Boris Johnson’s exit strategy to ease us out of lockdown is potentially good news for caravan and camping lovers, as visiting “self-contained accommodation” is set to be allowed from 12 April – providing the scientific data around COVID cases doesn’t put a halt on proceedings.
Not only that, but rules around mixing with others outside will also be relaxed, subject to the data, as people look forward to the reality of socialising with family and friends for the first time in what will feel like a lifetime.
To look ahead to what could be the return of the classic British holiday, Flogas Britain has been finding out which caravan sites are the most popular in each region of the country based on Google search data between January 2019 and January 2021.
The most searched for caravan sites
We’ll start with the most searched for caravan site in the Great Britain. Amassing 6,600 average searches per month, the family-run Riverside Park in Scotland is the most popular caravan park.
Located on the banks of the River Teviot, the park is set within 10 acres of land and boasts stunning views, offering charm and luxury in equal measure.
In second place is Haven’s, Weymouth Bay Holiday Park with 4,400 searches on average. Situated in Dorset, the park is one of 37 Haven sites dotted around the Great British coastline and is ideally placed at one the country’s most recognisable seaside destinations.
With 3,600 searches, it’s Parkdean Resorts’ Whitley Bay Holiday Park, which like Weymouth Bay, boasts a short walk to the nearest beach and enough family entertainment to keep everyone happy.
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement, bookings for parks has increased fivefold, so these popular sites are no doubt experiencing the staycation booking boom themselves.
Regional searches
So, where is home to the most caravan sites? To find out, we’ve calculated average searches for all popular sites in each region and picked out the top three. Here are the results.
Scotland – total: 34,750
Home to 67 popular parks and resorts, Scotland has the most regional searches on average per month. The most northern area of Great Britain has some of the best hidden beauty spots.
Top three parks (searches)
- Riverside Caravan Park (6,600)
- Clayton Caravan Park (2,400)
- Eyemouth Caravan Park (1,900)
Yorkshire – total: 22,240
In second place, it’s “God’s own country”, Yorkshire. Popular for its football teams, famous actors, and puddings swimming in gravy, the region is also a hub for caravan and holiday parks.
Top three parks (searches)
- York Caravan Park (2,900)
- Crows Nest Caravan Park (1,900)
- Kingfisher Caravan Park (1,900)
Northumberland & County Durham – total: 9,900
Northumberland and County Durham makes up third spot on the regional list. Famous beaches and historic towns give the area real character and scenic attraction.
Top three parks (searches)
- Whitley Bay Caravan Park (3,600)
- Berwick Caravan Park (2,400)
- Sandy Bay Caravan Park (2,400)
Speaking on behalf of Flogas, Stewart Woolley, General Manager for Cylinders, said: “It’s been a difficult start to the year, but the data shows how popular caravan parks are, and the hope people still have for enjoying a well-earned break.
“Although trips abroad look unlikely, the vaccine rollout offers a beacon of light that a staycation may be possible at some stage in 2021.
“Our fingers are crossed that we’ll see families and friends pitching up at caravan sites and lighting up the BBQ this summer, albeit still in a socially distanced way.”
