facilities

DEVON AMONG WORLD’S BEST

Posted on July 31, 2025

Three North Devon holiday parks have achieved global recognition, earning a coveted spot among the top 10% of destinations worldwide according to Tripadvisor’s prestigious 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards.

Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park, Twitchen House, and Easewell Farm, operated under the Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks brand, have all been named winners in this year’s awards, completing a remarkable clean sweep for the coastal collection.

The Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards are based entirely on feedback from real travellers, recognising accommodations, attractions, and restaurants that consistently receive high ratings. For Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks, it’s a milestone that reflects both quality and consistency.

“We’re absolutely thrilled that all three of our Parks have received the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for 2025,” said Kevin Darvill, Sales and Marketing Director. “What makes this recognition so special is that it’s based entirely on real feedback from our guests. It’s a true reflection of the hard work and passion our team puts into making every holiday memorable.”

ALL THREE PARKS HOLD TRIPADVISOR ratings of 4 stars or higher, scoring particularly well for cleanliness, facilities and location.

That passion includes significant reinvestment in facilities, over £6 million in just two years. This year alone, the group unveiled £3 million worth of upgrades, including the new energy-efficient outdoor pool complex at Woolacombe Bay featuring a twisting flume, splash pad, and multi-lane slide. Meanwhile, Twitchen House introduced the WaveSurfer surfing simulator, further boosting its family-friendly activity offering.

Guests have responded enthusiastically. All three parks hold Tripadvisor ratings of 4 stars or higher, scoring particularly well for cleanliness, facilities, and location. The area’s outstanding natural beauty certainly helps too, Woolacombe Beach is consistently voted one of the UK’s best, and all three parks are within easy reach of its golden sands.

As Devon remains one of the top five counties for overnight visits, standout destinations like these are vital to its thriving tourism economy. With stellar reviews, fresh investments, and unbeatable surroundings, Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks are riding the crest of a wave, one glowing review at a time.

Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park
01271 870 221
www.woolacombe.co.uk

STAND OUT FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS

Posted on July 31, 2025

AKAASPEED scooter isn’t just about the ease or convenience of getting from point A to point B or beginning to end — it’s about enjoying the journey like never before: taking in the beauty, adding to the experience and allowing guests to make the most of their time and enjoy the facilities on offer. A concept surely at the heart of every holiday park stay.

ONSITE TRANSPORT
Holiday park transportation doesn’t have to be a functional necessity, it can be made into a selling point with KAASPEED. Why not have a transport option that inspires, is a talking point and makes a stay at your holiday park interesting and different? All of that doesn’t come without substance. With numerous top-class features, the KAASPEED scooter is regarded as the best in its category.

TOP END MATERIALS
The fun of the ride is backed up with technology and top end materials. The lightweight aircraft aluminium frame, for example, offers unparalleled durability and portability while the high-performance LG cell lithium battery guarantees reliable and long-lasting performance.

ADVANCED FEATURES KAASPEED
outshines with its advanced features and superior functionality. The high-efficiency motor; easy assembly; low maintenance and quick-connect options for multiple optional extras all mount up to make a decent investment. But perhaps none more so than the remarkable fat tyres that make the KAASPEED a scooter that practically rides itself. A 9.5-inch width provides a larger surface area for improved stability and control and make it incredibly accessible for first-time users. It’s suitable for all terrains, from gravelled paths, woodland flooring or the smooth of grass and it’s very forgiving, too.

TOP-TIER RELIABILITY
A high-performance 1000W motor at the heart of the KAASPEED delivers seamless acceleration and top-tier reliability. With advanced torque control and impressive horsepower, the scooter can easily handle an undulating park and go from surface to surface smoothly. It has a maximum torque of 89Nm, which is exceptional. Compare that to the average scooter, which comes in at around 15-20Nm, and you have a viable option for all situations. It really is up to the challenge.

DEMO A KAASPEED SCOOTER?
Why not demo a KAASPEED scooter might be a better way of looking at it! With Reesink e-Vehicles demos are easy to organise, free and arranged at your venue at a time to suit you. It couldn’t be easier!

Reesink e-vehicles
01480 226800
www.reesink-evehicles.co.uk

INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

Posted on May 1, 2025

INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

Compass are specialist providers of insurance to the holiday and residential park industry and have over 40 years’ experience in the sector.

We provide solutions for all of your insurance needs from tailored cover for your park buildings, infrastructure, facilities, machinery, vehicles, employees and liability to bespoke schemes for your private owners and customers as an introducer or appointed representative.

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

FREE RANGE CAMPING

Posted on August 7, 2024

Beth Connor visits Petruth Paddocks, a serene escape in the heart of Somerset...

Nestled on the outskirts of Cheddar, Somerset, Petruth Paddocks offers a charming escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This family-owned campsite is run by Jules, his family and site manager Abby, boasts a welcoming atmosphere, stunning scenery, and a range of accommodations that cater to various tastes and budgets, making it a standout destination for holidaymakers, providing a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.

From the moment you arrive, the welcoming atmosphere at Petruth Paddocks is palpable. The friendly staff greet you with genuine warmth, ensuring that your stay begins on a high note. The park is thoughtfully laid out, with a variety of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets.

Whether you opt for a cozy pitch for your tent, a socialising group pitch, or one of the beautifully furnished glamping options, you’ll find comfort and convenience at every turn. “We spring out of bed to put a spanner in the hamster wheel of work, free from the addiction of social media, and challenge the frantic pace of life today.”

- Jules Sayer One of the standout features of Petruth Paddocks is its stunning natural setting. Surrounded by rolling hills and open fields, the park offers breathtaking views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The well-maintained grounds are perfect for leisurely strolls, while the nearby Mendip Hills provide a more challenging terrain for avid hikers.

TWENTY YEARS IN, Jules, Steve & Team employ thirty people to help run the site.

For families, the spacious play areas and pet-friendly policy make it easy to enjoy quality time together in the great outdoors. The facilities at Petruth Paddocks are top-notch, designed to enhance your camping experience. Modern shower blocks, clean toilets, and well-equipped washing up areas ensure that even the most basic needs are met with ease.

The recycled fire pits are a popular feature, which are delivered direct to your pitch each evening, a perfect opportunity to gather to share stories and perhaps even toast a marshmallow under the starry sky. “We believe we all owe it to ourselves and our children to press pause, relax and appreciate the simpler things in life recharge, reflect, reengage, reset and realign.” - Jules Sayer

For those looking to explore beyond the park, Cheddar Gorge and the charming village of Cheddar are just a stone’s throw away. The iconic gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and ancient caves, offering fascinating tours and breathtaking vistas. The village itself boasts quaint shops, delightful tea rooms, and, of course, the world-famous Cheddar Cheese.

What truly sets Petruth Paddocks apart, is the personal touch and attention to detail. The owners, Jules and the team, are passionate about creating a memorable experience for their guests. Their dedication is evident in the little extras, from the on-site shop stocked with local produce to the organised activities that cater to both children and adults.

PETRUTH PADDOCKS is more than just a campsite, it’s a gateway to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Somerset.

“We achieve that through our friendly, caring team and our thoughtfully created outdoor environment where adults and children alike feel safe, valued, comfortable and grounded.” - Jules Sayer In summary, Petruth Paddocks is more than just a campsite; it’s a gateway to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Somerset.

With its welcoming ambiance, excellent facilities and stunning surroundings, it promises a relaxing and enjoyable retreat for all who visit. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquillity, Petruth Paddocks delivers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Somerset countryside.

Petruth Paddocks
01934 257055
www.petruthpaddocks.co.uk

BLUE FLAGS FLY ON PRISTINE SHORES

Posted on August 6, 2024

SEASIDE AWARDS are presented to the best beaches in England and celebrate the quality and diversity of our coastline.

In total 150 sites – made up of 148 beaches, along with a marina and an inland bathing water - in England have been presented with awards recognising the quality of the sites, the way they are managed and the facilities they offer to visitors. Seventy two beaches across the country met the high standards required for a Blue Flag award - the world’s most recognised award for beaches, marinas and inland bathing waters. The Blue Flag was also achieved by the Royal Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock in Liverpool and Rutland Water in Oakham, East Midlands, which is the first inland water to achieve a Blue Flag, alongside a Seaside Award. Two beaches - Sandbanks in Poole and Oddicombe in Torbay, Devon - have scooped the Blue Flag award every year since it was launched 37 years ago. In order to qualify, each applicant must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria. A further 136 beaches - six of which are newcomers - are proudly displaying Seaside Awards and this includes 60 that have achieved both Blue Flag and Seaside Awards. Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “It’s wonderful to see the flags flying proudly over these 150 fantastic beaches that are a real asset to both residents and from visitors across the country”.

LUXURY GIRLIE STAYS IN SCOTLAND

Posted on May 16, 2024

Girls’ weekends away aren’t new, but more and more female groups are looking for a getaway where they can really get away from everything. A place where there are few people, no nightclubs and definitely no kiss me quick hats!!

Combining luxury, stunning scenery and a quiet bar and restaurant nearby, Loch Tay Highland Lodges, one of Largo Leisure Holidays stunning, Scottish parks in Perthshire, has two unique premium houses perfect for groups looking to relax, reconnect and recharge.

Not only is it the best way to spend time together, but also the best way to clear your own mind and keep your mental health on a high being away from home while still having home comforts. Loch Tay House sleeps up to 10 people, perfect for those big groups of friends to go away together without having to find separate accommodation, meaning you can enjoy each other’s company morning, noon, and night.

The house boasts five beautiful bedrooms, four of which are en-suite, a large upper living room, and its own secluded private garden. As you step outside, the 10-person hot tub and stunning garden views, give you a great place to all relax together for a chilled girl’s night in.

Mill House sleeps up to eight with 4 bedrooms, including similar facilities for your dream girls’ trip. Their downstairs snug TV room is just what you need to sit back with a glass of wine and watch your favourite chick-flick together after an evening in the hot-tub with views of waterfalls which run alongside the property.

Founded in 2003, then in March 2022, the group was acquired by Limerston Capital. Largo Leisure Parks offer award winning glamping and lodge holidays in six stunning areas of Scotland. Each park has its own unique characteristics and offers a varied choice of holiday accommodation to rent and own including self-catering glamping, wooden cabins, cottages, deluxe beach huts, premium lodges, and caravans.

EV RANGE ANXIETY ROADBLOCKS

Posted on October 25, 2023

EV RANGE ANXIETY ROADBLOCKS

Funding support available for holiday park operators...

47% OF THE AVAILABLE public charging network, or 19,044 charge-points, can be found in destination locations.

Identified as the main concern for EV drivers in Zenith’s EVXperience report, range anxiety and the struggle of finding somewhere to charge-up on long journeys, stands as a major roadblock to enjoying an EV staycation. Having the option of charging at your destination, for many, will make the difference between a relaxing family vacation or a weekend trawling the countryside trying to get charged up.

Holiday park operators could be eligible for government grants of up to £14,000 towards the purchase and installation of new chargepoints through the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS). This grant covers up to 75% of the total cost of chargepoint purchase and installation, up to £350 per socket.

Charging tariffs can now be completely customised: you can segment pricing for different groups, like staff and public. Tariffs can be raised during peak hours, and you can even reserve chargepoints for certain visitors at certain times -- meaning you can guarantee your guests will have charging available to them.

Thanks to their recent partnership with Wattif EV, Rolec is in the unique position of being able to offer partial and fully-funded options to EV customers. If you did want to take part in the WCS, applications close at the end of March next year.

TURNKEY SOLUTIONS
Wattif’s 100% fully funded turnkey solution covers the cost of charge-point installation, purchase, maintenance, and software. Meaning you can install charging infrastructure without any risk of investment for the business. Alternatively, you can take advantage of a 50% partially funded option.

If you opt for this alternative, Wattif EV will take responsibility for the cost of installing, maintaining, and operating your charge-point but the initial upfront cost will be shared between the two. According to the International Energy Agency, the number of electric cars on the road globally surpassed 10 million in 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

This trend is expected to continue as more manufacturers invest in electric vehicle technology. Almost half (47%) of the available public charging network, or 19,044 chargepoints, can be found in destination locations. By adding charging to your list of facilities, EV drivers will have the security of knowing that they won’t have to plan their trip around charging, which will encourage them to favour your park for their next short-break or summer holiday.

Rolec
Tel. 01205 724754
E. enquiries@rolecserv.co.uk
www.rolecserv.com

BEVERLEY BAGS DOUBLE GOLD

Posted on August 2, 2023

BEVERLEY BAGS DOUBLE GOLD

A TEAM EFFORT HAS SECURED winning success for Devon-based Beverley Holidays.

The awards cabinet at Beverley Holidays is positively bursting after the family-run holiday park group scooped not just one but two top industry accolades. Based in Paignton, the family-run group overcame tough competition to take the coveted Tourism Business Of The Year title for a second year at the 2023 Torbay Weekly Inspiring Business Awards.

The award follows hot on the heels of further good news for Beverley Holidays which was also recently given AA Gold Pennants – a much-coveted accolade only reserved for the best camping parks in the UK. A recent AA inspection saw it total up a quality score of 90%, a reliable marker more that the standard of quality and variety of facilities offered at the holiday park group is top-class.

Director of Beverley Holidays, Nicola Furneaux, said: “We couldn’t be more thrilled to be adding not just one but two new accolades to our awards total – a much-deserved win for our hard- working team who pride themselves on going above and beyond for our guests”.

BIGGER NOT ALWAYS BETTER

Posted on August 2, 2023

BIGGER NOT ALWAYS BETTER

THE TWO CENTRE RESORT Potters tops the Which? holiday park survey

Butlins, Pontins and Center Parcs were all beaten by smaller independents in the Which? annual survey of holiday park destinations published this summer. The consumer group asked 1,355 Which? members and members of the general public to complete an online survey about their experience of recent stays at UK holiday parks and resorts.

Which? rated 18 holiday parks for cleanliness, accommodation, facilities, customer service, entertainment, food and drink, value for money and costs per night. It was the lesser known names that triumphed over their megabrand rivals in the results which were undertaken from April 2022. Only the top performing parks and resorts have been awarded Which? Recommended Provider (WRP) status.

Respectable marks were attributed to Center Parcs at 72% and Butlins with 71% but Pontin’s could only manage 59% based on reviews of ‘grotty chalets’ and ‘lacklustre’ entertainment. First and second-placed Potters Resorts and Waterside Holiday Group, are both family-run brands that have been in the business for decades. They scored five stars in every category, including customer service and value for money.

Operating for over 100 years, Potters was opened by founder Herbert Potter after he won £500 in a competition. With all-inclusive resorts in Norfolk and Essex, Potters scored top marks with an impressive overall score of 88%. More a resort than a park, accommodation at Potters is in bungalows, hotel rooms and suites. Nudged into second spot with 87%, the small regional brand, Waterside Holiday Group has four luxurious parks, three in Dorset, one in Cornwall.

INDEPENDENTS like Fowlers scored highly in the Which? survey

Their caravans are as classy as they come – at least 3.6 metres wide, with central heating and double glazing, plus fully equipped kitchens and widescreen TVs. Or you can glamp in a safari lodge with a private hot tub. Unlike Potters, Waterside does not offer an all-inclusive rate, meaning visitors pay extra on top to dine at its beachfront bars or restaurants.

A close third, Bluestone Wales attracted a customer score of 81%. Founder William McNamara originally opened up his dairy farm to guests in the 1980s when milk quotas threatened his livelihood. Today this single five-star resort has expanded to a sprawling 500 acres, where rolling countryside meets rugged coastline within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Scoring 78% in fourth spot, John Fowler began in 1953 as one caravan in a field but has expanded to 11 coastal locations across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, with a wide range of accommodations and prices. Like many independents, John Fowler Holidays stood out for its customer service – rated five stars with the Which? verdict: “It’s cheaper than Pontins and about the same price as Butlin’s, but better than both.”

TOP MARKS FOR UK CAMPSITE

Posted on February 15, 2023

TOP MARKS FOR UK CAMPSITE

AA caravan and camping award winners...

 

LEADING CAMPSITES AND CARAVAN PARKS in the UK have been confirmed and are featured in the AA Caravan and Camping Guide

 

The leading campsites and caravan parks in the UK have been confirmed and are featured in the AA Caravan and Camping Guide 2023, out now from AA Publishing. Amongst those celebrating is Silverdale Caravan Park in Lancashire, the AA Campsite of the Year for England and this year’s overall winner.

A rise in eco-friendly camping has shown holidaymakers are looking for environmentally friendly destinations. Camp Katur, winners of the AA Glamping Site of the Year, focuses on upcycling materials with fire pits created from washing machine drums and galvanised bucket washbasins.

Among the regional winners is Beaconsfield Holiday Park, winner of AA Campsite of the Year Heart of England, a purpose-built, family-run park on farmland in open countryside which offers quality in every area. Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Media says: “With people spending their holidays in the UK and exploring the great British countryside, we are thrilled to celebrate the UK’s best campsites for 2022.

“This year’s winners have demonstrated outstanding quality, high levels of customer care and fantastic facilities which meet customers’ growing expectations. “With UK staycations continuing to prove popular among holidaymakers, the AA Caravan and Camping Guide offers an invaluable guide to holidaymakers choosing to stay in a tent, caravan, motorhome, or glamping site.

We hope this new guide inspires people who are set to embark on new journeys.” AA Media connects the UK with travel ideas and rated places to stay and visit. It includes AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, which rates and publishes information about the hospitality industry, including hotels, guest accommodation and restaurants.

They introduced the renowned star rating scheme for quality in 1908 and have inspected restaurants for the Rosette award since 1956. Ratedtrips.com showcases all AA-rated places to stay and visit, and they publish a well-established range of lifestyle publications such as their camping and restaurant guides.

 

MORE HOLIDAYMAKERS are looking for environmentally- friendly locations to pitch their tents and caravans.

 

BEST SELLER
Britain’s best-selling caravan and camping guide provides the very best places for people to take their tent, caravan, or motorhome across the UK. This guide enables travellers to discover over 580 sites from five Pennant premier parks to more affordable options. Now in its 55th edition; being in the guide means the sites have been professionally inspected by the AA’s highly experienced inspection team, it also features AA award-winning parks and.

Top sites with gold and platinum pennants across as well as AA’s Campsite of the year. The guide consistently sells year on year, which demonstrates a loyal readership. Just one or two bookings via the guide covers the outlay of the assessment fee. Inspectors look for best in class in any given region, where the owners and team have created a top-class experience within their site’s grading level.

All winners will feature in the 55th Edition of the AA Caravan & Camping Guide. All the destinations featured in the guide have been inspected and rated by AA professional inspectors, grading sites from one to five Pennants, based on their facilities and hospitality.

Each entry within the guide includes location, ratings, contact details, directions, prices, opening times, facilities, and a description to help holidaymakers select the right site for their needs. Mirroring the increasing popularity of luxury camping, this year’s winners include glamping facilities, including yurts, shepherd’s huts, and vintage caravans. The winners include a focus on family friendliness, eco-friendliness, fishing, best views and sites for lake lovers.