8th December 2025
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer break, choosing the right touring caravan site can make all the difference between a good holiday and a truly memorable getaway. For holidaymakers across the UK, and especially those heading to our destinations, The Burrows Country Park in North Yorkshire or Forget Me Not Country Park, Ord House Country Park or High Hermitage Country Park in Northumberland, it’s worth knowing exactly what to look out for.
In this guide you’ll find the key criteria to help you pick a site that matches your travel style, preferences and comfort needs.
With so many caravan parks across the UK, the experience you get can vary hugely.. According to experts, the right site should match not just your caravan but your holiday expectations, from peace and nature to entertainment and convenience. By knowing what to look for, you set yourself up for a hassle‑free, relaxing break where you can truly unwind — whether you come alone, as a couple, with pets or as a family.
Your site’s location will shape much of your holiday experience. Ask yourself: are you seeking countryside tranquillity, woodland serenity or quick access to coastal towns and local attractions? Sites like The Burrows Country Park offer countryside charm and the beauty of North Yorkshire, while our Northumberland parks combine calm rural surroundings with easy access to the coast and local villages.
Think about travel distance, road quality, and the ease of towing your caravan. Narrow roads or steep lanes can make arrival stressful — especially with larger caravans or motorhomes.
Not all pitches are created equal. Some may be grassy, others hard‑standing. Some may offer full-hook‑ups, others only basic water or waste facilities. According to caravan‑holiday guidance, the pitch type should match your caravan size, seasonality and comfort requirements.
For those touring with a motorhome or large caravan, hard‑standing or fully serviced pitches with electric hook-up, water and drainage afford greater stability and ease. If you value flexibility, make sure the pitch is spacious enough for your awning, vehicle and any outdoor setup. Being able to add a gazebo or enjoy outdoor meals means more freedom in your stay.
While your caravan gives you many comforts, good on‑site facilities elevate the holiday experience. Look for:
Many touring parks operate seasonally; some close in winter or limit certain facilities outside peak months.
If you wish to travel outside traditional holiday periods or want to keep your options open, especially for off‑peak breaks, choose a site offering long‑season or year‑round availability. This flexibility lets you enjoy quieter, more relaxed breaks in spring, autumn or winter.
Also check booking and cancellation policies carefully, particularly around school holidays and bank holidays when demand is high.
Make sure the access roads to the site are caravan friendly, especially if you’re towing a trailer or large motorhome. Ŵide entrances, ample turning space, and well‑maintained roads on-site help your arrival and departure run smoothly.
Within the park, look for well‑lit roads and pathways for safety during evening hours, clear signage, and an organised layout that separates different accommodation types (e.g. touring pitches, static homes, communal areas) to ensure privacy and comfort.
If you have mobility needs, check for accessible pitches, toilet and shower blocks, and ramped or hard‑standing paths to make moving around easy.
Park standards have a huge impact on the holiday vibe. Well‑maintained pitches, tidy communal areas, prompt waste disposal, clean showers, and recycling or dog‑waste facilities go a long way.
For environmentally conscious travellers you might want to check if the park follows eco‑friendly practices, such as recycling facilities, responsible waste management and wildlife‑friendly landscaping. At Maguires Country Parks, we’re proud to share that we hold environmental awards such as the David Bellamy Blooming Marvellous Pledge for Nature Award.
A great touring holiday is often more than just pitching up. Access to local walks, coastal paths, scenic villages, historic sites or countryside trails adds real value to your stay. Many UK caravan‑site guides insist on checking for nearby attractions when choosing a park.
If you travel with children, proximity to family-friendly attractions, beaches, woods or towns with shops and eateries can make the difference between a good break and a brilliant adventure.
Before booking, check reviews and feedback from other caravaners. Consistent comments on cleanliness, facilities, staff friendliness and ease of access tend to reflect a park’s reliability.
Also consider whether the site is accredited by reputable organisations or meets recognised standards, such recognition often means the park adheres to consistent safety, hygiene and service benchmarks.
Not always. Touring pitches are designed for caravans or motorhomes on short‑term stays, often with facilities like hook‑ups, waste disposal and shared showers. Holiday park pitches may include static caravans or lodges and might not cater for towing arrivals.
For larger vehicles you should usually choose a hard‑standing or fully serviced pitch with electric hook-up, drainage and ample space. This ensures stability and comfort, even in wet weather.
Not all. However some parks, including Maguires Country Parks, are family‑friendly and pet‑welcoming, while others focus on tranquillity, adults only, or limited amenities. Always check the park’s rules and facilities in advance.
If you want popular dates such as summer holidays, bank holidays or school breaks, it pays to book early. For off‑peak seasons, you may find better availability and reduced rates.
Yes. Hardstanding pitches provide stable, level ground for caravans or motorhomes and reduce issues with mud, waterlogging or uneven surfaces; giving peace of mind when weather is unpredictable.
At Maguires Country Parks we understand that every holidaymaker has a unique vision for their getaway. Our touring pitches, available at The Burrows Country Park, Forget Me Not Country Park, Ord House Country Park and High Hermitage Country Park, are designed to offer a balanced mix of nature, comfort and flexibility. We focus on spacious, well‑maintained pitches, excellent facilities and a welcoming environment for families, couples, and pet‑owners alike.
If you are ready to plan your next touring break, you can get in touch via our Touring Contact page.
Whether you crave a peaceful countryside retreat, a base to explore the coast, or a pet‑friendly escape with family, taking the time to choose the right touring caravan site can transform your holiday. From pitch type and facilities to location, accessibility and local surroundings – every detail matters.
If you are looking for a touring caravan getaway that blends comfort with nature, community and flexibility, look no further than Maguires Country Parks. Visit our Parks page to view available parks for touring. Then head to our Touring Contact page to book.
Your next adventure awaits – pitch up, unwind and embrace the freedom of touring!
