A small touring park, on the banks of Ben Ouhr. Fishing, boat hire, water skiing, golfing, cycling and walking are just some of the activities available nearby. Drummond has direct access to the loch and its beach, with its own slipway. more info

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10) Atlantic Ocean, Muldaddie Farm House, Dumfries and Galloway

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VIEWS: A village with one pub and great scenery (by E & H Baxendale Ltd)

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Stunning sea views and direct access to sandy beach. Ideal site for water sports and sea angling. A sloping site, so don’t forget the levelers. The village pub serves good food, drink and views of the coast, but there’s not much else around in the way of shops. more info

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More Top 10 Campsites (by category)

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The Caravan Club provides one of the most important camp networks in the UK.

The world’s largest camping organisation has almost 1million members, and more than 900 wardens and staff. The Caravan Club runs about 200 main sites and 2,500 smaller ones, known as certificated locations (CLs).

Hundreds of the Caravan Club’s sites are located on beaches, rivers. lakes, lochs and canals. I’ve listed what I consider CC’s 50+ best full service pitches here. I’ve also visited many of the smaller and cheaper, privately owned CLs. A list of 92 waterside CL camps I like is here. Please let me know if I’ve missed out one of your favourites. Visit the Club website if your want to join.

Here’s my Top 10 Caravan Club favourites for 2012 (not including CLs):

1)   Loch Linnhe, Bunree Caravan Club Site, Fort William, Highlands

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An absolute gem from the Caravan Club. My number 1 by some way. A campsite with its own boat launch and free fishing. Ben Nevis, cable cars, the Isle of Skye and Oban are a short drive away. more info

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2)   River Nene, Ferry Meadows Caravan Club, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

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Steam trains, boating lakes, river fishing, two golf courses and a watersports centre in the Nene Valley. Oh, and more than 60 miles of off-road cycleways and footpaths. Walk the three miles to Peterborough along the railway track and River Nene if you get bored. more info

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3)   River Ouse, Rowntree Park Caravan Club, York, North Yorkshire

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This is how to enjoy one of Britain’s most exciting and historic cities on a budget. Camping on the banks of York’s River Ouse. A great base for exploring North Yorkshire, Whitby and Scarborough. more info

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4)   River Wye, Lucksall Caravan & Camping Park, Hereford, Herefordshire

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Considered among the best places in the UK to canoe. The local tackle shop offers angling advice. Miles of forest track for rambling, cycling and dog walking outside the camp entrance. Free maps from reception. more info

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5)   Dee Estuary, Wirral Country Park Caravan Club, Merseyside

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Pitches overlooking the Dee Estuary inside Wirral Country Park. More than 2,000 acres for walking and cycling.  Private sailing clubs offer temporary membership. This is how to explore Liverpool. more info

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6)   Grand Western Canal, Minnows Caravan Park, Tiverton, Devon

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A private gate from the campsite leads onto the water, with fishing and boating permits available from reception. Walk for 12 miles along the canal towpath, which is part of The National Cycle Route. Exmoor, Dartmoor, Britain’s best surfing beaches nearby. more info

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7) North Sea, Old Hartley Caravan Club, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear

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On a grassy overhang, overlooking the sea and the light-house at St Mary’s Island. The beach resort of Whitley Bay is a 40 minute walk, or visit Europe’s largest indoor retail centre, at Gateshead, across the River Tyne from Newcastle. more info

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Loch Naver, Grummore, Caravan Club, Highlands

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No showers or toilets, but the scenery is priceless. Fly fishing, canoeing, sailing and silence are a premium. Pack as much as you can and wallow in the beauty of it all. more info

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9) River Ure, Brown Moor Caravan Club, Hawes, North Yorkshire

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The perfect location, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, on the banks of the River Ure. Walkers can hike from the camp to Aysgill falls near Gayle, or Cautley Spout falls. The Pennine Way is a ramblers’ paradise. more info

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10) North Sea, White House Beach Caravan Club, Kessingland, Suffolk

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Overlooking the shingle beach, this site is all about location. The Broads, The safari park Africa Alive and Pleasure Wood Hills Theme Park are a short drive away. A footpath leads from the camp to Southwold. more info

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By Stephen Neale

I don’t like to think of us as a nation of moody, immature campers, but the craziness of wintertime angst has just arrived on my doorstep like a precocious 15-year-old at Holloween.

Flooding aside, Brits are like pathetic children who have been spoilt from birth when it comes to attempting to cope with a dusting of snow.

And like the pubescent teen playing dumb because it’s easier for nanny and mum to clean up, we relish the opportunity to blame and critizice the highways agency and councils for their failures.

Almost none will consider the safest, cheapest, best option of all: fitting low cost all-weather, winter tyres.

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They range in price from £60-£120, and are the common sense alternative to the ‘summers’ most UK drivers use 12 months a year.

So why the reluctance to change?

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‘Winters’ or cold weathers are specifically designed for temperatures below 7 degrees C. They shouldn’t be confused with snow tyres, although even ‘snows’ will perform better than ‘summers’, particularly for motorhomes and caravanners driving across a wet field in July.

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This is ’cause cold weather tyres contain more natural rubber and silica, which gives better grip on the road because the compound doesn’t harden so much in the lower temp’s.

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They wear out a little faster, but safety mitigates this marginal cost. Claims that fuel economy is compromised aren’t supported by any road tests.

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The main argument against ‘winters’ is that UK conditions aren’t cold or snowy enough to warrant a change of tyre. The reality is they perform well in all winter conditions and during heavy, summer rainfall. So much so, some drivers are now choosing to wear ‘winters’ or ‘all weathers’ all year.

While winter rubbers are compulsory in most European countries, they’re not even considered here.

The UK Government has failed (like a bad parent, you some might say) to introduce a law change, although some manufacturers are trying to get the safety message out. Suzuki GB is among those fitting vehicles from the production line with winters.

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Michael-Le Flay, Suzuki Aftersales Marketing Manager, said in November 2010: “Many people are unaware of the fact that when temperatures drop below 7°C, the rubber in standard tyres becomes harder and less flexible, which affects braking and cornering performance.

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“It doesn’t matter how many electronic aids your car may have, the quality of its tyres is critical.

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“The compound used for winter tyres, and their tread design are tailored to cope with adverse conditions, so that the best levels of car control can be maintained. The result is a significant improvement in braking performance of up to 25 per cent as well as better grip.”

The National Tyre Distributors Association is also supporting the introduction of winter tyre legislation. But like our congested winter roads, things need to get moving. According to chairman, Martin Rowlands, ‘progress has been slow’.

‘Winters’ are available from many UK stockists, with www.mytyres.co.uk among one the most popular I’ve found around the web, and local garages will usually fit for about £15.

For more information on tyres and the law visit: http://www.etyres.co.uk/winter-tyres-law

Once you’ve read that little lot, enjoy the sensation of moving forward on those open back-roads while the rest of Britain grinds to a halt – again.

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There are loads of restrictions on caravans and motorhomes wanting to park in UK service stations at night.

But it’s not all bad for campers on tour.

MOTORWAY: Service? (by Nik Sibley)

More than 80 locations around the UK offer stopovers in relative safety for little more than £12, sometimes with breakfast vouchers thrown in.

The simple rule of thumb is always put in a call to station manager to check the latest situation, the price and availability.

Here’s a few possibile sleepovers:

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 4 & 5. Welcome Break Service Area, Mill Hill  / 02089 060611.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 11 & 12. Moto Service Area, Toddington  / 01525 878400.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 14 & 15. Welcome Break Service Area, Newport Pagnell  / 01908 217722.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 15a. Roadchef Service Area, Northampton  / 01604 831888.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 16 & 17. Roadchef Service Area, Watford Gap

/ 01327 879001.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 21 & 22. Welcome Break Service Area, Leicester Forest East  / 0116 2386801.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 23a. Moto Service Area, Leicester  / 01530 244777. Restaurant available until 10pm.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 25 & 26. Moto Service Area, Trowell, Nottingham  / 01159 320291.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 28 & 29. Roadchef Service Area, Tibshelf, Derby,  / 01773 876600.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 30 & 31. Welcome Break Service Area, Woodall, Sheffield  / 0114 2486434.

><  M1  +  JUNCTION 38 & 39. Moto Service Area, Woolley Edge, Bretton  / 01924 830371.

><  M11  + Just off JUNCTION 8 Welcome Break Service Area, Birchanger Green  / 01279 653388.

><  A1 – M at Blyth.  - Notts. Moto Service Area, Blyth  / 01909 591841. On roundabout JUNCTION A1 – M/A614 near Worksop.

><  A1 – M at Scotch Corner. Moto Service Area, Scotch Corner  / 01325 377719 . On roundabout JUNCTION A1/A66 at Scotch Corner 1½m from Southern end of A1 – M. Caravans park in the lodge car park.

><  A1 – M JUNCTION 46. Moto Service Area, Wetherby  / 01937 545080

><  A1 – M at Washington.  + JUNCTION 64. Moto Service Area, Washington  / 0191 4103436.  Birtley and Chester-le-Street JUNCTIONtion; 6m N of Durham; 6m S of Gateshead.

><  A1 – M at Durham.  + JUNCTION 61/A17. Roadchef Service Area, Tursdale Road, Bowburn, Durham.  / 0191 3779222.

><  M2  +  JUNCTION 4 & 5. Moto Service Area, Medway  / 01634 236900.

><  M18  + JUNCTION 5. Moto Service Area, Doncaster North Services, Hatfield, Doncaster, DN8 5JS  / 01302 847700.

><  M20  +  Just off JUNCTION 8. Roadchef Service Area, Hollingbourne, Maidstone  / 01622 631100.

><  M23  + Just off JUNCTION 11. Moto Service Area, Pease Pottage, Crawley  / 01293 562852. Restaurant 07.00 – 21.30 hours.

><  M25  +  JUNCTION 5 & 6. Roadchef Service Area, Clackett Lane  / 01959 565577.

><  M25  + Just off JUNCTION 23/A1 – M. Welcome Break Service Area, South Mimms, Potters Bar  / 01707 631001.

><  M25  +  JUNCTION 30/31. Moto Service Area, Thurrock  / 01708 865487.

><  M27  +  JUNCTION 3 & 4. Roadchef Service Area, Rownhams  / 02380 734480.

><  M3  +  JUNCTION 4a & 5. Welcome Break Service Area, Fleet  / 01252 621656.

Caravans park in the lorry park.

><  M3  +  JUNCTION 8 & 9. Moto Service Area, Winchester  / 01962 791140.

Access Southbound only. Approximate price £10 – includes £2 meal vouchers.

><  M3  +  JUNCTION 8 & 9. Moto Service Area, Winchester  / 01962 791134

Access Northbound only. Approximate price £10  - includes £2 meal vouchers.

><  M4  -  2 & 3. Moto Service Area, Heston  / 0208 5802152 East & West.

><  M4 +  JUNCTION 11 & 12. Moto Service Area, Reading  / 0118 9566966.

><  M4  + Just off JUNCTION 13. Moto Service Area, Newbury  / 01635 248024. Access from A34.

><  M4  +  JUNCTION 14 & 15. Welcome Break Service Area, Membury  / 01488 674360.

><  M4  +  JUNCTION 17 & 18. Moto Service Area, Leigh Delamere  / 01666 837691.

><  M4  + Just off JUNCTION 23a. First Motorway Services, Magor, Gwent  / 01633 881515. Access via a new exit A43. off eastern roundabout.

><  M4  + JUNCTION 30. Welcome Break, Cardiff Gate. Cardiffsitedirector@welcomebreak.co.uk

><  M4  + JUNCTION 33. Moto Service Area, Cardiff West, Nr Pontyclun, Mid Glamorgan  / 02920 891141.

><  M4  + Just off JUNCTION 36. Welcome Break, Sarn Park Service Area,  / 01656 655332.

><  M4  + JUNCTION 47. Moto Service Area, Penllergaer, Swansea West, West Glamorgan  / 01792 896222. Caravans park in a separate area.

><  M4  + Just off JUNCTION 49. Roadchef Service Area, Pont Abraham, Pontardulais, Swansea  / 01792 884663. Access from A48.

><  M42  + JUNCTION 2. Welcome Break, Hopwood Park Service Area, Alvechurch,

Birmingham  / 0121 447 4000.

><  M42  + JUNCTION 10/A5. Moto Service Area, Tamworth  / 01827 260120. Caravans park in a separate area.  - If petrol is required it meeds to be purchased prior to parking.

><  M40  + JUNCTION 8. Welcome Break Service Area, Oxford  / 01865 877000.

><  M40  + JUNCTION 10. Moto Service Area, Cherwell Valley  / 01869 346060. Caravans park in a separate area.

><  M40  +  JUNCTION 12 & 13. Welcome Break Service Area, Warwick  / 01926 650168. Northbound and Southbound

><  M48  + JUNCTION 1. Moto Service Area, Severn View Services, Aust  / 01454 632851. By Severn Bridge; access from A403  - Aust; follow ‘Services’ sign. Caravans park in a separate area.

><  M5  +  JUNCTION 3 & 4. Moto Service Area, Frankley  / 0121 5503131.

><  M5  +  JUNCTION 7 & 8. Roadchef Service Area, Strensham  / 01684 293004. Northbound / 07980 510999 and Southbound / 07817 625365, 1 mile apart, no footbridge.

><  M5  +  JUNCTION 13 & 14. Welcome Break Service Area, Michaelwood, Lower Wick, Dursley  / 01454 260631.

><  M5  +  Just off JUNCTION 19. Welcome Break Service Area, Gordano  / 01275 373624.

><  M5  +  JUNCTION 21 & 22. Roadchef Service Area, Sedgemoor  / 01934 750888. Access Southbound only.

><  M5  +  JUNCTION 21 & 22. Welcome Break Service Area, Sedgemoor  / 01934 750730. Access Northbound only.

><  M5  + JUNCTION 24. Moto Service Area, Huntsworth Business park, Bridgwater, Somerset TA6 6TS,  / 01278 456800.

><  M5  +  JUNCTION 25 & 26. Roadchef Service Area, Taunton Deane  / 07950

896646.

><  M5  + JUNCTION 28  McDonalds Restaurants Ltd, Cullompton Northbound

/ 01884 38054.

><  M5  + Just off JUNCTION 30. Moto Service Area, Exeter  / 01392 436266.

><  M54  + JUNCTION 4 Welcome Break Service Area, Telford  / 01952 238400.

><  M56  + Just off JUNCTION 14. Roadchef Service Area, Chester  / 01928 728500.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 3 & 4. Welcome Break Service Area, Corley  / 01676 540111.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 10a & 11. Moto Service Area, Hilton Park  / 01922 412237.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 14 & 15. Moto Service Area, Stafford North  / 01785 811188. Caravans park in a separate area. Access Northbound only.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 14 & 15. Roadchef Service Area, Stafford South  / 01785 826300.

Access Southbound only.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 15 & 16. Welcome Break Service Area, Keele  / 01782 626221.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 16 & 17. Roadchef Service Area, Sandbach  / 0791 048002.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 27 & 28. Welcome Break Service Area, Charnock Richard  / 01257 791494.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 32 & 33. Moto Service Area, Lancaster  / 01524 791775. 5

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 35 & 36. Moto Service Area, Burton in Kendal  / 01524 781234. Access Northbound only.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 36 & 37. Roadchef Service Area, Killington Lake  / 01539 620739. Access Southbound only.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 38 & 39. Westmorland Service Area, Tebay  / 01539 624511. Separate caravan site adjacent Northbound services area – open March – October. November – February park on lorry park. Prices from £14.50 – £17.00.

><  M6  +  JUNCTION 41 & 42. Moto Service Area, Southwaite  / 01697 4747000.

Caravans park in the lorry park.

 M6 Toll  +  JUNCTION T6 & T7. Roadchef Service Area, Norton Canes  / 07776 408987.

><  M61  +  JUNCTION 6 & 8 . First Motorway Services, Bolton West  / 01204 468641.

Caravans park in the lorry park.

><  M62  +  JUNCTION 8 & 9. Welcome Break Service Area, Warrington, Burtonwood  / 01925 651656.

><  M62  +  JUNCTION 18 & 19. Moto Service Area, Birch  / 0161 6430911.

><  M62  +  JUNCTION 25 & 26. Welcome Break Service Area, Hartshead Moor  / 01274 876584. Price includes meal vouchers.

><  M62  + JUNCTION 33/A1. Moto Service Area, Ferrybridge  / 01977 672767.

><  M74  +  JUNCTION 4 & 5. Roadchef Motorways Service Area, Bothwell  / 01698 854123. Access Southbound only. Price includes meal vouchers.

><  M74  +  JUNCTION 5 & 6. Roadchef Service Area, Hamilton  / 01698 282176. Access Northbound only. Price includes meal vouchers.

><  M74  +  JUNCTION 11 & 12/A74. Cairn Lodge Happendon Services, Nr.Douglas  / 01555 851880.

><  M74  + JUNCTION 13. Welcome Break Services, Abington.  / 01864 502637. Access also from A74 / A702.

><  M74  + JUNCTION 21. Welcome Break Service Area, Gretna Green  / 01461 337567. Caravans park in a separate area.  A64 and A74/M, 2 miles North of Gretna Green.

><  A74 – M  + JUNCTION 16. Roadchef Service Area, Johnstonebridge, Lockerbie  / 01576 470870.

><  M9/80  + JUNCTION 9. Moto Service Area, Stirling  / 01786 813614

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BEACH: Camp next to the sea (by Dave Croker)

CLIFF: Campsite overlooking the sea at Rhosllefain (by SMJ)

THESE pages are for anyone who wants to enjoy the UK’s rivers or canals, predominantly with a view to camping, fishing and boating etc..

SUNSET: Topsham, Devon, on the River Exe (by slideshow bob)

The UK’s inland waterways are served by thousands of camps, marinas and public houses.

Most of the rivers and canals form part of a simple network – spanning Bristol to London, Liverpool to Goole, and Lancaster to Ripon – which is navigable by canoe or barge.

The network connects the Irish Sea, the North Sea, the estuaries of the Thames, Humber, Mersey, River Severn and River Ribble. The map below created by Campsites on Water (NB: not to scale) indictates how the main routes are linked.

Things to do waterside can be found here www.waterscape.com – Britian’s official guide to leisure activities on rivers, canal and lakes.

RIVERS

The majority of UK rivers are linked by the main canal network, which was completed by the start of the 19th Century.

Click here for a list of rivers in the UK and Ireland.

CANALS

The UK’s canals – once the focus for heavy industry and goods – have become an attraction for the recreational and tourist trade in the last 30 years.

Although the network fell into decline in the 19^th century when rail replaced water as the main delivery system, canals are becoming increasingly popular. Government now invests significant public funds in renovating derelict canals and re-opening closed routes.

The Inland Waterways Association was formed in 1946 as a charity to campaign for improvements to the system.

A list of canals in the UK will follow.

Top 10 lake camps | Top 10 river camps | Top 10 canal camps | Top 10 beach camps

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Canal camping – a Top 10

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 In no particular order, here are 10 canal-side campsites worth a visit in 2012.

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1) Tudor Caravan Park and Camping, Gloucester-Sharpness Canal, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BP, 01453 890483

 OVERLOOKING the Cotswold Hills, this campsite next to the Gloucester-Sharpness canal offers good walking, fishing and cycling. The towpath leads to a pub and restaurant nearby, and the Severn Way runs alongside. Camping is available all year. Tudor accepts dogs kept on a lead and there is an ‘adults only’ area too. The 75 canal-side pitches cater for caravans, motorhomes and tents..

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2) The Rutland Arms (aka Dirty Duck) Campsite, Nottingham Canal, Woolsthorpe By Belvoir, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 1NY, 01476 870111

 A CAMPSITE on the Nottingham Canal surrounded by picturesque scenery. The camping ground is just one mile away from Belvoir Castle, an ideal trip for a rainy day. For those who prefer outdoor pursuits there are forest walks and fishing on the canal. Open all year, the campsite has a pub, restaurant, toilet block, showers, chemical disposal point and optional electric hook-ups. Pets are allowed and children are catered to, with a play area and a games room.

3) Lockside Caravan and Camping Park, Ripon Canal, Littlethorpe Road, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1TZ, 01765 605117

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Lockside Caravan Park on the Ripon Canal has space for 5 motor homes and 40 tents. There is also a rally field with space for 70 vans. Overlooking Ripon Racecourse, the campsite is a perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Downs and historical landmarks such as Ripley Castle and Fountains Abbey. The camping ground is a 15 minute walk into Ripon. Campsite facilities include a food shop, toilets, showers, chemical disposal point and 25 hook-ups. Open all year and pets are allowed.

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4) Netherwood House Camping, Shropshire Union Canal, Chester, Cheshire, CH3 6AF, 01244 335583

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Netherwood House Camping, next to the Shropshire Union Canal, is 2.5miles from the beautiful Chester City Centre, an area famed for its medieval architecture and set on the River Dee. Fishing and boat trips are available on the canal. The campsite offers free hot showers and hairdryers, British and continental shaving points, water points and a chemical disposal point. There are four pub/restaurants within walking distance of the camping ground. The campsite caters to adults only and accepts caravans and motor homes, but no tents. Open between March 1 – October 31.

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5) Bridgehouse Marina & Caravan Park and Camping, Lancaster Canal, Nateby Crossing Lane, Lancashire, PR3 0JJ, 01995 603207

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Set on the Lancaster Canal, this campsite is split into two areas, touring and static.  The touring area has 50 hard standing itches with electric hook-ups. The campsite is a 10 minute walk from the market town of Garstang, with its many pubs, restaurants, swimming pool, 18 hole golf course, fishing, clay pigeon shooting and boat hire facilities. The campsite’s heated toilet block also includes showers, washing and shaving points, a laundry area, washing up sinks and chemical disposal point. Dogs are welcome on the proviso that they are well behaved.

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6) White Bear Marina Camping, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 4HZ, 01257 481054

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A CAMPSITE on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal with 10 fully serviced touring caravan pitches. The glorious scenery and network of inland waterways attracts cyclists, walkers, boaters and anglers – with fishing available on the camping ground.  Open all year, electric hook-ups, gas refills, showers, toilets, laundry facilities and a chemical disposal point are available. Shops and restaurants are situated onsite. Dogs are welcome.

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7) Basingstoke Canal Authority, Basingstoke Canal, Canal Centre Camping, Mytchett Place Road, Mytchett, Surrey, GU16 6DD, 01252 370073

by John Spooner

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VERY popular with watersports fanatics as the campsite is situated less than one mile from the Quays Watersport Centre. Camping on the Basingstoke Canal accepts tents, caravans and motor homes and rallies. Toilets, showers, water points, waste disposal, and dish washing facilities are available. There are token operated power points for charging mobile phones or running hairdryers. Open all year, this canal-side campsite offers a playground for children and welcomes dogs.

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The Barge Inn Campsite, Kennet and Avon Canal, Honeystreet, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5PS, 01672 851705

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A UNIQUE campsite next to the Kennet and Avon Canal. Traditional clientele include cyclists, walkers, canoeists and boat enthusiasts because of the magnificent views and fishing. Campers interested in the paranormal also visit because of frequent crop circle activity. Tents, caravans and motor homes are catered for and rallies are welcome. The camping ground has showers, toilets, washing up facilities and a chemical disposal point. A TV room is available on the campsite, as are a bar, restaurants and games room for the kids. Pets are welcome.

9) Smithy Park Camping, Shropshire Union Canal, Abermule, Newtown, Powy, SY15 6ND, 01584 711280

by Dumbledad

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SMITHY Park consists of 5 acres of well maintained, garden-like surroundings, close to the River Severn, and next to Shropshire Union Canal. Although the campsite focuses on 60 caravans of its own, there is separate touring area with 26 fully serviced, hard standing pitches, offering electric hook-ups, water and even satellite TV. Showers, toilets and washing up and laundry facilities are housed in a new, timber chalet. Two pubs and a shop are located within walking distance. Fishing is available on the campsite and in the canal. Pets are welcome and the site offers a playground for children.

10) Minnows Caravan Park and Camping, Grand Western Canal, Sampford Peverell, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 7EN, 01884 821770

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THIS touring park, on Grand Western Canal, offers 45 pitches, of which 34 have all weather services. Special pitches are available for families, set on grass so children can play safely. Fishing, cycling and canal walks are all available onsite. Camping is a 15 minute walk from the village, which has two pubs, tennis courts, and a golf driving range.  The heated shower, toilet and washing facilities block offers constant hot water and is free of charge. Laundry facilities are also available. Pets are welcome.

Top 10 lake camps | Top 10 river camps | Top 10 canal camps | Top 10 beach camps
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Lake camping – a Top 10

In no particular order, here are 10 lake campsites worth a visit in 2012.

1) Smeatons Lakes Touring Park, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG23 6ED, 01636 605088

PARTICULARLY popular with anglers who fish the four lakes for carp and pike. Next to the River Trent, caravans, motor homes and tents are accepted on this 82-acre campsite. Newark – with its castle, air museum and markets – is just a mile away from the lakes and camping ground. Nearby Sherwood Forest offers good walking and hiking. Showers, toilets and washing-up facilities. Of the 130 pitches, 100 have electric connections. Open all year.

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2) Skegness Water Leisure Park Lakes, Walls Lane, Ingoldmells, Skegness, Lincolnshire, PE25 1JF, 01754 899400

PITCHES are available right next to the lakes, which provide fishing and cable skiing. Electric hook-ups should be booked at least one month in advance. A campsite pub/restaurant, cafeteria, food shop and coffee shop are available.

Playground, toilet blocks and shower/washing facilities. Laundry facilities operate on a token system. Dogs allowed but must be kept on a lead. Caravans and tents accepted on the camping ground by the lake.

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3) Lakeside Adult Touring Caravan Park, Bielby, York, York, YO42 4JP, 01759 318100

THE EMPHASIS here is on peace, quiet and lots of fishing. Camping at the side of a six-acre manmade lake containing carp, roach, rudd, chub and perch. Close to the city of York, the campsite is close to the Yorkshire Downs and the West Coast.
Open all year, with toilets, showers, washing up/laundry facilities and a chemical disposal point. Dogs are permitted, but under 16s are not.

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4) Coniston Hall Camping Site, Lake Coniston, Haws Bank, Coniston, Cumbria, LA21 8AS, 01539 441223

FISH, swim or canoe from March to October on the edge of Lake Coniston. Tents and motor homes only on the campsite. Bring a good camping mallet because the ground lakeside is a bit rocky. Toilets, showers, washing up areas and laundry facilities. Shop is available onsite. Children and dogs are permitted.

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5) White Cross Bay, Lake Windermere, Ambleside Road, Windermere, LA23 1LF, 015394 43937

UPMARKET camping on Lake Windermere. White Cross Bay, at the very heart of the Lake District, offers heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, gym, shop, a la carte restaurant and cocktail bar. Watersports are available on the lake. The campsite includes electric hook-ups, showers, toilets, washing up and laundry facilities and chemical waste disposal. A playground is available for children and dogs are welcome. Caravans and motor homes accepted on the camping ground, but not tents. Statics can be rented or bought.

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6) Hill of Oaks, Tower Wood, Lake Windermere, Cumbria, LA12 8NR, 015395 31578

A UNIQUE campsite set in woodland offering access to a mile of lake shore and its own island. Campers can swim or paddle to Wildcat Island when water on Lake Windermere is low.
Nature walks and a safe play area are available. An campsite shop sells locally produced goods and every day essentials. Toilets, showers and washing up and laundry facilities are provided. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leads. No camping tents.

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7) Ullswater Caravan and Marine Park, Watermillock, Cumbria, CA11 0LR, 01768 486666

SITUATED in the middle of the Ullswater Valley, with magnificent views of the lake. The camping is peaceful and secluded, allowing customers to relax and unwind. Also boasts some of the best rambling and mountain-biking terrain in the region. The campsite’s own private marina gives access to the lake.  Tents, caravans and motor homes are accepted and statics are available for rental or sale. The site offers electric hook-ups, showers, toilets and washing up facilities. A TV room, games room and playground offer ample entertainment for children and watersports are available on the lake.

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Bunree Caravan Club Site, Onich, Fort William, Highland, PH33 6SE, 01855 821283

THE CAMPSITE is on the shores of Loch Linnhe. Park right at the lake edge. Mountains behind the loch make for a spectacular view. Fishing and watersports are available. Ben Nevis is nearby. Electric hook-ups, toilets, showers, washing up and laundry facilities. There is a playground for children and an campsite shop. No tents for camping.

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9) Wig Bay Holiday Park, Loch Ryan, Stranraer, Dumfries and Galloway, DG9 0PS, 01776 853233

SHELTERED by the northern hills of the Rhinns peninsula on Loch Ryan. Hill walking, tennis, fishing, golf and windsurfing available. There’s also an indoor swimming pool and a children’s play area on the camping ground. Electric hook-ups and gas refills are available and the campsite includes toilets, showers, washing up and laundry facilities and chemical waste disposal.

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10) Lakeside Caravan Park, Llangorse Lake, Brecon, Powys, LD3 7TR, 01874 658226

NEXT to the lake in the Brecon Beacons, this campsite is in the middle of the national park, surrounded by woodland, greenery and mountains. Llangorse Lake, the largest natural lake in South Wales, is renowned for its pike fishing.  Watersports include canoeing, rowing and waterskiing. Dinghies and pedalos can also be hired. The campsite includes toilets and shower blocks, laundry and washing up facilities and a chemical disposal point. A play area will keep the kids occupied. The camping accepts tents, caravans, motor homes and rallies. Hook-ups are available, as are gas refills. The site includes a bar, eatery and shop. Dogs are welcome.

Top 10 lake camps | Top 10 river camps | Top 10 canal camps | Top 10 beach camps

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River camping – a Top 10

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In no particular order, here are 10 riverside camping sites worth a visit in 2012.

1) Friars Court Campsite, River Thames, Clanfield, Oxfordshire, OX18 2SU, 01367 810 206

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ON the banks of the River Thames, this campsite is set in two meadows behind Oxfordshire’s Friars Court. One, a certified Caravan Club site, is situated on a four acre island and can hold up to five vans. The second is licensed to hold 60 caravans and motorhomes and welcomes camping rallies riverside.

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2) Redhill Marina Camping, Ratcliffe On Soar, River Soar, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG11 0EB, 01509 672770

CAMPING on the River Soar only accepts visitors over the age of 18. Tents, caravans and motor homes are welcome. Fishing and watersports are available on the river. Open all year, visitors have access to electric hook-ups, gas refills, toilets and chemical waste disposal. There are no showers. Food is available on the campsite from both a shop and an eatery. Dogs are welcome.

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3) Cogenhoe Mill Holiday Camping Park, River Nene, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN12 8TJ, 01327 857955

PEACEFUL, secluded camping on the River Nene. Described as a ‘haven for fishermen’, the riverside setting is tranquil and idyllic. There is a small clubhouse on the camping ground where you can shoot pool or play darts. A play area will keep the children entertained and an onsite shop sells most of the basics you’ll need for a short stay. Toilets, showers, washing up stations and laundry facilities. Billing Aquadome is nearby, where you can hire pedalos, race go-karts, play crazy gold and enjoy the funfair.

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4) Waveney River Centre Campsite, River Waveney, Staithe Road, Burgh Saint Peter, Beccles, Norfolk, NR34 0BT, 01502 677343

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5) Yarwell Mill Caravan and Camping Park, River Nene, Yarwell, Peterborough, PE8 6PS, 01780 782344

THE PICTURESQUE Yarwell Mill campsite rests on the banks of the River Nene, with its own fishing lake at the centre of the site. Located in the Northamptonshire countryside, the 27 acre river camping site has space for 120 touring vans and 100 or more tents. The camping area is spacious enough to allow for football and other games, and the five acre lake is perfect for keen anglers. The riverside site offers hook-ups and gas fires. Toilets, showers, washing up and laundry facilities and chemical waste disposal are also available. Pets are welcome.

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6) Linton Lock Caravan and Camping Site, River Ouse, Linton Lock Marina, Linton On Ouse, York, York, YO30 2AZ, 07900 933272

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7) Riverside Caravan and Camping Park Contin, Blackwater River, Strathpeffer, Highlands, IV14 9ES, 01463 243 766

SET on Blackwater River beneath the hills of the Scottish Highlands, this campsite offers natural, unspoilt beauty. Fishing in the river is free from the caravan park (permits are required). The site is also ideally located for exploring the Munros Mountains. The town of Dingwall is just 7 miles away, with its restaurants, pubs, bars, museums and an indoor swimming pool. Boat trips are available to Loch Ness or the dolphins of Moray Firth. Electric hook-ups, toilets, showers, and washing up and laundry facilities. The onsite camping shop sells your every day essentials. Pets are welcome.

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Riverside Village Holiday and Camping Park, River Crouch, Wallasea Island, Essex, SS4 2EY, 01702 258297

AN ESSEX campsite on the banks of the River Crouch with lots to offer. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside and villages teeming with quality pubs and restaurants, the camping area is steeped in history. There’s a marina where visitors can catch a ferry across the river to the beautiful Burnham on Crouch. The campsite accepts tents, caravans and motor homes. An onsite shop sells ice cream, chocolate and more. Electric hook-ups and gas refills are available, as are showers, toilets, washing up and laundry facilities and chemical waste disposal. There’s a playground to entertain the kids and dogs are welcome.

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9) Galmpton Touring Park Campsite, River Dart, Greenway Road, Brixham, Devon, TQ5 0EP, 01803 842066

THIS RIVER Dart based campsite accepts tents, caravans and motor homes. Quay West Water Park and Paignton Zoo are both just 15 minutes away. For more relaxing pursuits, the scenery and location make this camping ground perfect for walks and river trips. Shops and a pub/restaurant are within walking distance. Hook-ups and gas refills are available, as are fully serviced pitches, toilets, showers, washing up and laundry facilities and chemical waste disposal. There’s a children’s play park and dogs are welcome.

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10) Riverside Camping, River Irfon, Llangammarch Wells, Nr Builth Wells, Powys, LD4 4BY, 01591 620465

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A FOUR acre campsite on the River Irfon. Hard standing pitches available, as are a limited number of riverside pitches. A safe playground for children and a barbecue area under a gazebo can entertain both kids and adults. This a prime camping location for walking/hiking and cycling and bike hire is on sale in the village of Builth Wells. Tents, caravans and motor homes are accepted riverside and static caravans are available too. Hook-ups, gas refills, toilets, showers, washing up and laundry facilities and chemical waste disposal. Pets are welcome.

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2011 UDATE      ________________________________      2011 UDATE

Camping by river – some more river-side sites worth a look at in 2011

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1) Huntingdon Boathaven and Camping Park, River Great Ouse. Here’s a short film we made of our visit to the river in autumn 2010. Click the title link for more camping information on this site.

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2) Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park –  one of my favourite river campsites. A jewel, in every sense, at the heart of London’s industrial past, present and future, on the River Lee.

GOLF: The campsite is next to the River Lee and surrounded by golf course © Stephen Neale

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3) Steeple Bay Holiday Park – in a remote corner of Essex, this site has everything for boat lovers and walkers.

BAY: The campsite and holiday park on the River Blackwater © Stephen Neale

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What the Law Says

Wild camping represents everything that is good and bad about living outside socially accepted conventions. That’s why knowing both your rights and responsibilities are so important.

Wild camping is a subject of great debate, and often leads to conflict with land owners, locals, enforcement officials and police. The most experienced wild campers have learnt to remain polite, courteous and calm, choosing to move on rather than agitate situations where a reasonable compromise cannot be reached. At its best, wild camping is a fun way for the responsible tenter, motorhomer and even caravaner to enjoy the UK’s most stunning and remote scenery in peace.

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Although many motorhomers look for non-designated areas – sample list here – to overnight, the definition of true wild camping refers to the practice of isolated camping alone in a tent, in an unenclosed area.

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The legal position differs from country to country, but isn’t particularly complicated.

Scotland

Wild camping is legal in Scotland under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, as long as campers leave the site tidy and unblemished.

The Act became law on February 9, 2005, and established a statutory right of responsible access to land and inland waters for:

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This means visitors can camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land without the landowner’s consent.

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There are though responsibilities to establish these access rights. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code offers guidance, which recommends no camping in enclosed areas, containing crops or farm animals for instance.

Problems with vandalism, out of control fires, rubbish, abandoned equipment and pollution from unburied human waste prompted the Scottish Natural Heritage to reiterate guidelines in March 2008, and a warning.

The government agency said in a statement: “Responsible wild camping can be a great way of getting out into the countryside. But while the majority of campers observe the ‘leave no trace’ principles of wild camping some inexperienced or less thoughtful campers can be less considerate.

“Access rights depend on responsible behaviour, and it’s vital that people think about the effects of their actions on others and on the environment.”

In October 2008, Scottish Natural Heritage launched a new training scheme to coach 150 of Scotland’s outdoor instructors in environment friendly wild camping skills and techniques.

Although good practice is commonsense, guidelines are listed at www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

They include:

• carrying a trowel to bury toilet waste
• urinate well away from open water, rivers and burns
• no overcrowding
• use a stove or leave no trace of any camp fire.
• never cutting down or damaging trees
• clearing all rubbish and litter, even if left by others
• when in doubt, ask the landowner.

Maps by www.ScottishCamping.com rate more 400 serviced campsites, and are available by email at info@scottishcamping.com or phone on 01561 377165 01561 377165 .

England and Wales

Wild Camping in England and Wales is banned. This means it is illegal to wild camp on the moors, mountains, National Parks and MOD land without the landowner’s consent.

A petition to Parliament in June 2008 failed.

The Government’s response recognized the potential benefits of wild camping and its attractiveness to campers, but it claimed that ‘the land issues and the legislation in England were somewhat different’ to those in Scotland.

The reply continued: “The introduction of wild camping in England would be a controversial issue, which would require both significant consultation and legislative change.

“The Government has no plans to allocate the necessary resources to consider proposals for such legislation at present, and is concentrating on following up the successful introduction of 750,000 hectares of open access land with new legislation on access to the coast in the Marine Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.”

The background to the legal status of camping is enshrined in the recently created Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, which was introduced in 2005.

The original Public Rights of Way had offered walkers limited rights to follow the strict line of an access route. To leave this ‘right of way’ constituted a trespass.

The 2005 Act gave the right to walk freely in designated areas, leaving the footpath, without risk of committing an offence.

The new law specifically excluded the right to camp, which meant over-nighting in even a tent or sleeping bag still constituted trespass, a civil (not criminal) offence.

Although wild camping is not illegal, it is a breach of common law. Land owners have the right to use reasonable force to make campers leave if permission or fees are not successfully negotiated.

Motorhomes

Motorhomers who overnight at non-designated sites usually refer to themselves as ‘wild campers’. They typically park anywhere they can, off-road, in lay byes, on roads or in a private or public car parks.

In the main they attempt to find areas of beauty, where there are few or no visitors after dark, although their efforts are often foiled by ‘boy racers’, other campers or officials and land owners who insist they move on.

More people are choosing to ’wild camp’ to avoid paying full-service campsite fees of up to £35-per-night, as rising energy prices have forced up the cost of running official camp sites that provide electric hook-up.

There is much debate about the legality, rights and entitlement of motorhome (and sometimes caravan owners) to park in an area of their choosing, even when they are responsible and out of sight. The legal position is relatively clear. There are no rights other than those permitted by the land owner or regulatory authority.

In June 2009 a petition was handed to Parliament calling on the Prime Minister to provide stopping places for motorhomes.

It was claimed that councils should provide areas for the overnight stay of taxed and insured motorhomes.

The application was rejected, as local authorities already have powers to permit or refuse parking if they choose, depending on regional circumstances.

For a comprehensive list of friendly and unfriendly UK councils regarding parking, see the excellent http://www.motorhomeparking.co.uk/

The site is produced by motorhomer Graham Hadfield – a former Freedom of Information officer. He used to work for a local authority, and decided to put his knowledge of the system to good use.

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Situated on the sheltered sands of a tiny fishing village and just seven miles from the A1.
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Windsurfing, scuba diving, sailing and body boarding are all available. Take a walk along the bay to the nearby bird sanctuary or drive to Bamburgh, Warkworth or Dunstanburgh to view the castles.
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Boat trips from Seahouses to the Farne Islands or across the tidal causeway. Holy Island and Lindisfarne are both popular.

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BEACH: Direct access to coast at Beadnell Bay

VIEW: Campsite next to dunes and beach

1) Wild Camping

a) Sample List of Wild Campsites

2) Five Top Campsites for 2010

a) Top 10 River Campsites 2010

b) Top 10 Lake Campsites 2010

c) Top 10 Canal Campsites 2010

3) Campers’ Guide to River/Canal Network

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4) Campers’ River Directory

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Avon (Bristol)

14 miles / 22km

The River Avon travels from Hanham Lock on the Kennet and Avon Canal to the Bristol Channel.

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Avon (Stratford)

96 miles / 154 km

Known as the Upper Avon or Warwickshire Avon, it rises in Northamptonshire at Naseby and flows southwest through Warwick, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Evesham.

Passing through southern England, it meets the River Severn near Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire.

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Bure

50 miles / 80 km

Merges with the River Yare at Yarmouth, passing through the Norfolk Broads.

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Calder

45 miles/ 72km

Rises northwest of Todmorden, West Yorkshire, on the Pennine moors, and links the River Aire at Castleford.

The Aire and Calder Navigation provides an important link to other rivers and canals, which include the River Mersey to the River Humber.

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Calder

10 miles / 16 km

Flows through Cumbria southeast of Whitehaven into the Irish Sea.

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Calder

15 miles / 24 km

Joins the River Ribble, near Whalley, central Lancashire.

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Cam

40 miles/ 65km

Its source is at Ashwell, Hertfordshire, in the south, flowing north through Cambridgeshire, and into the River Ouse. Joins the River Granta at Hauxton, which rises in Essex.

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Coquet

40 miles / 64 km

Rises in the Cheviot Hills, Northumberland, traveling north to the North Sea at Amble.

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Dee (Cheshire)

Passes from Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) to Llangollen through Chester and into the sea.

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Dee (Scotland)

Travels from the Cairngorm Mountains to the North Sea at Aberdeen.

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Derwent

57 miles / 92 km

Flows south from the North Yorkshire moors, through Malton and joins the River Ouse south of Selby.

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Dove

40 miles / 65 km

Rises 4 miles from Buxton and flows south to join the Trent, near Burton.

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Fal

Flows into the Fal Estuary, Falmouth, Cornwall.

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Great Ouse

160 miles / 250 km

Its source is close to Brackley, in Northamptonshire, flowing eastwards through Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Norfolk, before meeting the Wash just north of King’s Lynn.

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Hamble

8 miles / 12 km

Travels from Botley to Southampton Water, at Hamble Point and Warsash.

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Manifold

Situated at the southern part of the Peak District in Staffordshire, England.

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Mersey

70 miles / 112 km

Formed by the merger of the Goyt and Tame rivers at Stockport, in north west England.

Flows west through Manchester, joining the Irwell at Flixton and the Weaver at Runcorn. Finally meets the Irish Sea at Liverpool Bay.

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Nidd

17 miles / 27 km

Flows through Yorkshire Dales National Park, in North Yorkshire, into the River Ouse near York.

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Nith

70 miles / 112 km

STILL: Scotland's seventh longest river (by Kerry Cunliffe)

Flows from East Ayrshire, through Dumfries and Galloway, and into the Solway Firth.

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Severn

208 miles / 336 lm

The UK’s longest river rises in Ceredigion, west Wales, and flows east and then south into the Bristol Channel.

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Shannon

240 miles / 386 km

Ireland’s longest river starts in the Cuilcagh Mountains in County Cavan, and flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

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Spey

107 miles / 172 km

The 2^nd longest river in Scotland passes through Highland and Moray to the Moray Firth, near Buckie.

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Taf

31 miles / 50km

Flows through Carmarthenshire, in southwest Wales. Rises in the Preseli Hills and entersCarmarthen Bay, at the village of Laugharne.

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Tawe

30 miles / 48 km

Flows from the Black Mountain, south Powys, and enters the Bristol Channel at Swansea.

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Tay

120 miles 193 km

The longest river in Scotland, passes through Loch Tay and Perth to the Firth of Tay, meeting the North Sea.

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Tees

80 miles/ 130 km

From the Pennines in Cumbria, to the North Sea at Tees Bay, Middlesborough.

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Teign

30 miles / 48 km

River on Dartmoor, west of Chagford, and flows east into the English Channel at Teignmouth, Devon.

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Teme

Rises in Bryn Coch mid Wales, the Teme is the second largest tributary of the River Severn.

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Thames

210 miles / 338 km

The longest river in England flows through London. It is tidal as far as Teddington and rises in the Cotswold Hills.

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Trent

170 miles / 275 km

England’s 3^rd longest, rising in the south Pennines by the Staffordshire-Cheshire border, it flows through Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, joining the Ouse and entering the North Sea below Spurn Head.

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Truro

The River Truro travels from the Fal Estuary into Truro.

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Tweed

97 miles / 156 km

River rising in the southwest Scottish Borders, enters the North Sea at Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland. From Coldstream it forms the border between England and Scotland.

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Tyne

45 miles / 72 km

VIEW: From Hagg Bank Bridge (by kloniwotski)

Formed by the coming together of the North Tyne and South Tyne near Hexham, Northumberland, and exiting the North Sea at Tynemouth.

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Tywi or Towy

Rises in the Cambrian Mountains of central Wales and moves southwest, finally entering Carmarthen Bay.

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Ure

50 miles / 80 km

Rises near the borders of North Yorkshire and Cumbria, and joins the River Swale near Boroughbridge to form the Ouse.

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Wear

67 miles / 107 km

Flows from Wearhead in the Pennines in County Durham to Bishop Auckland and then northeast past Durham, to the North Sea at Sunderland.

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Wye

130 miles / 208 km

Flows southeast and east through Powys and Hereford and Worcester, from its source in northeast Ceredigion, Wales.

Follows the Gwent-Gloucestershire border before joining the river Severn.

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Wye

9 miles / 15 km

Through central England, the river rises in Buckinghamshire’s Chiltern Hills and flows southeasterly into the Thames.

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Wye

20 miles / 32 km

Through Derbyshire, central England, rising near Buxton and meeting the Derwent, at Rowsley, in the south.