Caravan Park Residency: What You Need to Know Before Staying Long-Term

When you hear caravan park residency, a long-term stay at a licensed caravan or motorhome site, often as a primary home. Also known as static caravan living, it’s not just a holiday—it’s a lifestyle choice for thousands across the UK. Unlike short-term camping, residency means you’re putting down roots: paying monthly fees, using the site’s utilities, and making it your address. This isn’t wild camping. You’re on a registered site with running water, electric hookups, and sometimes even laundry rooms and Wi-Fi.

But not all caravan parks are built the same. Some are quiet, family-run spots near the coast, while others are busy hubs with pools and social clubs. The caravan park amenities, the services and facilities offered at a residential site, like showers, waste disposal, and communal areas make a huge difference. If you’re thinking about moving in, check what’s included—some sites charge extra for power, water, or waste emptying. Others include everything in the rent. And don’t forget the rules: many parks ban pets, restrict guests, or limit how long you can stay each year. The UK caravan site rules, the legal and operational guidelines that govern how residential caravan sites operate in the UK are strict, and breaking them can mean losing your pitch.

Living at a caravan park isn’t for everyone. It’s cheaper than a house in most cities, but you’ll trade privacy for community. You’ll get to know your neighbors, share parking spaces, and deal with noise from nearby pitches. But if you value flexibility, lower costs, and being close to nature, it’s a solid option. Many retirees, digital nomads, and seasonal workers choose this path. You’ll still need to register with a GP, pay council tax (yes, it’s required), and handle insurance differently than a traditional home. Some sites even let you build a porch or garden—others won’t allow so much as a garden gnome.

Before you sign anything, visit the park at different times of day. Talk to current residents. Ask about winter heating, drainage issues, and whether the site gets overcrowded in summer. Look at the site’s license—some are only allowed to operate for part of the year. And remember: while you can live in a caravan year-round in the UK, you can’t just park anywhere and call it home. The caravan park residency only works if you’re on a legally approved site with the right permissions.

Below, you’ll find real guides from people who’ve made the move—covering what to pack, how to handle bills, which parks are best for families, and what to watch out for when signing a contract. Whether you’re thinking about downsizing, retiring, or just wanting a simpler life, these posts give you the unfiltered truth.