Harrogate Motor Homes Ltd

Just arrived – 2012 mid-sized Swift Escape 624

Annette — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 06:38:17 +0000

Our 8th motorhome, a brand new 2012 Swift Escape 624 has just arrived! This mid-sized 4/5 berth motorhome (5 berths 4 seatbelts) is the smaller brother of our 6 berth Swift Escape 696. It has a great layout which is perfect for smaller families and couples with a double bed over the cab, a 4 seat dinette which converts to either a 3/4 or double bed and a side sofa which can also be used as a single bed. It is fitted with an external canopy and bike rack for 4 bikes.

The full webpage is coming soon, but you can still book online by checking the availability calendar below and completing the online booking form. Alternatively please contact us with your preferred dates to request a quote.

Actual photos will be added to the new webpage just as soon as we’ve taken them – in the meantime here are a few manufacturer’s pictures and technical details (click on any image to enlarge):

Technical Specifications:
Length:	6.3 m
Height	2.95 m
Width:	2.24 m
Engine:	Fiat 2.3 V5 130 bhp
Fuel:	Diesel
Tranmission:	Manual 6 speed
Weight:	3300 Kg

Features:
Seatbelts:	5
Flyscreens:	Yes
Fridge:	80 l
Bike rack:	4 bikes
Canopy:	Yes
Water tank:	65 l

See Swift website for
further technical details

Read reviews of Swift
Escape Range

Fully Inclusive Rates:

Low Season:
Mid Season:
High Season:

(Oct to Mar)
(Apr, May, Sept)
(Jun to Aug)

£105 per night
£115 per night
£135 per night

£735 per week
£805 per week
£945 per week…

Minimum Hire Period 3 nights.
10% discount for 3-4 weeks.
20% discount for > 4 weeks.

To get an instant quote or book please click on EACH of the OVERNIGHT dates you require on the calendar below, complete all required fields then submit your request. If you wish to proceed and book please follow the onscreen payment instructions to pay by credit or debit card via Paypal (you don’t need a Paypal account) or contact us if you would prefer to pay by card over the phone.

- Available

- Booked

- Pending

- Partially booked

First Name (required):

Last Name (required):

Email (required):

Address (required):

City (required):

Post code (required):

Country (required):

Phone (required) :

Mobile:

Where would you go? :

HOW MANY?

Adults: Children: Dogs @ £5 per dog:

WOULD YOU LIKE ANY OPTIONAL EXTRAS?

Bedding for No of people (sheets, duvets and pillows with covers @ £10 per person)
No of weeks European motorhome Sat-Nav hire (@ £25 per week)
No of weeks European insurance (@ £50 per week)
No of weeks mountain bike hire (@ £50 per week for 2 bikes)

Please use the box below to state whether this a quotation request or a firm booking? Please add any general comments of special requests.

Enter your promotional code here:

Yes, I have read and understood Harrogate Motorhomes Ltd Terms and Conditions

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As detailed in our Terms and Conditions, to make a reservation and secure your chosen dates a minimum deposit of £250 is required. The balance of the hire fee must be paid no later than 28 days prior to commencement of hire, or as soon as practicable for bookings made at short notice. A £500 damage/security deposit must be paid 7 days in advance and will be returned to you in full at when you return the motorhome.

Once the form is submitted the dates will be provisionally reserved on the online calendar. You will receive an automated email and a “real” person will be in touch as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours.

Please get in touch if you have any queries, experience problems with the online reservation system, would like to book a longer term hire or would simply prefer to book over the phone.

When Theo met Theo

Annette — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 13:36:24 +0000

Theo Paphitis meets “Little Theo” the micro-campervan

What an exciting day we had yesterday! Not only did little Theo the micro-campervan meet his namesake Theo Paphitis, but Theo even made time for a cosy chat. The star of BBC’s Dragons Den is passionate about supporting small businesses and, as you can see he is also a dog lover. Apparently Mrs P really wants a Cocker Spaniel!

We met the Dragons’ Den star at an exclusive event for winners of his Small Business Sunday #SBS competition on Twitter, which was held at Edgebaston Cricket Ground on 30^th March 2012.

“Little Theo” joined the Harrogate Motorhomes fleet of seven “grown up” motorhomes in the same week we won the Small Business Sunday award and naming our newest vehicle after him just seemed a great way to express our enormous gratitude – although we can’t claim all the credit. The idea came from on online competition we ran which was won by Harrogate’s Anna Glazier, who suggested Theo first. There were plenty of other great ideas too but Theo seemed the natural choice after all the help we received from the real one.

We arrived at Edgebaston Cricket Ground in little Theo just a few minutes before Theo arrived in his huge “Chrome-mobile” Maybach and out popped Mr P looking dandy in a very smart suit with pink shirt. We met his executive chauffeur Michael Brown (Twitter alias @KatoChauffeur) and asked if we could take a photo of Mr P’ car. His response was, “Yes of course, as long as I can take a photo of your campervan”.

Here’s the great photo he took and Tweeted:

Around 400 people from over 200 small firms attended the exclusive, invitation-only SBS Winners Event which began with a champagne reception and networking lunch. Mr P briefly mingled with the crowd and when I was lucky enough to introduce myself I was delighted with his reply,

“Ah, you’re the one who’s travelled down in Little Theo!”

After lunch there was a two-hour seminar and Q&A session by Theo who recalled the pain and 80 hour weeks when he first started out in business with just one other person called Jo in a small office. Sounds familiar!

He also introduced the new SBS website – I’ve just updated the Harrogate Motorhomes SBS Winners Profile.

Theo’s enthusiasm and passion was infectious and he explained the rationale behind the SBS competition was to use his business reputation and Dragons Den celebrity status to recognise and support hard working small businesses and “Give them the opportunity to shine”

After the seminar he even took the time to have his photo taken individually with every single one of the 250 or so winners who attended the event: – here’s the ‘official’ photo (I wish I had used some face powder):

The cherry on the cake was when Theo came out into the car park and headed straight for Little Theo. I don’t know who’s smile was wider – his or mine!

After what must have been a long and tiring day I was absolutely thrilled that he took the time to have a 10 minute chat with me.

It was a fantastic day and his advice has truly inspired me to continue to work as hard as I can to turn my ambitious vision for Harrogate Motorhomes into a reality:

“If you’re not passionate about what you’re doing, stop doing it. If you love what you’re doing, have belief in your business and offer personal customer service then the hard work and long hours will all be worth it. There is always an element of luck in success, but the harder you work the luckier you get; there is a direct correlation”.

We’ve come so far from having just one motorhome 18 months ago working from our kitchen table in Follifoot. Our exciting journey so far has taken us first to a small office in Kirk Deighton and now to our new depot near the centre of Harrogate.

We now have 7 motorhomes for hire, including our brand new 6 and 7 berth motorhomes which arrived last week.

It still seems like a dream. Not for one moment did I expect to be where we are now quite so soon.

It’s been hard work at times and I’ve made mistakes and learned a lot along the way but I still see myself as very, very fortunate simply because I go to bed on Sundays looking forward to the week ahead – just like Theo!

*** DOWNLOAD PRESS RELEASE HERE ***

Related posts:

The Arrival of Theo Have you seen Theo yet?

Harrogate Motorhomes chosen by Theo Paphitis to win Small Business Sunday Award

Harrogate Motorhomes in the Yorkshire Evening Post: Tweet from Dragon helps firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the York Press: £10,000 boost for motorhome company

Read harrogatenews.co.uk article: Theo Paphitis helps Harrogate firm

Related harrogatenews.co.uk article: Former firefighter blazing a trail in motor homes business

Connect:

Follow Harrogate Motorhomes on Twitter: @RentaMotorhome

Find us and more photos of When Theo met Theo on our Harrogate Motorhomes Facebook page. Please hit the ‘Like’ button!

FREE membership of the Camping and Caravanning Club

Annette — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 03:58:15 +0000

Camping and Caravanning Club Privilege Scheme

Harrogate Motorhomes is delighted to offer all hire customers complimentary membership of the The Friendly Club for the duration of their hire period via the Club’s Privilege Scheme.

If you see the Camping and Caravanning Club badge, then you can be pretty sure the site will offer facilities of a certain standard and will be ready with a friendly welcome. The Privilege Scheme gives you access to over 100 award-winning Club Sites and 20 stunning Camping in the Forest sites, all in superb locations.

From March 2012, as a Harrogate Motorhomes customer you will automatically receive FREE temporary membership of the Camping and Caravanning Club for the duration of your hire from us.

FAQ’s:

How much will I save?

As temporary members you are entitled to the Club Site discount of £7.10 per pitch per night or £3.50 per pitch per night at any Camping in the Forest Site.

How does the temporary membership scheme work?

A Camping and Caravanning Club Privilege Pack will be included in your motorhome, including a book of all of the Club sites.

A special key fob is issued with each of our motorhomes; all you need to do is show it to the site warden when you arrive in order to claim you membership discount.

Is there a temporary membership number? How do I book a site in advance?

There isn’t a temporary membership number, only the key fob, but you can still book sites in advance. You can use the “Find a Campsite” section of the Camping and Caravanning Club website to search and choose sites by location and/or facilities available. Rather than book through the site you can then contact the sites directly (or phone the Camping and Caravanning Club site contact centre on 024 7647 5426, or for Camping in the Forest sites 024 7642 3008) and explain that you will have temporary membership as part of the hire company’s Privilege Scheme. (The campsite staff can check that Harrogate Motorhomes are part of the scheme on their intranet database.)

A deposit of 25% is needed at the time of booking.

Which Camping and Caravanning Club sites does the Privilege Scheme apply to?

All Camping and Caravanning UK Club sites other than Damage Barton and Trewan Hall Club Sites and all Camping in the Forest sites.

The Camping and Caravanning Club, also known as “The Friendly Club”, will need no introduction to those already familiar with touring and camping holidays.

For the uninitiated, the brand has been carefully cultivated over many years to represent friendliness and quality and owners of sites have to work hard to ensure they meet the standards it represents. The organisation is the oldest in the world of its type and one of the biggest in the business, with over half a million members on its books.

Of course you don’t have to stay at Camping and Caravanning Club sites every night. There are a huge number of sites which are not members but still boast spectacular locations and excellent facilities.

We hope to be adding a directory of sites which have been recommended by our customers to our website soon, including dog-friendly sites, sites with larger pitches, sites with sea views, sites within walking distance of a pub…. the possibilities are endless. If you have any site recommendations you would like to add to the list then please do let us know.

Just arrived – 2012 Swift Escape 696 with bunk beds

Annette — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 23:36:44 +0000

Our 7th motorhome, a brand new 2012 Swift Escape 696 has just arrived. This compact 6 berth motorhome is incredibly versatile and has the perfect layout for families, groups of friends or couples who prefer the additional space and storage. The flexibility of the layout with bunk beds at the rear and a useful external garage makes this motorhome a very popular choice for hire. It is fitted with an external canopy and bike rack for 4 bikes.

No wonder the new Swift Escape 696 has been picking up awards left, right and centre. Among others it has won “Practical Motorhomes Overall Motorhome of the year 2012”.

Actual photos will be added to the new webpage just as soon as we’ve taken them – in the meantime here are a few manufacturer’s pictures and technical details (click on any image to enlarge):

Technical Specifications:
Length:	6.92 m
Height	2.95 m
Width:	2.33 m
Engine:	Fiat 2.3 V5 130 bhp
Fuel:	Diesel
Tranmission:	Manual 6 speed
Weight:	3500 Kg

Features:
Seatbelts:	6
Flyscreens:	Yes
Fridge:	80 l
Bike rack:	4 bikes
Canopy:	Yes
Water tank:	65 l

VIEW FACEBOOK GALLERY
OF ACTUAL PHOTOGRAPHS

See Swift website for
further technical details.

Read reviews of Swift
Escape 696

Fully Inclusive Rates:

Low Season:
Mid Season:
High Season:

(Oct to Mar)
(Apr, May, Sept)
(Jun to Aug)

£105 per night
£115 per night
£140 per night

£735 per week
£805 per week
£980 per week…

Minimum Hire Period 3 nights.
10% discount for 3-4 weeks.
20% discount for > 4 weeks.

- Available

- Booked

- Pending

- Partially booked

First Name (required):

Last Name (required):

Email (required):

Address (required):

City (required):

Post code (required):

Country (required):

Phone (required) :

Mobile:

Where would you go? :

HOW MANY?

Adults: Children: Dogs @ £5 per dog:

WOULD YOU LIKE ANY OPTIONAL EXTRAS?

Please use the box below to state whether this a quotation request or a firm booking? Please add any general comments of special requests.

Enter your promotional code here:

Yes, I have read and understood Harrogate Motorhomes Ltd Terms and Conditions

Please type these (anti-spam) characters

Please get in touch if you have any queries, experience problems with the online reservation system, would like to book a longer term hire or would simply prefer to book over the phone.

Have you seen Theo yet?

Annette — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:11:34 +0000

Theo the microcamper joins the Harrogate Motorhomes fleet

Annette Wingate, the proud new owner of "Theo"

Have you seen Theo yet?

He’s compact, tidy for his age and we think he’s really rather cute.

His namesake and our newest addition to the Harrogate Motorhomes fleet is pretty impressive too…

Our Subaru microcamper is named after the Dragon who gave us a massive lift at the beginning of the year by choosing us from more than a thousand for a mention on his Small Business Sunday initiative on Twitter.

And, what’s more, it looks like I’m going to be able to say thank you to Mr Paphitis in person as I’ve been invited to a gathering for Small Business Sunday winners next month.

Obviously, it would be great to introduce the two Theo’s to each other but the most important thing will be saying a huge thank you to Dragons’ Den Theo whose support helped us to win over £15,000 worth of new business in a few days, which means we’re now well ahead on forecast and looking forward to a fantastic year.

There is another person to thank so please step forward Anna Glazier who won our competition to name our latest vehicle.

There were plenty of other creative entries too and we’re grateful to all of you who took the time and trouble to come up with ideas.

But, if I’m honest, as soon as Anna came up with Theo, it was always going to be a tough one to beat. It’s a great way to recognise the difference having a Dragon on your side can make and the debt we owe to an entrepreneur who is prepared to put something back by helping small businesses.

I love spreading smiles as I toot around Harrogate in Theo. Please give us a cheery wave if you see us!

Harrogate Motorhomes in the News – Theo Paphitis helps Harrogate firm

Harrogate Motorhomes chosen by Theo Paphitis to win Small Business Sunday Award

Harrogate Motorhomes in the Yorkshire Evening Post: Tweet from Dragon helps firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the York Press: £10,000 boost for motorhome company

Harrogate Motorhomes move into new premises at The Grove, Harrogate

Annette — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:36:47 +0000

In February 2012 Harrogate Motorhomes Ltd moved to new premises near the centre of Harrogate at 7 The Grove, Harrogate, HG1 5NW.

The heavy-duty cleaning and furniture shifting is done and – now we have a little time to reflect – it seems incredible that, less than 18 months ago, Harrogate Motorhomes was run from a kitchen table in Follifoot with just one motorhome.

But here we are. In central Harrogate. With six (soon to be seven) motorhomes for hire, including the latest arrival, a brand new 7 berth Rollerteam 707. It’s been an exciting journey which has taken us first to a small office in Kirk Deighton and now to our new depot on The Grove, near the Mowbray Square Health Centre off Westmoreland Street. The office at 7 The Grove is part of the historic Albert Hymas yard and was previously occupied by Arrow Selfdrive (formely known as Readydrive).

We are looking forward to a new chapter in our story – which now also includes a proper reception desk, office-come-meeting room, kitchen and customer waiting area. With a huge secure car park we also have plenty of room for expansion and are already looking forward to the arrival of our 7th motorhome next month, a brand new 6 berth Swift Escape 696.

We also hope to be able to offer secure caravan and motorhome storage very soon – watch this space!

View Larger Map

Win a £250 Motorhome Hire Voucher with Stray FM

Annette — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:53:08 +0000

Win a £250 voucher towards a luxury motorhome hire with Harrogate Motorhomes. Where Would You Go?

Where would you go?

We are delighted to have teamed up with Stray FM to offer you a chance to win a £250 motorhome hire voucher (enough for a FREE 4 night break in a luxury 2 berth motorhome!) To be entered in the draw to win all you have to do is visit strayfm.com/win/where-would-you-go and answer one simple question.

The closing date for entries is Sunday 26th February 2012 at 17:00. The winner will be announced on Nick Hancock at Breakfast. Good Luck!

Harrogate Motorhomes in the News – Theo Paphitis helps Harrogate firm

Annette — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:25:37 +0000

.Published by Harrogate-News.co.uk 18/01/2012 | Posted by: Editor

Theo Paphitis helps Harrogate firm

A fast growing business has been given a new year boost after winning a personal testimonial from business Dragon Theo Paphitis.Harrogate Motorhomes spent much of 2011 bucking the trend, going from a standing start to a turnover of £50,000 in year one.

Former fire fighter Annette Wingate now runs a fleet of five vehicles from a new base on The Grove in Harrogate after launching the company from a kitchen table at her home in Follifoot just 18 months ago.

A sixth motorhome is on its way – a seven-berth vehicle which will be added to a fleet which can now cater for families both large and small.

But the latest coup came when Harrogate Motorhomes was chosen as one of six UK businesses promoted by Theo Paphitis, who uses his Twitter feed to give small businesses a national profile every Sunday.

The mention on the Dragons’ Den star’s “Small Business Sunday“ feed earlier this month has now won Harrogate Motorhomes another £15,000 worth of business, another 200 followers on Twitter, a significant increase in website activity and even a number of business propositions.

Annette said:

The response has been astounding.

I was delighted to be chosen as just one of six businesses in the UK to get a mention from more than a thousand who put themselves forward – but I didn’t really expect such an overwhelming response.

It’s helped to ensure 2012 is off to a fantastic start and I’m extremely grateful for Theo’s support.

Harrogate Motorhomes was founded in August 2010 after Annette investigated the possibility of hiring a camper van from a company based in the Harrogate area.

Unable to find one, she decided to launch her own, acquiring a single vehicle and inviting other owners to consider leasing their vehicles to her when they were not in use.

Focusing on friendly customer service and a pet-friendly, fixed-price policy, the company grew quickly through 2011, moving out of Annette’s kitchen to a new base in Kirk Deighton last spring and only recently to a larger home at The Grove in Harrogate.

Annette added:

I’m hoping to create new jobs this year as we’re now able to offer motorhome storage as well,” said Annette. “I’m delighted to have enjoyed such a positive start to 2012 but we won’t be resting on any laurels.

I can’t help feeling there’s been an element of ‘zeitgeist’ so far – but you can’t rely on that in business. Success is normally the result of hard work and I’ll be doing more of that to make sure we keep finding new customers and keeping the ones who have found us already.

Read more:

Read original harrogatenews.co.uk article: Theo Paphitis helps Harrogate firm

Related harrogatenews.co.uk article: Former firefighter blazing a trail in motor homes business

Harrogate Motorhomes in the Yorkshire Evening Post: Tweet from Dragon helps firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the York Press: £10,000 boost for motorhome company

Follow @RentaMotorhome on Twitter

Harrogate Motorhomes in the Yorkshire Evening Post – Tweet from a Dragon helps firm

Annette — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:45:56 +0000

Yorkshire Evening Post > Business Headlines, Published on Monday 16 January 2012 12:21

Tweet from a Dragon boosts firm

Theo Paphitis

A DRAGON has fired up plenty of new customers for a Harrogate business.

The company has received £10,000 worth of new custom and extra online interest after businessman Theo Paphitis, who features on TV’s Dragons’ Den, backed it on his weekly Twitter feed.

Mr Paphitis chose Harrogate Motorhomes as one of the UK businesses to be promoted on his feed which he produces every Sunday.

The firm’s mention on the Small Business Sunday feed gained Harrogate Motorhomes £10,000 worth of business, another 200 followers on Twitter within hours, an increase in website activity and a number of business propositions.

Former firefighter Annette Wingate started the Harrogate Motorhomes business at Follifoot near Harrogate in August 2010, making a turnover of £50,000 in its first year.

She now runs a fleet of five vehicles from a new base on The Grove in Harrogate and a sixth will arrive soon.

Ms Wingate said: “The response was astounding.

“I was delighted to have been chosen as just one of six businesses in the UK to get a mention from more than a thousand who put themselves forward, but I didn’t really expect such an overwhelming response.

“It’s helped to ensure 2012 is off to a fantastic start and I’m extremely grateful for Theo’s support.”

She added: “I’m hoping to create new jobs this year as we’re now able to offer motorhome storage as well.

“I’m delighted to have enjoyed such a positive start to 2012 but we won’t be resting on any laurels.

“I can’t help feeling there’s been an element of zeitgeist so far but you can’t rely on that in business. Success is normally the result of hard work and I’ll be doing more of that to make sure we keep finding new customers and keeping the ones who have found us already.”

Mr Paphitis’s business interests include Ryman and Red Letter Days, and his charitable trust supports good causes.

Read more:

Read the original article in the Yorkshire Evening Press: Tweet from a Dragon boosts firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the Yorkshire Evening Post: Tweet from Dragon helps firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the News: Theo Paphitis helps Harrogate firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the York Press: £10,000 boost for motorhome company

Follow @RentaMotorhome on Twitter

Harrogate Motorhomes in the York Press – £10,000 boost for motorhome company

Annette — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:13:44 +0000

£10,000 boost for motorhome company

Published online 9:46am Friday 13th January 2012 in York Press Business news

A FAST-growing North Yorkshire motorhome company has been given a New Year sales boost by Dragon’s Den star Theo Paphitis.

Harrogate Motorhomes secured £10,000 of new business after being mentioned on Twitter by Mr Paphitis.

The company, set up by former firefighter Annette Wingate 18 months ago, was among the six small businesses to be mentioned by Mr Paphitis in his first “Small Business Sunday” feed of 2012, in which he helps to promote six small businesses every weekend.

Annette said the mention resulted in Harrogate Motorhomes securing £10,000 worth of business in two days, 200 followers on Twitter within hours, as well as a significant increase in website activity and even a number of business propositions.

She said: “The response was astounding. I was delighted to have been chosen as just one of six businesses in the UK to get a mention from more than 1,000 who put themselves forward. But I didn’t really expect such an overwhelming response. It’s helped to ensure 2012 is off to a fantastic start and I’m extremely grateful for Theo’s support.”

The motorhome hire business has grown to £50,000 turnover since 2010 and is about to add a sixth motorhome to its fleet.

During 2011, it moved into new larger premises at The Grove, Harrogate.

Annette said: “I’m hoping to create new jobs this year as we’re now able to offer motorhome storage as well. I’m delighted to have enjoyed such a positive start to 2012, but we won’t be resting on any laurels.

“I can’t help feeling there’s been an element of ‘zeitgeist’ so far, but you can’t rely on that in business. Success is normally the result of hard work and I’ll be doing more of that to make sure we keep finding new customers and keeping the ones who have found us already.”

Read the original article in the York Press online

Read related posts:

Harrogate Motorhomes chosen by Theo Paphitis to win Small Business Sunday Award

Harrogate Motorhomes in the Yorkshire Evening Post: Tweet from Dragon helps firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the York Press: £10,000 boost for motorhome company

Follow @RentaMotorhome on Twitter

@TheoPaphitis #SBS Small Business Sunday Winner

Annette — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 10:42:13 +0000

Harrogate Motorhomes chosen by Theo Paphitis as Small Business Sunday #SBS Winner on Twitter

Theo presents the SBS Winners Certificate to Annette at the SBS Winners Event

On Sunday evenings Theo Paphitis of BBC’s Dragons Den runs a competition on Twitter called Small Business Sunday. To enter, businesses have to send a tweet to @TheoPaphitis between 5:00 & 7:30 pm using the hashtag #SBS. Theo reads all the entries and personally selects his 6 favourite to retweet to his massive list of followers.

His current list of Twitter followers stands at well over 200,000.

He says he started the competition in October 2010 because when he started out as a small business and was working 80 hour weeks, “Sunday evening was the day that I did all my planning so that I could hit the ground running on Monday morning.” Yesterday, 8th January, was the first #SBS competition of 2012 and there were a record number of entries with a total of 1,383 tweets to @TheoPaphitis with the #SBS hashtag by 924 different entrants.

(Statistics courtesy of @virtualbuscent.)

Annette Wingate, who sent one of the 6 the winning tweets chosen by Theo Paphtis said, “I am absolutely delighted to have joined the elite group of #SBS winners. What a cracking start to the year!”

Theo's retweet of Harrogate Motorhome's winning tweet

“Within minutes of Theo retweeting to his 200,000 followers our Twitter timeline went crazy with further retweets and messages of congratulations from hundreds of other Twitter users. The initial response has been overwhelming: our number of followers on Twitter has increased by more than 200 overnight (and rising by the minute), there’s been a massive increase in website hits, we’ve been inundated with emails and enquiries plus one or two interesting business propositions. Within 2 days we had taken more than £10,000 of new bookings.”

The Sunday evening spike in website hits after Theo's #SBS winner retweet

“I’m looking forward to an exciting year ahead for Harrogate Motorhomes; having already outgrown our premises in Kirk Deighton we are moving into larger premises in central Harrogate in February and in March we take delivery of our 6th motorhome, a brand new 7 berth Rollerteam 707. Added to our fleet of 2, 4, 5 & 6 berth motorhomes we’ll have something to suit everyone. When we move to the new location next month we’ll also be adding a new string to the business by offering secure motorhome and caravan storage in central Harrogate and Killinghall.”

Follow Harrogate Motorhomes on Twitter @RentaMotorhome

READ MORE

Harrogate Motorhomes in the News:

Harrogate Motorhomes in the Yorkshire Evening Post: Tweet from Dragon helps firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the News: Theo Paphitis helps Harrogate firm

Harrogate Motorhomes in the York Press: £10,000 boost for motorhome company

Related blog posts:

The SBS Winners Event – When Theo met Theo

Follow Harrogate Motorhomes on Twitter: @RentaMotorhome

West Coast Scotland & Skye Winter Motorhome Itinerary

Annette — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 16:53:02 +0000

We headed off to the West Coast of Scotland and the Isle of Skye at the end of November in our 2 berth Bessacarr E410 motorhome. Many caravan and campsites were closed for the winter but here are a few suggestions for campsite and ‘wild camping’ motorhome sites:

The Camping & Caravan Club site at Moffat (fully serviced hardstanding pitches for motorhomes, open to non-members) is open all year and makes a convenient stopping off point for your first night being around 3 hours from Harrogate, just off the A74(M). It is a tidy site within 2 minutes walk of the many pubs around the market square.

We headed to Oban for opening of the Oban Winter Festival (19th – 27th November 2011. 2012 dates not released yet). Oban Camping & Caravan Park was closed but motorhomes and campervans are allowed to park overnight in the car park next to the Atlantis Leisure Centre car park free of charge. (Visit www.wildcamping.co.uk for great advice on where to free camp.)

Heading north towards Skye we found a super Caravan Club site at Bunree, near Onich (open to non-members). Stunning location with pitches right on the shore of Loch Linnhe. There were only a couple of motorhomes there in November but I would imagine this beautiful site gets very busy in Summer.

Freedom of the open road

The scenery along the road to the Kyle of Lochalsh and over the Skye bridge was spectacular…

Open campsites on Skye were limited. We stayed at Uig Bay Campsite – facilities were basic but it would make a very convenient overnight stop for an early morning ferry to the Hebrides. The bar at the Ferry terminal is not dog-friendly, but the Ferry Inn further down the road welcomes dogs after food service (last orders 8.00 pm).

Kinloch campsite at Dunvegan came highly recommended by previous customers but alas, was closed for the winter.

Instead, we stumbled across a campsite at Slighachan, right next door to the Slighachan Hotel country pub, with a truly impressive 360 degree panorama of the Cuillin mountains. For dramatic views this campsite takes some beating (although it is very exposed to the wind). The campsite was closed but there was a sign saying motorhomes are welcome to stay for free during winter (no facilities). Sadly the pub was closed too (31st Oct – 1st Mar).

Sligachan campsite, surrounded by Cuillins, Isle of Skye

The ever-changing dramatic skies and stunning landscapes make Skye one of the most popluar destinations for motorhomes – and now we understand why. We will definitely return for a longer trip next time.

The Bessacarr E410 was a great little motorhome, and kept us toasty warm in late November. It was fuel-economical too – over the whole trip we averaged 34 mpg. Unlike our Bessacarr e435 the external waste water tank isn’t heated so I wouldn’t recommend this motorhome in the depths of winter, but it is absolutely fine if the temperatures are above zero.

Visit our Facebook photo galleryof our Isle of Skye motorhome adventure.

Sunset, Uig Bay, Isle of Skye

Motorhome Hire Ski Holidays

Annette — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:49:11 +0000

Motorhome hire holidays aren’t just for Summer. With extra-thick insulation, double glazing, thermal windscreen covers, insulated and heated water tanks and dual-fuel central heating systems our super-luxury 4 berth Burstner Elegance or more compact 4 berth Bessacarr E435 will keep you toasty warm, whatever the weather.

Free motorhome winter safety kit

We even provide a snow shovel, snow gripper mats and 16mm snow chains at no extra cost to ensure you comply with European legislation and ensure your safety on your way to and from the ski resorts.

Fully-inclusive motorhome hire for ski holidays

Our simple, fully-inclusive pricing structure includes unlimited mileage, comprehensive insurance for 2 drivers, European breakdown cover and a fully kitted-out ‘winterized’ motorhome including warm bedding, propane gas bottles and much more. The only extra to pay is a £50 per week insurance surcharge if you are travelling to Europe.

Prices are lowest during winter and with our 8 nights for the price of 7 low season special offer hiring a motorhome for your skiing or snowboarding holiday can be a very cost effective way of hitting the slopes. With a motorhome you also have the added benefit that if snow conditions are poor in one resort you will be able to ‘chase the snow‘.

Where can I stay in a Motorhome in Ski Resorts?

Alpe d'Huez

Nearly all ski resorts in Europe have space for overnight motorhome parking, either official motorhome campsites or unofficial ‘free camping’ sites. There are also many privately operated campsites near ski stations and the fees may sometimes include a discount on the lift pass price.

Public motorhome sites may be lower down the valley to keep the ski resort carparks in the center available for visitors. Sites in the resorts may now always have full facilities for water and waste disposal. In France you can always pop lower down to a nearby ‘Aire’ every few days to empty & refill.

Our motorhomes are fully equipped with toilet and shower but you may choose to use the public showers and lockers which are often found at the ski station (tourist offices and official websites can give you info on this). German and Austrian resorts are very well served with toilet and shower blocks.

In Scotland motorhomes are welcome to stay for free in the car park at the Cairngorms Ski Resort and other resorts.

Visit www.motorhomeski.com for an up-to-date resource of motorhome friendly ski resorts throughout Europe, including Scotland. It has details on motorhome pitches, campsites, aires and free camping spots in or near ski resorts, as well as photographs and useful motorhome ski community forums. This site also includes some sensible motorhome ski holiday tips.

Contact us at Harrogate Motorhomes to book your motorhome hire ski holiday or book our ‘fully-winterized’ Burstner Elegance or Bessacarr E435 online.

There’s no place like (a motor) home

Annette — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 17:18:54 +0000

Martin Brennan has been a national motoring journalist for more than 40 years and driven some of the world’s most expensive and exotic cars, but he lost his heart to a six-berth motorhome during a 9 week tour of Europe

Irish Independent, Sunday November 13 2011

I fell in love in the Pyrenees. Beautiful Andorra stole my heart for a number of reasons, the wooded mountains, fast flowing water through deep ravines, and her crowning glory, low, low taxes.

Apart from the stunning scenery, diesel was just €1.10 a litre, Jameson and J&B Scotch under €9 a litre. Happy Christmas everybody. Even the wine is cheaper than in Spanish supermarkets — El Coto Rioja for €3.80 compared to €5.50 in Spain and €15 at home if not on special discount.

There is virtually no crime here, banks are well funded and money flows in from all over Europe to this low-tax haven wedged between France and Spain. The success of this tiny country, it has a seat at the UN, is helped by a virtual year-long tourist season as summer mountain treks give way to skiing in the winter.

But there was even more joy. My navigator through the mountains was, meanwhile, having her own love affair with the low-cost shopping outlets. “Look at the money I saved,” she declared returning with a smouldering credit card after four hours shopping while I stood guard over the generous collection of bottles.

The nine-week continental trip in a camper van started from Rosslare to Cherbourg; took in the magnificent Mont St Michel; delightful La Rochelle; a neat and tidy Royan rebuilt after World War Two; a Biarritz that looked jaded and past its best; spiritual Lourdes and Foix on the French border where cave drawings go back to 8,000 BC. Disappointing French weather in June then gave way to a sunny Spain once we crossed the border after crossing into Andorra.

France will quickly empty your pockets if you take the toll roads and charges in Spain are just as hefty. The trip through Spain saw more crowded campsites as the Dethleffs motorhome headed south through Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Murcia and on to Tabernas, the only desert in Europe, on the very tip of the Iberian peninsula.

The trip back took in Zaragosa, and across the mountains to Toulouse, Limoges, Piriac Sur Mer, San Malo and on to Cherbourg. A trip of almost 5,000 miles.

The great European adventure all began on a rainy day in Donegal the previous February. It had been a long-held dream to hit the open road when office hours gave way to the freedom of contract and freelance work. For years there was banter at home about such ideas with camping firmly ruled out.

Then, in a moment of weakness, her indoors found herself at Donaghey’s huge motorhome and caravan complex in Letterkenny. It was mid-February and the weather almost put a damper on the project. But the range of options was amazing and salesman Gerry, and later owner Michael, were on hand to give useful advice.

Space and comfort were her priorities, driveabiliity and durability were high on my list. Dethleffs, part of the Hymer group, was highly recommended in early research so a six-berth Advantage model with a Ducato multi-jet 130-bhp diesel engine under the bonnet was eventually singled out. High scores were for the ample power, cruise control, captain seats, air-con upfront, big garage, twin gas cylinders and a spare wheel and jack, supplied on request. For her, points went to the full-size three-way fridge with separate icebox, the spacious interior with lots of storage, a good size oven, a three-ring hob, a decent wardrobe and a shower unit you could actually have a shower in.

The first outing was Wexford on a bleak weekend before St Patrick’s day. Too cold, I was warned but with assurances that this model was popular in Norway and could handle minus 20 degrees we headed for St Margaret’s beach campsite at Lady’s Island. “Not open until March 17,” we were told “but come along anyway, there is power and water and I won’t charge as you are first-timers.” What a welcome and the site was well maintained and very hygienic. A return trip is on the agenda before the end of the season to explore more of the lovely scenery around Carne.

Lessons learned on the first outing: Never forget to lock the fridge when on the move. Six smashed eggs swimming around the lounge is not a pretty sight as a furious debate flares about who forgot to do what. Also don’t use a 2000- watt kettle and a toaster at the same time as you are likely to trip the mains supply. “You should have known about that,” is how I remember this discussion, and the eggs incident, starting.

On a much more serious note, be careful with gas appliances. Have the correct wrenches to change cylinders and tighten connections well. The man who told me that ‘finger tight’ screwing the hose to the Catac barbecue was sufficient should have seen the confusion when flames started under the grill as well as over it. “You should have known about that,” was the high-pitched response from inside while I dealt with scorched barbie and scorched food.

The next outing was a trip to Dublin city to experience driving in urban traffic. A costly experience, not using the four mirrors and not used to having such a long rear overhang on the 24-foot body, a lamppost ‘got in the way’. Off to Donaghys for a new fender, luckily only one of the three parts was cracked so replacement was about €170.

A second outing to Lough Arrow touring caravan park on the Sligo/Roscommon border was less stressful and there was a good ‘bring your own booze’ party night on site, a real hearty welcome with lots of campers from north of the Border. Facilities were excellent.

Of course there was a “you should have known about that” incident when a high wind rocked the camper during the night and yours truly had forgotten to lower the stabilisers.

Since owning the Dethleffs, fuel prices have continued to soar so driving strategy is important. As it is a right-hand drive, for the British market, the trip calculations are in mph and mpg. The sixth-gear and cruise control are a big help on journeys. For best results keep to 50mph (80kph), 24-27 miles per gallon. Anything over 100kpm and the needle dips dramatically. It is also the safest speed unless on a good motorway. Beware of crosswinds and being sideswept by trucks.

Because our camper is less than 3.5t weight, an ordinary driving licence is sufficient to drive.

Flushed with our successful outings to date, the Tuscany region of Italy is on the cards for next year.

Some of this article first appeared in ‘Caravan Cruise Ireland’

New 7 berth 707 on the way

Annette — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:41:38 +0000

We’ve ordered a brand new 2012 7 berth Rollerteam Auto-Roller 707. With 7 seatbelts, 7 berths including the very popular rear bunk beds layout and dining for 7 in comfort, the 707 has the perfect layout for families. Our fully-inclusive rates start from £315 for a 3 night break or £735 per week in low season.

The Rollerteam 707 is arriving in March 2012 and will be fitted with a canopy and bike rack for 4 bikes. There is also a useful rear garage for storing all of your outdoor gear.

Online booking is now available (available to book from March 2012) or contact us with your preferred dates to request a quote.

Actual photos will be added to the website as soon as the motorhome arrives – in the meantime here are a few stock pictures and technical details (click on any image to enlarge):

Technical	Specifications
Length:	6.99 m
Height	3.20 m
Width:	2.31 m
Engine:	Fiat Ducato 100 bhp
Fuel:	Diesel
Tranmission:	Manual
Weight:	3500 Kg