For a while we’ve been considering staying at a Camping and Motorhome Certified Location (CL). Up until now we’ve always used full-facilities sites, but felt it was time to give the CL experience a go!
So we chose Brockalee Farm Campsite near Haltwhistle in Northumberland for our first taste staying at a CL.
First impressions were good. The site was well-maintained and really tidy with flat-spacious pitches – there are less than 10 pitches and access to the site was via a padlocked gate – so communication between us and the owner about arrival times etc. was critical.
The facilities were great – although there is only one shower/WC room and one separate WC. So it can get a bit busy if the site is full. The site also has electric hook ups and grey waste drains on every pitch.
The experience was really good overall. The owner visited us and brought some farm fresh eggs, and we got to see him training his sheep dogs in the field below. There were rare breed sheep and donkeys too – all which added to the ‘being down on the farm’ feeling. We didn’t miss the amenities of a full Camping and Caravanning Club or Caravan and Motorhome Club at all. When we go away, it’s to spend time with one another, and with Frank, so small is good!
Despite being nervous about staying at a CL I would now whole-heartedly recommend it if you don’t need the full spread of facilities. My gut is CLs are more suited to couples than families, as there will not be any play parks or places for ball sports. I can tell you Frank enjoyed his experience getting close up and personal with the farm animals! For a full comparison – read on!
Compare CLs with Club Sites
Camping and caravanning club sites come in different varieties, including certified locations (CLs) and full club campsites, each offering a unique experience for campers. Here’s a comparison between the two:
Certified Locations (CLs)
- Size & Setting:
- CLs are typically smaller, often run by private individuals or small family operations.
- They can have as few as 5 pitches (sometimes up to 10) but are usually quite peaceful and located in more rural or scenic spots.
- These sites might be on farms, in woods, or in areas with fewer facilities and a more natural environment.
- Facilities:
- CLs generally have basic facilities, such as toilets, water, and sometimes a waste disposal point. Many don’t have electricity, showers, or much else.
- They offer a more “back-to-basics” experience, appealing to campers who want a quiet and rustic getaway.
- Booking & Availability:
- They tend to be less crowded and can offer more flexibility when it comes to booking.
- Because they’re smaller, CLs may not have an online booking system, and reservations are often made directly with the site owners.
- Atmosphere:
- CLs have a more intimate, often quieter atmosphere, perfect for those looking to get away from larger crowds.
- These sites are generally aimed at seasoned campers or those looking for a simple, no-frills stay in a beautiful location.
- Cost:
- CLs are often cheaper than full club campsites due to the limited facilities and smaller size.
Full Club Campsites (Camping and Caravanning Club Sites)
- Size & Setting:
- Full club campsites are generally larger, with a wider range of pitches (sometimes in the hundreds) and can cater to more campers at once.
- They are usually located in more popular or accessible areas, like near towns, attractions, or major tourist sites.
- Facilities:
- These campsites offer a higher level of amenities, including toilets, showers, electric hook-ups, laundry facilities, waste disposal points, and sometimes even Wi-Fi.
- They often have recreational facilities, such as playgrounds, games rooms, or even onsite cafes or shops.
- Booking & Availability:
- Full club campsites tend to have an online booking system and are more likely to be busy, especially during peak seasons.
- Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during school holidays or weekends.
- Atmosphere:
- These sites can have a livelier, more social atmosphere, with more families, groups, and facilities.
- While you still get a good camping experience, it can be a bit less tranquil than a CL site because of the larger number of campers.
- Cost:
- Full club campsites are generally more expensive than CLs due to the additional facilities and larger size. However, they still tend to offer good value considering the range of amenities.
Summary Comparison:
| Feature | Certified Locations (CLs) | Full Club Campsites |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Small (5–10 pitches) | Large (up to 100+ pitches) |
| Facilities | Basic (toilets, water, waste disposal) | Extensive (showers, electric hook-ups, laundry, etc.) |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, rural, intimate | Livelier, family-friendly, social |
| Location | Often in scenic, remote areas | More accessible, often near attractions |
| Booking | Often informal, direct with the owner | Online booking system, more formal |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Generally more expensive |
Which One to Choose?
- Go for a CL if you want: A peaceful, more secluded camping experience, often in beautiful, rural settings, with minimal facilities but more intimacy.
- Go for a full club campsite if you want: More facilities, a wider range of services, and a livelier atmosphere, particularly if you’re camping with kids or need specific amenities.
Ultimately, the choice depends on what kind of camping experience you’re after—whether you prefer simplicity and quiet or convenience and social opportunities.
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