DESIGNED FOR ADVENTURE

INVESTMENT IN HIGH-QUALITY outdoor play can help holiday parks improve guest satisfaction, encourage longer stays and generate repeat visits.

Innovative play equipment is helping holiday parks create exciting spaces that children love and parents remember...

Outdoor play continues to be one of the most valued facilities within holiday parks, caravan parks and campsites. For today’s guests, particularly families with young children, a well-designed play area is no longer simply an added extra – it has become an important part of the overall holiday experience.

As competition across the UK holiday park sector continues to grow, operators are increasingly looking at ways to differentiate their parks, encourage longer stays and generate repeat bookings. Investment in high-quality outdoor play can help achieve all three.

A thoughtfully designed playground creates a focal point for families, gives children the freedom to explore and socialise, and allows parents to relax knowing their children are enjoying a safe, engaging environment. Modern playgrounds have evolved far beyond the traditional swings and slides.

QUALITY OUTDOOR play is an investment in guest satisfaction, repeat bookings and long-term park appeal.

Today’s designs are centred around creating immersive experiences that encourage imaginative play, physical development and inclusive participation. Themed equipment, natural materials and interactive features all help create destinations within destinations, encouraging children to return time and again throughout their stay.

For holiday parks, there is also a commercial benefit. Attractive play facilities help strengthen a park’s marketing, improve guest satisfaction and increase positive online reviews. They provide valuable opportunities for families to spend more time on-site, supporting secondary spend across cafés, restaurants and other leisure facilities while reinforcing the overall guest experience.

One manufacturer helping parks create these memorable spaces is Proludic, whose innovative playground designs are found in destinations around the world. A fantastic example is Dunningham Park Playground in Australia, where Proludic has transformed a community play space into a vibrant celebration of coastal life.

THE COASTAL-INSPIRED playground at Dunningham Park demonstrates the power of imaginative design.

One of the playground’s standout attractions is the Surf Van Springer (Product Reference J951®). Inspired by beach culture and surfing, the colourful play vehicle immediately captures children’s imagination, inviting them to jump aboard and create their own seaside adventures. Beyond its visual appeal, the Surf Van Springer has been carefully engineered to support children’s physical development.

Its gentle rocking movement helps improve balance, coordination and gross motor skills while providing an exciting yet safe play experience. Designed to accommodate up to ten children at once, it also promotes cooperation, communication and social interaction through shared imaginative play.

Suitable for children aged two years and above, the equipment demonstrates how themed play can deliver both entertainment and developmental value. Rather than simply providing somewhere to play, it creates memorable experiences that connect children with the character of their surroundings. This approach offers plenty of inspiration for UK holiday parks, particularly those located in coastal destinations.

CREATING DISTINCTIVE play environments helps holiday parks strengthen their family offering and brand identity.

Parks across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Wales, East Anglia and Scotland already benefit from their proximity to beaches and seaside attractions. Incorporating surf-inspired or coastal-themed play equipment can strengthen that identity, creating a stronger sense of place while giving families another reason to choose one destination over another.

Themed playgrounds also photograph exceptionally well, providing eye-catching content for websites and social media while encouraging guests to share their own holiday memories online. In an increasingly digital marketplace, these visual experiences can become valuable marketing assets in their own right.

As guest expectations continue to rise, investment in outdoor play should be viewed as a long-term enhancement rather than a simple facility upgrade. Durable, inclusive and imaginative equipment helps future-proof parks, supports family-focused tourism and reinforces a commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences.

INNOVATIVE PLAYGROUNDS don’t just entertain—they become memorable attractions that enhance the overall visitor experience.

Whether creating an entirely new playground or refreshing an existing space, choosing equipment that reflects the character of the destination can deliver lasting benefits for both visitors and operators alike.

For holiday parks looking to create unforgettable family experiences through innovative outdoor play, Proludic continues to demonstrate how imaginative design, quality manufacturing and inclusive thinking can transform ordinary playgrounds into standout attractions.

For more information visit:
Proludic
01159 823980
www.proludic.co.uk

A thoughtfully designed playground creates a focal point for families, gives children the freedom to explore and socialise...

THOUGHTFULLY designed play spaces encourage exploration, creativity and active play for children of all ages

POLMANTER TOURING PARK TAKES GOLD AT VISITENGLAND AWARDS 2025

The 2025 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence celebrated the very best in UK tourism, with the coveted Camping, Glamping & Holiday Park of the Year category highlighting outstanding parks across the country. This year’s Gold winner was Polmanter Touring Park in Cornwall, with Rebecca and Phillip Osborne proudly accepting the award on stage at the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange.

Joining them were VisitEngland Advisory Board member Allan Lambert and compere Peter Hancock. Polmanter Touring Park has long been recognised for its exceptional customer service, welcoming atmosphere, and outstanding facilities. Its award-winning status reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and creating memorable experiences for visitors.

The Osbornes’ dedication to both the park and the wider tourism community was evident in their heartfelt acceptance, with many praising their attention to detail and passion for the holiday park sector.

Silver was awarded to Mendip Basecamp in Somerset, a site known for its adventurous glamping offerings and family-friendly activities, while Bronze went to Hippersons Boatyard in Suffolk, which impressed judges with its combination of traditional charm and modern facilities.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence continue to showcase the innovation and dedication that make the UK holiday park and glamping sector one of the most competitive in Europe. Winning parks, like Polmanter, set the standard for service, quality, and guest experience, inspiring operators across the country to aim higher.

For holiday park professionals, the awards serve as a benchmark for excellence, proving that attention to detail, creative offerings, and a focus on visitor experience remain the keys to success in this growing and dynamic sector.

The awards serve as a benchmark for excellence, proving that attention to detail, creative offerings...

AWAY RESORTS

Redefining the UK Holiday Park Experience...

In an era when the staycation has become not just a necessity but a lifestyle choice for millions, few operators have done more to reimagine the British holiday park than Away Resorts.

With a fast-growing portfolio of twenty-five locations stretching from Scotland to Cornwall, the brand has become synonymous with creativity, innovation, and a spirit of difference that sets it apart from the competition.

From quirky themed accommodation and digital innovation to sustainability initiatives and an ethos grounded in care, Away Resorts is positioning itself not just as a provider of holidays, but as a disruptor changing the way the UK thinks about leisure breaks.

STANDING OUT IN A COMPETITIVE MARKET
What makes Away Resorts unique? In a crowded sector, the company has developed a reputation for “discover different,” their core brand ethos.

Rather than simply replicating the tried-and-tested caravan or lodge model, Away Resorts has created a portfolio of imaginative accommodation options that delight guests and surprise even seasoned holidaymakers.

From luxury lodges with hot tubs to glamping tents and classic chalets, there’s a style to suit every budget and taste. Standout offerings include Rockstar-themed accommodation with retro touches adding a playful, immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

This sense of creativity and character has become a hallmark of the operator, proving that innovation and fun are as important as convenience in attracting today’s holidaymakers.

ADVENTURE PLAYGROUNDS, POOLS, and activities keep all ages entertained.

VALUES THAT INSPIRE
The company’s vision is simple yet powerful: “to inspire everyone to holiday in the UK.” This vision is underpinned by Away Resorts’ guiding values of being Amazing, Attentive, and Lovers – principles that are woven through every aspect of their parks.

• Amazing: Constantly surprising and delighting guests with new experiences, from themed breaks to exciting park entertainment.
• Attentive: Ensuring the details matter – whether through responsive customer service or well-maintained facilities.
• Lovers: A passionate commitment to their people, customers, and the environment.
• This values-led culture has allowed the operator to foster strong loyalty, not only among guests but also among its workforce of 1,000+ employees.

LUXURY LODGES WITH A TWIST, from hot tubs to themed décor, accommodation is designed to delight.

A DIGITAL-FIRST APPROACH
Holiday parks are no longer places where guests expect to switch off completely from technology. Instead, visitors increasingly demand digital convenience at every stage of their journey – and Away Resorts has risen to the challenge.

More than 65% of bookings are now made online, reflecting the brand’s commitment to ensuring the booking process is as seamless as possible. Significant investment has also been channelled into the Away Resorts App, designed to give holidaymakers real-time access to everything they need during their stay.

From booking activities and checking entertainment schedules to ordering food and drink, the app serves as a digital concierge in your pocket.

AWAY RESORTS’ imaginative approach keeps visitors coming back year after year.

SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION
Modern holidaymakers are increasingly conscious of sustainability, and Away Resorts has taken proactive steps to reduce its environmental footprint.

Initiatives across all parks include:
• Recycling bins and bags provided in every accommodation unit.
• Plastic-free drives, reducing single-use plastics across food outlets and retail areas.
• Broader commitments to energy efficiency and eco-friendly operations (more details can be found at awayresorts.co.uk/about/sustainability).

By embedding sustainability into everyday operations, Away Resorts is not only meeting guest expectations but also aligning with long-term environmental goals that benefit communities across the UK.

THE UK HOLIDAY MARKET TODAY
The rise of the staycation has been one of the defining travel trends of recent years, and Away Resorts has been at the forefront of this surge. The UK holiday market has seen excellent volume growth, with bookings up by 12%, reflecting an appetite for breaks closer to home.

Interestingly, the company notes that last-minute bookings are arriving later than ever, a sign of the changing behaviour of today’s consumers. Flexibility and the ability to respond quickly to demand are crucial, and Away Resorts’ diverse accommodation portfolio and tech-driven booking systems place it in a strong position to capitalise on these shifts.

LEADING THE WAY – With innovation, values, and a playful spirit, Away Resorts is shaping the future of UK staycations.

AMBITIONS FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, Away Resorts remains committed to its role as a disruptor in the UK holiday park sector. The company’s short and long-term goal is clear: to continue innovating and delivering amazing experiences for customers and owners alike.

From a single holiday park business to one of the UK’s fastest-growing operators, Away Resorts has carved out a distinctive space in the market. With twenty-five parks nationwide, a clear ethos of “discover different,” and a passion for pushing boundaries, it is redefining what the British holiday park can be.

By blending imaginative accommodation, sustainability, and digital innovation with strong values and attentive service, Away Resorts isn’t just offering a place to stay – it’s creating experiences that guests can’t wait to repeat. And with the staycation trend showing no signs of slowing down, the future looks bright for this bold and imaginative operator.

Away Resorts
0330 053 7000
www.awayresorts.co.uk

THE LAND LEISURE & TOURISM SHOW 2024…

The Land, Leisure & Tourism Show 2024, held at Birmingham’s NEC from November 5th to 6th 2024 this show is a B2B event for the tourism, leisure, hospitality, and rural industries. Drawing thousands of attendees and featuring more than 400 exhibitors, the show provided a dynamic platform for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and explore innovative solutions.

The event’s comprehensive agenda included over 50 seminar sessions, addressing key industry topics such as sustainability, digital transformation, and design innovations. Notably, discussions on eco-friendly practices and the integration of technology to enhance guest experiences resonated with many participants.

A highlight of the show was the recognition of excellence through various awards. The Farm Diversification of the Year award, sponsored by NFU Mutual, was presented to The Silly Sheep Fibre Company, applauded for its resource maximisation and community spirit.

WHEN VISITING the LLT show you discover new products and services, explore investment prospects and network.

Additionally, Padstow Holiday Village in Cornwall received the Gold award for Holiday Park of the Year, commended for its commitment to environmental practices and achieving B Corp status.

The show also emphasised the importance of future planning and asset management, with seminars like “Futureproofing your assets through strategic review” underscoring the need for strategic and collaborative approaches in the industry.

Overall, the Land, Leisure & Tourism Show 2024 successfully facilitated meaningful conversations, showcased industry innovations, and celebrated achievements, reinforcing its pivotal role in shaping the future of the leisure and tourism sectors.

The 2025 Land Leisure & Tourism Show will take place on 5th & 6th November 2025, register your interest today.

Land Leisure & Tourism Show
www.lltshow.com

PICTURE POSTCARDS FROM THE SHOW…

A HIGHLIGHT OF THE SHOW WAS THE RECOGNITION OF EXCELLENCE THROUGH VARIOUS AWARDS

HOLIDAY PARK OF THE YEAR

Recognises holiday parks, sites and villages that provide exceptional guest experiences across static vans, touring pitches and more.

CAMPING OR GLAMPING SITE OF THE YEAR

Recognises camping and glamping sites that provide exceptional guest experiences across tents, touring pitches, shepherd’s huts and more.

AA REVEALS TOP UK STAYCATION SPOTS FOR 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

THE STAYCATION IS BACK FOR 2025!

More Brits plan to holiday in the UK than travel abroad this year, according to research from holiday park operator Away Resorts. Scotland tops the list of most desirable UK destinations for 2025, followed by the South West and Wales.

Yorkshire, London, and Northern Ireland also rank highly, while the West Midlands was deemed the least desirable. The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 76% feel there are still plenty of UK spots they’d love to explore.

Top motivations for a staycation include rest and relaxation (36%), a change of scenery (26%), and quality family time (25%). Key 2025 travel trends include train travel (21%), nostalgia trips to childhood destinations (18%), and cold-weather “cool-cations” (15%). Solo travel is also gaining popularity, particularly among 25–40 year olds, with 21% planning solo trips, as well as 7% of over 65s.

AWAY RESORT’S PRESTIGIOUS Gara Rock Penthouse.

Inspired by 2024’s UK sightings of the northern lights, 14% of Brits aim to stargaze or chase the aurora borealis this year. Carl Castledine, Founder of Away Resorts, noted, “It’s encouraging to see the appetite for staycations remain strong. The UK offers incredible opportunities for adventure and relaxation in stunning surroundings.”

Planning habits vary, with 37% booking holidays far in advance for better deals, while 17% prefer last-minute spontaneity. This year, 28% of Brits aim to take more UK breaks, with 23% resolving to embark on small monthly adventures.

The staycation trend is alive and well, as Brits rediscover the beauty and variety of their own backyard. Away Resorts is one of the UK’s most-popular holiday park operators, with 25 locations across the UK, including Scotland, Lincolnshire, Isle of Wight, North Wales, Hampshire, Dorset, Cornwall, Hayling Island and Essex.

Away Resorts
0330 127 7834
www.awayresorts.co.uk

 

AWAY RESORTS St Ives Bay Holiday Park.

AWAY RESORT’S Glendevon Residential Country Park.

LANDAL GREENPARKS UK

A market leader in holiday resort management and operations since their inauguration in 1954, the Landal GreenParks portfolio comprises more than 200 resorts in the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, France and Denmark.

20 of these parks are spread across England, Scotland and Wales - from five parks in Cornwall, to the furthest north in Dundee. It’s an impressive portfolio, but one with a common ethos. Getting back to nature is at the heart of the Landal GreenParks business.

Despite its size, there is a priority across the entire organisation towards what they refer to as “sustainable and engaged entrepreneurship.” Each of the parks is located at the “heart of nature” in stunning, natural locations.

And a holiday at a Landal GreenParks resort is one that focuses on offering guests the enjoyment of immersive outdoor adventures from the comfort of top-tier accommodation. Their aim: to deliver “unforgettable holidays in nature.”

MUCH OF THE ACCOMMODATION at Landal Barnsoul is designed to bring nature closer to the interior space.

All parks are Green Key accredited, and parks employs an interdepartmental “Green Team” to ensure global sustainability standards are met. At grassroots level this involves everything from using fewer chemicals to installing LED park lighting, from implementing sustainable procurement to accessible accommodation.

Each step is one closer to Landal GreenParks overall goal of being CO2 neutral by 2030. Landal GreenParks UK, with its Head Office in Norwich, offers a diverse range of resorts. From luxury spas like Landal Dylan Coastal Resort and Landal Laceby Manor Resort & Spa, to resorts that focus purely on accommodation in beautiful natural settings, such as Landal North Lakes and Landal Rockingham Forest.

The resorts primarily feature lodge accommodations, but they also provide a wide selection of cottages and apartments. Recently, the brand has expanded its offerings with more innovative options, such as treehouses, domes, and pods, all centred around high quality and luxury. Many accommodations also feature outdoor hot tubs for added relaxation.

Landal GreenParks operate a pure holiday rental model. Some park owners retain ownership of all the accommodation, whilst others sell lodges to lifestyle investors who want a mix of return and some holiday usage. There is plenty to keep guests entertained.

GWARI SPA BARN at Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa.

Cornish Parks Landal Gwel an Mor and Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa both feature onsite ‘farms’, giving holidaymakers the chance to interact with animals and explore local wildlife. “At Feadon Wildlife Centre in Landal Gwel an Mor, guests can enjoy a variety of unique experiences,” explains Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK.

“These include activities such as a night-time Badger Watch, woodland picnic breakfasts, reindeer walks, becoming a ‘keeper for the day,’ owl encounters, and even fox feeding, making Landal Gwel an Mor an ideal choice for family getaways.”

Additionally, the same park has introduced a Wild Kitchen concept, where guests can enjoy a variety of cooking styles under a retractable canvas and hardwood tent, providing an al-fresco dining experience in any weather. Careful expansion is always on the agenda as Landal GreenParks UK seeks to maximise the experience of their guests and capitalise on the continuing demand for staycations.

“Landal GreenParks UK is always seeking new partnerships to help us innovate and introduce the next generation of holiday resorts,” explains Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK. Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa and Landal Twin Lakes were added to the Landal GreenParks portfolio in 2024, alongside Scotland’s Landal Whitekirk Hill.

FEADON WILDLIFE Centre in Landal Gwel an Mor offers guests many unique experiences.

Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa is set in 450 acres of secluded Cornish countryside close to Bude. The park offers a range of 24-character cottages, barn conversions and a refurbished farmhouse dating back to the 14th century. Currently undergoing a multi-million-pound investment, the resort will see 50-60 new, luxury self-catering units developed over the next two years.

Landal Twin Lakes, which makes the most of its superb setting in Carnforth between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, will also see significant expansion plans over the coming years with 60 units available for rental. Earlier this year, Markus Deutsch, Chairman of Landal Twin Lakes, said: “We’re delighted about the partnership with Landal GreenParks - it’s clear our values align on various levels.

All our lodges are made from timber harvested from sustainable forests and classified as contributing towards UK’s ‘Net Zero’ goal.” Another exciting new development opened in Scotland in late Autumn 2023. Landal Barnsoul, set amongst ancient woodland in Dumfries & Galloway, is believed to be the first architect-led holiday resort in the region.

The accommodation is not only extremely innovative in design, but also underpinned by strong environmental credentials. Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK, said that the organisation had wanted to create a concept holiday resort since launching in the UK and believed that “this site will act as a blueprint for the future of the sector.”

INNOVATIVE AND MODERN accommodation at Landal North Lakes.

He continued: “To help us achieve this objective we have worked with different architects and interior designers to create new lodge styles to offer the very best of modern and innovative living in a wonderful part of the UK countryside. Landal Barnsoul aims to be one of the greenest and most technologically advanced parks in Europe”

The lodges at Barnsoul are designed to combine the outdoor experience of modern glamping, with the interior look and feel of a boutique hotel. Each Landal GreenParks resort is firmly rooted in its local community but with some 6,000 employees across the wider company, the organisation also recognises that having an enthusiastic and motivated team is essential to the success of the business.

Potential challenges affecting all organisations within the sector include rising operating costs and staffing difficulties, especially in rural and remote locations. Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK says: “We are committed to creating an environment that attracts and retains talented staff while leveraging innovation and automation to eliminate repetitive administrative tasks.”

Key initiatives that have been introduced to this end include keyless check-in, digital food ordering and automated facility cleaning. These measures free up staff to focus on what they do best, providing excellent service to Landal GreenParks UK’s guests.

Landal GreenParks Resort
www.landal.co.uk
01603 367 066

COASTDALE PARKS QUEST FOR POD PERFECTION

Coastdale, an award-winning independent parks group, is elevating glamping with innovative two-tier sleeping pods. The family-owned business has invested significantly in glamping facilities across its three seaside parks in Whitby, North Yorkshire; Porthmadog, North Wales; and Hayle, Cornwall.

Peter Brewer notes a “massive swing” towards holidays offering unique experiences, especially among younger families. Glamping provides memorable holiday moments, with high-spec accommodations being particularly popular.

Coastdale, established nearly 50 years ago, has chosen top-tier models from UK manufacturers, including the Platinum S-Pod from Swift Holiday Homes, which accommodates four and features a mezzanine floor, vaulted ceiling, and a deck for al-fresco dining.

Each new pod includes private hot tubs, bathrooms, central heating, and hotel-quality linens. These pods are now located at Whitby Holiday Park, Garreg Goch Caravan Park, and Atlantic Coast Holiday Park. Alongside touring pitches and holiday home sales, Coastdale offers an unmatched array of pod experiences.

Peter emphasises the evolution of pod accommodations, which were once basic but have now become popular first choices for guests. The parks have received quality ratings from VisitEngland and positive reviews from guests, alongside accolades for conservation efforts.

Coastdale Parks
www.coastdaleparks.co.uk

PAWS AND RELAX

A guide on how to boost your bookings through dog-friendly holidays...

As pet ownership in the UK continues to rise, the demand for dog-friendly holiday destinations has surged. For managers and owners of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamp sites, catering to this growing demographic presents a significant opportunity to enhance guest satisfaction and boost bookings.

Here’s how you can transform your holiday park into a haven for dog lovers. The UK boasts one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with around 31% of households owning a dog.

For many of these owners, their furry friends are part of the family, and leaving them behind during holidays is not an option. By offering dog-friendly facilities and services, holiday parks can attract this substantial market segment, ensuring higher occupancy rates and increased revenue.

*ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS*
Ensure that your accommodations are suitable for dogs. This includes durable, easy-to-clean flooring, secure outdoor areas, and ample space for dogs to move around. Providing a welcome pack with essentials like dog bowls, waste bags, and a list of local vet services can enhance the experience.

*SAFE AND SECURE SPACES*
Designated dog exercise areas are essential. These should be securely fenced, allowing dogs to play off-lead safely. Adding agility equipment can make these areas more engaging. Clearly marked dog-friendly walking routes within or near the park can also be a major draw.

*ON-SITE AMENITIES*
Consider adding dog washing stations for guests to clean their pets after a day of adventures. Dog-friendly dining options, such as cafes or pubs where pets are welcome, can also significantly enhance the guest experience. Offering pet sitting or dog walking services can provide added convenience for guests who may need some time without their pets.

*RULES AND REGULATIONS*
Clearly communicate your park’s pet policies. This includes leash rules, areas where dogs are allowed, and waste disposal protocols. Providing plenty of waste bins and biodegradable bags around the park can help maintain cleanliness.

EFFECTIVE MARKETING can help ensure that dog owners are aware of your pet-friendly facilities.

*MARKETING YOUR DOG-FRIENDLY FEATURES*
Effective marketing can help ensure that dog owners are aware of your pet-friendly facilities. Highlight your dog-friendly amenities on your website, in brochures, and across social media platforms. Collaborate with pet-related businesses, such as local pet shops or grooming salons, to create cross-promotional opportunities. Encouraging guests to share their experiences on social media, using specific hashtags, can also help build a community of pet-loving travellers and enhance your park’s reputation.

*PARTNERING WITH LOCAL ATTRACTIONS*
The surrounding area can greatly influence the attractiveness of your holiday park. Partnering with local dog-friendly attractions, such as parks, beaches, and walking trails, can enhance your appeal. Providing information about these attractions, including maps and guides, can help guests plan their activities.

*EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES*
Hosting dog-centric events can create a unique selling point for your park. Consider organising events like dog shows, agility competitions, or pet-friendly festivals. These events can attract visitors, provide entertainment, and foster a sense of community among guests.

 

It’s important to ensure that your staff is knowledgeable about all dog-friendly policies and amenities. Training sessions on how to handle common issues, such as barking or stray dogs, can improve the overall experience for guests. Staff who are comfortable and friendly around dogs can also enhance guest satisfaction.

Maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment is essential for the wellbeing of all guests, including dogs. Use eco-friendly cleaning products and ensure that waste disposal systems are in place to manage pet waste effectively. Regularly inspect and maintain dog-friendly facilities to ensure they are safe and hygienic.

Looking at successful examples can provide inspiration and practical insights. Parks like Trevornick Holiday Park in Cornwall have effectively integrated dog-friendly features and reported increased bookings and guest satisfaction as a result. White Cross Bay in the Lake District are offering dog-friendly lodges with enclosed decking areas, dog exercise fields, and even a dedicated dog shower facility.

DOGS AND THEIR OWNERS are big business which is why thousands of holiday destinations are offering pooch-friendly stays.

White Cross Bay Trevornick Holiday Park has gone a step further by offering dog-friendly beaches, dedicated dog walking fields, and a dog agility course. Both parks highlight their pet-friendly features prominently in their marketing materials, attracting dog owners from across the UK.

Transforming your site into a dog-friendly destination can set you apart from competitors and open up a substantial market of dog-owning holidaymakers. By creating a welcoming environment for pets, offering tailored amenities, and effectively marketing your dog-friendly features, you can enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty, ensuring a successful and prosperous operation.

As the trend for pet-inclusive holidays continues to grow, now is the perfect time to embrace the opportunity and make your holiday park a favourite destination for dog lovers across the UK.

 

SOUTH WEST TOURING SUCCESS

DISPLAYING RECENT AWARDS at the Wareham Park (from left) park managers Adam and Nicky Wake, plus family members Sarah Birch, Tony Birch, Chrissy Bracey and Ben Bracey.

The South West’s top destination for campers and the owners of motorhomes and touring caravans has been officially named as Wareham Forest Tourist Park near Poole. The family-owned business was awarded the top gold accolade against fierce competition in the Camping and Caravanning Park category of this year’s South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

Judges announced their decision at the glittering awards ceremony at the Great Hall of the University of Exeter, attended by finalists and sponsors from the tourism and hospitality industry across SW England. Lynmouth Holiday Retreat near Exmoor beat hundreds of other parks to take the silver accolade in the Camping and Caravanning Park category of the South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

The family-owned business is one of four award-winning holiday parks in Devon, Somerset and Cornwall owned by the family’s 35-year-old business, Coast & Country Parks. The group’s parks provide not just pitches for tents, touring caravan and motorhomes but also luxury holiday homes to own and to rent.

Ian James said everyone was delighted that Lynmouth Holiday Retreat had been singled out by judges as one of the South West’s top destinations for people seeking a perfect rural escape: “What makes us especially proud is that the South West Tourism Award judges looked not just at the quality of our facilities, but also at the high standards of hospitality we provide.

“Delivering this is largely in the hands of our park team, and they deserve a big share of the credit for their crucial role in creating a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere,” said Ian.