The motorhome and caravanning world never stands still, and there’s plenty of news for owners and enthusiasts to catch up on. From the return of one of the UK’s biggest club festivals to sustainability milestones, new campsite approvals, and important reminders for drivers with pets, here’s the latest from across the community.
Whether you’re planning your 2026 calendar, looking for greener places to stay, or simply keeping an eye on industry developments, this round-up brings together some of the key stories making caravanning and motorhome news headlines.
ClubFest 2026 set for Kelmarsh Hall
The Caravan and Motorhome Club has confirmed that ClubFest will return in 2026, with the popular summer celebration moving to the historic Kelmarsh Hall estate in Northamptonshire.
Set against the backdrop of the 18th-century hall and its sweeping parkland, the four-day festival (which runs from Friday 22 May 2026 – Tuesday 26 May 2026) promises live entertainment, community gatherings, and plenty of opportunities for campers to soak up the atmosphere. Visitors can look forward to dancing on the lawns, exploring the landscaped grounds, or simply relaxing with friends under open skies.
Acts confirmed for the stage
The first names on the 2026 line-up have already been revealed. Highlights include:
- Badness – the UK’s number one Madness tribute act
- What’s Love Got To Do With It? – a celebration of Tina Turner’s biggest hits
- A Beautiful Noise – the definitive Neil Diamond tribute show.
More performers are expected to be announced in the coming months, building anticipation for what organisers are calling one of the Club’s biggest gatherings yet.
Tickets are already available to book, with strong interest expected given the event’s growing popularity.
All UK Caravan and Motorhome Club sites achieve Green Tourism Gold
OutandAboutLive reports that the Caravan and Motorhome Club has announced a major sustainability milestone: every one of its UK Club campsites is now Green Tourism Gold accredited.
Following the latest assessment of 32 sites in 2025, the Club confirmed that all of its campsites – along with its Head Office – now hold the highest possible Green Tourism award.
The Green Tourism Gold Award is the UK’s leading sustainability accreditation, recognising organisations that excel in environmental management and deliver positive impacts for people, places and the planet. Only businesses that demonstrate the very highest standards are awarded Gold status.
This achievement underlines the Club’s commitment to sustainable tourism and its role in supporting environmentally responsible travel across the UK.
Don’t risk a £5,000 fine when travelling with pets
Motorists are reminded that Rule 57 of the Highway Code applies to anyone driving with pets in a vehicle. It states: “When in a vehicle, make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly.”
Although the Highway Code itself isn’t law, it can be used in court to establish liability. In practice, if your dog isn’t properly restrained and this leads to an accident, you could be charged under other legislation such as Careless Driving.
For motorhome drivers, Rule 57 has some specific implications:
- No free roaming in the cab or living area
Pets must not move freely around the vehicle while it’s in motion. In a motorhome, that means your pet can’t wander into the living space or sit on your lap while you drive. - Restraint options are vital
- A seat belt harness is often the simplest choice if your dog is travelling on a passenger seat.
- For larger dogs, a crate or cage securely fastened in the rear of the motorhome may be better.
- A dog guard can also be fitted to keep your pet safely behind the rear seats.
- Safety for both pet and driver
Proper restraint stops your pet from becoming a distraction, jumping onto controls, or being thrown forward in an emergency stop. In the confined space of a motorhome cab, this is especially important. - Insurance and liability
If an accident happens and it’s shown that an unrestrained pet contributed to your lack of control, insurers may reduce or refuse a claim. Being compliant with Rule 57 helps protect you legally and financially.
New camping and caravan site approved for Wisbech St Mary
A new camping and caravan site has been given the green light in the Fens after Fenland District Council approved plans for land at Wisbech St Mary, near Wisbech.
The development will see paddocks and an orchard off Bevis Lane converted into a two-acre site, complete with a kitchen block, shower block, and stables.
According to the council’s planning officer, the scheme is considered small scale but will “enable the introduction of a viable and relevant land use which will contribute to the rural economy.” The report added that the project would have only a limited visual impact on the surrounding landscape while creating a sustainable and environmentally friendly rural tourism enterprise.
The application received no objections, and planners noted that the site sits within an area of relatively low flood risk.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for general interest only and reflects details available at the time of publication. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we cannot guarantee that all statements remain current or complete. Readers are advised to verify information (such as event dates, ticketing, regulations, or planning updates) directly with the relevant organisers, authorities, or official sources before making plans or decisions.
