guest satisfaction

MAKING A SPLASH

Posted on July 31, 2025

Unlocking the potential of swimming pool at your site...

From serene morning swims to chaotic family splash sessions, swimming pools have long been a key draw for holidaymakers across the UK.

Whether it’s the thrill of a flume, the sensory joy of a splashpad, or the luxurious calm of a hot tub, aquatic attractions continue to be a powerful way for holiday parks to boost appeal, increase bookings, and improve guest satisfaction.

But in 2025, swimming pools are not just about water, they’re about experience, safety, accessibility and even profitability.

"Swimming pools are not just about water, they're about experience, safety, accessibility and even profitability."

A POOL IS JUST THE BEGINNING
A well-designed pool area is more than a place to cool off. It’s a hub of activity, a selling point on brochures, and increasingly, a profit centre in its own right. That’s where specialists like Ustigate Waterplay come in.

Their installations go beyond traditional pools to create immersive aquatic play spaces that work for all ages and abilities — even where space or staffing is limited. Ustigate’s innovative splash pads, for instance, are especially well suited for holiday parks. Because they don’t have any standing water, they require no lifeguards, and are therefore low-maintenance, safe, and accessible.

They’re perfect for outdoor play areas and create fantastic visual impact, with over 15 features capable of running from the same water management system as a traditional pool. According to Ustigate, the modern pool experience should not “stand alone.” It should be part of a broader strategy to maximise fun, inclusivity, and efficiency in every square foot.

Their installations often include lazy rivers, interactive water cannons, and customisable water features designed by their long-standing partner, Vortex Aquatic Structures International Inc, who offer a portfolio of over 300 products. We create a space that entertains a multitude of guests simultaneously, whether that’s kids racing through water tunnels, teens battling with spray cannons, or families relaxing under shaded structures by the pool.

FOR LEISURE OPERATORS, water testing isn’t just a routine task, it’s a critical part of keeping guests safe and happy.

TESTING TIMES
However fun or visually impressive your aquatic offering might be, nothing is more important than safety and that starts with the water itself. Enter The Tintometer Ltd, who provide vital equipment for routine and regulated water testing in pools and spas.

Their Lovibond® MD150 photometer is fast becoming a go-to for leisure operators across the UK, especially in parks with multiple facilities or hot tubs in private lodges. The MD150 allows for accurate and efficient testing of chlorine, bromine, pH, calcium hardness, alkalinity and cyanuric acid — all with a user-friendly digital interface.

Crucially, it also helps parks comply with HSG282, the Health and Safety Executive’s guidance for hot tubs and spa pools — which are now widely featured in glamping pods, luxury lodges and cabins. “Accurate, fast testing isn’t just about compliance,” says a spokesperson from The Tintometer Ltd.

“It’s about protecting your guests, your staff, and your reputation. The MD150 gives operators the tools they need to meet the high expectations of health officers, insurers and today’s savvy holidaymakers.” The device’s portability makes it ideal for large sites, and ongoing service and calibration support helps ensure long-term performance and peace of mind.

SPLASH ABOUT provide bespoke retail solutions and branded products, giving your swimming pool facilities the retail wow factor.

TURNING POOLS INTO PROFIT CENTRES
Swimming pools have traditionally been considered a cost centre — expensive to maintain, staff and heat. But what if they could generate income too? That’s the question answered by Splash About, who are helping holiday parks across the UK transform poolside areas into high-performing retail spaces.

Working with over 85% of UK holiday park operators, including household names like Haven and Center Parcs, Splash About brings what they call “retail theatre” to poolside merchandising. Their formula is simple but powerful: great products, clever displays, and a smart stock management system.

From UV-protective wetsuits and swim nappies to toys and goggles, Splash About offers a full range of swim and water play products. These are merchandised on custom-designed, durable displays that thrive in the humid, high-traffic poolside environment. Their unique back-end portal system even automates reordering, keeping shelves looking full without overloading on-site storage.

“This approach works,” says Managing Director Lesley Beach. “Some of our partners have seen poolside retail quadruple, moving pools from cost centres to profit centres.” For holiday parks looking to add a revenue stream without expanding their footprint, this is a proven solution.

THE YORKSHIRE SPA RETREAT were crowned overall Winner of Holiday Park Pool of the Year in the 2023 UK Pool & Spa Awards.

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE
Of course, the holiday park industry is filled with innovation, creativity and quality — all of which are celebrated at the UK Pool & Spa Awards. These prestigious awards recognise excellence in design, management, and customer experience across all sectors of the wet leisure industry.

For holiday park operators, it’s a chance to benchmark standards, discover new suppliers, and even gain a valuable marketing edge by being shortlisted or winning an award.

From eco-conscious filtration systems to high-tech water features and inclusive splash zones, the awards provide a snapshot of the very best in British pool design and operation.

If you’re proud of your pool facilities, whether newly installed or lovingly maintained, the UK Pool & Spa Awards are a brilliant opportunity to showcase your efforts and earn industry recognition.

A USTIGATE SPLASHPAD is great because it offers water play without water depth, making it inclusive, accessible, safe and fun for everyone.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
The way guests use pools is changing. They want more than just a dip, they want experiences, comfort, and personalisation. Meanwhile, operators need to balance this with safety, staffing, sustainability, and space constraints.

Today’s swimming pool offering needs to work hard, not just during peak summer weeks but year-round, come rain or shine. That might mean adding a heated splashpad for shoulder season appeal, investing in automated water testing to free up staff time, or turning your poolside into a miniature high street.

Whatever the size or style of your site, there are now smarter, safer, and more profitable ways to use aquatic facilities to their fullest. Whether you’re running a coastal caravan park, a woodland glamping retreat or a luxury resort, your pool can be a standout feature — one that guests remember, share, and return for. Now might just be the time to dive in!

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Lovibond Water Testing
www.lovibond.com

Splash About
www.splashabout.com

Ustigate Waterplay
www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

UK Pool & Spa Awards
www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

FULLY MANAGED

Posted on July 31, 2025

A New Fully Managed WiFi Service for Parkdean Resorts...

Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s leading holiday park operator, runs 65 parks across England, Scotland, and Wales. Each year, over 3 million guests and 20,000 homeowners rely on its WiFi.

Reliable WiFi is essential—not just for guest satisfaction and loyalty, but also for operations like mobile payments, ordering, and team support. When the old system had reached its limit, Wifinity stepped in to upgrade the infrastructure, boosting performance for both guests and staff.

WIFINITY PROVIDED
• Great connectivity for guests, employees and secure operations
• Simplified guest WiFi user experience
• Premium ‘paid for’ and freemium tiers
• Scalable network to cope with park expansion
• Fully managed service
• Cost effective integration with existing infrastructure

Site surveys began in 2019 and continued through the 2020 COVID-19 closures. Parkdean Resorts used the downtime to restructure and upgrade its WiFi, preparing for growth, expansion and rising guest demand. The upgrade included a direct-to-van (DTV) setup with Cambium backhaul, Ruckus access points and a fully branded captive portal for easier guest access.

A corporate SD-WAN delivers high-speed local internet for cloud services, while a VPN overlay links to private datacentre systems. Both corporate and guest networks are fully managed by Wifinity, which ensures performance, handles network operations with Parkdean, and provides 24/7 UK-based support—so staff can focus on giving guests a great holiday.

THE GUEST USER JOURNEY
• “One and done” process: User connects to login page
• Key lasts indefinitely: Account created key shown and sent
• Works with any device: Home-like connection process
• No interruptions: No need to re-login or re-enter the password

Most of the park is covered, allowing guests to roam without drop-offs, and staff devices stay connected too. During its first full season with the new guest WiFi solution:
• More than 500,000 individual accounts were created
• The premium, paid service generated added revenue
• There was a 400% increase in devices using the optimised DPSK user journey
• Customer satisfaction ratings increased
Wifinity and Parkdean continue to collaborate to improve service and respond to feedback, aiming for a successful 2025 and high guest satisfaction.

THE UPGRADE NOW DELIVERS WIFINITY PROVIDED
• Park-wide, high-speed internet access
• Corporate WiFi service with firewall to run EPOS, guest services and corporate devices
• Automatic onboarding for corporate managed devices with certificate-based network authentication for Parkdean Resorts’ MDM services
• Streaming and entertainment across devices
• High quality VOIP and video calls, supporting remote working
• Home-like guest onboarding using DPSK
• Free or premium ‘paid for’ options
• Flexible plans by day, weekend, week, month or year
• Fully branded Park Connect service
• 24/7 customer services, co-branded communications, help guides
• Monthly service reviews, for customer satisfaction and troubleshooting
• Proactive issue identification and resolution for a better overall network service

Wifinity
020 8090 1290
www.wifinity.co.uk/holidayparkscene

WASHROOM REVIVAL

Posted on May 14, 2025

Elevating Toilet, Shower & Washroom Facilities on your site...

As UK holidaymakers continue to prioritise comfort, cleanliness, and eco-consciousness during their travels, the humble washroom has emerged as a key player in shaping guest satisfaction.

For owners and managers of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites and glamping sites, upgrading toilet, shower, and washroom facilities is no longer a luxury – it’s an essential component of modern hospitality.

With new innovations in design, functionality, and sustainability, there’s never been a better time to invest in next-generation facilities.

BILLING AQUA DROME supplied and fitted by Total Cubicles.

WHAT GUESTS EXPECT IN 2025
Today’s Park guests seek facilities that are not just functional, but pleasant and hygienic. The days of draughty, dimly lit, and poorly ventilated toilet blocks are long gone. Visitors now expect washrooms to reflect the same quality they enjoy at home – if not better.

This shift has seen a boom in the popularity of cubicle systems that are durable, waterproof, hygienic, and visually appealing. Total Cubicle Solutions, a leading manufacturer and supplier in this space, is helping transform tired facilities into bright, modern, and stylish spaces.

Their cubicles, lockers and vanity units have enhanced sites like Park Holidays Ltd’s Sand Le Mere and Par Sands parks, and Billing Aqua Drome’s outdoor shower units, setting the bar for premium site amenities. “Our systems are built not only for durability and hygiene but also to help operators inject real style and identity into their washroom areas,” says a spokesperson from Total Cubicle Solutions.

“Each cubicle is customisable, making it easy to match existing branding and elevate the entire guest experience.” With high footfall throughout peak seasons, easy maintenance and longevity are just as important as aesthetics. Solid-grade laminate options provide a long-lasting, vandal-resistant solution that remains easy to clean and resilient in all weather conditions.

SAND LE MERE SINK and basin
supplied and fitted by Total Cubicles.

TACKLING THE WATER CRISIS HEAD-ON
Another major consideration for park operators is sustainability – particularly water conservation. With the UK facing mounting pressure on water resources, efficiency is now critical. One company at the forefront of water-saving technology is Cistermiser, which has welcomed Ofwat’s new £100 million Water Efficiency Fund as a pivotal move towards sustainable progress.

“We strongly support the fund and its potential to drive meaningful reductions in water usage,” says Richard Braid, Managing Director of Cistermiser. “But innovation doesn’t have to be complex. Our infrared urinal controls and sensor-activated WC dual flush systems are smart, effective, and proven to deliver real savings.”

Cistermiser’s EasyflushEVO, a leak-proof siphonic dual flush valve, is a standout example of this innovation. By eliminating below-waterline seals prone to wear and scale build-up, it provides a reliable solution to the UK’s 1.5 million estimated leaky toilets – each potentially wasting up to 400 litres of water a day.

Such technologies don’t just help holiday park operators cut water bills; they also ensure compliance with growing sustainability regulations. As the hospitality industry evolves to meet eco-friendly targets, adopting efficient washroom systems has become both a financial and environmental imperative.

The days of draughty, dimly lit, and poorly ventilated toilet blocks are long gone.

AWARD-WINNING STANDARDS IN GUEST FACILITIES
Holiday parks that go the extra mile in their washroom facilities are gaining recognition, too. The Loo of the Year Awards continues to celebrate the best in British washrooms, including caravan and camping sites.

The 2024 awards, held at the National Motorcycle Museum, honoured Bryndu Caravan Park’s Eva Tamaz-Szora as the UK’s top washroom technician. Her win underscores the importance of dedicated maintenance and high standards in ensuring exceptional guest experiences.

Becky Wall BEM, organiser of the awards, highlighted the broader impact: “Toilets and washrooms are an essential part of customer service. Celebrating those who prioritise cleanliness, accessibility, and care shines a light on what modern guests truly value.”

The awards’ rigorous 101-point grading system covers everything from signage and accessibility to hygiene and decor, inspiring operators to keep pushing standards higher.

WATER BILLS on the rise advise Cistermiser.

FUNCTION MEETS FLAIR
Washroom design is undergoing a renaissance. Whether it’s stylish vanity units, nature-inspired interiors, or enhanced lighting schemes, design is being used to both impress and serve.

Seamless surfaces, sensor taps, and contactless flushing all support hygiene while elevating the visual and tactile guest experience. Operators are now also investing in private shower pods, family-friendly washroom suites, and even accessible Changing Places facilities to accommodate visitors with complex needs.

The latter, championed by Martin Jackaman – recent recipient of the Loo of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award – are rapidly expanding across the UK, ensuring inclusivity for all.

DESIGN AND PRACTICALITY in abundance for this outstanding facility at Flamingo Land.

INVEST TO IMPRESS
Ultimately, upgrading washroom facilities isn’t just about style or environmental responsibility – it’s about guest retention and reputation. In a world where online reviews can make or break a destination, providing clean, modern, and well-managed washrooms is a business essential.

For those managing campsites, holiday parks, or glamping getaways, these upgrades can lead to happier guests, better reviews, and stronger bookings season after season.

With support from forward-thinking suppliers like Cistermiser and Total Cubicle Solutions, and the visibility offered by initiatives like the Loo of the Year Awards, there’s never been a better time for park owners to raise the bar.

Cistermiser
0118 969 1611
www.cistermiser.co.uk

Total Cubicle Solutions
0151 298 1509
www.totalcubicles.co.uk

Loo of the Year Awards
01531 640715
www.loo.co.uk

MINISTER VISITS DRUMMOHR CAMPING & GLAMPING

Posted on February 13, 2025

Scotland’s Tourism Minister Richard Lochhead visited Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site in East Lothian last Autumn, celebrating its success as a leader in quality and sustainability within the tourism industry.

Drummohr, located on the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh, was recently named UK Campsite of the Year by Camping magazine and Best Park in Scotland by Pitchup.com. Minister Lochhead toured the 11-acre park, known for its eco-friendly practices and top-tier accommodations, including luxury lodges, glamping pods, and en suite bothies.

Site Manager Angie Purves showcased initiatives such as solar energy generation, EV charging points, and support for local transport links. Biodiversity projects include wildflower gardens, bug hotels, and native flora protection, making the park a haven for wildlife.

During the visit, the Minister planted a cherry blossom tree to commemorate the park’s AA five-star award and honoured a long-standing seasonal guest who recently passed away. Lochhead also met staff, including site wardens and the gardener, who contribute to the park’s environmental goals.

The Minister praised Drummohr’s commitment to sustainability and its role in boosting Scotland’s economy. “Businesses like Drummohr are crucial to Scotland’s high-value tourism sector, contributing to a thriving, sustainable future,” he said.

Angie Purves highlighted the park’s community impact, from supporting local businesses to sourcing products from nearby suppliers. Drummohr, part of the WCF employee-owned group, employs 13 staff and continues to invest in guest satisfaction and sustainability.

Drummohr Camping & Glamping Site
01316 656867
www.drummohr.co.uk

SUPERIOR POOL WATER QUALITY

Posted on August 7, 2024

The allure of a sparkling, pristine pool can significantly elevate the appeal of a holiday park. Good water quality in a holiday park pool is not just about aesthetics; it is crucial for health, safety, and guest satisfaction. Ensuring that the pool water is clean and safe can directly impact the number of bookings, as families and individuals seek out locations where they can relax without health concerns.

Maintaining excellent water quality in a holiday park pool involves regular and precise monitoring. This is where the Lovibond® MD110 comes into play. The MD110 is a robust, user-friendly photometer designed for accurate water testing. It provides reliable results that are essential for maintaining the chemical balance of the pool, ensuring that harmful bacteria and contaminants are kept at bay.

Covering all the main pool water tests such as free & total chlorine, pH, total alkalinity etc the MD110 is also equipped with Bluetooth® connectivity, enabling seamless data transfer and storage, which is particularly useful for holiday park staff who need to keep detailed records of water quality. This ensures that any deviations from the optimal chemical balance are quickly identified and rectified, maintaining the pool’s safety and clarity.

Guests are more likely to book a stay if they are confident in the safety and cleanliness of the pool facilities. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations about the exceptional pool quality can drive higher occupancy rates. In contrast, reports of poor water quality can deter potential visitors and harm reputation.

By investing in reliable water testing equipment like the MD110, holiday parks can ensure their pools remain inviting and safe. High standards in pool maintenance reflect a commitment to guest welfare, setting a holiday park apart from the competition and fostering long-term customer loyalty.

Lovibond Water Testing
01980 664800
www.lovibond.com

PAWS AND RELAX

Posted on July 30, 2024

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.