A static caravan is a factory-built holiday home, generally smaller and more affordable than a lodge, sited on a licensed holiday park rather than on land you own outright. Gloucestershire's parks offer a range of ages and sizes, from older pre-loved models to brand new two and three-bedroom units.
Gloucestershire's holiday parks are found around Cheltenham, Stroud, Tewkesbury and the Forest of Dean, giving easy access to the Cotswolds, the Wye Valley and the River Severn. Many buyers use their caravan as a weekend or seasonal retreat within easy reach of the M5.
Before buying, check the park's site fees, season length and any restrictions on personal use, since a static caravan is a holiday home rather than a permanent residence. Ask to see the site licence and written agreement so you understand exactly what's included in the price.
Most Gloucestershire parks operate under a holiday-use site licence, which usually restricts how many weeks a year you can stay and rules out using a static caravan as your main residence. Check the specific licence conditions for each park before buying if you're planning to use it regularly outside peak season.
Site fees vary by park, size of plot and facilities on offer, and are usually charged annually. They typically cover ground rent, communal area upkeep and access to on-site facilities, so always ask for the current fee and how it's reviewed each year before committing to a purchase.
Standard mortgages don't apply to static caravans, but many buyers use a leisure or holiday-home loan, a personal loan, or finance arranged directly through the park or manufacturer. Compare rates carefully, since terms can vary considerably between lenders.
Most parks charge a resale or assignment commission, so it's worth checking the resale terms in your written agreement before you buy, including how commission is calculated and whether you're free to market the caravan yourself.
This varies by park and by caravan, but typically includes the unit itself, decking or steps, and connection to mains services. Always get a written breakdown from the park of exactly what's included in the advertised price and what counts as an optional extra.