Customer stories - meet Mr & Mrs Stephens: “They can’t do enough for you!”

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The Stephens’ have been caravanning for almost 15 years and trading with Winchester Caravans for the last 12. They bought their first caravan at another dealership, but discovered Winchester Caravans in 2011 and haven’t looked back since!

 

WHAT’S YOUR HISTORY WITH WINCHESTER CARAVANS & MOTORHOMES?

We bought our first caravan from another local dealership, but we couldn't get on with the layout, so we started looking for a replacement. When we came across Winchester Caravans (or the Winchester branch of Chichester Caravans as it was then) in 2011 we were really impressed with them. We saw a pre-owned Lunar on their forecourt, went away to think about it and decided to go for it - and by the time we returned to the showroom to see it again, there was a sold sign with our name on it - they just knew we’d be back!

The team is absolutely brilliant, they can’t do enough for you! It’s a family-run business with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Over the years we’ve bought three brand new caravans from them as well as one pre-owned one, and they’ve all been great; any issues we’ve had with the vehicles have always been sorted quickly and efficiently.

We bought our most recent caravan last year; we originally ordered a Bailey Vigo in February 2022, but the Covid supply issues meant that the order could not be fulfilled. However, Zoe in the showroom quickly got in touch to let us know that a Swift Challenger 580 had become available. We checked out the layout, which worked for us, so we bought that instead, and we’re still incredibly happy with our decision a year on.

DO YOU USE THE WORKSHOP AND ACCESSORY SHOP?

Yes we do. If there’s something we need, the accessory shop is our first port of call! The stock is great and the team will always help you find what you’re looking for. We always come out with something, even if it wasn’t what we went in for! There’s so much choice and it's nice to keep adding to your caravan collection. 

We also utilise the workshop for the annual servicing as well as any warranty bits. We had the caravan service in July and had a few warranty jobs sorted out at the same time, which was very convenient. We’ve always found the workshop service absolutely perfect; the lads are spot on and extremely helpful. 

IS THERE A PARTICULAR CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE THAT STICKS OUT IN YOUR MIND?

The whole team is ready to help you with whatever you need at any time, which is great. One example of this was when our caravan was stolen earlier this year. It was taken from our storage facility, and although it was recovered, it was damaged in several areas. When James Southwood found out, he immediately got in touch and offered to store it on his compound where it would be safe. He then got it booked in for repairs in the workshop as soon as the replacement parts came in.

As some of the parts took a while to come in, we weren’t sure if we were going to get it back in time for a planned holiday, so James even offered to let us borrow one of the pre-owned caravans that he had in stock. This showed us what an exceptional all-round service that Winchester Caravans provides; they truly went above and beyond for us!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT CARAVANNING?

We love the freedom that caravanning gives you! It enables us to escape our four walls on the weekends and stops us getting bogged down with jobs around the house. It provides opportunities to see and explore different places and get a break from everyday life. As well as lots of weekends away, we also take longer trips for 7-10 days every now and then and go a little bit further afield.

We often visit places such as Devon, Somerset, Henley on Thames and Old Oaks. We mix it up and go to lots of places and different types of sites, but usually stay within a three-hour drive distance for ease.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE NEXT YEAR? 

We’ve got plenty of trips booked - we have plans up until February. We like to use it throughout the winter to ensure everything is working well and being used. We’re year-round caravanners, it’s lovely and toasty inside throughout the winter as it’s compact and much easier to heat than a house! Probably saves a bit of money too!

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT WINCHESTER CARAVANS & MOTORHOMES?

The entire team’s general helpfulness and the fact that they’re always willing to help you at the drop of a hat. Everyone is so friendly; it’s a family-run business at its core, but the whole team is like family too. We’ve been dealing with them for 12 years and it’s been fantastic -  no complaints at all!

Pop in and see us to experience our exceptional customer service for yourself! You can also browse our range of new and pre-owned caravans online, as well as our new and pre-owned motorhome and campervan selection! Get in touch or give us a call on 01962 714 844 with any questions.

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