Camping holidays

Shell Island, on the coast of Gwynedd in Wales, dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086 and has been a popular campsite for more than 60 years

Despite its name, Shell Island is not an island but a peninsula near the village of Llanbed in Wales. Its main route is cut off at high tide on certain days each month, giving it an island feel.

The land where Shell Island campsite now stands has a rich history, dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086. The site’s historical significance doesn’t end there, with tales of King Charles I reportedly hiding at the nearby Elizabethan mansion, Cors Y Gedol Hall, in the 1640s before attempting to flee to France, possibly departing from Shell Island’s shores through a secret tunnel.

Interestingly, the area wasn’t even a peninsula until the 19th Century when the Earl of Winchilsea diverted the Afon Artro in 1819 to improve access to the wharf at Pensarn, which was the shipment point for slate from Llanfair and Llanbedr.

Before this, the Artro entered the sea to the south of Shell Island, or Mochras as it’s known in Welsh. The English name, Shell Island, comes from the abundance and variety of seashells found on its beaches. These beaches began attracting visitors in the second half of the 19th Century.

The Cambrian Coast Line, constructed between 1855 and 1869, opened up the seaside to the new industrial workers, driving the development of the area.

In 1958, the Workman family arrived and began to shape the site into what it is today. They purchased 450 acres of land and established what is now one of Europe’s largest campsites.

Over time, Shell Island’s historic structures have been carefully repurposed. The restaurant, snack bar, and tavern, developed between 1976 and 1977, were once a hay barn, stables, and a cow shed, respectively.

Even the toilet block has an interesting history, having served as a homing station for the RAF Station at Llanbedr during wartime.

For many families, a visit to this place has become an annual tradition, with each year introducing a new generation to its allure. Those who fall in love with the place can’t help but sing its praises, as evidenced by the five-star reviews on Tripadvisor.

One recent review dubbed it “beach heaven” and described the surroundings – with Eryri as a backdrop – as a true “feast for the eyes”.

They added: “A simply wonderful, divine place. “Another camper said: What an experience to set up camp in this expansive site right on the sand dunes! Spectacular views, lots of space and the beach right there!”

Another praised it as: “Wales at its beautiful best” but was hesitant about spreading the word, adding: “I would thoroughly recommend but don’t tell everyone as I want to go back!

However, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, with some visitors expressing dissatisfaction over large groups.

One disgruntled camper wrote: “Massive groups of loud, not very nice people. The site has really gone down hill since Covid, they say they don’t let groups on but people just book separately and meet up when they arrive. There are far better camp sites out there.”

Another complained: “Considering they say there are 400+ acres it seemed very crowded, if you want a sea view you’re going to be within touching distance of your neighbour.

“Definitely not a quite relaxing holiday, more like a festival field, we were booked in for three nights but left after 1, the views are beautiful but it’s spoilt by it being overcrowded and some of the people there are maybe not to everyone’s taste shall we say.”

However these complaints are certainly in the minority – with around 750 of just over 1,000 reviews rating it good or excellent, and it’s easy to see why.

The Workman family said: “Whether you’re planning a day visit or an extended stay, Shell Island promises a personal slice of paradise for every visitor.

According to Richard Edwards, a seasoned glamping expert from White House Glamping , a luxury camping site in Herefordshire, there’s a simple and inexpensive solution that can turn your muddy camping nightmare into a comfortable outdoor escape

Mud. The age-old foe of mothers in 90s Persil adverts and campers alike.

When it comes to combining a night in canvas with nature’s premier version of gloop, things can be difficult.

Picture the scene: You’ve spent hours assembling the perfect campsite, your tent is perfectly pitched, and everything feels just right. Then the skies open up with a sudden downpour, turning the ground into a muddy mess. Within minutes, your pristine tent interior becomes a disaster zone, with dirty footprints across your sleeping area and soggy gear everywhere. It’s the kind of scenario that can turn even the most enthusiastic camper’s weekend into a frustrating mess.

But according to Richard Edwards, a seasoned glamping expert from White House Glamping, a luxury camping site in Herefordshire, there’s a simple and inexpensive solution that can turn your muddy camping nightmare into a comfortable outdoor escape.

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“After years of helping guests enjoy the great outdoors, I’ve seen every camping disaster you can imagine,” says Richard. “The mud problem is one of the most common complaints, but it’s also one of the easiest to solve with the right approach.”

When it comes to keeping tents spotless, Richard has a secret weapon. A waterproof car boot liner from your local discount shop. This simple and affordable piece of kit can be transformed into the perfect tent entrance mat that keeps mud firmly where it belongs – outside.

“The trick is to lay the liner flat at your tent entrance, creating what I call a ‘mud porch’. It’s basically a doormat that works in the wild. Campers can step onto it, wipe their boots, and leave all the mess behind before entering their tent,” he explains.

The process couldn’t be simpler. Position the waterproof liner just outside your tent door, ensuring it covers the main traffic area. The rubberised surface grips well to most ground types, while the waterproof material means it won’t absorb moisture or become a soggy mess like traditional mats.

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Campers usually just try the shoes-off approach when it comes to coming inside, but Richard explains why this rarely works in practice.

“Asking everyone to remove muddy boots sounds good in theory, but you’re still left with wet socks and nowhere clean to put the boots,” he says. “Plus, it’s not exactly comfortable hopping around on one foot in the rain.”

Traditional camping mats often fall short as well. They’re usually too small, absorb water, and can become slippery hazards when wet. Towels, another common solution, quickly become saturated and useless.

“The car boot liner gives you a proper-sized clean zone that stays functional even in the worst weather,” Richard notes. “It’s also easy to rinse off or wipe clean, and it rolls up small when you’re packing up.”

Richard’s budget-friendly approach doesn’t stop at boot liners. He’s discovered several other unexpected items that work brilliantly in the great outdoors.

“Shower curtains make excellent groundsheets for under your tent. They’re completely waterproof and cost a fraction of purpose-made camping groundsheets. Dollar store microfiber cloths are perfect for quick clean-ups, and those cheap plastic storage boxes? They’re ideal for keeping your gear dry and organised,” he adds.

“A simple plastic tablecloth can create an instant clean eating area, and those disposable plastic plates from party shops are more practical than heavy camping crockery.”

Wake up in beautiful surroundings this summer with a visit to one of these stunning camping sites

With the summer holidays looming, parents may be looking for a fun trip to fill some of the 6 weeks with the kids and camping is a great option. Caravan insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk named seven sites across the country to pitch up in front of stunning landscapes.

Greg Wilson, CEO and price comparison specialist at Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Many families and couples will be looking to pitch up their tents and caravans this summer in some of the most stunning sites in the country in a bid for a stress-free breather. The UK countryside has so much to offer visitors – with spectacular landscapes, attractive beaches, colourful meadows and calming woodlands.

“Camping in some of the most peaceful spots will give holidaymakers the chance to relax, save money, sleep under the stars and avoid airport delays and security hassles that can come with holidaying abroad.”

Advice from camping websites states that the better the view, the more wind you’re likely to encounter – so investing in a sturdy tent will be beneficial, reports the Express.

Here are some of Britain’s most picturesque camping spots:.

Devon

Devon’s countryside is a haven of tranquillity, boasting sprawling meadows, soothing natural springs and lush woodlands. It’s an idyllic spot for those yearning to sleep under the stars, with breathtaking views and sunsets that will make you feel truly at one with nature.

Woodovis Park is Devon’s 5 Star Holiday Park near the ancient Stannary Market town of Tavistock and nestled on the edge of Devon’s Tamar Valley: an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a designated World Heritage Site.

You can snuggle down in your own tent or opt for a luxurious glamping pod. More info at www.woodovis.com

Norfolk

For those seeking a beachside camping experience, Norfolk is the place to be. Here, you can indulge in seal spotting or enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shores.

Nestled within the iconic Norfolk Broads are numerous picturesque sites, offering families the chance to explore walking routes and waterways during their getaway.

Beeston Regis Holiday Park is a peaceful clifftop holiday park on the North Norfolk coastline, aptly nicknamed ‘The King of the Clifftop View’.

The park is dog-friendly, and you’re welcome to fire up your BBQ. Amenities include a top-quality shower block with reliable hot water, washing-up sinks, a launderette service and Elsan point.

See more here: www.beestonregis.co.uk

Lake District

Home to some of the UK’s most stunning lakes and mountains, the Lake District is a prime location for camping enthusiasts. This idyllic spot offers the perfect setting for relaxation amidst breathtaking landscapes or for embarking on long walks to soak in the picturesque scenery.

Castlerigg Farm, Keswick is a lovely, family-friendly site, with far reaching views across Derwentwater and the northern Lake District fells. There is a shop on site, and a takeaway van visits daily through the high summer season.

More info: castleriggfarm.com

Yorkshire

For those seeking a laid-back camping experience, Yorkshire is the place to be. With vistas of charming villages and miles of rugged coastline, it’s an idyllic setting.

The beautiful local beaches and delightful coastal towns make for a splendid camping holiday in this corner of the world.

William’s Den in Yorkshire is a 12 acre family-friendly site next to the award winning children’s attraction William’s Den. The campsite offers ‘Pitch Up & Play’ options which are fantastic value for money giving you and the kids all-day access to William’s Den Adventure Play during your stay.

The site now has 5 cosy bell tents to stay in, if you fancy glamping.

See more at www.williamsden.co.uk/stay-camp

Argyll and Bute, Scotland

In Argyll and Bute, Scotland, campers are met with some of the most awe-inspiring views in the country. Campsites here offer panoramas of lush greenery, stunning beauty and breathtaking lochs.

Take in those wonderful lochs and mountain views from your very own glamping pod with heater, kettle, microwave, fridge and private decking at Loch Awe. You’ll want to head to this secluded spot if wild fishing, mountain hikes and lochside campfires are on your bucket list.

More info at Pitchup.

Somerset

A camping trip in Somerset provides holidaymakers with a tranquil escape in the countryside. Ancient woodlands and vibrant meadows provide campers with a spectacular backdrop for their rural retreat.

Mendip Basecamp is an award winning off-grid family adventure campsite in the Mendip Hills, North Somerset. Surrounded by ancient woodland, the spacious campsite is perfect for families, small groups and adventurers and offers flushing toilets, hot showers, a pop up shop, a licensed cafe-bar, usb charging, washing up areas, ice-pack freezers, recycling and drinking water.

There’ll not be a single bored moment thanks to the Mendip Activity Centre, the onsite outdoor activity centre with over 20 activities to experience, from Live Music to Rock Climbing, Skiing to Archery and Storytelling to Nature Walks.

See more here: mendipbasecamp.com

Worcestershire

Camping in Worcestershire offers visitors unique landscapes and extensive trails to explore. The stunning, picture-perfect views are perfect for families and couples who enjoy hiking and reconnecting with nature.

Hopley’s in Bewdley is a well-established family-friendly campsite, with a mix of glamping, tents and caravans. They offer an on-site eatery, café, camping shop and farm shop as well as live music and festival events.

More info: www.hopleyscamping.co.uk

The campsite is nestled among the Rhinog mountains and is just two miles from the best beach in Wales

A picturesque Gwynedd campsite, boasting an “out of this world” location, has been crowned as one of Britain’s finest. Situated beside a river and near a waterfall, the woodland retreat in Eryri National Park is described by visitors as possessing a “fairytale ” charm.

Nantcol Waterfalls has earned its place on a list of 150 exceptional sites curated by Campsites.co.uk, which boasts over 3,200 locations. A total of 19 other North Wales campsites also made the cut, showcasing the region’s top-notch staycation offerings.

Set amidst the breathtaking Rhinog mountains, Nantcol Waterfalls campsite is merely two miles from Shell Island, with its golden beaches near Llanbedr recently hailed as the best in Wales by the annual Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beaches guide.

The site is traversed by Afon Nantcol – perfect for paddling, swimming or fishing. Thewaterfall is just 100 metres away.

Beyond tent pitches, the campsite offers glamping pods complete with TV, underfloor heating, WiFi, and firepits available for hire, reports North Wales Live.

Last year, the campsite clinched the title of the UK’s number one, and guests wholeheartedly concur, awarding it a 4.89-star rating.

One visitor remarked: “Only noise you can hear are the birds, river and odd sheep. It really is a peace of paradise, we didn’t want to come home.”

Another enthused: “We’ve officially found our happy place. The site is so well maintained, sustainable, and focused on preserving the beauty of nature.”

Nantcol Waterfalls offers optional electric grass pitches for tents and tourers, in addition to waterside bell tents and luxury glamping pods.

New additions this year include a wood-fired sauna and motorhome hire.

The supermarket has delighted many coffee lovers with the lightweight product designed to be used on the go

Aldi has impressed coffee drinkers with a £22.99 item that enables you to “make exceptional espresso wherever you are.” The supermarket is stocking an Adventuridge Portable Coffee Maker that’s said to be “perfect for travel, camping, or on-the-go use.”

The travel item is one of the retailer’s SpecialBuy items, meaning it is only available while stock lasts. Based on social media reactions, the portable coffee maker could prove popular. The item received lots of attention when it was showcased in a Facebook post shared by Aldi UK.

The caption said: “No coffee shop, no problem. This is the perfect solution for those caffeine hits NEEDED after a sleepless night in a tent. Pick yours up in store now – perfect for everything from camping trips to office days.”

While some commenters had mixed views about the item, lots of viewers praised the idea. Someone replied: “These are amazing. Ideal for hotels too when you only get instant coffee and a kettle. I use one with a little pot of espresso on my travels.”

A coffee fan said: “I’ve got one of the Nanopresso (same design) and if you know how to use it, they make excellent coffees (from Espressos, Americanos and every other coffee type).” Another viewer wrote: “Be good for some footy.”

Another response read: “I’ll need this when we go camping.” Someone else told their colleague: “We should get this for work.” Meanwhile, another excited shopper said: “Bother, now I have to go to Aldi and I just got comfy.”

However, not everyone was blown away, with one social media user saying: “Just have a simple flask!!!!” Someone else wrote: “What’s wrong with a kettle, a small stove, a cafetiere and a mug when camping?

“Similar to being in an office and you get much more bang for your buck.” A commenter added: “My travel mug keeps my coffee hot for hours. I don’t need one of these.”

For those who are interested in the portable coffee maker, a full product description is available on Aldi’s website. It states: “Enjoy your favourite espresso without the need for batteries or cords with our easy-to-use manual espresso maker. It’s perfect for travel, camping, or on-the-go use – giving you the freedom to make exceptional espresso wherever you are.”

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The description says that the “lightweight” coffee maker “works with any type of ground coffee, so you can customise your espresso to your liking” and that it “does not require compressed air or electricity.”

It’s also said that its “compact size makes it a great travel companion, fitting easily into your bag or backpack.” The coffee maker has a 1.5L capacity, and it comes with a one-year warranty. Product images are available to view on the website.

Shoppers can locate their nearest Aldi store here.

It’s not the summer destination you’d expect from the head of the Catholic Church, but Pope Leo XIV’s friend has revealed his favourite summer destination

Surfing, beaches, camping and long road trips – not your typical summer for the man leading a billion Catholics. But for Pope Leo XIV, that lifestyle feels like a second home.

While Rome is now where he lives, it was in Australia where he truly enjoyed spending his down time. The 79-year-old has visited Australia many times and is said to have fallen in love with its lifestyle – its beach culture, vast roads and famous laidback spirit.

A close friend revealed it wasn’t just the beaches he fell in love during his trips, but he genuinely connected with the country’s pace and spirit. Father Banks, originally from Melbourne is a close friend of Pope Leo XIV revealed he visited the country many times and “loved the beaches”.

Banks has lived in Rome for the past 12 years and has witnessed how the Pope’s bond with Australia has grown stronger over time. “He felt very much at home in Australia, as a second home,” he added. “He enjoyed being in our company.”

But it wasn’t only the sun that he enjoyed, Pope Leo also saw the beauty in the country’s scale and silence. “He enjoyed driving from Brisbane to Sydney,” Father Banks said. It was the “the loneliness of the distances” that he was really drawn to.

However his connection with Australia was deeper than holidays. He once visited during World Youth Day – a Catholic gathering, typically held every few years. In 2008, it was hosted in Sydney’s Randwick Racecourse.

Over that time, he also stopped at St Augustine’s College in Brookvale and met students and staff in a warm, down to earth exchange. “He has many great memories of Australia,” his friend added.

Australia is known for the relaxed atmosphere, surf scene and beautiful nature, which may seem a world away from the Vatican, but it seems the contrast is exactly why the new Pope loved it.

The country offered something he often didn’t find elsewhere, a place to slow down and just be – enjoying the outdoors and easygoing attitude. Whether it was the freedom of an open road or the casual warmth of a location conversation, Australia gave Pope Leo something beyond a holiday – it gave him a feeling of home, according to Father Banks.

Pope Leo was appointed last week and as he steps into one of the most powerful spiritual roles in the world, the memories he made in Australia will undoubtedly stay with him.

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