Im picking my van up in a week or so and plan do have my first long holiday in Cornwall a few weeks later (cant wait)
I'm wondering what to do about being in services though, I originally thought I could just park up in motorway services, drop the legs down, brew a cuppa and rest for an hour or so.
However I recently read somewhere that its illegal to do this (something about naked flames etc)
Does anyone have any solid info on this? would I be ok to park up in the car park of a big motorway service station and brew a cuppa?
I know people will say "just go into the services and use their facilities" but with me being a solo caravaner (or at least I will be in a weeks time) Id prefer not to leave the van unattended for any extended length of time.
As far as I am aware, it is illegal to drop the legs in case rapid movement becomes necessary. It certainly is illegal to have a naked flame. I'm sure many people do it, but it really isn't allowed.
As above, and don't forget (UK) motorway services usually have a 2-hour limit on free parking.
I suggest you could use Google maps (sat view) to find suitable laybys just off the motorway, or take a flask of hot water/coffee if you want a break on a service area.
The caravan parking slots are usually full of cars or white vans, driven by people who cannot read or are ignorant!
Usually end up with the HGVs if there is room, often a bit of a hike to loos etc!
------------- DS-There's more to life than football!!!
Make a brew and offer them a cuppa, you might be surprised at how normal they are and it might even go someway to healing the 'them and us' situation ...... out on the road.
When we had the tent I used to take a flask and sandwiches, with the van I make a brew.......but maybe I'll go back to the flask. I wasn't aware of the naked light thing. Does that count for matches and cigarette lighters too?
------------- Started with a motorbike and tent.......my gallery, my life.
Nothing wrong with a good flask for your tea, problem solved.
sedgemoore services just past bristol has a dedicated caravan area that vans and lorries can not use (and dont)
Quote: Originally posted by Motobiman on 01/5/2015I prefer being with the HGVs too.
Make a brew and offer them a cuppa, you might be surprised at how normal they are and it might even go someway to healing the 'them and us' situation ...... out on the road.
Post last edited on 01/05/2015 17:58:09
Had to laugh at your post, "make them a brew and you be suprised how normal they are"
If you see a green one with 2 heads , Run!!!!
------------- Roughing it in style at Calloose caravan and camping holiday park nr St Ives.(seasonal pitch)
Its not a hangover, its wine flu!
Quote: Originally posted by Bill Terry on 01/5/2015
Quote: Originally posted by Motobiman on 01/5/2015I prefer being with the HGVs too.
Make a brew and offer them a cuppa, you might be surprised at how normal they are and it might even go someway to healing the 'them and us' situation ...... out on the road.
Post last edited on 01/05/2015 17:58:09
Had to laugh at your post, "make them a brew and you be suprised how normal they are"
Can anyone point to where it says it is illegal to have a naked flame in a caravan? There may be rules set by motorway operators but that doesn't make it illegal.
It is certainly a legal requirement to have caravan parking available modern services and many services charge for allowed overnight stopping. Surely they must then expect the onboard facilities to be used.
As for "do not leave your caravan unattended". Just lock it to the car. Hitch lock, wheel clamp, security chain & padlock. The choice is yours. Floks leave cars unattended all the time.
NIGHT HALTS ON MOTORWAY SERVICE AREAS
IMPORTANT: Each entry assumes the following unless otherwise stated: access from both
directions; parking for caravans on heavy goods vehicle park; toilets (including facilities for
the disabled); restaurant;
cafeteria; shop. Most facilities except shops are open 24 hours. Fuel
is usually available on leaving, but it would be a wise precaution to check this. In accordance
with fire regulations, no gas may be used in the 'van' because of the risk from fire a
nd/or
explosion. All entries are correct as at
June
200
9
Unless otherwise stated, there is a charge for a caravan to stay overnight. Approximate
charges quoted by Moto Services range from £
12
.00
for an overnight stay, sometimes
including breakfast vouche
rs for the following morning. Welcome Break & Road Chef
recommend that you contact the relevant service area direct for prices
Guess they can just ask you to leave, But if something did happen, you be picking up the tab.
------------- Roughing it in style at Calloose caravan and camping holiday park nr St Ives.(seasonal pitch)
Its not a hangover, its wine flu!
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Stopping in services?
