Holiday Park Entertainment

DARWIN ESCAPES RESORTS

Posted on February 11, 2025

With a portfolio of 26 leading holiday resorts and three golf courses across the UK, Darwin Escapes is one of the trailblazers transforming the UK holiday park industry. Darwin Escapes offers holiday breaks, holiday home ownership and golf breaks with the widest range of holiday accommodation at its resorts, from romantic boutique escapes to luxury lodge retreats and traditional family-focused holiday parks.

With such variety on offer, there is sure to be something to appeal to everyone. “No two Darwin Escapes resorts are the same,” explains Drew Campbell, Director of Operations, “But every resort in our portfolio shares a common aim - to provide the best possible holiday experience for holidaymakers and holiday homeowners.”

“With this in mind, we have created brand new resorts in stunning locations with accommodation and facilities that rival those of 5-star hotels, and lovingly updated our existing sites across the UK.” One resort that is a flagship for the company in terms of the facilities on offer is Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa.

This multi-award-winning park recently scooped the Diamond Award for East of England large park for the third time in the prestigious Hoseasons Awards in November 2024. Norfolk Woods, established in 2019, is situated close to the market town of Kings Lynn in an ideal location for holidaymakers wishing to take advantage of Norfolk’s breath taking countryside and coastal scenery.

DARWIN ESCAPES RESORTS aim to provide the best possible holiday experience for holidaymakers and holiday homeowners

Guests at Norfolk Woods can choose from a selection of stylish and contemporary accommodation including premium lodges with outdoor hot tubs. Open plan in design, the lodges boast the latest entertainment features and kitchen facilities for a luxurious stay.

There is an abundance of on-site amenities and activities on offer at the park including an indoor swimming pool, stylish bar and bistro, outdoor children’s splash park, as well as a superbly equipped spa for adult relaxation. Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa may be fairly new, but it has a rich heritage in the region.

The original site was known as Pentney Holiday Park, a resort designed for touring caravans and camping holidaymakers, which was the home of decades of happy holiday memories. “We wanted to keep our resort as the home for more of those amazing holiday memories for decades to come, but with a new, contemporary and fresh feel,” explains Anne Foulkes, Regional & General Manager of Norfolk Woods.

“Our aim was to retain the gorgeous natural scenery and preserve the site as a true destination, whilst creating Norfolk’s best luxury lodge park.” Luxury lodges are also on offer at Darwin Escapes newest premium development: Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat. Partnering with historic Blenheim Palace, the company has created a range of one-, two- and three-bedroom lodges in the grounds of the stunning Blenheim Estate in Oxfordshire.

NORFOLK WOODS RESORT & Spa boasts great leisure facilities for all ages

The self-catering holiday lodges, which opened in August 2023, feature high-end furnishings and facilities including luxury open-plan dining and living areas, walk-in wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms. Working together with the team at Blenheim Palace, Darwin Escapes were keen to respect both the prestige of the existing site and the local area’s environmental factors.

Each lodge is fully electric and fitted with air-source heat pumps and personal car charging stations to help to reduce impact on the environment. “We’ve ensured our lodge accommodation fits seamlessly into the surrounding landscape near Blenheim Palace,” explains Drew Campbell, Director of Operations.

“We’ve also honoured the heritage with the naming of our lodges – Winston, Hawksmoor, Vanbrugh and Marlborough. This, along with our interior decoration, is a nod to the rich history of the area that awaits guests in their Blenheim lodge accommodation.” Some of the design features of the Blenheim lodges might also be familiar to viewers of the BBC television series Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr.

In the final episode of the 2024 series, the two finalists took on the challenge to design the interior and outdoor space of two of the lodges at the Retreat. Holidaymakers can now choose to stay in one of the two lodges that the finalists designed. Unique accommodation is a feature of many of the Darwin Escapes resorts.

DARWIN ESCAPES RESORTS are available at 26 stunning locations throughout the UK. Pictured, Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat in Poole, Dorset

Amongst the most innovative and desirable are the treehouses available at Rivendale Lodge Retreat in the Peak District, and Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat on the Isle of Wight. These one-bedroom treehouses are designed with couples in mind and feature stylish copper furnishings, fully equipped kitchens with wine coolers and dishwashers, and multi-decked outdoor areas with luxurious sunken hot tubs.

The Darwin Escapes portfolio is managed by a 900-strong team of staff. The head office is based at the Talacre Beach Resort in North Wales, which is one of the company’s leading parks for holiday home ownership. Across the portfolio of 26 resorts, 15 offer holidays only, 3 offer holiday home ownership only, and 8 offer a mix of holiday home ownership and holidays such as at Talacre.

For those looking to buy a holiday home, Darwin Escapes offers a wide range of homes for sale, from static caravans to luxury lodges, to suit all budgets and requirements. Lodge and caravan holidays, meanwhile, are booked through their trusted booking partner Hoseasons, who handle all resort holiday bookings excluding those at Dundonald Links Resort in Ayrshire, Scotland, and Blenheim Palace Lodge Retreat, which are booked directly with the resorts.

The team behind Darwin Escapes is constantly on the lookout for exciting solutions to increase their market share and the profile of their resorts amongst prospective buyers and holidaymakers. “Whilst UK holidays have been swept up in the staycation boom, one of the challenges over recent years has been the smaller marketplace for the sales community, with signs of a slight downtrend in holiday home ownership,” explains Shaun Roberts, Group Head of Sales.

THE BISTRO at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa

“One of the ways we have responded to this is by branching out with new marketing adventures. Our appearance on Interior Design Masters is one example, alongside a Win a Caravan competition, increasing our out of home digital screen advertising across the country with particular interest in the North West, and attending more events throughout the year.”

Darwin Escapes are corporate partners with many of the UK’s top business and visitor attractions such as Chester Zoo, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Birmingham Hippodrome, Derby Book Festival and Venue Cymru. These partnerships offer their guests unique opportunities and help to ensure the very best holiday experience when they stay at a Darwin Escapes Resort.

The partnerships also involve giving back to the partner organisations with sponsorship of events and other collaborations. Each resort also chooses their own local charities to fund raise for throughout the year. It’s an innovative plan that’s clearly working in terms of both customer and industry recognition.

INTERIOR OF ONE of the lodges featured on television series Interior Design Masters

Since 2015, the Darwin Escapes resorts have collected a vast range of accolades from Best in Britain to 5-star ratings and regional award titles too. Most resorts have been assigned the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and several are also rated 5 Black Pennant by AA Hotel and Hospitality Services.

All the North Wales holiday resorts have been awarded a 5-star status by Visit Wales, and in England, all resorts have either been given 5-star status by Visit England, or also boast Visit England Gold Awards.

“We are so proud of our award-winning resorts and these achievements are a credit to all of our hard-working teams across the UK, who strive to set the standard in the holiday resort industry,” says Drew Campbell, Director of Operations.

Darwin Escapes
0800 717707
www.darwinescapes.co.uk

A SERENE GETAWAY TO NORTH WALES

Posted on February 11, 2025

Beth Connor visits Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat, a perfect peaceful break...

Some of Wales’ most iconic landscapes and heritage sites can be found in the Dee Valley area. Close to the sandy beaches but surrounded by the stunning mountains it’s the ideal retreat! Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of North Wales, the Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat offers a serene escape for guests looking to unwind in nature’s embrace.

Combining the rustic charm of a traditional lodge with the modern amenities that enhance comfort, this retreat is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity in a natural and historic setting. Located within a stone’s throw from Snowdonia National Park and other iconic Welsh landscapes, the lodge appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples alike.

The accommodation at Plas Isaf are well-designed to blend modern luxury with countryside charm. Each lodge has been thoughtfully decorated with a mix of traditional Welsh character and contemporary comfort, creating a cosy yet refined atmosphere.

From wood-panelled walls to plush sofas and local artwork, every element is curated to enhance the sense of warmth and connection to the local culture. Each lodge includes a spacious living area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a private outdoor area. Many lodges are fitted with fireplaces, perfect for chilly Welsh evenings, adding a comforting ambiance to evenings spent indoors.

OUR HOT TUB HOLIDAY BREAKS are ideal for an intimate getaway for two or for families looking to relax

The lodges also cater to a range of group sizes, making it suitable for couples on a romantic getaway, small groups of friends, or even families. The bedrooms are comfortable and spacious, with high-quality bedding, ample storage space, and, in some cases, en-suite bathrooms. The bathrooms are fitted with modern fixtures and come stocked with premium toiletries, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

Some lodges even offer private hot tubs, which are a real treat after a day of exploring the rugged landscapes of North Wales. Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is well-equipped with a range of facilities aimed at enhancing the guest experience. The retreat offers high-speed Wi-Fi, which is convenient for guests who need to stay connected, although the surrounding environment encourages a digital detox.

The private outdoor areas are a highlight, with many lodges featuring outdoor seating, barbecues, and scenic views, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty around them. For guests staying in lodges with hot tubs, the experience is elevated even further, as there’s nothing quite like soaking in a warm tub under the stars after a day spent hiking or sightseeing.

The retreat offers communal spaces, including a reception area with knowledgeable and friendly staff who are always ready to help with directions, local recommendations, or even provide a map for nearby walking trails. There are options for laundry facilities, which can be particularly useful for longer stays, especially for guests who partake in outdoor activities.

ALL DARWIN ESCAPES resorts are pet-friendly

While the lodge does not have an on-site restaurant, the fully- equipped kitchens make self-catering easy, and nearby towns offer a variety of dining options, from quaint cafes to classic Welsh pubs serving local delicacies. One of the standout features of Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is its proximity to some of North Wales’ most stunning natural attractions.

Located a short drive from Snowdonia National Park, the lodge is an excellent base for those looking to explore the majestic mountains, lush forests, and scenic lakes of the region. Popular nearby trails include the paths leading up to Mount Snowdon, where hikers are rewarded with breath taking views.

Other nearby natural attractions include the Conwy Falls, Lake Bala, and the Gwydir Forest, each offering unique opportunities for hiking, fishing, and photography. The lodge is also a short distance from historical landmarks and charming Welsh towns. Betws-y-Coed, a picturesque village known for its quaint architecture and riverside views, is just a short drive away.

Here, visitors can explore local shops, art galleries, and cafes. Additionally, the castles of Conwy and Caernarfon are within driving distance and provide a fascinating glimpse into Welsh history, architecture, and culture. These attractions make Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat a fantastic choice for those looking to combine outdoor activities with cultural exploration.

IT’S A PLACE to disconnect and soak in the scenery

Staying at Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is a memorable experience that captures the essence of North Wales. The lodges’ rustic charm paired with modern comforts make it a perfect choice for travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, and with the abundance of natural beauty surrounding the area, it’s hard not to feel inspired by the landscape.

The outdoor spaces and hot tubs add an extra layer of luxury, creating a spa-like atmosphere that enhances relaxation. One of the most appreciated aspects of the retreat is the friendly and attentive staff. Their local knowledge, willingness to provide recommendations, and eagerness to help make guests feel welcomed and well-cared for.

The attention to detail in the lodges, from the decor to the amenities, reveals a commitment to quality that is rare to find, making each stay feel special. Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat in North Wales is an excellent choice for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Its location, amenities, and thoughtful design make it suitable for a variety of travellers, whether they are seeking adventure in the Welsh wilderness or simply hoping to unwind in a cozy setting. While the lodge may be a bit remote for those looking to stay connected to city life, the seclusion is precisely what many guests love about it.

It’s a place to disconnect, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the quiet beauty of North Wales. Overall, the Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat combines the rustic appeal of a traditional lodge with modern luxuries, creating a memorable getaway. Whether enjoying a sunrise over the mountains from your private deck or unwinding in the hot tub under the stars, a stay here is bound to leave a lasting impression.

Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat
www.darwinescapes.co.uk/plas-isaf
01352 961506

MOUNTAIN RESCUE TEAM NEARS FUNDRAISING GOAL

Posted on February 11, 2025

The Duddon and Furness Mountain Rescue Team has moved closer to its dream of building a new headquarters, thanks to a £3,000 donation from Park Cliffe, a family-owned holiday park in Windermere.

The funds were raised over the past year through initiatives like a popular duck race, charity raffles supported by local businesses, and guest contributions via the park’s collection box. Park Cliffe added a final £400 to round off the donation.

Currently, the Duddon and Furness team is the only one among the ten Lake District mountain rescue groups without a permanent, purpose-built base. A new HQ would provide crucial facilities, including a warm space for volunteers returning from challenging rescues on the fells.

Park Cliffe owner Susan Dickson expressed pride in the efforts of their team and guests: “Many of our visitors are avid walkers who value the life-saving work of mountain rescue teams. Their generosity will help bring this goal closer and support these incredible volunteers,” she said.

In addition to supporting the rescue team, Park Cliffe celebrated its own achievements this year, winning the Federation of Small Businesses 2024 regional award for sustainability.

200 FREE HOLIDAYS TO MILITARY FAMILIES FOR 2025

Posted on February 11, 2025

Parkdean Resorts has pledged to increase its support for the armed forces next year by donating over 200 holidays worth over £150,000 to members of the military community and their families in 2025.

Throughout 2024 Parkdean Resorts donated 185 holidays across 21 of its award-winning holiday parks through partnerships with the Army Central Fund, Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

Breaks were awarded in recognition of the beneficiaries’ service and to support military personnel in need of respite and recuperation. Parkdean Resorts have donated over 860 holidays worth almost £450,000 to armed forces families since 2021.

Parkdean Resorts also holds an esteemed Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, the highest accolade a company can receive for its veteran-friendly recruitment processes and development opportunities.

Additionally, next year Parkdean Resorts will sponsor the Armed Forces Families Advocate(s) of the Year Award at the Celebrating Forces Families Awards. This award ceremony recognises the often-overlooked achievements and significant supporting roles played by military families.

WOOD LEISURE HOLIDAY PARKS EXPANDS WITH SIXTH PARK

Posted on February 11, 2025

Wood Leisure's FASKALLY WOOD LODGES in Pitlochry.

Wood Leisure Holiday Parks has acquired its sixth location, Faskally Woods Holiday Park in Pitlochry, with a seven-figure funding boost from the Royal Bank of Scotland. This expansion is set to create 20 local jobs, supporting the region’s economy.

Founded in 1981, the family-run business operates five award-winning parks across Scotland, all holding five-star status. Known for bespoke caravans and lodges, the parks cater to families, walkers, and getaway seekers. Sustainability is a core focus, with green initiatives like solar panels, EV charging, and biomass heating systems. Director Rachel Wood celebrated the acquisition, highlighting the family’s journey from a single park to a £10m turnover business.

She praised Royal Bank of Scotland’s support in helping bring their high standards of service and sustainability to the picturesque Perthshire park. The Royal Bank’s Jack Malcom commended the Wood family’s entrepreneurial spirit and looks forward to the success of their newest venture.

£3 MILLION UPGRADE FOR WOOLACOMBE BAY

Posted on February 11, 2025

Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks is set to launch its luxurious Emerald caravans in 2025, part of a £3 million investment to meet rising demand for high-end caravan holidays, which has grown by 77% over five years.

The caravans, in prime locations with stunning views, offer 15% more space, en-suite master bedrooms, family bathrooms with tubs, fully-furnished interiors, and private decking with gas barbecues. Pet-friendly options are also expanding, reflecting a 72% rise in families traveling with pets.

This includes designated caravans, dog-friendly café bars, and the popular Woof Park play area. New attractions for 2025 include a Wavesurfer simulator at Twitchen House and an energy-efficient outdoor pool with a splash pad.

Upgraded dining options will feature extended café bars with quality, affordable meals. Woolacombe Bay’s facilities across its three parks offer something for everyone, from spas and swimming pools to water activities like Aqua Inflatables.

The parks’ commitment to reinvestment ensures top-tier experiences at reasonable prices. To make holidays more accessible, an interest-free monthly payment plan launches in 2025, with early booking discounts saving up to £300 and family stays starting from just £99.

THE BEAUTIFUL SOUTH ANNOUNCE PARK OF THE YEAR

Posted on February 11, 2025

STUBSCROFT FARM PARK receiving their GOLD award, photos credit to Photographer Nick Williams

The 2024 Beautiful South Awards have honoured exceptional camping and caravanning sites in the region, celebrating their contributions to tourism excellence. Stubcroft Farm Campsite in Chichester secured the prestigious Gold award in the Camping and Caravanning Park of the Year category.

This family-run site is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and high-quality facilities, offering visitors a serene countryside retreat near the Sussex coast. The Silver award was presented to Badgells Wood at Birling Estate in Meopham.

This woodland campsite provides a back-to-nature experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Kent countryside. Lytton Lawn Touring Park in Lymington received the Bronze award, recognized for its well-maintained facilities and proximity to the New Forest and Hampshire coast, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

These accolades highlight the diverse camping experiences available in the South East, from eco-friendly farms to woodland retreats and coastal parks, each contributing uniquely to the region’s vibrant tourism industry.

The 2024 Beautiful South Awards winners were:

  • Gold - Stubcroft Farm Campsite, Chichester, West Sussex
  • Silver - Badgells Wood at Birling Estate, Meopham, Kent
  • Bronze - Lytton Lawn Touring Park, Lymington, Hampshire

THE STAYCATION IS BACK FOR 2025!

Posted on February 3, 2025

More Brits plan to holiday in the UK than travel abroad this year, according to research from holiday park operator Away Resorts. Scotland tops the list of most desirable UK destinations for 2025, followed by the South West and Wales.

Yorkshire, London, and Northern Ireland also rank highly, while the West Midlands was deemed the least desirable. The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 76% feel there are still plenty of UK spots they’d love to explore.

Top motivations for a staycation include rest and relaxation (36%), a change of scenery (26%), and quality family time (25%). Key 2025 travel trends include train travel (21%), nostalgia trips to childhood destinations (18%), and cold-weather “cool-cations” (15%). Solo travel is also gaining popularity, particularly among 25–40 year olds, with 21% planning solo trips, as well as 7% of over 65s.

AWAY RESORT’S PRESTIGIOUS Gara Rock Penthouse.

Inspired by 2024’s UK sightings of the northern lights, 14% of Brits aim to stargaze or chase the aurora borealis this year. Carl Castledine, Founder of Away Resorts, noted, “It’s encouraging to see the appetite for staycations remain strong. The UK offers incredible opportunities for adventure and relaxation in stunning surroundings.”

Planning habits vary, with 37% booking holidays far in advance for better deals, while 17% prefer last-minute spontaneity. This year, 28% of Brits aim to take more UK breaks, with 23% resolving to embark on small monthly adventures.

The staycation trend is alive and well, as Brits rediscover the beauty and variety of their own backyard. Away Resorts is one of the UK’s most-popular holiday park operators, with 25 locations across the UK, including Scotland, Lincolnshire, Isle of Wight, North Wales, Hampshire, Dorset, Cornwall, Hayling Island and Essex.

Away Resorts
0330 127 7834
www.awayresorts.co.uk

 

AWAY RESORTS St Ives Bay Holiday Park.

AWAY RESORT’S Glendevon Residential Country Park.

BORDER CARAVANS ANNOUNCED AS HEADLINE SPONSOR FOR 2025 SCOTTISH CARAVAN SHOW

Posted on January 2, 2025

Border Caravans has been unveiled as the headline sponsor of the 2025 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show, set to take place from February 6-9 at the SEC Glasgow. In a ground-breaking move, the company will debut the show’s first-ever accessible lodge, created in partnership with Love Holiday Homes.

The bespoke lodge, designed as a prototype for future builds, features wider corridors, sliding internal doors, and ramped balcony access, setting a new standard for inclusivity in the holiday home industry. Jillyanne Glen, Show Manager, praised Border Caravans’ commitment to innovation: “The accessible lodge exemplifies inclusivity, and we hope it inspires others in the industry to prioritize accessibility in their designs.”

Alongside the lodge, this year’s event will feature family-friendly attractions like a climbing wall and a popular farmer’s market offering local produce. Dale Gifford, Company Director at Border Caravans, said: “This lodge represents a shift toward creating spaces that truly welcome everyone. We’re thrilled to showcase it as part of our first year as headline sponsor.”

Border Caravans operates four award-winning parks in Scotland, offering holiday homes, hot tub lodges, and unique amenities such as a clay pigeon shooting ground and music festival. Tickets & more information for Scotland’s largest holiday home event are available now at CaravanShowScotland.com.

EXPLORE EVERYTHING WATER LEISURE AT SPATEX 2025

Posted on November 12, 2024

Hot tubs and swimming pools are one of the most sought-after facility when choosing a holiday destination, which is why SPATEX 2025 - the UK’s ONLY dedicated water leisure exhibition - is designed for YOU.

Free to attend, Tuesday 4th to Thursday 6th February, at Coventry Building Society Arena, SPATEX caters for both the commercial and domestic markets, and covers swimming pools, saunas, spas, wellness suites through to steam rooms, enclosures, hot tubs, and all the ancillary products. Here’s what a visit to SPATEX 2025 will give you:

1. EXPLORE NEW PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Whether you’re looking to renovate or dip your toe into the water for the first time, it’s the first opportunity in 2025 to see, touch, compare and discuss the latest innovations and cutting-edge products.

2. EXCLUSIVE DEALS & DISCOUNTS
Many of the 100 plus exhibitors, including the industry’s major manufacturers and suppliers, will be offering visitors special show discounts.

3. HANDS-ON KNOW-HOW
Interactive workshops and demonstrations provide inside track knowledge.

4. ENHANCE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY
Energy-saving the cornerstone of its agenda. View the most insulated hot tubs, new generation heat pumps, the latest heat retention covers, enclosures, water circulating pumps, chemical dosing systems – all have undergone big technological advances in the last few years.

5. ACCESS TO EXPERT INSIGHTS
With the world’s top water leisure experts on hand, access free advice. Come to the SPATEX Help Desk at the entrance of the hall if you need a starting point.

6. FREE KNOWLEDGE
Talks and demonstrations in the show’s free-to-attend, three-day double seminar programme are open to everyone and cover an extensive range of topics, from the latest time-saving maintenance of commercial pools and spas to future trends, social media and marketing.

7. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Attendees of the technical workshops, curated by the Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers (ISPE) in Arena 1, will be awarded CPD accreditation.

8. BEST PRACTICE
Ensure your facility meets the latest legal and safety standards. Get up to speed with the latest regulatory changes and compliance issues to implement upgrades or enhancements to attract more customers and improve satisfaction.

9. INSPIRATION
Exposure to the latest trends and award-winning projects. Winners of the SPATA (Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association) and BISHTA (British & Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association) Awards for 2025 will be announced during SPATEX.

10. PROFESSIONAL NETWORK
There’s nothing like face-to-face business to help promote connections, collaborations and partnerships. Take advantage of SPATEX’s numerous networking opportunities. SPATEX 2025 - Tuesday 4th to Thursday 6th February. The Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry CV6 6GE 2,000 on-site free car parking spaces.

Secure your place by registering now and sign up for monthly newslines
Tel: +44 (0) 1264 358558
www.spatex.co.uk
helen@spatex.co.uk