Holiday Homes

LAKESIDE HOLIDAY PARK ACHIEVES GOLD AWARD

Posted on August 7, 2024

A STUNNING PARK, beautifully landscaped and maintained. A perfect holiday destination, ideal for relaxing and exploring the local area. – VisitEngland

Lakeside Park has achieved the coveted Gold Award five star rating, plus a 95% quality score following a May 2024 assessment by VisitEngland, the official England tourist board.

The flagship park, in North Somercotes near Louth, has seen sustained investment by operator Don Amott Parks in a continued effort to improve the offer and maintain standards – a commitment noted by VisitEngland during their walk-around inspection.

Recent work at Lakeside Park, which was highlighted in their report, includes this year’s installation of a padel tennis court, retarmacking of the roadway into the park with new speed bumps added, the completion of the children’s sand pit, and space-increasing efforts around the exterior of The Waterfront club.

To achieve a five star gold rating from VisitEngland, holiday parks must provide progressively higher quality, and a range of services and physical facilities must be offered across all aspects. Assessments and ratings are based on inspections, with the park offerings narrowed down into various categories.

Each of those is given scores based on a list of criteria. The sections observed, examined and assessed include Cleanliness, Toilet & Washing Facilities, Park Grounds, Pitches and Recreation, Sport & Leisure. Lakeside Park scored consistently highly across the board during the May 2024 visit.

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”.

ITV ZOOMS IN ON DORSET PARK

Posted on August 6, 2024

A Poole holiday park received an airing on national TV this spring when they were put under the spotlight by ITV’s Good Morning Britain. South Lytchett Manor hosted a visit from the show’s presenter Matt Johnson who wanted to find out how Brits were planning to spend their holidays this year.

Matt introduced viewers to the park’s Megan Bridgen whose parents, Joanne and David Bridgen, took over the five-star glamping and camping park 18 years ago. Megan and her brother Matt now help to manage the business, and the family has recently been celebrating a raft of major awards. They have included being named as one of the region’s top three parks in the South West Tourism Excellence Awards, and a Diamond accolade in the latest Loo of the Year Awards.

Keen camper Matt said that camping was still a popular way of enjoying a stay at South Lytchett Manor, but that glamping was quickly gaining ground among families and couples. The park’s popular Romany caravans were shown to the Good Morning audience by Matt who was accompanied by his dog Alan Shearer who clearly enjoyed his visit.

South Lytchett also provides shepherd’s huts and glamping pods which have recently been joined by eight luxury Mongolian yurts with decor and furnishings on an opulent North African theme. The dome-shaped yurts have been hand-built in neighbouring Devon using sustainable ash hardwood, and feature Moroccan-themed lanterns, mosaic tiles, and ornamental mirrors.

THE YURTS HAVE A CENTRAL skylight allowing guests to enjoy stunning views of Dorset’s star-studded night sky.

The seating area is arranged around a cosy fireplace, and there is a central skylight which allows guests to enjoy stunning views of Dorset’s star-studded night sky. Matt was also taken by Megan on a tour of the park’s landscaped grounds, and spoke with guests who praised the park’s high quality, beautiful location, and welcoming atmosphere.

“It was fantastic to receive this visit from Good Morning Britain at the start of the holiday season and straight after our recent award wins,” said Megan. “Fresh air holidays such as we offer grew in popularity during the lockdown years, and guests clearly enjoyed the experience as booking remain strong.

“Our family continues to invest much time and energy into the park, and we were delighted to be able to take viewers behind the scenes of our business over their breakfasts!” added Megan. There is more information about the park, as well as its new yurts and other glamping options, on its website.

South Lytchett Manor
www.southlytchettmanor.co.uk

LUXURY MONGOLIAN yurts are a new glamping option.

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.

 

BACK-TO-BASICS LIFESTYLE

Posted on May 17, 2024

In an age marked by constant connectivity and digital saturation, there’s a growing movement toward mindfulness and seeking solace in nature. Indeed, a number of studies have shown lower stress and anxiety levels in individuals who’ve spent time in forest and natural areas compared to those who’ve walked in urban neighbourhoods.

According to industry experts at Glamping Hideaways, there has been a significant rise over the past decade in rural revitalisation and the back-to- basics lifestyle of people looking to disconnect (some glamping sites don’t even get signal let alone have wi-fi) and re-energise.

“When we first started out in 2014 ‘Glamping’ was a very new concept,” June Brocklebank, camping site manager of 10 years explains. “No one we knew had actually been on a glamping holiday, it was a niche - you were either camping and roughing it or going on an all-inclusive break away,”

“Since then, however, we’ve seen the gap filled for people who desire nature-focused holidays without having to sacrifice everyday necessities!” Glamping Hideaways’ site in Rutland’s Exton Park offers the perfect balance between luxury and simplicity - something we’ve seen our guests increasingly yearning for.”

GLAMPING HIDEAWAYS has something for every person looking to disconnect.

Glamping Hideaways offers a range of accommodations, from safari tents to rustic cabins, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether guests are seeking a lavish retreat with king-sized beds and hot tubs or a more rustic experience with cosy campfires and starlit skies, Glamping Hideaways has something for every person looking to disconnect.

In addition to providing a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, Glamping Hideaways is also committed to supporting rural communities and sharing local life with tourists. By partnering with local artisans, farmers and businesses, Glamping Hideaways contributes to the growth, support and awareness of rural areas and their natural beauty.

“We run short courses for people on site that have become increasingly popular, from bird box making to nature meditation”, explains farm owner and camping site manager, Andrew Parsons-Mann. “We often see holidaymakers arrive after a stressful work week, looking like they’re carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders.

“After just a weekend at our site, Sweffling Hall Farm, with the help of mindful activities we host, they are visibly brighter, more energetic and importantly, recharged,” Andrew continues. “Glamping is very much about reconnecting with nature and prioritising health and wellbeing.

“Studies have shown that spending time in rural areas can have numerous benefits for mental and physical health, including reducing stress and improving mood.”

www.glampinghideaways.co.uk

EXTENDED TRADE OPPORTUNITIES

Posted on May 17, 2024

Save some significant June dates in your diary as The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show, sponsored by Berkeleyparks, returns to the NAEC Stoneleigh, Stoneleigh Park, nr Coventry & Leamington Spa in Warwickshire this June. The Trade-only preview day will take place on Thursday June 27, followed by public open days from Friday to Sunday, June 28 to 30.

Open from 10am till 4pm – no ticket is required, simply turn up to gain admission. Bowing to demand, this year also sees an Extended ‘Trade Days Area’ for those companies only wishing to speak to trade and they will be exhibiting on both Thursday and Friday June 27 and 28. So don’t miss out on discovering this area.

IDEAL OPPORTUNITY
The Show provides a unique and exclusive opportunity for Park Owners and Operators along with Landowners and others in the Trade to spend quality time viewing a massive display of more than 50 Park and Leisure Homes. It offers the ideal opportunity to discuss specific requirements directly with leading manufacturers in the beautiful surroundings of Stoneleigh Park.

What better place to give landowners, park owners, park operators, and others, a unique opportunity to spend quality time with the manufacturers, whether discussing cutting-edge designs, revamps or traditional etc. It’s the perfect environment to do business and a great chance to simply catch up with friends and colleagues from across the Industry.

If you target the leisure and park home industry then this is the show for you to exhibit. If you are a Park Owner / Operator, the organisers have additional promotional opportunities just for you. For the tenth year running, Holiday Park Scene magazine will be supporting the show.

Now a special Supporting Partners – why not pick up the latest Issue when you visit on the ‘trade preview’ day? This is your ‘personal invitation’ to come along and enjoy a special Trade ‘preview’ Day at Stoneleigh on Thursday June 27th – bring your colleagues and/ or family too.

World Park & Leisure Homes Show
Tel 01789 491451
www.parkhomeandleisure.co.uk

UPGRADE GUEST EXPERIENCE

Posted on May 17, 2024

KAASPEED electric, lightweight, self-balancing, wide-wheeled scooters join Reesink e-Vehicles’ existing range of STAR EV electric utility and passenger buggies to offer a new, innovative, eco-conscious answer to guests’ transportation and mobility needs.

Whether it’s for a leisurely cruise, off-road adventure, or smooth transportation on tarmac, the scooter’s modular design, range of features, and accessories enable venues to tailor their fleet to their customer’s exact needs. Versatility is at the core of KAASPEED’s design philosophy.

With the option to choose between two different types of 18 x 9.5-8 tyres, venues can confidently customise their scooters according to the park’s terrain. For flat surfaces there’s the standard multi-use turf/hard surface tyres available in both a standard radius and as flat self-balancing, and the Scorpion tyres provide superior traction for woodland and sandy surfaces.

USERS CAN ATTACH MULTIPLE configurations to the rear of each scooter, making it the ideal companion for any journey.

TAILOR-MADE
One of the standout features of KAASPEED scooters is their easy-to-use interchangeable system. With this system, users can attach multiple configurations such as a shopping basket, cargo rack, cool box or golf bag rack to the rear of each scooter, making it the ideal companion for any journey.

Embracing eco-consciousness without faltering in efficiency is a priority for Reesink e-Vehicles and something that features across its entire range of STAR EV electric passenger and utility vehicles. KAASPEED scooters continue that legacy with a car-grade LG cell lithium-ion battery.

In addition to a long-range capability of up to 38 miles and a top speed of 28 mph, customers can explore vast areas without worrying about running out of power. The smart battery management system ensures temperature resistance, increasing the longevity of the scooter. KAASPEED scooters join STAR EV’s range of award-winning lithium and sealed battery-powered utility vehicles and golf buggies under the Reesink e-Vehicles brand.

Reesink UK Ltd
Tel. 01480 226800
www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk

KEY LEISURE PRODUCT CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

Posted on May 17, 2024

INVESTMENT IN WAREHOUSING and logistics has enabled LKQ Leisure and Marine to create a centre of excellence in the UK.

LKQ Leisure and Marine, has completed a £400,000 programme of investment in its Central UK distribution centre and HQ, to enhance its already market-leading availability and customer service. Key initiatives being driven through the Leisure and Marine business include live-stock updates and live order-tracking, direct delivery, click and collect, and a focus on hitting 100% availability on key lines – now extending to over 500 products.

Adam Ramsden, Managing Director of LKQ Leisure and Marine, said: “This programme of investment has helped us to create a national centre of excellence at Century Park, so that we can deliver an even better experience for our customers. “Today we carry more inventory across more product lines, and our availability and next day delivery performance is better than ever.

Our investment in digital systems and in our people has continued to build a customer-centric organisation at every level. “We are in a strong position to keep investing, growing, and improving, both as a supplier and an employer, as part of the LKQ UK and Ireland Group.”

LKQ UK and Ireland is comprised of LKQ Leisure and Marine, LKQ Euro Car Parts, LKQ Bodyshop and Digraph, and distributes parts and accessories for all makes of car, motorbike and light commercial vehicle, HGV, bus and coach, and static and touring caravan, motorhome, and marine vehicle.

The business, formerly known as Arleigh Group, encompasses LKQ Nova Leisure, LKQ Arleigh, LKQ Aquafax, and Midland Chandlers and acts as fulfilment support for ASAP Supplies. Each division boasts a comprehensive product range strategically centralised at Century Park, Nuneaton, with additional stock at five marine branches across the United Kingdom.

The ASAP Supplies site in Beccles, Suffolk, contributes to the overall distribution network supported by a local customer-facing team. Changes to the facility include the incorporation of a mezzanine level which has added an extra 8,500sq ft of warehouse space, taking the total to 87,000sq ft. The warehouse is now home to more than 24,000 product lines, with capacity for further expansion.

SOUTH WEST TOURING SUCCESS

Posted on May 17, 2024

DISPLAYING RECENT AWARDS at the Wareham Park (from left) park managers Adam and Nicky Wake, plus family members Sarah Birch, Tony Birch, Chrissy Bracey and Ben Bracey.

The South West’s top destination for campers and the owners of motorhomes and touring caravans has been officially named as Wareham Forest Tourist Park near Poole. The family-owned business was awarded the top gold accolade against fierce competition in the Camping and Caravanning Park category of this year’s South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

Judges announced their decision at the glittering awards ceremony at the Great Hall of the University of Exeter, attended by finalists and sponsors from the tourism and hospitality industry across SW England. Lynmouth Holiday Retreat near Exmoor beat hundreds of other parks to take the silver accolade in the Camping and Caravanning Park category of the South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

The family-owned business is one of four award-winning holiday parks in Devon, Somerset and Cornwall owned by the family’s 35-year-old business, Coast & Country Parks. The group’s parks provide not just pitches for tents, touring caravan and motorhomes but also luxury holiday homes to own and to rent.

Ian James said everyone was delighted that Lynmouth Holiday Retreat had been singled out by judges as one of the South West’s top destinations for people seeking a perfect rural escape: “What makes us especially proud is that the South West Tourism Award judges looked not just at the quality of our facilities, but also at the high standards of hospitality we provide.

“Delivering this is largely in the hands of our park team, and they deserve a big share of the credit for their crucial role in creating a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere,” said Ian.

SUFFOLK PARK HITS TOP GEAR

Posted on May 17, 2024

The American Car, Bike & Hot Rod Show 2024, in association with Carrot Town Garage (CTG), will hold its ever-popular club’s and private owner’s showcase day on Sunday 21 July at Stonham Barns Park - one of Suffolk’s premier leisure, retail and holiday destinations.

The fourth show in the series is all about American cars, bikes and hot rods with muscle, power and fabulous paintwork. It will be an event strongly supported by the classic car community exhibiting a dazzling array of cars, bikes, trucks and hot rods.

Cars on show at the event will span the last six decades, and include Buicks, Cadillacs, Chevrolets, Chryslers and Fords. Also attending will be Motion Pictures Motors – a movie car club - which will be bringing some famous movie cars to the event and there will be live music from The Sixteenth’s.

Each of the exhibits will arrive for a stunning static display before being expertly driven around the showground in the ‘Show and Shine’ parade. Among the many attractions on the day will be trade and club stands and autojumble as well as food and drink concessions.

Josh Forward from the Stonham Barns Park Events Team added, ‘This event draws huge numbers of enthusiasts from around the region. It’s a family day out not to be missed which is full of colour, fun and surprises. You can’t suppress the enthusiasm of the owners – they are devoted to restoring and showing their prized vehicles and getting these exhibits all together at one venue always makes for a stunning show.’