A Certificated Location (CL) is a small privately-owned camping facility in the United Kingdom that is certified to host up to five caravans, motorhomes, or camper vans at any one time. These smallholding sites can be seen as an innovative method of rural camping accommodation, which is quieter and more personal when compared with bigger commercial camping sites.
Certificated Locations were introduced in the 1960s as part of a program of responsible access to the countryside and the preservation of rural economies. The model has been mooted, aimed at enabling landowners, often farmers, pub operators, or other rural entrepreneurs, to create a unique, tiny-scale camping business without having to go through the rigmarole of full planning permission or having to comply with full planning regulations, which are applied to large-scale camping facilities.
The legal basis of Certificated Locations is found within the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act of 1960. This act allows some organisations, most notably the Caravan and Motorhome Club (gathering ex-Caravan Club) and the Camping and Caravanning Club, to grant certificates to landowners, meaning that they are able to operate these small sites. This certification scheme avoids the requirement of a formal planning permission, but development must meet certain standards and regulations.
Legal Framework for Certificated Caravan Sites
In the UK, certificated locations are governed by the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960. This law allows certain organizations, like the Caravan and Motorhome Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club, to issue certificates enabling landowners to operate small caravan sites (up to five caravans) without full planning permission. Operators must meet specific legal requirements to maintain their certificated status.
- Having a proper public liability cover
- Making sure the land is fit for some purpose
- The provision of basic amenities that include a water supply and waste disposal
- Operating in the fire safety law
- Ensuring that caravan/motorhome access routes are appropriate
How Certificated Locations Differ from Traditional Campsites
Like the old campsites, certificated locations (CL) and the traditional campsites provide vastly differing camping experiences, both with their benefits in terms of what type of outdoor experience you desire to have.
Size Limitations
The biggest distinction between Certificated Locations is their small size. Each Ls is limited to a maximum of five caravans or motorhomes at any one time, so they are not as crowded as official campsites, offering a far more intimate experience. This is in stark contrast to commercial campsites, which can support anywhere up to dozens or even hundreds of pitches and have been renowned for taking on the resemblance of miniature temporary towns in the busy summer months.
Facilities Comparison
Amenities-wise, the gap is really large:
- Certificated Locations: These places are limited in facilities and generally only offer fresh water supply, waste disposal, and sometimes electric hook-ups. Most CLs do not have much more than one toilet facility, and showers are a rarity.
- Traditional Campgrounds: Normally have a comprehensive range of facilities with showering facilities, laundry amenities, washing up facilities, stores, play areas, swimming pools, entertainment venues, and even restaurants and/or bars.
Booking Processes
The reservation procedure is also a far cry from each other
- Locations Certificated: These are sites generally owned by individuals other than companies, and as such, the booking process is normally direct to the owner. This could be in the form of phone calls or with a simple web form. Other CLs can be much more informal in their operation, with some even accepting same-day arrivals without a standard booking in quieter times.
- Conventional Campgrounds: Tend to have traditional forms of booking that may include online booking systems, a deposit required, and a formalised system of checking in. These points are often in demand during the peak season, and it may be necessary to make a reservation months or even weeks ahead.
Companies Which Provide a Certificated Location Status
In the UK, two major bodies have the power to designate and manage Certificated Locations (CLs) under the exemption provisions of the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960. These communities are very important in ensuring that the small and private sites conform to certain requirements and maintain standards.
Camping and Caravanning Club
The Camping and Caravanning Club has over 2,000 Certificated Locations in the UK. This facility was founded in 1901 and has been central in developing the notion of CL as an alternative to other commercial locations that are significantly larger. These camps reserve CLs for those persons and clubs that are members of the club, and these clubhouses can provide access to more than 1,300 mini five-pitch sites across the country.
- The Club application steps for land owners who wish to establish a CL are:
- Site plan of the initial application and site information in detail
- The gift of an application fee (currently approximately 150 dollars)
- On-site or off-site investigation of a regional officer
- Final assessment of water and waste disposal basic facilities
- Road and pitch surface inspection
- This adopts community facilities and tourist attraction scoring
Advantages of Remaining at Certificated Sites
Locations that are certificated are unique in many ways, as opposed to how traditional commercial campsites are run, in that the experience is more personal and intimate to the countryside.
Privacy and Seication
The best advantage to Certificated Locations is perhaps the great degree of privacy offered. These never feel crowded and overwhelming since only a maximum of five caravans or motorhomes can occupy the sites at any given time. Such limited spaces have a feeling of exclusivity and personal space, unlike in the bigger commercial grounds where pitches could be organized in rows, with pitches being very close to each other.
Experience in Rural Locations
Certificated Locations tend to be located on working farms, in orchards, alongside woodland, or somewhere in an otherwise rural setting. This accommodation type provides visitors with rural areas the touch they need with direct access to farmlands, meadows, or natural topography. The location of the sites provides many vistas across the unspoilt landscapes that much larger commercial sites are unable to provide due to their sheer size and the infrastructure and considerations involved.
Tranquil Atmosphere
Certificated locations are inherently quieter places as there are no entertainment resources, swimming pools, or clubhouses available. As compared to the larger sites that offer the organized activities and amenities which attract families with young children, CL guests will have the experience of the silence of the countryside -the sound of birds, rustling leaves, and running water, rather than the background noise of the arcade games or evening shows. This idling nature is especially enjoyed by people who want to rest, be closer to nature, or use it as a starting point when engaging in outdoor activities.
Considerable Cost Benefits
Certificated Locations will usually represent a significant cost reduction over full-service commercial campsites. Nightly prices at many are 30-50 percent lower than other commercial stays, making them a terrific bargain, particularly over long-term stays. This is the affordability that is due to their less complicated infrastructure needs and the lower operating expenses, which are transferred as savings to guests. These savings have the potential to make a large difference towards the duration of a holiday, especially for those touring on long trips or those who are on a budget.
Demands of Land Owners as to What is Necessary to Open a Certificated Location
Starting up a Certificated Location (CL) can be a way for landowners to diversify their income and, in the meantime, give the travelers a unique camping experience. Nevertheless, the process entails meeting the specific requirements and guidance against the regulations.
Application Process
Acquiring the status of a CL starts with the submission of an application to an approved organization, including the Caravan and Motorhome Club or the Camping and Caravanning Club. Interested individuals who want to acquire a site should submit a comprehensive form with the description of the details of their property and their planned facilities. The application normally demands
- Documentation of ownership of land or a long-term lease agreement
- Site plans of the proposed locations of pitches
- Get vehicle access route descriptions and entrance specifications
- Local-based information, including local amenities
Land Requirements
Not every land can be treated with CL status. The basic requirements are:
- At least 0.5 acres (2,000 m 2 ) of comparatively flat, well-drained land
- Clearly demarcated- Sites that are well defined and separated by boundaries from other properties
- Access, adequate visibility, splays with no conditions and hazards
- Adequate distance from the residential buildings to reduce noise nuisance
- Land not liable to integer ▪hardypospill or overflowing
Standard Facilities by Certificated Locations
Billed as a more basic but frequently charming alternative to commercial campsites are certificated Locations (CLs). However, the difference between the facilities of various places is too much to ignore, but being aware of what to expect in general will help prepare the travelers accordingly.
Water Supply
Most Certificated Locations have access to fresh drinking water, but some POTWs are limited in the means by which they bring water to the patrons. At some, there will be dedicated water points with standard hose connections to fill on board water tanks, at others, it may just be an outdoor tap that can be used. The water, although generally drinkable, is usually confirmed by an experienced user of CL when she arrives at the place. As compared to the larger sites, water is not hooked into the pitch, so you should expect to have to fill containers or tanks once you arrive.
Waste Disposal
Waste management facilities at CLs would usually involve:
- Chemical toilet emptying points (often referred to as Elsan points): these provide a means by which portable toilets and chemical tanks fitted to caravans and motor homes can be emptied
- Grey water disposal: Sinks and shower drain wires dedicated to the disposal of grey water
- Household waste bins: Other than bigger sites, the range of recycling options can be limited in such refuse collection facilities
Searching and Reservations of Certificated Locations
The process used to find the location and secure an accommodation of the Certificated Locations (CLs) is somewhat different compared to the one used when booking a standard campsite. Whereas these hidden treasures give phenomenal experiences that are beyond the densely populated business lands, they may, at times, be difficult to find without the right resources.
Club Directories
Directories containing in-depth information about these destinations are mailed to the two main certification bodies’ membership- the Caravan and Motorhome Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club. Each printed directory is over a year old and lists details of all CLs, as follows:
- Exact route and location Google Maps helped me locate the exact place of my job several weeks later and helped me with getting the right path.
- Contact information records of ownership records
- Available facilities
- The grounds and designs of the pitch
- Close Topographical attractions and amenities
- Seasonal availability
Online Resources
The two clubs keep an online Public Register, a searchable listing of their Certificated Locations, through member portals. These online sites provide their members with more sophisticated filter systems, which allow members to search using:
- Geographic location (county or region, or closeness to a particular town)
- Conveniences such as electric (electric hookups, water points, chemical disposal)
- Fitness to certain models of cars
- Accessibility features
- Interesting or appealing attractions or a landscape (coastal, woodland, etc.)
- Pet-friendly status
Our Most Popular Certificated Locations in Great Britain, BECP
The British landscape is littered with hundreds of certificated sites, each with its own special experiences to offer caravan and motorhome enthusiasts. They are tiny, exclusive locations and can be discovered in just about every nook and cranny in Britain, from the Scottish Highlands to the gentle South Downs.
Regional Distribution
Sites such as the Ardnamurchan Peninsula CL provide spectacular views over to the Isle of Skye, and ones in an area around Loch Lomond can give you an ideal launch pad to visit the Trossachs National Park.
Northern England has a dramatic setting of the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales as part of the certified location landscape. Sites found in Cumbria are often located immediately adjacent to walking routes, and CL sites in Yorkshire often require part-time presence by the farmer as a shop providing eggs and local produce.
Green Impact and Sustainability
Certificated Locations are some of the most ecologically responsible camping or caravanning areas in the business. They naturally have a small footprint (usually the ability to house just five caravans or motorhomes), which limits their impact on the environment relative to large commercial sites.
Because of the exclusive style of CL sites, low-impact camping is also encouraged in their use. It means less soil compaction and noise pollution, and a minimum of disturbance to wildlife near the location. Naturally occurring beauty is the main reason visitors visit in the first place, and many owners of C Ls have a passion to maintain the joys of nature by following sustainable land management practices.
Environmental regulations of CLs are very wise because they combine accessibility with protection. Although CLs cannot be subject to the same volume of planning as the larger sites, they must comply with the fundamental environmental standards. Some local governments will demand some form of environmental impact assessment before certification, typically assessing issues such as waste, water, and their potential impacts on local biodiversity.
For more details on Certificated Locations, visit the Caravan Club’s guide
The sustainability activities have spread extensively in the UK CLs. However, looting has also been established by many website owners.
- Utilization of renewable energy sources, like solar panel lighting, to power the facilities or the charging points
- Natural: Natural water sources like rain harvesting, or reed processing
- No pesticides and herbicides, pesticide-free farming
- Composting toilets and an environmentally friendly waste disposal system
- Native planting and wild meadow planting to help insect pollinators
Certificated Locations According to the Types of Vehicles
Located around the UK, CLs have a variety of different types of leisure vehicles. The policies may vary considerably by site. It is very important to learn what kind of vehicles receive a welcome, particularly CLs.
Caravans
The conventional base of CLs is touring caravans, where the majority of the sites were specifically developed to suit touring caravan usage. Most CLs have large pitches to suit the average single-axle caravan. Several factors should be put into consideration:
- The pitches of the majority of CRLs are considerably leveled to accommodate caravans
- At some locations, there are hardstanding pitches that can be used all year round
- Other CLs may be restricted by the length of the caravan, with the average size supporting caravans of up to 7 meters
- Twin-axle caravans may not be allowed into some places, because of access or ground work concerns
Motorhomes
Motorhome acceptance is considerably higher at CLs, but they do not necessarily vary as much as caravans:
- There can be weight restrictions, which mostly apply to soft ground sites
- Height barriers are not common at CLs as compared to some commercial sites
- Motorhomes of the larger A-class (greater than 8 meters) can have limited usage of CLs because of access restrictions
- Sometimes there is not a lot of maneuvering space at rural CLs, which may pose difficulties for less experienced drivers
- Other CLs are promoted as motorhome-friendly with reinforced pitches
Cost Analysis Certificated Locations Commercial Sites
The locations receive certification, including collateral costs such as property acquisition, water, sewer, and utilities. CLs provide a viable financial alternative to the standard commercial campsite, with a large variance in cost differences that will attract the low-cost customers and those in need of extended visits.
Price Comparisons
The first and immediate financial gain of CLs is their nightly rate. Commercial campsites average anywhere between 25 and 45 pounds a night with electric hook-ups, and CLs tend to be between 12 and 20 pounds a night. This is a significant cost savings of about 40-60% especially significant when one is going on a long holiday or travelling widely. This difference becomes even greater during high season (July-August), when commercial facilities usually practice premium pricing (up to a limit of £50+/night), whereas in the majority of CLs, prices remain unchanged throughout the year or are affected by a narrow seasonal rise.
Value Assessment
The value goes further than the essential night rate. The simplicity of Ls makes them a taste of a different type of camping that is often regarded as better by many people. The smaller scale (up to five pitches maximum) implies a lesser amount of noise, no congested amenities, and, in many cases, more scenic settings. Most of the travelers testify to the peaceful atmosphere of the place and the individual approach by the owners as more satisfying than the facilities of larger sites. This qualitative variation shows a high value of added value that cannot be compared with the same prices.
Shared Problems and Constraints
Although lucrative and enjoyable, Certificated Locations (CLs) have a few nuances, about which, before coming, a potential visitor should think over.
Booking Difficulties
CLs will usually be more traditional compared to larger commercial sites with more sophisticated online booking systems. It is often frustrating for some site owners to receive booking requests by telephone or via email, since they may not like the slow pace of transaction confirmations. It might not be easy to reach CL owners during peak seasons, and response times might take considerably longer. Furthermore, not all CLs have a formal booking system, leading to uncertainty on the part of the traveler in confirming in advance his or her planned journey via the use of a CL.
Facility Limitations
The minimalist design, which makes CLs a unique place, could be their downfall, as well, to some campers. The majority of CLs only provide basic services, which usually consist of the mere provision of electric hookups, water points, and waste disposal. Those who wish to use shower blocks, laundries, own shops, or entertainments in them will be disappointed. The lack of access to these features may be especially painful when a trip is longer or bad weather sets in. Moreover, the level and cleanliness of the available limited facilities can vary widely amongst the destinations; some may be immaculately set up well, and others can even be quite primitive.
The Future of UK Certificated Locations
UK Certificated Locations (CLs) are growing rapidly, boosted by increased domestic tourism since COVID-19. Popular for their natural, less commercialized appeal, CLs are seeing booking rises of 30-40%. Regulatory bodies are working to simplify approvals and consider raising the five-unit limit to meet demand while preserving intimacy. New CLs are emerging on farms, craft breweries, and artisan food sites, expanding into regions like Northern Scotland and Wales. Technology adoption is rising, with online bookings, digital payments, and contactless check-ins becoming standard. CLs offer a unique, nature-focused alternative to resort-style campsites, blending tradition with innovation.