glamping village

JOHN FOWLER GROUP ACQUIRES RUDA PARK

Posted on July 31, 2025

JOHN FOWLER Holidays Leadership Team on Croyde Beach

John Fowler Holidays has announced the high-profile acquisition of Ruda Holiday Park at Croyde Bay from Parkdean Resorts, marking a major milestone for the family-run business. The multi-million-pound deal adds one of the UK’s most iconic coastal holiday parks to the North Devon-based operator’s growing portfolio— bringing its total to 14 parks across the South West and Wales.

“This is a landmark day for us,” said Managing Director Martyn Fowler. “Ruda’s location and reputation are second to none, and we’re proud to continue its legacy.” The 300-acre park features 817 pitches, a glamping village, a tropical pool and flume, multiple food and drink outlets, and direct access to Croyde’s blue flag beach—now under John Fowler’s stewardship.

Parkdean Resorts, who owned Ruda for 23 years, said the sale aligns with its strategic goal to reinvest in its wider UK park network. CEO Steve Richards praised Ruda’s staff and legacy, confident John Fowler will maintain its high standards. The deal cements John Fowler’s position as one of the UK’s largest family-owned holiday park groups, with over 800 employees and a turnover of £50 million. Guests with existing Ruda bookings will be contacted directly as the site transitions to new ownership.

STRIKING GOLD WITH AA FIVE-STAR GRADING

Posted on July 31, 2025

LOVE2STAY JOINT MANAGER Charlie Ward with the new AA Five Star grading plaque.

Shropshire’s Love2Stay touring and glamping resort is celebrating after earning a prestigious Five AA Gold Star rating in the 2025 AA Caravan and Camping Awards. Located in Emstrey, Shrewsbury, the luxury resort received an impressive 95% quality score following a recent inspection by AA Hotel and Hospitality Services.

AA inspector Stephen Wilkinson praised the site’s thoughtful layout, top-tier facilities and scenic setting, stating: “The BBQ and pizza oven areas are a great feature, and the open water pool, beach and paddle pool were well used and clearly enjoyed by guests during my visit.”

AN AERIAL VIEW of Love2Stay resort.

Joint manager Charlie Ward welcomed the award as “fantastic recognition” of the team’s hard work and investment. “We pride ourselves on our high standards, customer service and range of facilities that allow guests of all ages to unwind, stay active and reconnect with nature,” he said.

Celebrating its eighth birthday this year, Love2Stay has recently invested £750,000 in five new Severn holiday lodges, adding to its glamping village of safari and woodland lodges. The 22-acre site, set next to parent company Salop Leisure, offers panoramic countryside views and access to a bio pool, cinema, wellness services and outdoor activities.

£750,000 INVESTMENT IN LUXURY GLAMPING RESORT

Posted on May 3, 2025

AN AERIAL VIEW of the Love2Stay touring and glamping resort.

Rising demand for short breaks has prompted Salop Leisure to invest £750,000 in expanding the award-winning Love2Stay glamping and touring resort near Shrewsbury, Shropshire. The investment will fund five new luxury holiday lodges at the popular Love2Stay glamping village, enhancing the resort’s existing accommodation options.

According to Salop Leisure’s joint managing director, Mark Bebb, the 25 to 35 age group is increasingly opting for up to five short breaks per year, driven by a desire for convenience, flexibility, and luxury. “We’re attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond, particularly from Holland,” said Mr. Bebb.

“Guests love our natural cold water bio swimming pool, hot springs, and the chance to reconnect as a family away from technology.” The resort’s appeal extends to multi-generational holidays, with grandparents often staying on the touring park while their children and grandchildren enjoy lodge accommodation.

Families value the opportunity to spend quality time together surrounded by nature. Set within 22 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Love2Stay offers panoramic views of the Shropshire Hills and Wales. Guests enjoy access to a bio swimming pool, splash pool and beach, a cinema, wellness services, and diverse outdoor activities.

Designed by Mr. Bebb to promote tranquillity and wellbeing, the resort aims to help guests “experience the grass between their toes.” Now featuring 27 lodges alongside touring caravan pitches, Love2Stay celebrates its eighth anniversary this May, continuing to deliver five-star luxury escapes for romantic retreats and family getaways alike.