This is a show that began in the early 1960’s at Bingley Hall, Birmingham. By the late 1970’s it had moved to the NEC, which had recently been completed. From then on it has become a popular fixture for those looking to what is the latest in leisure vehicles. Motorhomes and campervans were in abundance for those who want to be constantly on the move. Tents and folding campers were all present in large volumes; of interest to those researching or involved in the camping scene. However, this show also presented several holiday home/lodge and park home manufacturers displaying their latest models.
Omar, Pemberton, Atlas, ABI, Regal, Sunseeker, Swift, Wessex and Manor Park Homes were present for the six-day event. Talking points were several new models launched at the show. Pemberton had launched their new value Skydale twin lodge at the Glasgow show a few weeks earlier, but it was at the NEC where it had its first public showing south of the border. This lodge offers plenty of comfort and well-planned layout in its 40 x 20 configuration size. Pemberton also brought a couple of their holiday caravans.
*image courtesy of www.outandaboutlive.co.uk
Sunseeker introduced the brand-new Opulence Renewable 43 x 14, 2 bed. It’s all-electric, including heating, and here, optional solar panels were roof-fitted, making this a gas-free and environmentally friendlier holiday home. The two-bedroom Opulence Renewable is a stunning holiday home with large lounge and practical, yet stylish kitchen area and lavish interior. It has a price tag of £110,000 including the solar panels.
Manor Park Homes introduced their new Manor Bay model from their Signature range on the Allen’s Caravans stand. It’s a twin unit, priced under £200,000. The Manor Bay has a pastel green-finished kitchen and a superb lounge and dining front area. Bathrooms are fitted with a shower in the en suite and a bath in the main bathroom. This new arrival was always busy with visitors who were impressed by its space and opulent feel – a very comfortable home. The Allen’s Caravans stand also featured the latest ABI Beaumont single lodge, re-vamped for the 2024 season with new wood effect furniture instead of the previous grey finish.
Swift were also represented on Allen’s stand with their Vendee lodge; a 43 x 14, 2 bed having a country-styled interior. Also on show was the latest Atlas Debonair 38 x 12, 2 bed. Priced at £63,195, it allowed visitors to inspect a mid-priced holiday home.
Regal Leisure Homes had two models on display, one being the latest Retreat 38 x 12, 2 bed layout. This has a modern interior look with a twist of traditional feel. They also presented the Autograph; a holiday home with a five-star luxury master bedroom. At £89,995, the Autograph also turned heads.
Wessex showed their Inspiration 42 x 20, 2 bed, wooing visitors with its contemporary design and practical, well-equipped kitchen area and luxury large sized double bedrooms.
The Omar stand featured the bespoke Kingfisher 45 x 20, 2 bed lodge with large lounge with high quality settees and the usual Omar up-to-the-minute interior design. There was a
good overall display of lodges and holiday homes which included the Manor Broadway 50 x 22 park home with a price tag of £426,500 fully sited.
The ever-popular Willerby range was boosted by the appearance of their new Gainsborough holiday home, available in three 12ft-wide layouts; the 40ft, 3 bed model topping that range. Two 14ft versions available, giving a bit more space.
The NEC show saw weekend crowds especially coming through the doors in large numbers and though sales were generally down, the show gave the public a chance to see the latest offerings from leading manufacturers of motorhomes, tents, and outdoor leisure equipment. Although the holiday home/lodge area wasn’t as large as in pre-covid years, those present made a significant effort to offer the public a taste of their latest designs.
