Broughton Hall Farm CL
Stonham Aspal
Stowmarket
Suffolk
IP14 6AD

Mrs E A Tydeman

Tel: 01449 711 277

E-mail: cl@broughtonhallfarm.co.uk
Web site: www.broughtonhallfarm.co.uk

Grid Reference: 156:TM133596
GPS co-ordinates: Latitude: 52.192689052071898, Longitude: 1.11895157863081

Caravan Club Members only

The site is in an orchard, and has 9 pitches, which avoids continuous use of the same area of well mown grass. If you have children with you be aware of the unfenced moat which is beside the site. This is, presumably, the coarse fishing mentioned on the CC details.
The location is behind the houses on the A1120, but there was minimal traffic noise in the day, and we did not notice any during the night. The church which was behind our pitch has a peal of 10 bells, but they were not rung while we were there.

All pitches have an electric hook-up, and there is one water tap, and a chemical disposal point both at the side of the site, at about the mid point. There is a shower available at the rear of the house, described by another member as basic.

Eggs and home-made jam are sold, and teas are sold at the weekend in August.

Beside the entrance to the site there are a collection of bins, clearly marked, for recyclables, burnable waste, and a small one for other waste. The farm has it’s own incinerator.

At the entrance to the site is a plan of the pitches, and, having booked by phone, our name was on the plain part of the board with our pitch number. Mrs Tydeman came to the site about 5pm to collect the fee and give us information. As we were near home we didn’t need to know about shops!

The cost is £10 per night, including electricity, free showers, and free wifi.

The critical question would we return - gets a firm yes.

John Hasletine. CLIC. August 2007

I was trundling around today, I spotted a reasonably new site near my home.
I do not profess to have visited it, I just sort of hove to, and asked for some details, which the proprietor was good enough to give me. So, for what it’s worth, here goes.

The Dell Camping and Caravan Touring Park--- Second report
Beyton Road
Thurston
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP31 3RB

Tel: 01359 270 121
Fax: 01359 270 121

E-mail: thedellcaravanpark@btinternet.com
Web site: http://www.ukparks.com/park_details..

Prices per night:
Caravan, Tent, Motor Home, Camper, includes 2 adults and children under 16 years £8.50
Extra Adults: £4.00. Awning: £1.00. Electric hookup: £2.00. Dogs: £0.50
Hot Water & Showers: F.O.C.

Yes, dogs are welcome dogs, but they must be kept on a lead at all times.

To actually find the site from Bury St Edmunds; follow the A14, and exit at the Beyton turn. Go down to the junction, and turn left towards Thurston. The site is about 3/4 of a mile along on the left.

To find it from Ipswich or Stowmarket; follow the A14 and turn off at the Beyton turn. Go up to the T junction and turn right. Follow the road into Beyton and turn right at the green, towards towards Thurston. The site is about a mile along on the left.

To find it from Diss; head for Bury St Edmunds. When you approach Great Barton, take the left at The Bunbury Arms towards Thurston. Follow that road right into Thurston. When you get to the end, turn right, and go under the railway bridge, and then immediately turn left, towards Beyton. Go past Cracknells garage, and the site will be about a mile further on, to your right.

The site itself appeared clean and well cared for. Although it’s right next to a road, it’s very quiet. On site amenities include a small shop, toilets and washing facilities. Nightlife is restricted to bats, owls, and the occasional hedgehog.

Thurston (about a mile away) has a bakery, a post office/general store, garage/filling station, pub, hotel, part-time vet, and a railway station (Bury/Ipswich).

Beyton is also about a mile away. It’s a quieter village with two pubs and a very large village green, which may be picnicked on.

There are many different guides that will tell you of all the local places of interest, so I won’t repeat them here.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. June 2000

The Dell Touring Caravan and Camping Park
Beyton Road
Thurston
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP31 3RB

Tel: 01359 270 121

Email: thedellcaravanpark@btinternet.com
Web site: www.thedellcaravanpark.co.uk/

Wardens: Andrew and Dawn

Site viewed May 2008

2008 prices:
Please refer to the Tariff page for up to date prices

Booking is essential
All bookings by post (£20 deposit)
Balance due on arrival

Peak periods
March 21-28, May 1-6, 22-31, July 18-August 31.

Security: There is a card operated security barrier to the site. £10 cash deposit required for the card.

Special needs facilities:
If you have any special requirements, please contact the warden, prior to booking.

Pets:
Pets are welcomed, but must be kept on a lead, and not allowed to foul the park. A dog-walking area is available.

Bank holidays:
Minimum stay is 3 nights

Pitches must be vacated by Noon on the day of departure

Site facilities include; 10-amp Electric Hook-ups, Showers, WC’s, (Mens, Womens & Disabled), shaver points and hairdryers (*), Chemical & Waste water disposal points, drinking water taps, Laundry room (with washing machine (*) and tumble dryer (*), Private family bathroom with bath (*), Veg prep/Washing up area (with hot water), recycling points, and a play area.

Items marked (*) attract an extra charge.

The shop offers Calor Gas, freezer for ice packs, and tourist information

Please note that the shop offers no foodstuffs, camping equipment, newspapers, tobacco, or sweets.

The warden I spoke to (the site owner) was very polite, friendly, and knowledgeable.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. November 2008

Haw Wood Farm Caravan Park
Hinton
Saxmundham
Suffolk
IP17 3QT

Tel/fax: 01986 784 248
E mail: andy@hawwoodfarm.co.uk
Web site: www.hawwoodfarm.co.uk

Site viewed June 2008

Directions:
Travelling north on the A12 from Ipswich, keep on the A12 towards Saxmundham. Just after The Halesworth turn, you should spot a Little Chef restaurant on your right, and the turning is immediately past this. There is a brown tourist ’Camping’ sign directly opposite. Just follow the road down to Haw Wood Farm. Reception will be on your right, and the entrance to the site itself is again on your right shortly after that.

You must remember to cross the apron to a barn, as the road is quite narrow, and I don’t know if you can turn round at the bottom!

2008 prices:
1 unit (car & caravan, or car & tent, or motorhome) each unit containing 2 adults and 2 children up to 5)

Basic pitch: £12.00 (per night)
Serviced pitch (With Hook-up): £14.00 (per night)

Each additional person: £1.50 (per night)
Pup tent: (per night per person) £6.00 (per night)

Booking is strongly advised for Bank and School holidays

Pets are welcomed, but must be kept on a lead, and not allowed to foul the park.

Site facilities include; 6 amp Electric Hook-ups, Showers, WC’s, Chemical & Waste water disposal points, drinking water taps, Veg prep/Washing up area, and a play area.

Please note that the site shop, due to its size, offers only a limited range of foodstuffs, camping equipment, and sweets.
Tourist information is available from Reception There is a caravan dealer a few miles south on the A12

The warden I spoke to (the site owners wife) was very polite, friendly, and knowledgeable.

This site offers no pretentious gimmicks, but is a comfortable, and well-run. All basic needs are catered for, including parties of mixed units, so groups of individuals with different units may pitch alongside each other.

The site consists of three very large, flattish fields, the first of which has hook-ups along the right-hand side, and a row of statics on the left. The second field seems to be for statics only, and the third is a rally field.

The centre of the first field contains the toilet block, and although maybe not the newest, is kept clean. Close to that are the veg prep and washing up areas.
At the end of the block is a small area with childrens toys.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. November 2008

Kessingland C & CC Site--- Second report
Suffolk Wildlife Park
Whites Lane
Kessingland
nr Lowestoft
Suffolk
NR33 7TF

Tel: 01502 742 040

Site Managers: Pat Thompson Sue Thompson
Map Ref: 156/520860
GPS Ref: TM 5200 8600
90 pitches
non members welcome
Open: March to October

2005 prices:
High season: Adult £7.40, child £2
Low season: Adult: £4.30, age concession £3.05, child £1.90 (free if with adult)
Electric (charged for ALL pitches): £2.40

The following facilities are available at this site;
Toilets, Washing-up sinks, Showers, Chemical disposal point, Laundry, Family shower room, Dog walk, Play area. Facilities usual good standard.
Pub near entrance to wildlife park does good food. Petrol, small shops (food and others), post office in Kessingland itself (about a mile I would say). Safeway store and petrol about 2 miles towards Lowestoft. Fish and chip van visits the site in summer.

The site shares the entrance with the wildlife park — access can be “interesting” on Sunday mornings when the local car boot sale takes place in the field next door!
The ground on the site is very hard — rock pegs definitely an advantage. On the plus side you are unlikely to get bogged down in rainy weather, as the Site probably dries out pretty well too since it can be fairly windy being very close to the coast.

We were there for the Spring Bank holiday and the week after in 2004.
Site was full and the ‘families’ end of the site looked quite packed. (the family end) We were in the quieter end of the site, (quiet end 1) .. (quiet end 2) nearer the facilities and that was very pleasant. The warden insisted we were off the site by noon which he was perfectly entitled to do, but it was a pain packing up a folding camper that quickly – we’ve never mastered the art of travelling light!

Loads to do in the area:
Minsmere bird reserve, Dunwich Heath (NT), Suffolk wildlife park (discounted admission), Lowestoft has usual seaside stuff, Oulton Broad.

Our main reason for going was to visit friends in the area and for that it suited us perfectly (and we are going back this year for same reason). If you want a base to visit the various attractions in the area it is ideal. If you want an attractive site for relaxing it’s fine but there are others I would choose first.

Myra Sears. CLIC. April 2005

Kessingland Camping & Caravanning Club Site
Whites Lane
Kessingland
Nr Lowestoft
Suffolk
NR33 7TF

Tel: 01502 742 040

This was our first visit since before the new reception and facilities blocks were built 6 years ago, and they still look very good.
A peek inside the facilities block: Washing up--- Washing machines--- Shower--- Open basin--- Cubicle basin

The site is approached by turning into the entrance for the Africa Alive park, off Whites Lane, and is reached before the park car park & entrance. The site has no hardstandings, but most of the grass pitches are very firm, in fact if it has been so dry, rock pegs are needed! A tall hedge separates the site from the approach road, and the wildlife park, and ‘mystery’ sounds can be heard.

A limited range of groceries were sold in reception, but being near the end of the season when we visited they were running low.

The site has a road round the part to the right of the entrance, with pitches outside and within the circle. There are other pitches behind the facility block, some of which do not have a hookup. Water points are near the facilities, and at the lower part of the site road.

There is a set of play equipment in the lower part of the site, but nowhere for ball games.

There is a bus stop by the entrance in Whites Lane, with a half-hourly service to Lowestoft, and an hourly one to Southwold. The nearest shop is in the High Street, with a Londis further away, and a Morrisons about 2 miles away.

We were going to have a meal at the Gladstone PH, but the carvery was not open on the evening that we chose, and we were told by the site manager that the service in the restaurant was slow. We therefore decided to book a table at the Waterfront Restaurant at the far end of Whites Lane. We drove part way, parked in the Beach Car Park (free), and walked the last 100 yards or so, as there is no parking available by the beach. It was Paella night, and we regretted having eaten breakfast and lunch as you get a large, freshly cooked pan of Paella for 2 at a cost of £12. Our total bill seemed reasonable, but booking is essential as there are only about 10 tables, seating 4 each, but a booking for 2 gets a table to themselves.

We visited ‘Africa Alive’ and solved the mystery sounds. There is a cage of African Grey Parrots near the site, and they have a good selection of whistles and screeches!

Television reception is poor due to the high trees next to the site.
Mobile phone reception is good on both Orange and Vodafone.

John & Jean Haseltine. CLIC. October 2007

Low House
Touring Caravan Park
Bucklesham Road
Foxhall
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP10 0AU

Tel: 01473 659 437
Fax: 01473 659 880
Mob: 07899 672 158

The site is open all year, and advance booking is advisable.

Site viewed August 2008

Directions:
From the Midlands; Follow the A14 towards Felixstowe. When at the junction of the A14 and A12 (Northbound), take the A12 (N) exit, but stay in the right-hand lane, and take the 3rd exit, and follow the brown tourist signs saying ’Low House’.
From Lowestoft; Head south on the A12, until the road signs direct traffic for Felixstowe into the left lane, and all other traffic to the right. At the roundabout, take the second exit, and follow the brown tourist signs saying ’Low House’.
From the south; go north up the A12 to Ipswich, until it meets the A14. Keep to the right, and take the third exit towards Felixstowe, and go over the Orwell Bridge. When at the junction of the A14 and A12 (Northbound), take the A12 (N) exit, but stay in the right-hand lane, and take the 3rd exit. Follow the brown tourist signs saying ’Low House’.
There are several of the tourist attractions with the brown signage, so a sharp look-out is needed.
Follow the road fore about 3 miles. The brown tourist sign will direct you to turn right.
If you enter a village and see the John Banks Honda garage, you’ve gone too far! The road is wide, and there are several junctions in which to make a ’U’ turn, but the tourist sign. will be facing away from you! The lane you need is the first junction after John Banks.
Follow the lane to the end, but be aware that it is narrow with passing places. At the end turn right and follow the road for about 2 miles. The entrance to Low House will appear on your left, and looked a little tricky to me. However, once inside, there is plenty of room to park while you book in.

Reception is immediately to your right.

This is a site that I spotted when out on my travels.and I only stayed for approximately 20 minutes.

2008 prices:
Caravan, car and up to 2 adults and 2 children £13.00
Motorhome (6 metres or under) and up to 2 adults and 2 children £13.00
Motorhome (Over 6 metres) and up to 2 adults and 2 children £15.00
Tent & car or Trailer-tent & car, 2 adults and 2 children £20.00
Additional adult (age 15+) £3.00
Additional child (5 - 15 years) £3.00
Additional child (under 5 years) Free
Each additional car £3.00
Pup tent (children only and subject to space availability) £5.00
Awnings £1.00

Special offer:
Stay for any 2 consecutive weeks for £78 per week.

Adult visitors (staying over 6 hours) £3.00 per person
Visitor’s cars (staying over 6 hours) £2.00 per car
Shower (token-operated) £0.50

All fees must be paid at Reception on the day of arrival.

Site facilities include; 10 amp Electric Hook-ups in most areas (with 16 and 21 amps available), Showers, WC’s, Chemical & Waste water disposal points, drinking water taps, Washing up area (with hot water), and a play area.

The site shop offers Calor and Camping Gaz, freezer for ice packs, and tourist information. Please note that the shop offers no foodstuffs, camping equipment, newspapers, tobacco, or sweets.
There is a Sainsburys approximately 2.5 miles away and a Co-op within 2 miles

The site is only about 5 miles from Ipswich town centre, the Suffolk Heritage Coast, and even a cycle path to Felixstowe!

The site itself consists of two largish fields, accessed by a single gate. Most units park around the edge of the fields, leaving a large area in the middle. The entire site is tidy and well maintained, as are all the toilets, showers, and washing facilities.

Most of the amenities (showers, toilets etc) are in a line to the left hand side well inside the site, and so are easily accessed from anywhere on-site. Fresh water is available at the services area, located just opposite the toilet/shower block.

There is a fenced-off kiddies play area adjacent to the shower block.

The warden I spoke to was very polite, friendly, and knowledgeable.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. November 2008

Moon and Sixpence
Newbourn Road
Waldringfield
Woodbridge
Suffolk
IP12 4PP

Tel: 01473 736 650
Fax: 01473 796 270

Email: info@moonandsixpence.eu
Website: www.moonandsixpence.eu

Site viewed June 2008

Directions:
From the A12, follow the brown tourist signs towards Katie’s Garden. After approximately two miles, Katie’s Garden will be signposted to the right, but the Moon and Sixpence is signed to the left. Simply follow the signs all the way through the village. The Moon and Sixpence will appear on the left. There is a wide entrance, although the road leading to it is an ordinary country lane. Once on site, take the first left turn immediately before the pub, and Reception is directly opposite the shop.

The park is open from March 20th to November 3rd.

This is a very large site that I spotted when out on my travels. I only stayed for approximately 10 minutes.

2008 prices: This is quite complex, so care will be needed during calculations! If in any doubt, give the warden a call, or visit the price list on the web site

Fishing. There is a 2 acre lake on-site, and fishing is available from Sept. 8th to mid-October only. £10 per rod per day. Maximum of 5 hours fishing in any one day, and a maximum of 2 rods per pitch. Please apply to Reception for details.
There is a sign asking visitors to refrain from feeding the fish and ducks, as this promotes algae growth.

The site itself is spacious, with a separate, 10 unit ’adult only’ section next to the lake. The lake also has a sandy beach for the little ones to play on.

Although on a slope, all pitches are flat, and easily big enough to accommodate two cars, plus caravan, and awning. Bollard pitches include the previous and add water and waste.

The toilet block. Well, calling it a toilet block somehow seems demeaning! This is a very sturdy log cabin, with numerous individual bathrooms (yup, rooms with BATHS) along the front, individual shower rooms, and toilets along one end. All toilets and washrooms have music piped in. Along the back is a very large laundry room with 3 washers and 3 dryers, ironing boards sink, and several worktops, and along the far end, veg prep and washing up room. Further along is a food prep area opening onto a patio, which includes a chimenea, and several picnic benches.

Although the site slopes, the overall effect is visually pleasing, as there are trees and bushes to break up the varying levels. There are many flat grassed areas for children to play on, and although the site is enclosed, it still seems open and spacious.

The shop is located opposite Reception, and puts many a village store to shame. A large range of goods is available

Although I only peeped in the door, the pub looked friendly and inviting.

WiFi covers all of the chalets and mobile homes, but so far, only part of the touring park can make use of it.

The warden I spoke to was very polite, friendly, and knowledgeable.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. November 2008

Orwell Meadows Leisure Park--- Second report
Priory Lane
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP10 0JS

Tel: 01473 726 666
Fax: 01473 721 441

E-mail: reception@orwellmeadows.co.uk
Website: www.orwellmeadows.co.uk

Again, whilst roaming the East Anglian countryside, I spotted the familiar sign directing me to a caravan site.....
I parked up, explained what I was doing there, and asked at Reception for a brochure and price list, which they willingly allowed me to take. The very nice young lady even asked me if I would care to walk around and inspect the site, but unfortunately, I didn’t have the time. However, if I get the chance to go back I will make sure I do have time!

Prices:
The prices displayed were 2006. I have removed them to avoid confusion.
Editor.

To actually find the site:
From the Midlands and the North, head toward Felixstowe on the A14. Exit the A14 at Junction 57 (the first junction over the Orwell Bridge)and keep to the left-hand lane. Take the first exit from the roundabout, and head towards Ransomes Europark.

From the South, head north (past Colchester) on the A12 towards Lowestoft. Follow the A12 when it joins with the A14 towards Felixstowe. Exit the A14 at Junction 57 (just over the Orwell Bridge and keep to the left-hand lane. Take the first exit from the roundabout, and head towards Ransomes Europark.

From Felixstowe, head east towards the Midlands on the A14. Exit the A14 at Junction 57 and keep to the right-hand lane, go under the A14, and exit at the first junction, and head towards Ransomes Europark. Be aware that there will be traffic coming up on your left

All routes:
Take the first left turn approximately 1/2 mile from the roundabout. There is a sign, but it is small, and easy to miss.
There is another roundabout less than a mile along the road.
Care is needed when driving towards the site, as the road feeds several areas, has some sharp bends, and is not all that wide in places!
Beware of the bridge! This is only wide enough for one vehicle at any time, although there is a priority system in use.
Follow the road along, until you see a set gates slightly to your left. Beside these, further to the left, are the exit gates.
Drive through the main gates, and follow the signs to Reception, which involves a sharpish left turn in front of the brick building. Reception itself is at the far end of this building.

The site is split into several areas; recommendations are that those that are less agile (infirm, physically disabled, etc.) may prfer to use Meadow 3 which is closest to the shower blocks, dog walkers may prefer Meadows 4 or 5 as they are nearer to the walks, whilst those that wish to park near the pool are reminded that these pitches are not going to be quiet! Please note that dogs are not allowed

The main parts of the site itself appeared clean and well cared for, and despite the fact that the A14 is less than half a mile away, and when I arrived was quite busy, it was remarkably quiet.

The majority of the site is level, and the bits that aren’t simply lead to level pitches.
Some pitches are grass, while others are hard-standing and big enough for caravan, awning, and car, electric hook-up, (many of which are 16 amp), and are not too far from one of the many water taps located around the site.
Some pitches are bigger to accomodate larger units.

Wherever you are on the site, you’ll never be more than a couple of hundred metres away from the centrally-located shower block.

There are the usual amenities; a small shop, toilets, washing facilities, chemical disposal point, plus a swimming pool, toddlers pool, Restaurant, Club Bar, family room, and a play area.

Ipswich is a short hop away; Felixstowe, Aldeburgh, Woodbridge, Saxmundham, Bury St Edmunds, Hadleigh, Stowmarket, Sudbury, and Colchester are all within easy reach.

Available locally are themed museums, shopping centres, varied leisure activities, including dry ski-ing, paintballing, and swimming.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. June 2006

Orwell Meadows Leisure Park
Priory Lane
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP10 0JS

Tel: 01473 726 666
Fax: 01473 721 441

E-mail: reception@orwellmeadows.co.u
Web site: www.orwellmeadows.co.uk

Editor note:
Chris has not used this site, but it’s one he has heard good reports on
Site viewed June 2008

2008 prices:
The web site Price list

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. November 2008

July 2007
I have tried to improve on the information for this report to no avail.
If you know anything about this venue, I’d be greatful of any data you can provide.....web master

RAF Mildenhall
The Nook
Pollards Lane
West Row
Mildenhall
Suffolk

www.rdcpromotions.cjb.net This the web address of the people who run the motorsport

I dont know if any of you are avid plane enthusiasts or not, but there is a site (of sorts!), at the end of the runway at RAF Mildenhall, in Suffolk.

I dont know the phone number, but I know it is down a dead end lane, and you turn left between 2 barns, past the sandwich board advertising ’Taters for sale, and into a field, thats grass round the outside for camping/general planespotting activities, and in the middle is ripening barley! :)

If ‘Josh Fiddler’ catches you, just ask how much it is to park your car for the day, and he will go.... ‘pound......’ just like him in the carry on film!

It is well populated with air enthusiasts, what with the current US ops out in the gulf, and the rates are.... get this! £3.50/night, with an extra £1 per night per person!

It has shower and toilet facilities, but only 2 hookups.

The village of West Row is 400 yds up the lane, and has pub, chippy and village shop/post office.

There is no need to book, just pull in, and watch for Farmer Palmer on his beaten up Massey Ferguson!....... Kinda reminds me of the Character Josh Fiddler, from "Carry On Camping"!

But be warned, we were there this weekend (Stock car racing down the road sat night, as well as the planes!), dont pitch too close to the base fence, as we had a galaxy turn onto the end of the runway, and the pilot gave the throttles a blip to help him turn, and I thought the old trailer tent was gonna take off with the blast from his engines!!... a bit un-nerving at 2am sunday!

If any of you are big enough anoraks, give It a try!

Seriously, if aircraft are your chosen bag filler, it isnt bad! on site facilities are a bit basic, but what with the village of West Row 400 yards away, and Stock Car Racing on Saturday nights, and Speedway on sunday Afternoons, it isnt a bad weekend out!

My Uncle has his tourer tethered there all year, for next to nothing, as he is a SERIOUS plane anorak!

Jimmy Hill. CLIC. June 2003

Round Plantation C C Site--- Second report
Brandon Road
Mildenhall
Bury St Edmonds
Suffolk
IP28 7JE

Tel: 01638 713 089

Non Members accepted but no tents. Advance booking recommended for Bank Holidays and the weekend of the Mildenhall Air Show, otherwise there is usually space.

This site is situated about three quarters of a mile out of Mildenhall.
From the A11 take A1101 towards Mildenhall, at a roundabout turn right into Brandon Road (The Half Moon Pub is on the corner).

Set amongst tall pine trees the site has a forest feel about it. Pitches are set in several areas so as not to give a cramped look. This site does not have a toilet block so you must have your own facilities. About half the pitches have access to electrics. Most pitches are on grass, although some have been converted to hardstanding by the introduction of gravel over the surface. A few pitches are on concrete which perhaps points to the previous use of the site in years gone by. Seasonal pitches are available on this site.

Whilst the site is generally very peaceful it should be pointed out that it is under the flight path into Mildenhall RAF base which is home to the American transport planes. Lakenheath is also a few miles away. It can be fascinating watching the giant transport planes coming into land, there is even a viewing area not far from the site. However if sudden noise is likely to upset you then it may be a site to avoid, particularly as some of the planes arrive in the middle of the night.

There is a newsagents next to the Half Moon Pub and more shops in the centre of Mildenhall including a caravan dealer with a good accessory shop.

David Klyne. CLIC. August 2000
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Round Plantation C C Site--- Third report
Brandon Road
Mildenhall
Bury St Edmonds
Suffolk
IP28 7JE

Tel: 01638 713 089

To find site:
At roundabout on A11 at Brandon Mills take A1101 towards Mildenhall. As you approach the town watch out for mini roundabout by the Half Moon public house and turn right into Brandon Road. Site is on right in about three quarters of a mile. Access to the site can also be made from the A1065 northbound into Brandon Road and the site is on the left in a couple of hundred yards.

Round Plantation is one of the Caravan Club’s minimum facility sites without toilets or showers. It is also run by volunteer wardens as the site does not generate sufficient revenue to warrant paid staff. So in the future it could be a case of use it or lose it! Non Members accepted but no tents. The site often has space so unless you require a pitch with electrics, limited in number, I suspect booking in advance is rarely necessary. As the name suggests the 95 pitches are set out amongst tall pine trees and the site has a forest feel about it. In a past life I wonder if this site was once part of a military facility as there are some pitches on large concrete bases, ideal for big motorhomes! Whilst most pitches are on grass there are a few with a pea shingle base. During heavy rain some areas of the site take time for the surface water to soak away. Television reception is pretty poor with the normal caravan aerial and likewise satellite reception is difficult because there are few parts of the site where you have a clear view of the sky because of the tall trees. Water and waste points are dotted around the site. Because of the way the site is run by volunteers the only thing available from reception is Calor Gas (although during our visit not Calor Lite) Seasonal pitches are available on this site. Our latest visit to Round Plantation was in mid August 2008 and the site is part of what the Club call their ’super seven’ group of sites which means that site fees are just £7 per night all in. So really good value and less than many CL’s. In my view it would still be good value if it was a couple of pounds a night more and the extra money invested in making small improvements to the site like better site roads, more electric points and a TV booster system.

Whilst the site is generally very peaceful it should be pointed out that it is under the flight path into Mildenhall RAF base which is home to the American transport planes. Lakenheath is also a few miles away. It can be fascinating watching the giant transport planes coming into land, there is even a viewing area not far from the site. However if sudden noise is likely to upset you then it may be a site to avoid, particularly as some of the planes arrive in the middle of the night. There is a newsagents and general store next to the Half Moon Pub (which includes a Hungry Horse Restaurant) and more shops including a Sainsburys Supermarket in the centre of Mildenhall. Motorhomes might have difficulty parking near the supermarket because of height barriers. Also near the centre is a caravan dealer with a good accessory shop, they also sell BP Gaslight.

David Klyne. CLIC. August 2008
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Round Plantation Caravan Club Site
Brandon Road
Mildenhall
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP28 7JE

Tel: 01638 713 089

Opening Dates: 3 Apr 2009 to 12 Oct 2009

Caravan Club Round Plantation

A small woodland site, 95 pitches, about a third with electric and about a quarter of them hardstanding (mixture of shingle and concrete bases, not necessarily with electric). Maximum outfit length is 10.4 metres. Most of the pitches are overhung by trees to some degree, so your chances of using satellite TV would be pretty slim I’d guess. Normal TV reception wasn’t brilliant.

The site is run by volunteer wardens. The wardens there when we visited were very friendly and helpful. It’s £8 a night (pitch and 1 person) whatever sort of pitch you have. They don’t take tents.

T-mobile couldn’t manage a useable signal from our pitch, didn’t try walking round the site to see if it got betteranywhere else. Vodafone had strong signal.

There is a small amount of road noise and quite a few aircraft flying around while we were there - latest was 11:30pm and earliest was 5am.

Corner shop and Half Moon pub/Hungry Horse restaurant about half a mile away. Supermarket in town (about a mile and a quarter). We tried the Hungry Horse and weren’t impressed - our local one was better last time we used it.

Several water/fire points around the site, but only 2 chemical toilet emptying points one of which is quite out of the way. They have a motorhome emptying point - the manhole cover near one of the water points and it isn’t ideally positioned.

Despite all, we found the site quite restful and thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We are likely to return sometime.

Date visited: May 2009

Myra Sears. CLIC. May 2009

The Steading Caravan Park
10, Ipswich Road
Newbourne
Woodbridge
Suffolk
IP12 4NS

Telephone: 01473 736 505

Proprietors: Brian and Maureen Last

Site viewed June 2008

Directions:
From the A12, follow the brown tourist signs towards Katie’s Garden. After approximately two miles, Katie’s Garden will be signposted to the right, but the Moon and Sixpence is signed to the left. Simply follow the signs towards Katie’s Garden and The Steading will appear on your left.

The site is set in a working farm, and once in the entrance, Reception will be on your right.

Please note: For the 2008 season onwards, the proprietor has designated this an ’adults-only’ site.

2008 prices:
1 unit (ie; 1 car + 1 caravan, or 1 car + 1 tent, or 1 motorhome, and 2 adults)....Per Night
Basic pitch £10.00
Each additional person £2.00
Dogs (must be kept on a lead at all times) Free
Awning Free
Electric Hook-up £2.00

Just as you drive in, the showers and toilets are located to the right of the main entrance.

The site is three good sized fields, and what appears to be a fourth for dog-walking! This fourth has a fair slope into the field, so take care. There are bins located around the site for those little ’doggy-bags’.

Pitches are allocated on arrival, and are loosely spaced, so groups may be located closer together if they wish. This also means that larger or oversized units can be accommodated.

There are no hard standing pitches, but, as the soil is predominantly sandy, it drains well and isn’t prone to flooding

Although not a huge site, there is plenty of space. There are large bushes and trees bordering all the fields, so that a glimpse of rolling hills is possible, it almost has to be earned.

Again, considering that the A12 isn’t very far away, the lack of noise is very apparent.

There is no site shop, or indeed a village shop, but Tesco’s is about a 10 minute drive away, and another 4 minutes will get you to the Ipswich Park ’N’ Ride.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. November 2008

Swan Lake CC CL
Old Stowmarket Road
Woolpit
Bury St Edmunds
Suffolk
IP30 9QS

Tel: 01359 242 139
Mob: 07719 711 204

Contact: Mr M Baker
Email: martinbaker43@hotmail.com

Caravan Club members only
Date of stay: 12th to 14th July 2011

The site is easy to approach from the A14. Follow the signs for Woolpit, and then take the first turning on the right (No Through Road). The site is on the right hand side, about 500 yards from the junction. Don’t be put off by the small industrial units, the site is on the right down the concrete road.

The site (photo) is approx ¾ acre, surrounded by trees, with hook–ups in two groups, both at what I regard as the southern part of the site. The grass was well mown and in good condition. Having telephoned the day before we were able to pull onto the site and pitch....Mr Baker came down in the late afternoon to see us, and collect the site fee. This is £8 per night including electricity.

Through the trees at the side is a lake (photo) which I understand is well stocked with fish, carp, bream, roach & tench. When we walked round the lake we saw a Bream (photo) landed (the first time that we have seen an angler catch a fish!), and it weighed 3¼ lbs. Talking to a couple of the anglers who were on the site we heard that this was not very large. The fee for fishing is £3 for caravanners on the site. (Take note of sign)

We spent two nights here to try out the Orion, and although outside the caravan the A14 noise was loud we didn’t notice it at night. We found that, due to the trees, we had no TV reception, but believe that folk the other side of the site were able to receive a signal.

If you are looking for a site in the area between Ipswich/Stowmarket and Bury St Edmunds we would recommend this one.

John & Jean Haseltine. CLIC. September 2011

Tangham Campsite
Forest Camping
Rendlesham Forest
Butley
Woodbridge
Suffolk
IP12 3NF

Telephone: 01394 450 707

Email: admin@forestcamping.co.uk (for enquiries only)
Website: www.forestcamping.co.uk

Site viewed May 2008

Directions:
Take the A1152 off the A12 Woodbridge by-pass, and follow the brown signs to the Rendlesham Forest Centre. Fork left at Bromeswell roundabout, and continue along the B1084 for 4 miles. The entrance for Forest Camping will be on your right.

This is a site that I spotted when out on my travels. I only stayed for approximately 10 minutes, but I was immediately struck by the quietness and tranquility.

2008 prices:
Please refer to the tariff page and use the ’Availability & Pricing Calculator’ at the top and the bottom of this page

Booking is essential
All bookings by telephone (credit or debit card payment) Bookings taken between 1st March and 31st October only
Full payment is required at time of booking
All booking fees are non-refundable

High season: March 20 - 24, 28 - 29
April 4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19, 25 - 26
May 2 - 5, 9 - 10, 16 - 17, 23 - 31; June 6 - 7, 13 - 14, 20 - 21, 27 - 28
July 4 - 5, 11 - 12, 18 - 19, 25 - 31
August 1 - 31
September 5 - 6, 12 - 13, 19 - 20, 26 - 27
October 24 - 31
November 1

Easter - Start from Thursday 4 nights minimum
Bank Holidays - Start from Friday 3 nights minimum
Minimum stay at weekends - 2 nights
Dogs - Allowed, but must be kept on a lead
No fires - Charcoal or gas barbeques units only (no wood fires)
Access to Forest - Subject to Forestry by-laws
Open - April to October

Site facilities include; 10 amp Electric Hook-ups, Showers, WC’s, (Mens, Womens & Disabled), Chemical & Waste water disposal points, drinking water taps, Laundry room, Washing up area (with hot water), recycling points, and a play area.

The shop offers Calor and Camping Gaz, freezer for ice packs, milk delivery, and tourist information. Please note that the shop offers no foodstuffs, camping equipment, newspapers, tobacco, or sweets.

Available locally are trails for walkers and cyclists, and cycle rental. There is even a UFO trail!

Wildlife abounds, and during my short stay, I was investigated by several rabbits and two squirrels! The sounds of Nightingales, Woodlarks, and Nightjars can be heard too.

The site is a short distance away from Sutton Hoo, the Suffolk Heritage Coast, and tidal rivers and creeks. There are boat trips up and down the rivers, or ferries to simply cross them.

The site itself is large and flat, although there are some slight undulations, these are nothing to worry about. The site is tidy and well maintained, as are all the toilets, showers, and washing facilities.

Most of the amenities (showers, toilets etc) are in a line from the shop, directed along one edge of the site, and there is a single-track roadway just inboard of the perimeter, so leaving the centre clear. Fresh water points are located around the site.

Pitch markings are either very subtle or even non-existent, so regimentation is much reduced. There are apparently some hard-standings, but I found no evidence of these.

The warden I spoke to was very polite, friendly, and knowledgeable.

Chris Skelhorn. CLIC. November 2008

White House Beach Caravan Club Site--- Second report below
Kessingland
Lowestoft
Suffolk
NR33 7RW

Tel: 01502 740 278

150 Pitches, Caravans, Motor Caravans and Trailer Tents - no tents, Members only.

To find the site leave the A12 Kessingland bypass at the southern exit and follow signs to Kessingland Beach. The final approach is fairly narrow so care is required. Turn right at the end of the road by the cafe and the entrance to the reception area is 50 yards ahead on the right.

The site is in two parts, the first, and smaller part with all hard standings is situated directly onto the pebble beach. No awnings are allowed on the pitches immediately facing the sea although they can be put up on the second row back. This part of the site has its own toilet/shower block to the usual CC standards. Please note if you wish to be on this part of the site you must first of all call at reception. All these pitches have good views out to sea but of course it is more exposed to the prevailing weather.

Just across the road is the second, larger, more sheltered, section of the site which has a mixture of grass and hard standing with plenty of trees and shrubs. There are two toilet blocks and a small play area for younger children. Both parts of the site have a TV booster system which is available for a small nightly fee.

Although the beach immediately in front of the site is all pebbles there are sandier sections a short walk in the direction of Lowestoft. It is also a nice walk along the beach in both directions. There are shops near the site but watch the sell by dates on some of the products. For more serious food shopping there is a Safeway supermarket about two miles from the site towards Lowestoft.

Date of visit October 2000

David Klyne. CLIC. October 2000
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

White House Beach Caravan Club Site--- Third report below
Beach Road
Kessingland
Suffolk
NR33 7RW

Tel: 01502 740 278

Members only. Page 166 CC handbook

The site is in two parts, with reception in the main (lower) section. There are two rows of pitches on the top of the beach, awnings not being allowed on the front pitches. There is a toilet block on this area.

The main part is predominantly hard standings, with the facility block at the rear of the site. Both sections of the site have a TV booster system, but having purchased a lead we found that the system was out of action!

The site is pleasant, but there is an odour from the sewage works which is adjacent. We were told that in previous years it has been much stronger, and I was shown the ‘smell diary’ from last year. This works, which serves the whole of Kessingland, is being rebuilt, and the problem should then disappear.

John & Jean Haseltine. CLIC. August 2003

White House Beach Caravan Club Site--- Fourth report below
Beach Road
Kessingland
Suffolk
NR33 7RW

Tel: 01502 740 278

Members only. Page 166 CC handbook

We stayed at the larger part of this Caravan Club site August 2005, and found it to be very well kept and exceptionally clean showers and toilets. Best of all, there was no smell from the sewer works no matter what the weather (hot, wet, windy, calm) or wind direction - looks to have been modernised.

The TV booster system was free and very necessary, but you may need to buy a cable for £10 (25m, good value) though I used my own.

When you book in at reception, take note of the pitches marked ‘prone to flooding’ - I wish I had!

Useful hut with travel leaflets and local information and reception sold ice creams. Very good mobile chippy also calls in on some days. Excellent restaurant near site entrance and the Safeway has become a large Morrisons with cheap fuel.

Colin. Internet. May 2006

White House Beach Caravan Club Site--- Fifth report below
Beach Road
Kessingland
Suffolk
NR33 7RW

Tel: 01502 740 278

Web site: www.caravanclub.co.uk

Members only

Some images of White House Beach:
Reception --- Main Site --- Grass Pitches --- Beach Pitches --- Beach Facilities

To find this site turn off the A12 at the roundabout signed for the Wildlife Park, and drive straight past until you come to the beach. Follow the road as it turns right, then right again, then as you go left you will see the site entrance.

When you book in you will be asked to select your pitch, and then return to reception where you will be given a key for the security barrier. A key is not needed for the beach pitches as there is no security barrier.

There are 24 pitches by the beach, on 13 of which you are not allowed to use an awning. All have electricity available. This is to avoid blocking the view from the pitches behind. In the main area there is a mix of hard standing and grass pitches, with electricity. While we were there the grass pitches were not being used to avoid damage. On each supply pillar is a co-ax socket for TV, although your own booster is still recommended. There is a toilet block on the beach area, a large one at the rear of the main site, and a smaller one at the front which was closed for the rest of the season.

The children’s play area is closed, and whatever was in it has been removed. To reach the sea you have a trudge across a large expanse of shingle. The Wildlife Park is worth a visit and there are several good walks in the area

In Kessingland there are two ‘chippies’, the one in Field Road being recommended by the wardens (I understand that they will deliver to site), and within easy walking distance are the Waterfront Restaurant (Booking essential, and I believe difficult), and the Sailors Home PH, which has a good restaurant where we enjoyed a meal. For shopping you have a choice of a small, and expensive, convenience store, a Londis shop, and about 1.5 miles away a Morrisons (ex Safeway)

John & Jean Haseltine. CLIC. October 2006

White House Beach Caravan Club Site
Beach Road
Kessingland
Suffolk
NR33 7RW

Tel: 01502 740 278

Visited October 2006

We were on the beach side pitches (all hardstanding) during the last week the site was open in 2006. Beach pitches were very pleasant as the sun was shining and there wasn’t much wind. When the wind gets up I would imagine these may not be quite so pleasant, knowing how it can blow at Kessingland!

Only a small facilities block for this part of the site, but adequate for number of pitches, good quality and well maintained.

I believe grass pitches are available on the main site if required, although at the end of the season they are closed because the ground is too wet. Reception is on the main site. Wardens friendly and helpful.

Myra Sears. CLIC. February 2007

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