After we sold our Forest River C Class RV we knew we definitely needed another motorhome, but what would fit the bill? It had to be small enough to negotiate the highways and byways of Europe and we wanted to get off the beaten track. We love the freedom of choice a motorhome gives and we didn't want to have to stay on campsites. We had a look at van conversions in the dealerships and they didn't suit our requirements for full-timing. In the end we chose Wildax. A UK company based in Elland, near Huddersfield. The layout of the Aurora fitted the bill and the owner, Duncan Wildman worked with us to make the our modifications we requested. We love our Wildax and get lots of positive comments from travellers that we meet. We did experience teething problems early on and we have made additional modifications since we purchased the van. We also made trips up to Elland in the early days to get additional work done. This wasn't really a negative, Duncan always worked with us to make sure things we right and we both had very high standards and lots of experience.
Visiting the Factory
Elland doesn't feature in the guidebooks and we have visited a few times since 2010. This isn't an exhaustive guide and the last time we went was in September 2012 but you may find this useful. If you have been recently and would like me to include any information you can offer, please contact me.
The town is very conveniently located close to junction 24 of the M62. (Map below). The factory is located at the edge of town and there is a Morrisons Supermarket opposite.
In the town itself there are several banks, cafes, pubs and small shops. There is an excellent bric-a-brac type shop on the edge of the square opposite The Halifax Bank. He sells a 10L food container. Dispose of the lid and it makes a perfect washing up bowl for the van.
If you're looking for somewhere to eat; aside from the pubs and cafe's we have seen a very nice looking French Restaurant called La Cachette. We've never eaten there but it looks lovely. There is a wonderful Italian Restaurant called Da Sandro near Junction 24 of the M62 going towards Huddersfield. We have eaten there several times in the past and not been disappointed. Finally, if you like Indian food Ashiana in Elland itself is absolutely first rate. Genuine Indian food. Delicious.
For places to stay Duncan Wildman recommends Elland Hall campsite. This is ideal for staying and testing everything out on your Wildax. Follow the campsite's directions on how to get there, not a sat nav or Google Maps. Local knowledge is sound on this!
Finally we have walked the Calder and Hebble Navigation which passes through Elland. This is a lovely walk or cycle ride-whatever the weather.
If you are thinking of buying a Wildax, or if you already own one, we have found the shared knowledge and experiences of fellow owners to be very useful.
The town is very conveniently located close to junction 24 of the M62. (Map below). The factory is located at the edge of town and there is a Morrisons Supermarket opposite.
In the town itself there are several banks, cafes, pubs and small shops. There is an excellent bric-a-brac type shop on the edge of the square opposite The Halifax Bank. He sells a 10L food container. Dispose of the lid and it makes a perfect washing up bowl for the van.
If you're looking for somewhere to eat; aside from the pubs and cafe's we have seen a very nice looking French Restaurant called La Cachette. We've never eaten there but it looks lovely. There is a wonderful Italian Restaurant called Da Sandro near Junction 24 of the M62 going towards Huddersfield. We have eaten there several times in the past and not been disappointed. Finally, if you like Indian food Ashiana in Elland itself is absolutely first rate. Genuine Indian food. Delicious.
For places to stay Duncan Wildman recommends Elland Hall campsite. This is ideal for staying and testing everything out on your Wildax. Follow the campsite's directions on how to get there, not a sat nav or Google Maps. Local knowledge is sound on this!
Finally we have walked the Calder and Hebble Navigation which passes through Elland. This is a lovely walk or cycle ride-whatever the weather.
If you are thinking of buying a Wildax, or if you already own one, we have found the shared knowledge and experiences of fellow owners to be very useful.
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Location of Wildax factory from M62
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View Elland Pins showing location of Elland Hall campsite and restaurants mentioned above
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Photos taken by Duncan during the build process
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