At Ladram we see all abilities of caravan tower; from the tentative amateur to the seasoned pro who backs his portable home up like a Devonshire farmer in the back lanes. The truth is, most sit somewhere in the middle of the two of the spectrums. As the old saying goes ‘practice makes perfect’, so let’s get things started with our A-Z guide for towing a caravan.
Is my vehicle up to the task?
If you’re towing with a new vehicle or caravan be sure to check the suitability for the task in hand. TowCar offers a great free vehicle/caravan matching tool which assesses the potential proficiency (stability rating, weight ratio, speed throughout gear changes, acceleration vs. gradients & maximum gradient advice) of your vehicle vs. your caravan.
Do I have the correct licence?
This is largely down to when you passed your driving test and it is YOUR responsibility to ensure you’re towing within the law.
Those who passed their driving test before Jan 1st 1997 are permitted to tow up to 8.25 tonnes (MAM – maximum authorised mass) until the expiry date stipulated on your licence.
The waters get muddier for drivers who passed the test after Jan 1st 1997, so lets start with the 3.5 tonne rule – this is an outline for the weight ration limit of caravans and other towing devices. Category B vehicles can carry up to 8 passengers with a MAM of up to 3.5 tonnes (3,500kg). Such vehicles can tow a trailer over 0.75 tonnes (750kg), providing the MAM of the trailer doesn’t exceed the unladen weight of the vehicle and combined they do not exceed 3.5 tonnes.
The trailer’s weight cannot exceed the unladen weight of the car towing it, to put this into perspective a typically trailer tent (unbraked) weighs around 500 kg, while very small caravans weigh in from about 650 kg – but I mean small. These CAN therefore be towed by the average family car such as a Ford Focus 1.6 (1,340kg) – as it’s designed to tow up to 670 kg (unbraked) & 1000 kg (braked). Always bare in mind the MAM of the trailer is key and not its unladen weight.
The B+E Licence
Typically a medium sized caravan will weigh in around the 1300 kg mark and yet again if you passed your test after 1st Jan 1997 you will need an additional test (practical only) to be fully tow legal, this is known as a B+E licence. This will enable you to tow weights over 750 kg & operate of vehicle up to 3.5 tons (3,500 kg)
Under the B+E license there is no limit on the weight ratio of your vehicle & caravan combination, however you should not tow something that exceeds the stipulated weight limit of your vehicle. To find your vehicle’s tow limit click here.
How to weigh your Caravan?
Using one of the UK’s many public weighbridges, many are free but some do charge up to £15 depending on location. Click here to see a list of weighbridges operating in the UK.
– Weigh your vehicle and caravan at its legal minimal weight (ie no luggage).
– Petrol in your car’s tank can weigh anything up to 60 kg, weighing with a full tank is advised.
Step 1: Drive onto the weighbridge with all wheels (including caravan) on the scales, then apply the car/ caravan handbrake before lowering the jockey wheel so that it makes contact with the weighbridge platform. Take measurement.
Step 2: Drive onto the platform with just the caravan wheels remaining on the platform, apply the handbrake and lower the jockey wheel so that it makes contact with the platform, then uncouple the caravan from the vehicle. Take second measurement.
Step 3: Go and collect your printed certificate from the weighbridges office.
Planning your Route
We know the East Devon back lanes like the back of our hand – and their potential pitfalls. Be sure to plan your departing and returning journeys, ensuring you only stick to roads that you (a) feel comfortable driving on & (b) are safe to do so. The guys a Michelin, know a thing or two about getting from A – B and have put together this great route planner that is caravan considerate, with alerts for steep hills and tight bends. Just remember to allow plenty of time to reach your destination, especially if you want to avoid reversing to your pitch in darkness.
The Caravan Reversing Guide:
![Caravan-giff-1]()
Even the most diligently route planned won’t have a ‘reverse avoidance’ option, you’ll need to learn the basic manoeuvres.
When you reverse your caravan it will feel like it’s initially resisting, before making that familiar clunking sound, this is simply the caravan’s auto-reverse feature – it’s way of telling you whether its going to follow your lead.
Single Axle vs. Twin Axle
Whether your caravan is large or small, the principles are the same, however size does affect the way a caravan reacts. Single axle caravans have the ability to pivot on the wheel enabling them to turn sharply, but also jackknife more easily. The lesser the distance between the caravans axle and your vehicles towball, the quicker the response to changes made on the steering wheel. Twin axle vans might be visually more intimidating, however they do not pivot on the wheels and respond more slowly when reversed, subsequently making them easier to control.
Reverse Straight
Before popping your vehicle into reverse ensure your caravan and vehicle are straight, including the steering wheel. As you begin to move back keep a close eye on the caravan in your mirrors, if the caravan is getting bigger in one mirror move the steering wheel down towards that mirror – a ¼ turn MAX! Once the van returns to its original position (equal in both mirrors) simply return the steering wheel back to its straight positioning.
Reversing Around Corners
In camping terms this mean reversing onto your pitch and it will require you to be correctly positioned from the start in order to completed successfully.
Step 1: Drive past your pitch with your caravan’s rear wheels setting at perpendicular (90º) to the edge of your pitch.
Step 2: Now turn your steering wheel 1 full rotation in the opposite direction from you wish to turn.
Step 3: Start reversing slowly and your caravan will begin to pivot pretty quickly, but keep an eye on it as if you reverse too far (in the procedure laid out in step 2) you will jack-knife. Before the caravan is aligned straight against the pitch (45º), turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction so that your vehicle would be in the same position as the caravan were you reversing solo.
If the caravan moves too far (or not enough) during this process simply straighten up and start again. Bare in mind you can push your caravan to straighten it up once unhitched, so you don’t need to be inch perfect.
Towing on the Roads
Treat towing a caravan like you would driving a car in the wet, give yourself more time! You’ll need to brake earlier and accelerate more sympathetically.
By law, towing vehicles cannot exceed 50 mph on single carriageways and 60 mph on dual carriageways.
On motorways, towing vehicles are not permitted to use the outer land unless instructed to do so, such as a traffic jam or accident.
Mirrors
Ensure that you have view visibility of your caravan, this likely means fitting extension mirrors to your vehicle. Once on holiday don’t forget to remove them when not hitched up, it’s actually illegal to use them when not required as they are potentially dangerous to pedestrians and cyclists.
Miscellaneous Checklist: Dos & Don’ts
-
- Do make a checklist of all required essentials before going on your next caravan holiday.
- Do let traffic pass you if you are causing a traffic jam, it will cost you 30 seconds and save others a lot more than that.
- Do take extra care when overtaking lorries or coaches as air turbulences can cause snakking – even with electronic and friction stabilisers fitted to your caravan.
- Do check that all lights on your caravans rear panel are working.
- Do disconnect your 12v system if you are not unhitching your caravan (think 1 night stays), this removes any chance of you draining your car battery.
- Do clean your caravan after your holiday, clean out your fridge with an Anti-Bac spray and keep the fridge door open until next year.
- Do check your caravan’s roof hatch is property closed during journeys.
- Don’t carry passengers in a caravan while towing, it’s illegal in the UK.
- Technically pets can be transported in a moving caravan, however it is not recommended and may cause unnecessary stress on your beloved pet.
- Don’t use a homemade cardboard number plates, any number plate on your caravan must conform to an approved British Standard
- Don’t forget 4 wooden blocks to stabilize your caravan with.
- Don’t park your caravan in parking bays with meters.
- Don’t instinctively brake if your caravan begins to sway, instead use engine braking to reduce speed gradually.
Image via the Highways Agency on Flickr
Ladram Bay offers luxury hot tub stays with sea views
Sometimes you just need to stop. The diary is full, the weeks fly by, and you realise you haven’t properly relaxed in months.
If you are looking for a break where you can switch off the moment you arrive, a hot tub holiday on the Jurassic Coast might be exactly what you need. There is something about sinking into warm water while looking out at the sea that makes the rest of the world feel very far away.
At Ladram Bay, we know that for couples, a holiday is about reclaiming your time. Here is how you can find the perfect base to slow down.
Where to stay with a hot tub in Devon?
If you want privacy, comfort, and incredible views, Ladram Bay has a range of options that sit right on the cliffs.
We don’t believe in “standard” accommodation. We want you to feel like you have upgraded your life for a few days.
Luxury Lodges: These are our most spacious options. Many, like The Lookout or Seahorse Lodge, are positioned to give you uninterrupted views of the bay. You can pour a glass of wine, step out onto your private decking, and watch the sun go down from the tub.
Ladram Cottage: If you are searching for cottages with hot tubs, this is a rare find. It sits right on the slipway, practically on the beach itself. It was completely restored in 2023 and comes with a private garden and sun terrace. It is intimate, iconic, and completely unique.
Why choose holidays with hot tubs by the coast?
Because the view matters.
There are plenty of luxury hot tubs in the UK, but not many come with a view of the Jurassic Coast. When you book a sea view hot tub at Ladram Bay, you will be relaxing in the warmth, in any weather, watching waves roll into a sheltered private bay.
Lodges like Marine Lodge and Pebbles Lodge offer elevated positions, giving you a vantage point over the Devon countryside and the ocean. It turns a quick dip into a real experience. Even in cooler weather, sitting in the heat of the water while the fresh sea breeze blows past is one of the most relaxing feelings there is.
Is Ladram Bay good for couples holidays in Devon?
Yes. While we are known for being family-friendly, the park changes pace outside of school holidays, making it a peaceful retreat for couples.
You have the freedom to do as much or as little as you like.
Walks on the doorstep: The South West Coast Path runs right past us. You can hike to Sidmouth or Budleigh Salterton and earn your evening soak.
Dining without the hassle: You don’t need to cook. Head to Pebbles Restaurant for a meal with a view, or grab fresh fish and chips from the Coast Takeaway to eat on your decking.
Space to breathe: Our lodges are designed with space in mind, like Lobster Lodge (new for 2026), are 20ft wide with open-plan living areas. You aren’t tripping over suitcases; you have room to spread out and settle in.
Bringing the dog?
A couples break often includes the four-legged member of the family. If you are looking for best hot tub stays in Devon that welcome dogs, look at Ocean Lodge or Dolphin Lodge. They are pet-friendly, so you can enjoy long coastal walks with your dog and still come back to the luxury of a hot tub.
Ready to book your break?
Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or just sleep in and slow down, we have the space for you.
The Best Hot Tub Stays in Devon for a Relaxing Escape
The best places to find nature and take a holiday this Spring
Read our tips for nature look-outs and family-friendly fun
Spring is an exciting time. The days are finally stretching out, the air feels fresher, and the coast starts to wake up.
If you are looking for a break where you can slow down and let the kids run free before the summer rush, Ladram Bay might be just what you need. We know that planning a family trip involves a lot of moving parts, from nap times to unpredictable weather, so we aim to make everything feel as easy as possible.
Here is what you can expect from a spring break on the Jurassic Coast.
Where to stay in Spring in Devon?
If you want sea views, space, and a base that makes life easy, Ladram Bay offers a range of options for all holiday plans.
Finding the right accommodation is key to a relaxing break. You want somewhere that feels like a “home from home” so you can settle in quickly.
Luxury Lodges: If you want to up-level your comfort, these offer plenty of space, and many come with hot tubs. Perfect for warming up after a brisk beach walk.
Glamping: Our Safari Tents and Otter Pods let you enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of pitching a tent yourself.
Ladram Cottage: Sitting right on the slipway, this offers iconic views and immediate access to the beach.
Touring: If you are bringing your own home from home, our fully serviced pitches let you come and go as you please.
The best part? Everything is close together. You don’t need to worry about long drives once you arrive. If tired legs kick in or the weather turns, your accommodation is just a short stroll away.
Spring family-friendly holidays
Spring holidays here work because they offer a balance between organised fun and parental breathing room.
If you are visiting us during the Easter school break, there is a gentle shift in rhythm. We host family-friendly events like egg hunts, chocolate parties, and Easter crafts. It’s about real family moments, joining in if you are brave, or sitting back and watching the fun.
We also have the practical side covered. Spring weather in the UK can be mixed, but that doesn’t stop the holiday. You can head to our heated indoor swimming pool and children’s play pool with slides, or let the kids loose in the soft play area and arcade. You don’t need to overthink the forecast; you can change your plans instantly without stress.
Where is the best beach to visit in Spring in Devon?
For ease and safety, we believe the best beach is the one you don’t have to drive to: Ladram Bay’s private beach.
Sitting right under the cliffs, our sheltered bay is a mix of sand-washed pebbles and rockpools. In spring, it is generally quieter than the peak summer months, giving you plenty of space. You can skim the endless stones, spend hours rock-pooling (peak under the seaweed and you could find the famous blue Lobster!), hire a kayak from the Beach Shack, or sit back with a coffee and watch the waves.
Because the beach is accessible directly from the park via the slipway, it is incredibly convenient for families. If a toddler needs a nap or you forgot the sunscreen, you are only minutes away from your front door. The beachfront ‘Beach Shack’ is filled with everything you need for a day at the beach. Hot drinks, snacks, ice creams, buckets and spades and even water shoes if trainers can’t get wet. Plus, the toilets are just next door.
Photography credit: alexwaltonphotography
The best places for nature in East Devon
East Devon is an incredible spot for wildlife, and spring is when it truly comes alive.
If you want to explore beyond the park, you are in the perfect spot. The South West Coast Path runs right past us, offering walks towards Sidmouth or Budleigh Salterton with stunning views.
Nearby, Otterton Mill is a fantastic spot to aim for. It is a historic working watermill set in a beautiful valley. You can watch the milling, grab some artisan bread from their bakery, or enjoy a cream tea. It’s a great way to discover a bit of history while getting some fresh air.
What nature is there to see in Devon in Spring?
From rare birds to the famous local beavers, there is plenty to spot if you keep your eyes peeled.
Wild Beavers: The River Otter, near Budleigh Salterton, is famous for its wild beaver population. You can book an evening walk with Devon Beaver & Wildlife Tours to see them in their natural habitat. They are experts who know exactly where to look.
Birdwatching: The River Otter Estuary is a haven for birds. In spring, you might spot Kingfishers, Whimbrels, or Black-tailed Godwits. Check out Visit Devon’s guide here.
Wildflowers: As the season changes, the landscape fills with colour. Blackberry Camp, an Iron Age fort nearby, is often blanketed in bluebells during the spring months.
Dolphins: Bottlenose dolphins and Atlantic grey seals can often be spotted along the coast. Ladram Bay’s cliff tops make for great lookout points.
Spring family-friendly holidays: what you can do?
Ladram Bay works well for families because there’s a balance of fun and space.
Kids can join in activities during the day such as crafts, shows and Easter-time events in the holiday season. When the weather’s good, they can run, jump and roam our outdoor play areas and green spaces. And when the sky turns grey, there are indoor sessions, soft play and pool fun to keep them happy.
If you’re here as a couple, you’ll find space too. Walks along the beach at sunset. Coffee overlooking the coast in Pebbles. Evenings listening to live music or tribute acts in Waves and downtime in the Leisure Centre steam room and sauna.
That mix of family energy and grown-up moments is part of what makes spring by the sea feel easy.
Everyday things that make your stay better
The details matter.At Ladram Bay you’ll find:
Indoor heated swimming pool: Great for rainy days or cooler mornings and burning off extra energy
Restaurant, Beach Shack and Coast Takeaway: Delicious snacks and meals without cooking every night.
Entertainment programme: Hosted by the brilliant Ladram Stars and filled with live bands, themed shows and classic games.
Easy access to the beach: Enter Ladram Bays private beach from the slipway. No long walks with tired legs.
These are the kinds of things that make a holiday feel relaxed. You can fill your days, or just slow them down.
Spring by the sea in Devon: A guide to family breaks
Toddler-friendly holidays: Safe spaces and easy fun
Planning a family holiday isn’t about ticking boxes.It’s about finding somewhere that actually works for you, your kids, and the stage you’re at right now.
If you’re searching for toddler-friendly holidays in Devon, especially by the coast, Ladram Bay is a place many families come back to again and again. Here’s why.
Is Ladram Bay suitable for young children?
Short answer: yes.Longer answer: it’s designed with young families in mind, without feeling overwhelming.
The park is easy to get around. You’re never far from where you need to be, whether that’s your accommodation, the beach, or somewhere to grab food. That matters when you’ve got little legs, pushchairs, or tired kids by mid-afternoon.
There’s space to play safely, both indoors and out. Soft play and activity sessions are great for younger children, especially on cooler or rainy days. Outside, there’s room to burn off energy without you worrying about traffic or busy roads.
And because everything is on park, you’re not constantly packing bags or planning journeys. You can take the day as it comes.
Is Ladram Bay good for families?
If “good for families” means flexible, relaxed, and practical…then yes.
Days don’t need to be planned down to the minute. You can do a morning activity, head back for lunch and a nap, then head out again later. Or do very little at all. Both work here.
There’s entertainment for different ages, so siblings don’t feel left out. Younger children can enjoy daytime activities, while older ones have plenty to explore too. Evenings are low-pressure, family-friendly and easy to dip in and out of.
Most importantly, it feels welcoming. Staff are used to families. You don’t feel like you’re “in the way” if your child is loud, excited, or having a wobble. That alone makes a big difference.
A coastal setting that’s easy with kids
Being by the sea sounds great. But with young children, it needs to be practical too.
Ladram Bay Beach is right on your doorstep. No long drives. No hunting for parking. Just grab what you need and head down when it suits you.
You can paddle, build sandcastles, explore rock pools, or simply sit and watch the waves. It’s the kind of beach where you can stay for 20 minutes or two hours, whatever your children are up for that day.
And when they’re done, you’re close enough to head back easily. No stress. No meltdowns halfway through a long walk.
Places to stay that feel like home (but easier)
Accommodation matters more than ever when you’re travelling with young children.
At Ladram Bay, family-friendly accommodation gives you space to spread out, cook simple meals, and keep routines if you want to. Separate bedrooms help with early nights. Living areas give you somewhere to relax once the kids are asleep.
You’re not trying to squeeze into one room or tiptoe around in the dark. You can actually unwind.
Things to do, whatever the weather
Let’s be honest. The Devon weather doesn’t always play along.
That’s why having a mix of indoor and outdoor activities really helps. When the sun’s out, there’s plenty to do outside. When it’s not, you still have options.
Craft sessions, games, shows, an arcade, an indoor fun pool, and organised activities give your toddlers or young children something to look forward to each day. And because everything is close by, you’re not stuck for entertainment if plans change.
Good for first holidays and growing families
Many families choose Ladram Bay for their first proper holiday with young children. Others come back year after year as their kids grow.
That’s because it adapts with you.
Toddlers can enjoy simple play and safe spaces. Preschoolers love the activities and freedom. As children get older, the coast, walks and wider area start to open up more adventures.
You don’t outgrow it quickly.
Why families choose Devon for their holiday
Devon is a favourite for a reason.
It’s far enough to feel like a proper break, but easy to reach from much of the UK. You get fresh air, open space and a slower pace, without giving up comfort or convenience.
For family-friendly holidays in Devon, the coast adds something special. Kids remember the beach. The freedom. The little moments that don’t cost anything but time.
So, is Ladram Bay toddler-friendly for your family?
If you’re looking for:
A coastal holiday that works with young children
A place where days can be flexible
Space to relax without constant planning
A park that feels welcoming, not overwhelming
Then Ladram Bay is well worth considering.
It’s not about doing everything.It’s about having the option to do what feels right for your family, that day.
And that’s what makes holidays here work so well.
Family-Friendly Holidays in Devon: Why Ladram Bay Works for Young Families
Easter Holidays in Devon: A Family Break at Ladram Bay
Easter at Ladram Bay
You want somewhere kids enjoy, and you can relax too.If you’re searching for things to do this Easter, Ladram Bay could be just right for you.
Is Ladram Bay suitable for young children at Easter?
Yes, and lots of families tell us it feels easy with little ones.The park is easy to navigate, so you’re not trekking everywhere. Accommodation, activities and the beach are all close together. That really helps when you’ve got pushchairs or tired legs.
During the Easter holidays, there are Easter egg hunt games, spring-themed crafts, pottery painting and special activities for kids of all ages. The soft play zone is a safe space for children to burn off energy, and the chocolate.
This mix of fun keeps younger children entertained and gives you a break between activities.
What to do for Easter holidays at Ladram Bay
You won’t run out of things to try, and you don’t have to fill every minute.
On park you can enjoy:
Easter egg hunt around the park – fun for the whole family.
Easter arts & crafts sessions in the art studio, including mask making and Easter crowns.
Pottery painting activities – paint something to take home.
Live entertainment shows that suit all ages throughout the holidays.
Chocolate Party – all time favourite for many of our younger guests
These are all part of the Easter activities families love about Ladram Bay, Devon. Fun that doesn’t involve long journeys or extra planning. A full schedule will be available soon to plan your stay and book onto activities.
What is the entertainment at Ladram Bay this Easter?
Here are just a few of the highlights. Check out the What’s On guide to see the entertainment dates and times.
Megaslam Wrestling:
‘Both teams feature truly unforgettable live-action characters designed to fuel the imagination of the young children who attend our events! From muscle-bound stars of the ring to fearsome monsters and our glamorous Megaslam Ladies, there is something for everyone on a Megaslam live action experience show!’
Ultimate Ariana:
‘Ultimate Ariana delivers an unforgettable performance that captures the energy, style, and charisma of one of today’s most iconic singers. Whether performing Ariana’s chart-topping hits like “Thank U, Next,” “Problem,” or “No Tears Left to Cry,” the tribute act’s performances showcase a mix of powerful vocals, slick choreography, and authentic costume recreations.’
Believe a Bubble:
‘This unique bubble show with a twist will have you stepping into an interactive bubble world and being dazzled by spellbinding bubbles of all shapes and sizes. Watch this incredible show unfold as you see bubble carousels, a galaxy of bubbles created with bubbles inside bubbles, quirky bubble tricks with the bouncing bubble, inside out bubble, smoke bubbles and bubble volcanoes, and much more.’
What to do in rainy weather in spring at Ladram
Spring weather can be changeable.That’s okay here.
There’s a good mix of indoor and all-weather activities, so rainy days don’t slow you down. Kids can splash in the heated indoor pool, play in the soft play zone, or take part in crafts and entertainment sessions.
If the sun peeks out, you can stroll to the private beach, explore rockpools, or hire kayaks and paddleboards from the Beach Shack.
So whatever the weather, you have options that keep the fun going for everyone.
Family-friendly holidays in Devon: Accommodation that works for you
Where you stay matters, especially with children.
Ladram Bay has lots of family-friendly places to stay. Holiday homes, luxury lodges and apartments or set up in our glamping, camping and touring pitches.
You can book between 1 and 14 nights, so whether you want a short break or a longer holiday, you can pick what suits your family’s Easter plans.
Things close by and moments to enjoy
Part of the appeal of Easter holidays in Devon here is the setting.
Ladram Bay sits on the edge of the Jurassic Coast. Miles of coastline and natural beauty just outside your door, with the South West Coastal path running through Ladram, access to adventure is simple.
Some days might be about sandcastle building and rockpooling.Other days might be pool-time, pottery, or a show in the evening.
For things to do for kids near Ladram Bay you have:
Crealy Adventure Park
The Donkey Sanctuary
The World of Country Life
Easter Holidays in Devon
From March through to October, there’s always something happening at Ladram Bay. During the school holidays, we add extra Easter-themed activities, entertainment and visiting acts. Whatever the Devon weather brings, there’s plenty to enjoy, with a mix of indoor and all-weather activities to keep everyone entertained from morning to night.
Find out more about what’s on at Ladram bay this Easter
Easter Holidays for Families at Ladram Bay
