Month: February 2025

AA REVEALS TOP UK STAYCATION SPOTS FOR 2025…

Posted on February 12, 2025

As UK travel trends continue to favour local and sustainable tourism, the annual AA Caravan & Camping Awards have announced the top outdoor accommodation spots for the 2024-25 season.

This year’s winners offer the best of scenic retreats and luxurious glamping, with a new Sustainable Park award showing a growing preference for eco-friendly and unique staycations among UK travellers. The awards celebrated 12 exceptional sites across the country, selected by the AA’s expert inspectors for their outstanding quality and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Categories included AA Glamping Site of the Year, AA Campsite of the Year, and AA Most Improved Campsite of the Year. This year’s winners span the UK, from the rich history and sweeping views from the Isle of Anglesey in Wales to the stunning ancient woodlands nestled within the South Downs of West Sussex.

Hosting the awards, Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Media, said, “As local travel continues to grow and sustainable tourism gains momentum, we are excited to announce the best camping and caravanning destinations for the upcoming year.

This year’s winners have demonstrated outstanding quality along with a strong dedication to eco-friendly practices and customer satisfaction, making them excellent options for UK travellers.” All winners of the awards feature in the 57th edition of the AA Caravan & Camping Guide, which is £14.99 and available to buy in bookshops now.

Congratulations to all 2024-25 winners, the full list of this year’s AA Caravan and Camping Awards winners can also be found on RatedTrips.com.

Rated Trips by AA Media
The UK’s top campsites and caravan parks for 2025 | AA RatedTrips.com

OWNERS SHOULD BRACE THEMSELVES

Posted on February 12, 2025

Owners encouraged to take suitable steps to protect their investments...

Following a record number of storms during the last 12 months, static caravan and holiday lodge owners should prepare for an increased risk of storm damage, according to Compass, a specialist provider of caravan and leisure insurance. Strong winds, falling debris and flooding can cause severe structural damage, leaving owners facing costly repairs or replacements.

Recent weather events, such as Storm Ashley and Storm Bert, underscore the importance of taking preventative measures and securing comprehensive insurance coverage, particularly in coastal and rural areas popular with caravan owners.

Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass, said: “Static caravans are vulnerable to extreme weather, due to their fixed nature and exposed locations. We’ve already seen significant amounts of storm damage in 2024, with insurance claims currently exceeding £430,000. *Now that we are entering storm season, caravan owners should take appropriate preventative measures.”

The UK weather is hard to predict and, with flood and storm damage accounting for around 62% of all the claims Compass has received this year**, the company is keen to stress the importance of preparing for all eventualities. To prepare for the unpredictable UK weather, Compass is encouraging static caravan owners to review their insurance policies.

In addition, the company recommends taking steps such as securing the exterior and reinforcing anchoring systems to keep caravans firmly in place during high winds. Loose items, such as garden furniture or decorations, should be removed to prevent them from becoming projectiles in stormy conditions.

Roofs, windows, sidings and seals should be checked for vulnerabilities, with barriers also fitted in areas prone to flooding. Minnear continued: “Unlike bricks and mortar holiday homes, static caravans are particularly susceptible to damage from storms, so being suitably prepared can make all the difference.

As a result, caravan owners should make sure they have adequate insurance in place, as this can significantly reduce stress and financial burden. On top of offering vital protection against storm damage, other benefits can include emergency assistance for repairs, as well as support for alternative accommodation during repair periods.

Minnear continued: “Time is critical when dealing with storm damage. Fortunately, our policies are designed to provide swift support, helping our customers get back to enjoying their static caravans again as soon as possible.”

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compass.co.uk

*Data collected from Compass static caravan/park home claims in the past 12 months

** Figure calculated from Compass static caravan/park home claims from 1 January 2024 to 22 November 2024

On top of offering vital protection against storm damage, other benefits can include emergency assistance for repairs.

PINELOG’S LUXURY ACCESSIBLE LODGES FOR PARKS

Posted on February 12, 2025

Pinelog specialises in crafting luxury timber lodges tailored to the unique requirements of holiday parks, making them an excellent choice for facilities that need high-quality, accessible accommodations for less mobile guests and wheelchair users.

Dovestone Holiday Park has been a valued client of Pinelog for the past decade, benefiting from their luxury lodges. Nestled in the picturesque village of Greenfield in Saddleworth, the park enjoys a prime location adjacent to the stunning Peak District National Park.

Thanks to its luxurious lodgings and exceptional guest experiences, Dovestone Holiday Park proudly holds a five-star rating on TripAdvisor. “At Dovestone Park, we take pride in our customer service and aim to provide all our guests with a worry-free experience.

This commitment aligns with our mission to create a safe haven for those with accessibility needs,” said Sally Buckley, General Manager of Dovestone Holiday Park. With limited accessible accommodation options in the area, Dovestone is dedicated to providing an outstanding experience for all guests.

In 2023, they approached Pinelog to create their first two-bedroom accessible lodge. With guests already lined up for the inaugural stay, the urgency was clear in designing and delivering this much-anticipated accessible lodge for Dovestone Holiday Park.

Pinelog
01246 942842
www.pinelog.co.uk

ACCESSIBLE ESCAPES

Posted on February 12, 2025

Marketing your accessibility the easy way...

Did you know that 87% of disabled people and carers expect there to be accessibility information on a venue’s website? Providing information on what you do – or do not – have enables customers with accessibility requirements to make an informed decision of where to stay and visit.

This includes not just wheelchair users but people who are deaf or have hearing loss, have a sensory or cognitive impairment, older people, families with young children, and more. It is a VisitEngland scheme requirement for participants to have accessibility information on their website, stating the venue’s key accessibility features.

It is a VisitEngland scheme requirement for participants to have accessibility information on their website.

SO HOW CAN YOU PROVIDE THIS INFORMATION?
The best way to do this is to have a specific section on your website, clearly linked to from your homepage. People expect to find accessibility information in a similar place across different websites (as they do with information about opening times or room availability), so this should be easy to locate via the main website navigation menu - not hidden in the footer or an ‘about us’ page.

When naming this section, remember not everyone with accessibility requirements identifies with the term ‘disabled’ so use terminology that is more inclusive such as ‘Accessibility’ or ‘Access for All’. The informative elements you should ensure are available in this section for prospective customers are:
• A warm welcome;
• Contact information;
• Key accessibility features;
• Accessibility Guide, including images of your accessible facilities;
• Accessibility videos and virtual tours;
• Accessibility resources;
• Accessible destination highlights.

KEY ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES
People with accessibility requirements want to easily find out what key accessibility features are available at tourism venues. VisitEngland has led a UK and Ireland-wide project that identifies the features that are most important to people with a range of accessibility requirements.

The list of features has been informed by new consumer research with 800 disabled travellers in Britain and a focus group in Ireland. You can now download a business-type specific questionnaire to help you identify which of these features you have at your venue - ensure you list all available features in your accessibility section.

Don’t feel constrained by this list; add any additional features and services you provide for disabled customers and others with accessibility requirements. If your business is listed on any tourism listing websites (such as online travel agents and local destination websites), these companies may ask you to specify what key accessibility features you offer.

This is so that they can list available features as part of your venue listing on their website and provide customers with the ability to filter venues by these features. In addition to the key accessibility features listed in the downloadable questionnaires; you should also highlight any other useful facilities or information.

This may include:
• Wi-fi availability;
• Information relating to the online booking process and prices, including concession availability;
• Directions to your business;
• Details of any dedicated access sessions and/or events that you offer with tailored support e.g. ‘quiet sessions’, sessions for children with learning disabilities and dementia- friendly sessions. Add them to any ‘What’s On’ listings;
• Any firm future plans for accessibility improvements;
• Customer reviews that mention accessibility, ideally by linking to them on a site like Euan’s Guide for full transparency;
• Details of any accessibility awards you have won or schemes that you belong to.
You may wish to group key features that relate to each of mobility, hearing, visual and neurodiversity.

PEOPLE WITH ACCESSIBILITY requirements want to easily find out what key accessibility features are available at tourism venues.

ACCESSIBILITY GUIDES
Research by VisitEngland in 2022 reaffirmed that today’s travellers want detailed and factual descriptions of venue accessibility, in the form of an Accessibility Guide, to empower them to make personal choices.

An Accessibility Guide provides information on all areas of a venue, giving hundreds of pieces of accessibility information, including measurements and photographs. An Accessibility Guide describes and visually shows the layout of each area of the business, following the route a visitor will typically take from arrival, entering and getting around.

They are particularly useful for people with mobility impairments, but they also include accessibility features of relevance to people with a range of other access requirements. This means there will be some duplication with the key access features you list on your own website.

To support tourism businesses across England to provide robust Detailed Access Guides, VisitEngland has joined forces with AccessAble, a leader in quality accessibility information provision. In addition to outlining your key accessibility features, you should provide detailed accessibility information, with the recommended format being an AccessAble Detailed Access Guide.

You can now use the new AccessAble Your Accessibility Guide portal to book and pay for either a Guided Assessment or On Site Assessment of your venue, where a professional access surveyor will create a quality-assured Detailed Access Guide.

This approach removes the burden and responsibility of collecting information that can be technical, greatly reducing the risk of incomplete and inaccurate information. All guides are published and searchable on AccessAble’s well-established website, currently used by more than six million people a year, and you will also receive an Accessibility Improvement Report as part of the service.

Annual renewal fees also apply and depend on the number of changes at the venue - such as whether you have installed a new bathroom which needs to be re-assessed - but there has been a focus on these being as affordable as possible, starting at £10 + VAT per year. Once your Accessibility Guide has been produced, it is important to link to it prominently from your accessibility section using an AccessAble link button.

www.visitengland.org/access

DARWIN ESCAPES RESORTS

Posted on February 11, 2025

With a portfolio of 26 leading holiday resorts and three golf courses across the UK, Darwin Escapes is one of the trailblazers transforming the UK holiday park industry. Darwin Escapes offers holiday breaks, holiday home ownership and golf breaks with the widest range of holiday accommodation at its resorts, from romantic boutique escapes to luxury lodge retreats and traditional family-focused holiday parks.

With such variety on offer, there is sure to be something to appeal to everyone. “No two Darwin Escapes resorts are the same,” explains Drew Campbell, Director of Operations, “But every resort in our portfolio shares a common aim - to provide the best possible holiday experience for holidaymakers and holiday homeowners.”

“With this in mind, we have created brand new resorts in stunning locations with accommodation and facilities that rival those of 5-star hotels, and lovingly updated our existing sites across the UK.” One resort that is a flagship for the company in terms of the facilities on offer is Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa.

This multi-award-winning park recently scooped the Diamond Award for East of England large park for the third time in the prestigious Hoseasons Awards in November 2024. Norfolk Woods, established in 2019, is situated close to the market town of Kings Lynn in an ideal location for holidaymakers wishing to take advantage of Norfolk’s breath taking countryside and coastal scenery.

DARWIN ESCAPES RESORTS aim to provide the best possible holiday experience for holidaymakers and holiday homeowners

Guests at Norfolk Woods can choose from a selection of stylish and contemporary accommodation including premium lodges with outdoor hot tubs. Open plan in design, the lodges boast the latest entertainment features and kitchen facilities for a luxurious stay.

There is an abundance of on-site amenities and activities on offer at the park including an indoor swimming pool, stylish bar and bistro, outdoor children’s splash park, as well as a superbly equipped spa for adult relaxation. Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa may be fairly new, but it has a rich heritage in the region.

The original site was known as Pentney Holiday Park, a resort designed for touring caravans and camping holidaymakers, which was the home of decades of happy holiday memories. “We wanted to keep our resort as the home for more of those amazing holiday memories for decades to come, but with a new, contemporary and fresh feel,” explains Anne Foulkes, Regional & General Manager of Norfolk Woods.

“Our aim was to retain the gorgeous natural scenery and preserve the site as a true destination, whilst creating Norfolk’s best luxury lodge park.” Luxury lodges are also on offer at Darwin Escapes newest premium development: Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat. Partnering with historic Blenheim Palace, the company has created a range of one-, two- and three-bedroom lodges in the grounds of the stunning Blenheim Estate in Oxfordshire.

NORFOLK WOODS RESORT & Spa boasts great leisure facilities for all ages

The self-catering holiday lodges, which opened in August 2023, feature high-end furnishings and facilities including luxury open-plan dining and living areas, walk-in wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms. Working together with the team at Blenheim Palace, Darwin Escapes were keen to respect both the prestige of the existing site and the local area’s environmental factors.

Each lodge is fully electric and fitted with air-source heat pumps and personal car charging stations to help to reduce impact on the environment. “We’ve ensured our lodge accommodation fits seamlessly into the surrounding landscape near Blenheim Palace,” explains Drew Campbell, Director of Operations.

“We’ve also honoured the heritage with the naming of our lodges – Winston, Hawksmoor, Vanbrugh and Marlborough. This, along with our interior decoration, is a nod to the rich history of the area that awaits guests in their Blenheim lodge accommodation.” Some of the design features of the Blenheim lodges might also be familiar to viewers of the BBC television series Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr.

In the final episode of the 2024 series, the two finalists took on the challenge to design the interior and outdoor space of two of the lodges at the Retreat. Holidaymakers can now choose to stay in one of the two lodges that the finalists designed. Unique accommodation is a feature of many of the Darwin Escapes resorts.

DARWIN ESCAPES RESORTS are available at 26 stunning locations throughout the UK. Pictured, Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat in Poole, Dorset

Amongst the most innovative and desirable are the treehouses available at Rivendale Lodge Retreat in the Peak District, and Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat on the Isle of Wight. These one-bedroom treehouses are designed with couples in mind and feature stylish copper furnishings, fully equipped kitchens with wine coolers and dishwashers, and multi-decked outdoor areas with luxurious sunken hot tubs.

The Darwin Escapes portfolio is managed by a 900-strong team of staff. The head office is based at the Talacre Beach Resort in North Wales, which is one of the company’s leading parks for holiday home ownership. Across the portfolio of 26 resorts, 15 offer holidays only, 3 offer holiday home ownership only, and 8 offer a mix of holiday home ownership and holidays such as at Talacre.

For those looking to buy a holiday home, Darwin Escapes offers a wide range of homes for sale, from static caravans to luxury lodges, to suit all budgets and requirements. Lodge and caravan holidays, meanwhile, are booked through their trusted booking partner Hoseasons, who handle all resort holiday bookings excluding those at Dundonald Links Resort in Ayrshire, Scotland, and Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat, which are booked directly with the resorts.

The team behind Darwin Escapes is constantly on the lookout for exciting solutions to increase their market share and the profile of their resorts amongst prospective buyers and holidaymakers. “Whilst UK holidays have been swept up in the staycation boom, one of the challenges over recent years has been the smaller marketplace for the sales community, with signs of a slight downtrend in holiday home ownership,” explains Shaun Roberts, Group Head of Sales.

THE BISTRO at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa

“One of the ways we have responded to this is by branching out with new marketing adventures. Our appearance on Interior Design Masters is one example, alongside a Win a Caravan competition, increasing our out of home digital screen advertising across the country with particular interest in the North West, and attending more events throughout the year.”

Darwin Escapes are corporate partners with many of the UK’s top business and visitor attractions such as Chester Zoo, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Birmingham Hippodrome, Derby Book Festival and Venue Cymru. These partnerships offer their guests unique opportunities and help to ensure the very best holiday experience when they stay at a Darwin Escapes Resort.

The partnerships also involve giving back to the partner organisations with sponsorship of events and other collaborations. Each resort also chooses their own local charities to fund raise for throughout the year. It’s an innovative plan that’s clearly working in terms of both customer and industry recognition.

INTERIOR OF ONE of the lodges featured on television series Interior Design Masters

Since 2015, the Darwin Escapes resorts have collected a vast range of accolades from Best in Britain to 5-star ratings and regional award titles too. Most resorts have been assigned the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and several are also rated 5 Black Pennant by AA Hotel and Hospitality Services.

All the North Wales holiday resorts have been awarded a 5-star status by Visit Wales, and in England, all resorts have either been given 5-star status by Visit England, or also boast Visit England Gold Awards.

“We are so proud of our award-winning resorts and these achievements are a credit to all of our hard-working teams across the UK, who strive to set the standard in the holiday resort industry,” says Drew Campbell, Director of Operations.

Darwin Escapes
0800 717707
www.darwinescapes.co.uk

A SERENE GETAWAY TO NORTH WALES

Posted on February 11, 2025

Beth Connor visits Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat, a perfect peaceful break...

Some of Wales’ most iconic landscapes and heritage sites can be found in the Dee Valley area. Close to the sandy beaches but surrounded by the stunning mountains it’s the ideal retreat! Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of North Wales, the Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat offers a serene escape for guests looking to unwind in nature’s embrace.

Combining the rustic charm of a traditional lodge with the modern amenities that enhance comfort, this retreat is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity in a natural and historic setting. Located within a stone’s throw from Snowdonia National Park and other iconic Welsh landscapes, the lodge appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples alike.

The accommodation at Plas Isaf are well-designed to blend modern luxury with countryside charm. Each lodge has been thoughtfully decorated with a mix of traditional Welsh character and contemporary comfort, creating a cosy yet refined atmosphere.

From wood-panelled walls to plush sofas and local artwork, every element is curated to enhance the sense of warmth and connection to the local culture. Each lodge includes a spacious living area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a private outdoor area. Many lodges are fitted with fireplaces, perfect for chilly Welsh evenings, adding a comforting ambiance to evenings spent indoors.

OUR HOT TUB HOLIDAY BREAKS are ideal for an intimate getaway for two or for families looking to relax

The lodges also cater to a range of group sizes, making it suitable for couples on a romantic getaway, small groups of friends, or even families. The bedrooms are comfortable and spacious, with high-quality bedding, ample storage space, and, in some cases, en-suite bathrooms. The bathrooms are fitted with modern fixtures and come stocked with premium toiletries, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

Some lodges even offer private hot tubs, which are a real treat after a day of exploring the rugged landscapes of North Wales. Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is well-equipped with a range of facilities aimed at enhancing the guest experience. The retreat offers high-speed Wi-Fi, which is convenient for guests who need to stay connected, although the surrounding environment encourages a digital detox.

The private outdoor areas are a highlight, with many lodges featuring outdoor seating, barbecues, and scenic views, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty around them. For guests staying in lodges with hot tubs, the experience is elevated even further, as there’s nothing quite like soaking in a warm tub under the stars after a day spent hiking or sightseeing.

The retreat offers communal spaces, including a reception area with knowledgeable and friendly staff who are always ready to help with directions, local recommendations, or even provide a map for nearby walking trails. There are options for laundry facilities, which can be particularly useful for longer stays, especially for guests who partake in outdoor activities.

ALL DARWIN ESCAPES resorts are pet-friendly

While the lodge does not have an on-site restaurant, the fully- equipped kitchens make self-catering easy, and nearby towns offer a variety of dining options, from quaint cafes to classic Welsh pubs serving local delicacies. One of the standout features of Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is its proximity to some of North Wales’ most stunning natural attractions.

Located a short drive from Snowdonia National Park, the lodge is an excellent base for those looking to explore the majestic mountains, lush forests, and scenic lakes of the region. Popular nearby trails include the paths leading up to Mount Snowdon, where hikers are rewarded with breath taking views.

Other nearby natural attractions include the Conwy Falls, Lake Bala, and the Gwydir Forest, each offering unique opportunities for hiking, fishing, and photography. The lodge is also a short distance from historical landmarks and charming Welsh towns. Betws-y-Coed, a picturesque village known for its quaint architecture and riverside views, is just a short drive away.

Here, visitors can explore local shops, art galleries, and cafes. Additionally, the castles of Conwy and Caernarfon are within driving distance and provide a fascinating glimpse into Welsh history, architecture, and culture. These attractions make Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat a fantastic choice for those looking to combine outdoor activities with cultural exploration.

IT’S A PLACE to disconnect and soak in the scenery

Staying at Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is a memorable experience that captures the essence of North Wales. The lodges’ rustic charm paired with modern comforts make it a perfect choice for travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, and with the abundance of natural beauty surrounding the area, it’s hard not to feel inspired by the landscape.

The outdoor spaces and hot tubs add an extra layer of luxury, creating a spa-like atmosphere that enhances relaxation. One of the most appreciated aspects of the retreat is the friendly and attentive staff. Their local knowledge, willingness to provide recommendations, and eagerness to help make guests feel welcomed and well-cared for.

The attention to detail in the lodges, from the decor to the amenities, reveals a commitment to quality that is rare to find, making each stay feel special. Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat in North Wales is an excellent choice for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Its location, amenities, and thoughtful design make it suitable for a variety of travellers, whether they are seeking adventure in the Welsh wilderness or simply hoping to unwind in a cozy setting. While the lodge may be a bit remote for those looking to stay connected to city life, the seclusion is precisely what many guests love about it.

It’s a place to disconnect, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the quiet beauty of North Wales. Overall, the Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat combines the rustic appeal of a traditional lodge with modern luxuries, creating a memorable getaway. Whether enjoying a sunrise over the mountains from your private deck or unwinding in the hot tub under the stars, a stay here is bound to leave a lasting impression.

Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat
www.darwinescapes.co.uk/plas-isaf
01352 961506

MOUNTAIN RESCUE TEAM NEARS FUNDRAISING GOAL

Posted on February 11, 2025

The Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team has moved closer to its dream of building a new headquarters, thanks to a £3,000 donation from Park Cliffe, a family-owned holiday park in Windermere.

The funds were raised over the past year through initiatives like a popular duck race, charity raffles supported by local businesses, and guest contributions via the park’s collection box. Park Cliffe added a final £400 to round off the donation.

Currently, the Duddon and Furness team is the only one among the ten Lake District mountain rescue groups without a permanent, purpose-built base. A new HQ would provide crucial facilities, including a warm space for volunteers returning from challenging rescues on the fells.

Park Cliffe owner Susan Dickson expressed pride in the efforts of their team and guests: “Many of our visitors are avid walkers who value the life-saving work of mountain rescue teams. Their generosity will help bring this goal closer and support these incredible volunteers,” she said.

In addition to supporting the rescue team, Park Cliffe celebrated its own achievements this year, winning the Federation of Small Businesses 2024 regional award for sustainability.

200 FREE HOLIDAYS TO MILITARY FAMILIES FOR 2025

Posted on February 11, 2025

Parkdean Resorts has pledged to increase its support for the armed forces next year by donating over 200 holidays worth over £150,000 to members of the military community and their families in 2025.

Throughout 2024 Parkdean Resorts donated 185 holidays across 21 of its award-winning holiday parks through partnerships with the Army Central Fund, Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

Breaks were awarded in recognition of the beneficiaries’ service and to support military personnel in need of respite and recuperation. Parkdean Resorts have donated over 860 holidays worth almost £450,000 to armed forces families since 2021.

Parkdean Resorts also holds an esteemed Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, the highest accolade a company can receive for its veteran-friendly recruitment processes and development opportunities.

Additionally, next year Parkdean Resorts will sponsor the Armed Forces Families Advocate(s) of the Year Award at the Celebrating Forces Families Awards. This award ceremony recognises the often-overlooked achievements and significant supporting roles played by military families.

WOOD LEISURE HOLIDAY PARKS EXPANDS WITH SIXTH PARK

Posted on February 11, 2025

Wood Leisure's FASKALLY WOOD LODGES in Pitlochry.

Wood Leisure Holiday Parks has acquired its sixth location, Faskally Woods Holiday Park in Pitlochry, with a seven-figure funding boost from the Royal Bank of Scotland. This expansion is set to create 20 local jobs, supporting the region’s economy.

Founded in 1981, the family-run business operates five award-winning parks across Scotland, all holding five-star status. Known for bespoke caravans and lodges, the parks cater to families, walkers, and getaway seekers. Sustainability is a core focus, with green initiatives like solar panels, EV charging, and biomass heating systems. Director Rachel Wood celebrated the acquisition, highlighting the family’s journey from a single park to a £10m turnover business.

She praised Royal Bank of Scotland’s support in helping bring their high standards of service and sustainability to the picturesque Perthshire park. The Royal Bank’s Jack Malcom commended the Wood family’s entrepreneurial spirit and looks forward to the success of their newest venture.

£3 MILLION UPGRADE FOR WOOLACOMBE BAY

Posted on February 11, 2025

Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks is set to launch its luxurious Emerald caravans in 2025, part of a £3 million investment to meet rising demand for high-end caravan holidays, which has grown by 77% over five years.

The caravans, in prime locations with stunning views, offer 15% more space, en-suite master bedrooms, family bathrooms with tubs, fully-furnished interiors, and private decking with gas barbecues. Pet-friendly options are also expanding, reflecting a 72% rise in families traveling with pets.

This includes designated caravans, dog-friendly café bars, and the popular Woof Park play area. New attractions for 2025 include a Wavesurfer simulator at Twitchen House and an energy-efficient outdoor pool with a splash pad.

Upgraded dining options will feature extended café bars with quality, affordable meals. Woolacombe Bay’s facilities across its three parks offer something for everyone, from spas and swimming pools to water activities like Aqua Inflatables.

The parks’ commitment to reinvestment ensures top-tier experiences at reasonable prices. To make holidays more accessible, an interest-free monthly payment plan launches in 2025, with early booking discounts saving up to £300 and family stays starting from just £99.