Bailey caravans have been built in Bristol since the late 1940s. This guide covers every current range, how they’re built, the warranty and what to check on a used one.
Bailey caravans are, for many, some of the best-known tourers in Britain. The company has built them in Bristol for over 75 years, and it is still family owned and independent.
Today, Bailey still builds caravans, motorhomes and campervans at South Liberty Lane in South Bristol. It also runs a panel laminating plant in Clevedon. So in total, it employs around 500 people.
The range runs from the compact Discovery to the flagship Unicorn Grande. So there’s a Bailey for first-time tourers and for those after a premium twin-axle.
Every current range comes with an AL-KO chassis, a Sonos speaker and a wireless phone charger.
Entry level
Compact single-axle caravans for up to four people, in three layouts. With a maximum weight of 1,248 kg, they suit smaller and electric tow cars.
Lightweight
Single-axle caravans for up to four, in five layouts. Look out for the large curved front window. Weights run from 1,142 to 1,467 kg.
Family
Eight-foot-wide caravans for up to six people. There are single- and twin-axle models, and each comes with a 130W solar panel.
Entry premium
Bailey’s most accessible premium range, in three single-axle layouts for up to four. The maximum weight is 1,500 kg, with Truma Combi heating.
Premium
Four single-axle layouts for up to four people. In addition, it adds Alde wet radiator heating and a large 137-litre tower fridge.
Flagship
Eight-foot-wide twin-axle caravans, in four layouts for up to four. They come with Alde heating and a 156-litre fridge, at around 1,820 to 1,850 kg.
1947
Martin Bailey builds the first Bailey caravan, the Maestro, in Bristol.
1948
Bailey forms F G Bailey Ltd, making two caravans a week at first.
1977
The Howard family buys the business, which it still owns today.
2010
Alu-Tech construction launches on the Pegasus range.
2012
The Queen visits the factory on her Diamond Jubilee tour.
2016
A large panel laminating plant opens in Clevedon.
Bailey builds its caravans with its own patented Alu-Tech system. Originally, it first appeared on the Pegasus range. Since then, Bailey has built nearly 75,000 Alu-Tech vehicles.
Next, the bodyshell uses a smooth GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) outer skin. Bailey says the system is more robust and durable. In practice, the aim is fewer joints where water can get in.
First, new Bailey caravans come with a three-year manufacturer’s warranty and a six-year bodyshell integrity warranty. The bodyshell warranty covers water ingress, and you can extend it for four more years at extra cost.
However, it needs a yearly service with a damp check. Each service must fall within about six weeks of the purchase anniversary. It must also be done by an Authorised Bailey Service Centre or an NCC Approved Workshop. So keep every service stamp and moisture report safe.
A Bailey suits a wide range of tourers. However, it helps to match the range to how you tour.
Before you choose, check the weight against your tow car. Also, think about where you’ll store it, as wider caravans need more room. The caravan weight limits guide and Caravanning Costs will help you plan.
Used Bailey caravans are easy to find and hold their value well. However, like any caravan, an older one needs checking carefully. Practical Caravan’s used buying guides highlight these points.
The best way to choose is to step inside. First, visit a local Bailey dealer, where you can compare layouts side by side. Then, if you can, go to the Motorhome and Caravan Show at the NEC in Birmingham. It runs each October, and most makers show their new models there.
When buying used, a dealer usually costs more than a private sale. However, you get legal rights under the Consumer Rights Act. Also, many dealers include a habitation check and a short warranty. In contrast, a private sale is cheaper, but the checks are down to you.
Whichever you choose, read Buying a Caravan first, and keep the caravan checklists handy for collection day.
In Bristol. Bailey builds them at South Liberty Lane in South Bristol, with panels made in Clevedon.
The Howard family has owned Bailey since 1977. It remains an independent, family-owned company.
Alu-Tech is Bailey’s own patented bodyshell system, with a smooth GRP outer skin. It first appeared on the Pegasus range.
New ones come with a three-year manufacturer’s warranty and a six-year bodyshell integrity warranty. The bodyshell cover needs a yearly service with a damp check.
The Discovery range is the lightest, at up to 1,248 kg. However, always check your car’s limits first. The guide to matching a caravan to your tow car explains how.
Yes. The Bailey Owners Club has run for over 50 years, and it is independent of the company.
Save campsites, plan upcoming stays and meet other tourers in the Community. Joining is free and takes under a minute.
