guest experience

KEEPING POOL HEATING COSTS UNDER CONTROL WITHOUT COMPROMISING GUEST COMFORT

Posted on August 4, 2026

Why intelligent heat pump technology is helping holiday parks reduce energy costs while maintaining perfect swimming conditions…

For holiday parks, caravan parks, camping and glamping sites, the swimming pool is often one of the biggest attractions—and one of the largest consumers of energy. Rising utility costs and increasing environmental expectations mean operators are looking for smarter ways to heat their pools without sacrificing guest experience. We spoke to Julien Galot, Head of Sales at Poolstar Group, about how modern heat pump technology is helping leisure businesses improve efficiency while keeping pools at the perfect temperature.

What are the biggest challenges holiday parks face when it comes to pool heating?
Julien Galot: The biggest challenge is balancing guest comfort with operating costs. Guests expect a consistently warm, inviting pool throughout the season, but owners also need to keep energy bills under control. Today’s heat pump technology makes that possible by automatically adjusting output to match demand, ensuring energy is only used when it’s needed.

How does the Megaline Fi differ from a standard pool heat pump?
The Megaline Fi has been designed specifically for larger commercial pools where reliability and efficiency are essential. Its Full Inverter technology, combined with Mitsubishi dual rotary compressors, depending on the pool’s heating requirements. Rather than operating at full power all the time, it works more intelligently, reducing electricity consumption while maintaining stable water temperatures. The unit also features a robust stainless-steel construction with a galvanised steel casing, making it well suited to demanding commercial environments.

How important is remote monitoring for holiday parks?
Increasingly important. Park managers are responsible for multiple facilities, so being able to monitor pool heating remotely saves both time and money. The Megaline Fi includes a large touchscreen interface for on-site control and can also be managed remotely using the Poolex app. Through Poolex Cloud, operators can monitor performance, adjust settings, identify potential issues before they become problems and optimise efficiency throughout the season.

Is installation disruptive?
Careful planning is always the key. Every holiday park is different, so installations are designed around existing plant rooms and operating schedules to minimise disruption. With good preparation, equipment can often be installed with very little impact on guests or day-to-day operations.

Beyond lower energy bills, what benefits can operators expect?
Energy savings are usually the first thing customers notice, but there are wider benefits too. More consistent pool temperatures improve the guest experience, while intelligent controls reduce maintenance demands and help maximise the lifespan of the equipment. For holiday parks looking to invest in long-term sustainability, lower energy consumption also contributes towards reducing their overall carbon footprint.

Is this technology suitable for all types of parks?
Absolutely. Whether it’s a holiday park, caravan park, camping or glamping site, any business operating a commercial swimming pool can benefit from modern inverter heat pump technology. The important thing is selecting equipment that’s correctly sized for the pool and understanding the total cost of ownership, rather than focusing solely on the initial purchase price.

Looking ahead, where do you see the market going?
We’re seeing operators place far greater emphasis on energy efficiency and smarter facility management. Connected equipment that can be monitored remotely, optimised automatically and integrated into wider energy management strategies is becoming the new standard. For holiday parks, investing in efficient heating technology is no longer simply about reducing costs—it’s about future-proofing the business while delivering the level of comfort today’s guests expect.

For more information please visit www.poolstar.fr/en or www. automatedenvironmentalsystems.co.uk

SHOW TIME – THE GLAMPING SHOW 2026

Posted on August 3, 2026

10-12 September 2026 | NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire
THE GLAMPING SHOW 2026 - WHERE OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY BUSINESSES GROW

Visitor registration is now open for The Glamping Show 2026, the UK’s leading trade exhibition dedicated to the glamping, outdoor hospitality and holiday park sectors. Taking place from 10-12 September 2026 at NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, The Glamping Show brings together the products, services, expertise and industry insight needed to develop, expand and future-proof outdoor accommodation businesses.

Whether you operate a glamping site, holiday park, camping destination, leisure venue or are exploring a new investment opportunity, this free-to-attend trade event offers direct access to over 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest accommodation solutions, infrastructure, guest experience products, technology, booking systems, sustainability innovations and operational services.

Visitors can also benefit from a comprehensive seminar programme featuring industry experts, successful operators and specialist suppliers, providing practical advice, market trends and business growth strategies. From luxury lodges, pods and safari tents to hot tubs, furnishings, utilities, site management systems and revenue-generating guest experiences, The Glamping Show is the UK’s most comprehensive marketplace for the outdoor hospitality industry.

WHY EVERY DROP MATTERS THIS SUMMER

Posted on August 3, 2026

WITH HOTTER, drier summers becoming more common, Cistermiser is encouraging holiday park operators to reduce water waste and future-proof their businesses.

Fifty years after the record-breaking drought of 1976 prompted the creation of water-saving specialist Cistermiser, the company says the challenges that inspired its founding are no longer rare events – and holiday parks have an important role to play.

With another exceptionally hot and dry summer placing increasing pressure on UK water supplies, Cistermiser is encouraging operators of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites and glamping destinations to look closely at how water is managed across their sites.

The message comes as climate experts warn that hotter, drier summers are becoming more common, while the Environment Agency has predicted England could face a daily water shortfall of around five billion litres by 2055 unless demand is reduced and new supplies are developed.

For holiday parks, where thousands of guests can use washrooms, shower blocks, toilets and leisure facilities every day during peak season, even small inefficiencies can quickly add up to significant water waste and rising utility bills. Richard Braid, Managing Director of Cistermiser and Keraflo, says water efficiency should become part of everyday site management rather than simply a response to drought.

“The summer of 1976 showed just how vulnerable our water supplies can be and inspired the creation of Cistermiser,” he says. “Today, we’re seeing similar conditions more frequently. Water efficiency needs to be built into the way commercial facilities are designed, upgraded and managed.”

Cistermiser’s range of infrared sensor controls, direct flush systems and intelligent urinal flushing products is designed to ensure water is used only when needed, helping reduce unnecessary consumption without compromising hygiene or the guest experience.

Alongside washroom controls, sister company Keraflo’s delayed-action float valve technology helps prevent overflows and unnecessary replenishment in cold water storage tanks, supporting more efficient water management across larger sites.

For holiday park owners investing in sustainability, reducing operating costs and preparing for increasingly unpredictable weather, Cistermiser believes improving water efficiency can deliver long-term benefits for both businesses and the environment.

As Britain marks 50 years since the drought that changed attitudes to water conservation, the company says the lessons learned then have never been more relevant for today’s visitor economy.

For more information on water-saving solutions and how Cistermiser can help, visit www.cistermiser.co.uk

WHERE COUNTRYSIDE CHARM MEETS FAMILY ADVENTURE

Posted on May 6, 2026

A countryside escape where farm life and family holidays come together...

Set within 100 acres of rolling Somerset countryside, Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park offers a truly distinctive holiday experience that blends traditional farm life with modern holiday park comforts. Established in 1970, this long-standing, family-run destination has been welcoming guests for over five decades, building a strong reputation for warm hospitality, a safe environment, and authentic rural charm that keeps visitors returning year after year.

Owned and operated by Gary and John Bowden, Dulhorn Farm is far more than a holiday park—it is a working farm at heart. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the rhythms of countryside life, where cows graze peacefully in the fields and sheep roam freely across the landscape.

This living, working environment creates a rare opportunity for families—particularly younger visitors—to experience agriculture up close in a relaxed and engaging setting. One of the standout highlights of any stay is the guided tractor and trailer farm tour, which runs throughout the high season.

These tours offer a fun and educational journey across the farm, giving guests the chance to learn more about daily operations while enjoying close-up encounters with the animals. It is an experience that consistently proves to be a guest favourite, often cited as a memorable moment that defines their stay.

WITH OPEN COUNTRYside and dedicated walking areas, Dulhorn Farm is a welcoming destination where four-legged family members are just as included.

A PERFECTLY POSITIONED SOMERSET ESCAPE
Ideally located between the popular seaside resorts of Weston-super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea, Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park offers the best of both worlds. Guests can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the countryside while remaining just a short drive from sandy beaches, traditional coastal attractions, and local Somerset amenities.

This unique positioning makes the park an appealing choice for a wide variety of visitors. Families are drawn to the space and activities, couples appreciate the peaceful rural setting, and solo travellers enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Whether guests are seeking an action-packed family break or a quiet countryside retreat, the park provides a welcoming environment for all.

Importantly, Dulhorn Farm is also proudly dog-friendly, ensuring that four-legged family members are fully included in the holiday experience. With open countryside surroundings and dedicated walking areas, it is a destination where dogs can enjoy the break just as much as their owners.

This living, working environment creates a rare opportunity for families— particularly younger visitors—to experience agriculture up close

INVESTING IN THE GUEST EXPERIENCE
Continuous improvement is a cornerstone of the park’s philosophy. Recent investment has focused on enhancing both guest safety and enjoyment, with the introduction of a brand-new cycle and dog walking path.

This carefully designed route allows guests to explore the park at their own pace—whether on foot, by bicycle, or while walking their dogs. Set against the peaceful Somerset landscape, it provides a safe, traffic-free environment to enjoy fresh air, scenic views, and gentle outdoor activity.

The path has been designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring it is accessible to guests of all ages and abilities. Whether it’s a young family out for a morning stroll or couples enjoying an evening walk, the route adds another layer of relaxation and freedom to the guest experience. The park also benefits from a secure barrier entry and exit system, offering additional reassurance and peace of mind throughout every stay.

A TRUE WORKING FARM at heart, guests can enjoy close-up encounters with grazing cows and sheep roaming freely across the Somerset landscape.

FACILITIES FOR ALL AGES
Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park prides itself on offering a wide range of facilities designed to keep guests of all ages entertained. Children are well catered for with three dedicated play areas, each offering safe and engaging outdoor spaces to explore.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the fishing lake and wildlife pond provide peaceful settings to unwind and enjoy nature. More active guests can make use of two recreational sports fields and the cycle trail, while the indoor gaming area ensures there is entertainment whatever the weather.

One of the most popular experiences remains the tractor rides, which continue to delight guests by offering a closer connection to the farm and its animals. Accommodation options are equally diverse. The park features 175 seasonal pitches, including 11 serviced pitches, alongside 25 hard-standing pitches and 18 grass pitches for touring guests.

In addition, there are four fully equipped self-catering cottages, sleeping between two and six guests, providing a comfortable alternative for those seeking a more traditional holiday stay. Among touring visitors, hard-standing pitches remain the most popular due to their convenience and year-round usability.

ONE OF THE PARK’S highlights, guided tractor and trailer tours offer guests a fun and memorable way to explore the farm and learn about daily life on site.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRUSTED SUPPLIERS
Behind the scenes, the success of Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park is supported by a trusted network of suppliers who help maintain high standards across every aspect of the business. These partnerships play a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a consistently high-quality guest experience.

Tourer Techs Caravan Services Ltd provides expert servicing and repairs for leisure vehicles, helping to ensure touring guests are safe and supported throughout their stay. In House Training & Consultancy delivers essential fire, health, and safety services, ensuring compliance and best practice are always maintained.

SUEZ supports the park’s environmental management and sustainability efforts, while Tim Goddard Electrical provides reliable electrical services across the site. AUK Hygiene supplies professional cleaning and hygiene products, helping to ensure facilities remain clean, safe, and welcoming for all visitors.

A DESTINATION GUESTS RETURN TO YEAR AFTER YEAR
Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park continues to stand out in an increasingly competitive market by remaining true to its roots while embracing thoughtful, guest-focused improvements. Its unique combination of working farm experiences, family-friendly facilities, and peaceful countryside surroundings creates a destination with wide appeal.

From a child’s first tractor ride to a quiet walk through the Somerset countryside, or simply time spent relaxing in a safe and welcoming environment, Dulhorn Farm offers something meaningful for every guest. With its strong heritage, ongoing investment, and clear commitment to guest satisfaction, it is no surprise that visitors return year after year to experience everything this Somerset gem has to offer.

Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park
01934 750298
info@dulhornfarm.co.uk
www.dulhornfarmholidaypark.co.uk

RETHINKING GROWTH IN HOLIDAY PARKS

Posted on May 6, 2026

From Proven Investment to New Revenue Streams...

For today’s holiday park operators, growth is no longer just about adding more units — it’s about increasing revenue per guest and creating experiences that drive repeat visits. A strong example of this can be seen at Concierge Camping in Chichester.

Rather than simply expanding accommodation, the team introduced a new concept: premium “daytime living” cabins positioned alongside motorhome pitches. Working with Palmako, the site installed 10 Grace cabins, equipped with kitchens, refrigeration, and bathroom facilities.

The result is a flexible, high-value offering that enhances the guest experience while increasing the value of each stay. This reflects a broader shift across the sector. Guests increasingly expect more than just a place to stay — they are looking for comfort, convenience, and memorable experiences. For operators, this creates an opportunity to attract new audiences, increase on-site spend, and extend the season.

Beyond accommodation, wellness is one of the fastest-growing areas for revenue generation. Facilities such as saunas, hot tubs, and cold plunge pools are becoming key booking drivers, particularly in off-peak periods, helping parks create premium, bookable experiences. At the same time, additions like pergolas, BBQ huts, and covered outdoor areas can transform how space is used, creating social and functional zones that work in all weather conditions.

The key takeaway is clear: successful parks combine proven investments with experience-led additions to maximise value per guest. Palmako is a leading European manufacturer of high-quality timber structures, helping holiday parks deliver durable, design-led solutions — from accommodation cabins to wellness buildings and outdoor living spaces — that turn investment into long-term value.

PALMAKO
01698 426444
www.palmako.co.uk

"They are absolutely fantastic - and probably one of the best purchases we've ever." -Guy Hodgkin, Concierge Camping

QUALITY WITH LONGEVITY BUILT IN

Posted on May 6, 2026

Pinelog will be exhibiting at the World of Park & Leisure Homes Show this June, showcasing its expertly crafted bespoke timber lodges. Built using premium-grade materials and stress-graded timbers throughout, every Pinelog lodge is designed for exceptional strength, durability, and long-term performance.

The result is a collection of luxury lodges that combine striking design with practicality, comfort, and lasting quality. Alongside a range of standard layouts, Pinelog specialises in fully bespoke designs, allowing each lodge to be tailored to individual requirements.

This makes them ideal for premium holiday parks or as high-quality second homes. With decades of experience in both lodge manufacturing and operating 5-star holiday parks, Pinelog brings unique insight into design, guest experience, and operational excellence.

Visitors can also learn more about Pinelog’s latest luxury lodge design, the Orryn, and explore how craftsmanship and innovation come together in every build.

Pinelog
01246 942842
www.pinelog.co.uk

RAISING THE BAR

Posted on May 6, 2026

MAJOR UPGRADES and new attractions are set to welcome guests at Highfield Grange and Vauxhall Holiday Parks in Spring.

Park Upgrades Keeping Guests Coming Back

In the highly competitive UK holiday park sector, the key to keeping guests returning season after season is continual reinvestment. Operators who regularly refresh their facilities, introduce new activities, and enhance the overall guest experience build loyalty, generate repeat bookings, and stay ahead of market expectations.

Modern holidaymakers increasingly seek parks that combine high-quality accommodation with engaging leisure, entertainment, and dining options. Failing to evolve can leave even established parks struggling to meet rising expectations. Innovation doesn’t always have to mean massive expenditure, but a well-thought-out investment strategy can transform a park’s appeal.

From upgrading play areas and leisure complexes to introducing new sports and interactive attractions, small and large enhancements alike contribute to guest satisfaction. Successful investments often have a dual purpose: elevating the visitor experience while supporting local employment and boosting regional tourism.

Operators who take a proactive approach to upgrades also position themselves strongly in awards, reviews, and media coverage, which further strengthens their reputation and revenue. In this issue, we look at some of the standout examples of investment and upgrades across the UK, from multi-million-pound leisure developments to creative re-imagining of classic park attractions, demonstrating how operators are keeping their parks fresh, exciting, and profitable.

“There is a strong argument for rethinking some of the attractions our industry has long provided – and Footgolf is a perfect illustration of this.” - James Loveridge, Highlands End Holiday Park

Parkdean Resorts - £50M Investment
Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s largest holiday park operator, is set to invest £50 million across its portfolio in 2026, focusing on both facilities and guest experiences. Highfield Grange Holiday Park in Essex and Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth will each receive £5 million in upgrades, introducing new attractions such as indoor adventure golf, upgraded high and low ropes courses, and immersive Bear Grylls escape rooms.

Existing Tots Zones are being expanded, and off-road driving ranges will offer activities for children aged four and over. A new sports bar concept, Hat-Tricks, will combine food and drinks with interactive indoor sports like darts and shuffleboard. Beyond enhancing guest experiences, the investment will generate up to 100 new jobs in the local communities.

Steve Richards, CEO, emphasises the importance of ongoing investment: “Guests return to us year after year because they trust us to deliver the quality and consistency they expect. We are committed to raising standards to remain at the forefront of the UK holiday market.” Parkdean Resorts’ record results and numerous Tripadvisor accolades reflect how a well-planned investment strategy pays dividends, reinforcing both brand reputation and customer loyalty.

INNOVATIVE AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Highlands End’s Footgolf course reimagines a classic park attraction.

Highlands End Holiday Park – Footgolf Innovation
Not all upgrades require huge budgets. At Highlands End Holiday Park in Dorset, marketing chief James Loveridge replaced the traditional pitch-and-putt course with an 18-hole Footgolf course in May 2024.

The result? More than 15,000 visitors have taken part, generating a twentyfold increase in revenue compared with the old course. The course, designed in-house using local suppliers for obstacles, ramps, and themed signage, combines fun with a family-friendly challenge, appealing to both children and adults.

Loveridge believes the success demonstrates that rethinking traditional attractions can refresh guest engagement and create new profit centres. The park’s recognition in the Dorset Tourism Awards highlights the value of innovative thinking combined with minimal investment.

BROTHERS PHIL AND TIM Brierley mark 60 years since their parents pioneered York House Leisure.

York House Leisure – Celebrating 60 Years with £1M Investment
York House Leisure, a family-run group in North Yorkshire, celebrated its diamond anniversary with a £1 million investment across its parks, including residential parks and the popular visitor attraction Monk Park Farm.

The upgrade included a new animal barn and enhancements to existing attractions. Brothers Phil and Tim Brierley, along with sister Heather, emphasise that the business philosophy of constant reinvestment keeps parks appealing while supporting local employment and community engagement. York House Leisure welcomes more than 80,000 visitors annually, and ongoing upgrades ensure both holidaymakers and residential park residents enjoy a high-quality, safe, and enjoyable environment.

These examples highlight that investment and upgrades are not just about adding attractions— they’re about maintaining standards, enhancing experiences, and building guest loyalty. Whether through multi-million-pound leisure complexes, innovative low-cost attractions, or ongoing enhancements to play areas and facilities, UK holiday park operators are demonstrating that reinvestment is essential for long-term success.

From large operators like Parkdean Resorts to family-run groups such as York House Leisure, the message is clear: staying ahead of guest expectations requires vision, creativity, and a commitment to continual improvement, ensuring visitors return year after year.

Highlands End Holiday Park
www.wdlh.co.uk

Parkdean Resorts
www.parkdeanresorts.co.uk

York House Leisure
www.yhlparks.co.uk

WATERPLAY THAT PAYS

Posted on May 5, 2026

SPLASH PADS, pools and waterslides from Ustigate Waterplay keep guests engaged, extending stays and boosting on-site spending.

Transform pools and splash pads into revenue-generating, family-focused experiences...

In today’s competitive UK holiday park market, waterplay is no longer just an amenity—it’s a revenue and engagement engine. Families increasingly seek immersive, inclusive, and weather-flexible experiences that entertain all generations.

Splash pads, tipping buckets, waterslides, and multi-level play structures aren’t just fun—they influence bookings, extend stays, and boost on-site spending. Children often lead the way in holiday decisions, letting parents know that a pool, splash pad, or waterslide can make or break the choice.

Waterplay encourages multi-generational interaction, screen-free fun, and memorable shared experiences. Inclusive designs, such as zero-depth splash pads, allow toddlers, grandparents, and everyone in between to join safely. Outdoor attractions thrive in sunny weather, while indoor facilities ensure year-round engagement, keeping guests active regardless of rain, wind, or cold.

Interactive water attractions also drive revenue. Guests spend more time on-site, returning for multiple sessions, which naturally increases secondary spend on food, drinks, and retail. Parks offering attractions for all ages maximise dwell time while creating communal fun that keeps families engaged throughout their stay.

FAMILIES MAKING MEMORIES on a zero-depth splash pad, where multi-generational fun brings everyone together at a UK holiday park.

Ustigate Waterplay delivers turnkey aquatic solutions that elevate the guest experience. Their Vortex Splashpad® collections, Elevations™ multi-level structures, waterslides, WaveSurfer, NinjaCross, and Vectory™ range provide thrills for everyone. The Safeswap™ system allows operators to refresh splash pads quickly, keeping attractions new and exciting at minimal cost.

Zero-depth designs reduce lifeguard requirements while providing rich sensory play, and partnerships with Vortex International and wiegand. waterrides ensure high-quality, durable products. Waterplay also creates opportunities for creativity and competition. NinjaCross courses, inflatable challenges, swimming lessons, and aqua aerobics foster engagement and unlock additional revenue streams.

Multi-generational play products like Vectory™ encourage grandparents, parents, and children to splash. For operators, the benefits of waterplay are clear: it drives footfall, increases dwell time, differentiates parks in a crowded market, and encourages repeat visits.

Ustigate Waterplay supports operators at every stage, providing full design, build, and maintenance services to ensure attractions are safe, inclusive, and designed to delight. In short, waterplay isn’t just fun—it’s a strategic asset. For holiday parks, it boosts revenue, engages guests, and transforms pools into profit-driving, family-focused destinations. Investing in high-quality waterplay ensures memorable experiences that keep families returning year after year.

Ustigate Waterplay
01322 424445
www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

PARKDEAN ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH COCA-COLA

Posted on May 1, 2026

PARKDEAN RESORTS ANNOUNCES major partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners

Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s leading holiday park operator, has announced a new partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP), the world’s largest independent Coca-Cola bottler. An immediate rollout is underway to introduce CCEP’s soft drinks portfolio across all Parkdean Resorts parks in the UK that feature bars or restaurants.

As part of the partnership, CCEP will invest £1.5 million in new, state-of-the-art equipment for Parkdean Resorts’ bars. Guests will soon be able to enjoy a full range of CCEP products, including Coca-Cola Classic, Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Dr Pepper, Appletiser, and the Schweppes range.

David Morrison, Retail Director at Parkdean Resorts, said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing guest experience across its parks, welcoming over three million holidaymakers each year. He added that the investment will improve both product choice and service quality ahead of the busy holiday season.

Pat Humphries, Associate Director – On Premise at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, said the collaboration is focused on elevating guest experiences and ensuring teams are equipped with high-quality equipment to deliver excellent service. In addition, select parks will relaunch with Parkdean Resorts’ new all-inclusive offering, with prices starting from £25 per adult and £10 per child per day, including three meals and unlimited soft drinks.