Bailey Discovery range

The Bailey Discovery range

Recent years have seen caravans getting smaller, lighter and easier to tow, opening up the hobby to millions more people than ever before. Couple that with the easing of towing restrictions and you’ll start uto see why compact caravans – sometimes referred to as crossover vehicles – are more prevalent now.

Bailey of Bristol introduced its Discovery line-up a few years ago and it’s quite a departure from the manufacturer's traditional offering. With its sporty looks and rugged appeal, you could quite imagine this being pitched up off-grid with the backdrop of snowy mountain peaks. And that’s entirely the point. These vehicles are designed for those who live an active lifestyle but, while some other caravans in this class tend to be aimed at couples alone, Bailey have created models that would suit a growing family.

Those who enjoy being outside in all weathers will appreciate a warm base, something you won’t get if you’re camping under canvas. All Bailey models have the Alu-Tech bodyshell that was developed in 2009 and first seen in its Pegasus line-up. What does that mean? Well, it’s been subjected to cold chamber testing and awarded Grade III classification of EN 1645-1, which is the highest rating for touring vehicles. Heating is via the Truma Combi system.

You can maximise living space by opting for the Thule Omnistor 6300 wind-out awning which can be purchased from Bailey’s sister company, Prima Leisure – it’s an easy-to-use awning and will be the perfect fit so no need to faff about putting them up on the campsite. It gives ample room and adds extra protection from the elements without interrupting the view.

Want to take the bikes? You’ll notice that the Discovery models all have a large drawbar suitable for bike racks – the recommended bike rack is the Thule Superb XT bike carrier which can carry up to two cycles without the need for roof racks or other carriers.

Discovery models have an MTPLM of under 1,300kg, which makes a wider range of petrol, diesel and battery-powered vehicles a suitable match, and, as such, you’re unlikely to have to upgrade your current car. Plus, the aerodynamic shape can lead to greater fuel economy, something you’ll welcome in these lean times!

Its latest line-up includes three models – a two-berth D4-2 and two four-berths, the D4-4 and the newest, the D4-4L.

We headed to Bristol to take a closer look at and see what each model offers.

Visit the website for more info:
baileyofbristol.co.uk

Bailey Discovery D4-2

The D4-2 sleeps two and, for a model of its size, you’d be amazed at how comfortable it is – the seats at the front measure 1.88m and in the evening make up into a great-sized double. Storage is always a consideration when it comes to your home from home and, new for 2023, the Discoverys offer cubbyholes and extra storage in the lounge.

It’s a place to store maps and mementos. The décor is modern, with the same ‘Apollo’ soft furnishings featuring across the range and includes two stylish square scatter cushions.

New developments for this year inside the washroom include a Belfast-style washroom handbasin with mixer tap. If you’ve got an active lifestyle and like to pitch off-grid, you’ll find all you need to get ready for the activities ahead.

In the cab there is air-con, automatic wipers and headlights, Xzent infotainment system (DAB, Bluetooth, sat-nav, reversing camera monitor, etc) and more.

Finishing up in the kitchen, there's a stainless-steel kitchen sink – I like how simple it is. And, for a caravan of this size, you’ll be surprised by how large the fridge/freezer is.

Stow away your wine and reward yourself after a busy day out hill walking. Or cook up something hearty in the Thetford Triplex combination oven and grill.

Bailey Discovery D4-4

The four-berth D4-4 has been part of the line-up since the Discovery first appeared. It sleeps four so it’s ideal for a family and, with a corner double bed with foam mattress measuring 1.90m by 1.32m, it’s not short on luxury. If you want to coordinate the bedding with the rest of the caravan’s cream and blue colour scheme called ‘Apollo’, there’s the option to purchase a set which includes a duvet cover, inner, pillows and covers, fitted sheet, scatter cushions and bed runner.

With an internal length of 5.31m, it’s the longest Discovery model, nearly as long as some of Bailey’s more traditional offerings (for example, the four-berth Unicorn Madrid has an internal length of 5.67m) but, with an MTPLM of around 1,200kg, is much lighter.

The D4-4 is exceptionally spacious, something you’ll welcome if you’re touring with kids. The end washroom runs the full width of the caravan and includes a separate shower and plenty of room for any items a family might need. This is one of the standout features of the D4-4, along with the fixed bed.

Finishing up in the kitchen, there's a stainless-steel kitchen sink – I like how simple it is. And, for a caravan of this size, you’ll be surprised by how large the fridge/freezer is.

The front lounge with its Light Oak, Lana Gray and Anthracite cabinetry keeps this caravan fresh and modern and that’s something that extends across the range. No garish patterns to be found here. It’s simple and stylish, and the skylight window, which is a feature of Bailey caravans, makes the most of the natural light and, of course, the view.

Bailey Discovery D4-4L

The four-berth D4-4L is the latest edition to the Discovery line-up (the D4-3 has now been discontinued), and is a unique proposition for a family who are seeking a flexible layout but one that’s light in weight – an MTPLM of around 1,100kg makes this an even more tempting offer.

As with the other Discovery models,the kitchen is well equipped with a sink, hob, oven and fridge/freezer on the nearside. A small shelf sits above the work surface and here you might want to store your family’s favourite cookbooks.

Facing it is the side dinette, an excellent and unique addition that will please parents who want somewhere for the kids to sit with their various gadgets or toys. You wouldn’t expect to find such features in a caravan of this size and, in the evening, the area transforms into two bunks with a curtain that can be pulled across to stop little ones being disturbed in the night. Parents can transform the front lounge into a double quickly and easily using the slatted bed base.

Much thought has been put into the storage elements across the range, with lockers maximising the full height of the caravan. There’s a wardrobe with designated compartments for ease of organising clothes and a special shoe cupboard underneath, where we imagine dirty wellies (fresh from puddle jumping) will live.

On that note, the carpet is anoptional extra which, given the rugged appeal of these caravans, we’d suggest wouldn’t be necessary and it’s much easier to keep clean without it.

Verdict

This is the second generation of the Bailey Discovery and it’s clear much thought has been put into the needs of a family with plenty of space for them to spread out – all while keeping the weight down. It’s surprising just how much space you get for something that is so compact. There’s no compromise on comfort, either – yes, it’s a utility vehicle but it’s one that’s packed full of features that any couple or modern family will be glad of.