Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Touring Caravan

2019 marks a notable anniversary for the humble caravan – the 100th anniversary of the modern touring caravan! 1919 saw the first caravan towed by a car, paving the way for the caravans that we know and love today.

Caravan holidays bring a great deal of joy to so many people, providing a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The caravan lifestyle is relaxing and stress-free, and the nostalgia of a seaside or countryside caravan getaway should certainly not be overlooked.

Here at Allens Caravans, we firmly believe that there is little better than chasing all your worries away on a peaceful, fun-filled caravan holiday, which is why we hope you will join us in celebrating this important milestone in the modern touring caravan’s centenary year.

In the beginning…

Many years before the leisure caravans we see today, a very different kind of caravan travelled along one of the most important trading routes in the world – the Silk Road. This was an essential trade route linking Europe and Asia, allowing the caravans of the time to take their goods on the road to new customers. At this time, the term caravan was commonly used to refer to a group of people – often traders – with horses and wagons who travelled together primarily for security.

It’s pretty safe to say that these ancient caravans are very different from their modern counterparts!

Another traditional caravan that you may be a little more familiar with is the colourful horse-drawn caravan. Brightly coloured, often with hand-painted flowers or murals decorating the walls and interior, these quaint, compact caravans harken back to a simpler bygone era.

Much more recently, just 100 years ago, in fact, the first car-towed caravan in the UK entered production. This was a notable development for many reasons – not least because it would go on to change the face of the UK’s holiday, leisure and tourism industry forever.

Further Developments

Since the first leisure caravans entered commercial production, the popularity of the caravan grew in leaps and bounds. While the first caravans may not seem as luxurious as their modern counterparts, the concept of the home away from home was revolutionary at the time. The great British public firmly took the caravan into their lives and hearts, beginning a love affair that continues to last to this day.

The first awning was invented by Eccles Motor Transport in the 1920s, enabling holidaymakers to add some much-needed extra space to their caravans. After World War Two, a range of more budget-friendly models were produced, helping to make caravanning more accessible to the masses.

Since then, caravans have only gone from strength to strength, becoming firmly ensconced as an integral part of the British holiday culture.

Caravan Holidays Today

Touring caravans today span everything from top-of-the-range luxury models to much more functional, budget-friendly alternatives.

Modern caravans are typically seen as cosy, warm, and comfortable places to stay – a far cry from those first touring caravans! With hot water, showers, fully functioning kitchens, and all the familiar comforts of home, it’s no wonder why so many of us still choose caravan holidays year after year.

Of course, today, touring caravans are just a small part of the UK’s enduring love for the caravan. From motorhomes and campervans to static caravans and luxurious lodges, there are plenty of options for holidaymakers to pick from! Many modern caravans include all the luxuries of home, with premium fittings, stylish décor, and all the mod-cons you need to enjoy a relaxing, stress-free getaway.

It’s amazing to look back on just how far the caravan and leisure industry has come in just 100 years. We can’t wait to see what fantastic developments the next 100 years will bring!

Caravan Holidays with Allens Caravans

Here at Allens Caravans, we pride ourselves on offering top quality, premium caravans for our guests. With nine luxury holiday parks spanning the breadth of the UK, we can offer you the choice of static caravan pitches, caravans for hire, and touring caravan pitches.

Our parks are set in some of the most beautiful, picturesque scenery that the UK has to offer. From the dramatic Welsh coastline to the picture-perfect chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds, we are bound to have a park to suit your personal preferences.

All of our parks are fully equipped with a wide range of facilities and amenities, ensuring that everything you need during your stay with us is within easy reach at all times. From swimming pools and leisure facilities to children’s playgrounds, shops, and more, the whole family are guaranteed to enjoy a relaxing getaway with Allens Caravans.

For more information about holidaying with Allens Caravans, simply browse our parks online or get in touch with our friendly team today on 01564 792323.