THE UK’S TOP CAMPING AND GLAMPING SITES

The AA Caravan & Camping Awards 2025–26 have once again set the benchmark for excellence across the UK’s camping, glamping and holiday park sector, recognising operators that are raising standards, innovating sustainably and delivering memorable guest experiences at a time when demand for high-quality outdoor stays shows no sign of slowing.

This year’s awards celebrate 13 standout sites across the UK, from coastal touring parks and woodland retreats to luxury glamping destinations, all selected following rigorous inspections by the AA’s expert team. Together, the winners reflect a sector that continues to evolve – balancing affordability with premium touches, and environmental responsibility with commercial success.

At the top of the honours list, St Helens in the Park, North Yorkshire, was named AA Campsite of the Year for England and crowned Overall Winner. The park impressed inspectors with its exceptional facilities, immaculate presentation and consistently high levels of customer satisfaction.

Set within a mature, landscaped environment, St Helens in the Park exemplifies how traditional camping and touring can be elevated through thoughtful design, attentive management and a strong sense of place. The accolade reinforces North Yorkshire’s position as a powerhouse for domestic tourism and highlights how well-run parks can thrive by focusing on quality, community and repeat custom rather than scale alone.

Elsewhere, the AA Glamping Site of the Year title went to Camp de Rêves in Guernsey, Channel Islands. The award recognises the site’s ability to deliver a high-end glamping experience while remaining rooted in its natural surroundings.

WHITEFIELD FOREST Touring Park, Isle of Wight – awarded AA Campsite of the Year for South East England

With demand for glamping continuing to grow among couples and families seeking comfort without compromising on the outdoors, Camp de Rêves stands as an example of how design-led accommodation and strong storytelling can differentiate a destination in a competitive market. Sustainability also took centre stage, with The Quiet Site in Cumbria awarded AA Sustainable Park of the Year.

Long regarded as a pioneer in environmentally responsible tourism, The Quiet Site continues to demonstrate that sustainability and commercial viability are not mutually exclusive. From renewable energy initiatives to waste reduction and nature-first planning, the park shows how long-term investment in green practices can enhance guest appeal while future-proofing the business.

The national campsite winners further highlight the geographic and operational diversity of the sector. Whitefield Forest Touring Park on the Isle of Wight and Old Hall Caravan Park in Lancashire were both recognised as National AA Campsites of the Year, reflecting excellence in customer experience, facilities and location.

Whitefield Forest’s woodland setting and strong connection to the island’s tourism offer underline the value of destination-led marketing, while Old Hall Caravan Park demonstrates how well-established touring parks can continue to evolve and compete through ongoing investment and attention to detail. Regional winners across England also showcased the strength of local operators.

Parks such as Love2Stay Shrewsbury (Heart of England), Alders Caravan Park (North East England) and Treloy Touring Park (South West England) illustrate how tailored offerings – from activity-led stays to peaceful rural escapes – can meet the varied expectations of today’s campers and tourers. Beyond the headline winners, the awards also recognised progress and adaptability within the industry.

HOPTON HOLIDAY VILLAGE, Norfolk – awarded AA Holiday Park of the Year, highlighting excellence in large-scale holiday park operations.

Eye Kettleby Lakes in Leicestershire took home AA Most Improved Campsite of the Year, highlighting the impact of targeted upgrades and responsive management. Hallsdown Farm Touring Park in Devon was named AA Small Campsite of the Year, proving that smaller operations can compete at the highest level through personal service and a clear identity.

Meanwhile, Hopton Holiday Village in Norfolk received AA Holiday Park of the Year, underlining the continued relevance of larger holiday villages within the wider outdoor accommodation landscape. With strong entertainment offerings, accommodation choice and coastal appeal, the park demonstrates how holiday parks can successfully cater to multi-generational audiences while maintaining quality standards.

Hosting the awards, Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Media, noted that British camping and caravan parks are “more inspiring than ever,” offering everything from peaceful rural retreats to dramatic coastal locations. His comments reflect a broader industry reality: guests increasingly expect more than just a pitch or pod – they are seeking experiences, authenticity and reassurance around quality.

All award winners are featured in the 58th edition of the AA Caravan & Camping Guide, reinforcing the continued importance of trusted third-party endorsements in influencing booking decisions. For park operators, recognition from the AA remains a valuable marketing asset, supporting both direct bookings and wider destination visibility.

As the sector looks ahead to the 2026 season, this year’s winners provide a clear snapshot of where the industry is heading: towards higher standards, stronger sustainability credentials and guest experiences that turn first-time visitors into loyal advocates. For holiday park owners and operators, the message is clear – investment in quality, people and purpose continues to pay dividends.

A HIGHLAND HAVEN

Beth Connor visits Loch Tay Highland Lodges...

Tucked away in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Loch Tay Highland Lodges offers visitors an unforgettable escape into nature. With breath-taking landscapes, a wealth of outdoor activities, and first-class accommodation, this scenic retreat provides the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Holiday Park Scene Magazine recently paid a visit to this hidden gem to uncover what makes it such a sought-after destination for holidaymakers. Situated on the banks of the majestic Loch Tay, the holiday park enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and shimmering waters.

The tranquil setting provides an idyllic backdrop for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As we arrived, the still, spring-cool air carried a refreshing crispness, perfectly complementing the serene beauty of the Highland landscape.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges offers a diverse range of accommodations, seamlessly blending comfort with the park’s breath-taking natural surroundings. Guests can choose from glamping domes, premium lodges, and traditional camping pods, each designed to provide a unique yet cosy retreat.

LOCH TAY HIGHLAND LODGES was nothing short of spectacular.

For those seeking a more exclusive getaway, the park’s Exclusive Houses provide spacious, high-end accommodation with stunning views and top-tier amenities. Meanwhile, the Premium Woodland Cabins stand out for their luxury features, including floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the serene Highland landscape and some with Hot Tubs.

Thoughtfully furnished, these hexagon-shaped cabins allow guests to enjoy modern comforts while staying immersed in nature. Their Signature Lodges are the highest, most luxurious grade of accommodation offering, ensuring every traveller finds their ideal stay.

Whether opting for glamping, luxury lodges, or a traditional camping experience, guests can enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and nature at this stunning Highland retreat. Loch Tay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park’s prime location offers a wide range of activities to suit all ages and interests. Guests can take to the water with kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while those who prefer to stay on dry land can enjoy scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, or even archery.

OFFERING PET-FRIENDLY accommodation, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the adventure.

During our stay, we embarked on a guided boat tour of the loch, where we learned about the area’s rich history and if you’re lucky you’ll spot some local wildlife, including ospreys and red deer. For a slower pace, visitors can simply relax by the water’s edge, enjoying a peaceful afternoon with nothing but the sound of nature surrounding them.

No visit to the Highlands would be complete without sampling some local cuisine, and Loch Tay Highland Lodges does not disappoint. The on-site Boathouse Kitchen & Bar serves up a delicious menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Offering hearty comforting evening meals, every dish is a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges is a fantastic destination for families. The safe and spacious environment allows children to explore freely, while the park’s facilities ensure there is never a dull moment. The dedicated children’s play area, 18-hole disc golf course, and wildlife trails provide endless entertainment, making it an ideal choice for family getaways.

Our time at Loch Tay Highland Lodges was nothing short of spectacular. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this Highland retreat offers something for everyone. The stunning location, diverse accommodation options, and exceptional facilities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Scotland.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges
01567 820323
www.largoleisure.co.uk/holiday-parks-scotland/loch-tay