Holiday Park Entertainment

A DIGITAL UPGRADE

Posted on July 31, 2025

In today’s digitally driven world, guest expectations are evolving fast — and holiday parks, campsites, and glamping sites across the UK are rising to meet the challenge. From the initial booking to the end-of-stay farewell, the entire holiday experience is increasingly shaped by technology.

And for park owners and managers, embracing smart systems like online bookings and mobile guest apps isn’t just about keeping up — it’s about staying ahead. Whether you’re managing a family-friendly caravan park, a luxury glamping retreat, or a coastal touring site, digital tools have become essential for delivering the seamless, personalised service that modern travellers now expect.

Let’s take a closer look at how guest apps and online booking systems are transforming the industry — and how three companies are helping UK parks lead the charge.

FROM GLAMPING TO OWNERSHIP, CampManager’s Guest App supports every step of the guest journey.

YOUR PARK. YOUR BRAND. YOUR APP.
The team at CampManager understand that guests want convenience — and they want it on their phones. That’s why they’ve launched a powerful new Branded Guest App, tailored specifically for holiday parks, glamping sites, and touring parks. At its core, the app is about putting your brand in your guests’ pockets.

Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play, the app features your colours, logo and messaging — giving you an identity that stays with your guests from booking to check-out, and even beyond. “It’s not just a tool, it’s an extension of your park’s experience,” says the CampManager team.

Guests can use the app to check-in digitally, explore site maps, access Wi-Fi codes, browse menus, and view local attractions or on-site events. For your team, that means fewer repetitive questions — and more time spent delivering great hospitality. But the functionality doesn’t stop there. The app becomes your central communication hub, with built-in messaging linked directly to CampManager’s system.

CUSTOM-BRANDED GUEST apps from CampManager keep your identity front and centre.

Whether a guest wants to ask about dog-friendly walks or amend a reservation, all messages are routed to the right team member and logged securely — no missed emails, no phone tag. From a revenue perspective, it’s also a powerful sales channel. Guests can book add-ons, pay balances, or rebook future stays at the tap of a screen.

App-exclusive offers, flash deals, and push notifications can drive repeat business, direct bookings, and seasonal occupancy boosts, all without relying on OTAs. For parks with holiday-home ownership, the app even acts as a digital showroom, showcasing your available stock and feeding warm leads straight into CampManager’s CRM.

And it’s not just for guests. Holiday-home owners can log in to request maintenance, gas refills or cleaning, with every task tracked in CampManager’s integrated Jobs & Tasks system. The result? A fully integrated, branded, end-to-end experience — for guests, owners, and teams alike.

SMART INTEGRATIONS from GemaPark help deliver modern, sustainable service.

GEMAPARK & PEMBREY’S SMART EVOLUTION
Down in Carmarthenshire, the award-winning Pembrey Country Park Family Caravan & Camping Park is showing just how impactful the right technology can be. Nestled in 500 acres of woodland and coastal beauty, Pembrey has long been a favourite with families seeking adventure and tranquillity.

A long-standing user of GemaPark, Pembrey recently elevated their guest experience with two digital upgrades: Pay-as-you-go electric pitches and a fully branded Guest App. Thanks to GemaPark’s integration with E-Pitch, guests can now pre-purchase electricity during the booking process and top-up from their phones or the hardware itself.

No queues, no meter readings, no lost credit — just seamless, real-time control that enhances convenience while supporting sustainability. As Mags Pullen, Commercial & Facilities Manager at Pembrey, explains: “The ability for guests to manage bookings, electric usage and activities in one place has greatly improved the experience. Our new app adds a personal touch while reducing our reliance on paper and physical resources.”

The app, developed in collaboration with Holidaymaker and fully integrated into GemaPark, gives guests instant access to all their booking details, payment history, activities, and now — even their electricity usage. It also allows for real-time notifications, updates on local events, and a completely paperless arrival and stay experience.

GemaPark’s forward-thinking, open API strategy means that these kinds of smart integrations are only becoming more common and more important. As Dawn Bee, Director of GemaPark, puts it: “We’re committed to connectivity. With our plug-and-play integrations, parks can pick the best tools for their needs and know it will all work together — simply and smoothly.”

AT PEMBREY COUNTRY PARK, guests top up electricity and manage bookings right from their phone.

DIRECT-TO-GUEST MARKETING
While the digital experience is evolving, the goal remains the same: great hospitality. As Allana Tigwell, Head of Marketing at Holidaymaker, points out: “Technology should enable, not replace. It frees up your team to spend more time with guests and less time on admin.”

Holidaymaker’s Direct-to-Guest (D2G) Marketing™ approach helps parks build a connected journey — starting from the moment a potential guest sees a lodge on social media. Through apps, screens and messaging tools, D2G keeps guests engaged throughout their holiday, delivering relevant content, reminders, and offers at just the right time.

Forward-thinking parks like Waterside Holiday Group and Freshwater Beach Holiday Park are showing what’s possible. From in-app AI chat, activity booking and real-time rebooking nudges, to on-site Seeview screens with local info, guests are kept in the loop, without needing to ask at reception. And importantly, this helps bring guests back into your ecosystem.

Instead of relying on OTAs or third-party platforms, branded apps and content help guests stay connected to your brand, long after they’ve left. Whether it’s reducing your carbon footprint with paperless check-ins, or encouraging in-stay upgrades with personalised offers, D2G tech turns one-time visitors into loyal fans.

HOLIDAYMAKER APPS, screens and AI chat helping guests stay informed, entertained and connected.

A SMARTER, MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
One of the most significant advantages of online bookings and apps is their contribution to sustainability and operational efficiency.

From reducing paperwork and streamlining check-in, to cutting down on power waste with smart metering, these tools support both environmental goals and bottom-line savings. More importantly, they support a more human experience. By automating repetitive admin tasks and enabling better communication, they free your team to do what they do best: create welcoming, memorable stays.

Today’s guests aren’t just booking beds, they’re booking experiences. And digital tools, when used right, make those experiences smoother, richer, and more connected.

D2G TOOLS KEEP GUESTS in the loop without pulling staff away from the front line.

YOUR PARK, EVOLVED
The future of holiday park management is not about replacing people with screens — it’s about supporting people with smart, flexible tools.

Whether you’re looking to:
• Reduce OTA commission and increase direct bookings
• Deliver five-star communication from pre-arrival to post-check-out
• Provide smarter on-site services with less manual admin
• Or just bring your brand to life in a guest’s pocket

...then CampManager, GemaPark and Holidaymaker have the technology and expertise to help you get there. As the UK staycation trend continues to grow, the parks that will stand out are those that blend modern tech with traditional hospitality, creating experiences that are personal, seamless and brilliantly memorable.

Ready to bring your park into the palm of your guests’ hands?
Explore these leading providers:

CampManager
www.campmanager.com

GemaPark
www.gemapark.co.uk

Holidaymaker App
www.holidaymakerapp.co.uk

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

POWERING PARK GROWTH

Posted on July 31, 2025

Park owners stay one step ahead thanks to dedicated supplier network...

Ask any delegate what the biggest takeaway has been from the annual Hoseasons Owners Conference over the last few years and one message is likely to come back loud and clear - invest in hot tubs! What started as a ‘nice to have’ for a few early adopters has become a total game changer for savvy owners looking to attract more guests to their park, command higher rental rates and maximise their returns.

In the first half of this year lodges and holiday homes with hot tubs in the Hoseasons portfolio achieved a 52% higher Average Weekly Rate (AWR) than those without. No wonder then that the brand has seen a 30% increase in the number of units adding hot tubs – an evergreen asset with relatively low CapEx and OpEx requirements, where perceived customer value clearly outweighs actual costs to install and maintain.

Always attractive to a broad demographic, including couples, families and groups of friends, hot tubs are also becoming increasingly popular with guests embracing hot and cold water contrast therapy as part of the ever-growing trend for wellness tourism - especially when paired with ice baths, saunas and covered pergolas to extend year-round appeal.

So… investing in hot tubs is a ‘no brainer’, but while knowing ‘what’ to do to capitalise on a market trend is one thing, knowing ‘how’ to do it is another matter. That’s why Hoseasons offers Hoseasons Connect – a strategic partner network of trusted suppliers offering nearly everything a new or existing holiday or lodge park might need to start from scratch, innovate or future-proof their location.

LAUNCHED IN 2022, THE HOSEASONS Connect network currently offers one-stop-shop access to more than 20 reputable suppliers. Picture courtesy of the Yorkshire Spa Retreat.

Launched in 2022, the network currently offers one-stop-shop access to more than 20 reputable suppliers including providers of accommodation, hot tubs, outdoor living equipment, park management software, housekeeping services, access controls, interior furnishings, architecture and design, insurance, print and signage, capital allowances and training services (including hot tub maintenance!).

More than 100 leads have been generated for network members in the last two-and-a-half years, with accommodation owners seeing a wide range of benefits from dealing with experts in their field, including Jacuzzi and Pinelog.

Miles Dewhurst, CEO at Yorkshire Spa Retreat – part of Hoseasons’ Magnificent Collection, works with Hoseasons Connect partners 1 Stop Spas and Leisure and Rix Leisure (Victory Leisure Homes and Prestige Lodges).

He says: “The real added value you get from being able to access the Hoseasons Connect community is not just the products and services themselves, it’s also the insights and innovations these trusted suppliers bring to the table that mean you’re always aware of what’s driving the market, and what might be the next big thing before investing in growth.”

HOSEASONS CONNECT gives owners access to expert suppliers like 1 Stop Spas, Omar Lodges, and HLF Group.

Phil Mackay, Director of Hire Fleet at Raywell Hall Country Lodges – Hoseasons’ current Best in Britain for lodges and parks - is also a big advocate of Hoseasons Connect and has a longstanding relationship with accommodation supplier Omar Lodges. He says: “We realised a long time ago that competitive advantage comes from constantly innovating to stay one step ahead of the rest, and that means working with the best partners along the way.

The fact Hoseasons has brought all these suppliers together in one network is not only incredibly helpful for parks like us, it also very clearly demonstrates their commitment to helping us grow both our income and profitability.” David Hall, Head of Commercial Strategy and Transformation at Northumbrian Water – the parent company of Kielder Waterside – is also a fan of the network.

Working closely with accommodation suppliers Oakgrove Lodges and furniture suppliers HLF Group, he says: “The most important thing about any supplier is that they understand your business. Both Oakgrove and HLF deliver exceptional quality and service and come with a reassuring Hoseasons seal of approval.”

All new owners joining the Hoseasons portfolio are invited to access the Hoseasons Connect community and take advantage of a range of key business contacts, promotional material, discounted rates and other benefits.

WELLNESS-FOCUSED stays are on the rise – hot tubs, saunas and outdoor living drive year-round picture courtesy of Raywell Hall Country Lodges.

Paul Shoebridge, Business Development Director at Awaze – the parent company of Hoseasons – says: “We want to do everything we can to give our owners the best chance of maximising their ROI. Hoseasons Connect brings together the best suppliers in the business so that small family-run operations to large corporate parks can make informed choices about the best way to future proof their customer offer.” For more information about Hoseasons Connect, or to request a digital prospectus please get in touch.

Hoseasons
0345 268 1500
supplypartnerships@hoseasons.co.uk

Raywell Hall Country Lodges
01482 300801
www.raywellhall.co.uk

Yorkshire Spa Retreat
01439 413102
www.yorkshire-spa-retreat.co.uk

RAYWELL HALL’S AWARD-WINNING team with Gemma Brown from Hoseasons (centre), celebrating success at the Owners’ Conference.

LODGES AND HOLIDAY HOMES with hot tubs in the Hoseasons portfolio achieved a 52% higher Average Weekly Rate (AWR) than those without, picture courtesy of Raywell Hall Country Lodges.

ROLL UP, ROLL UP!

Posted on July 31, 2025

Visitor registration is now open for The Glamping Show 2025, the UK’s leading business-to-business event for the glamping sector. Taking place from 18th-20th September at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire, this unmissable Show offers free entry, giving you access to the UK’s most comprehensive collection of products and services for glamping, holiday parks, caravan sites, and camp sites.

Explore an impressive line-up of over 100 exhibitors showcasing everything from bell tents, pods, wigwams, shepherds’ huts, cabins and gypsy caravans, to eco toilets, portable washrooms, storage containers, hot tubs, lighting, fire pits, barbeques, accessories, and so much more.

Alongside the exhibition, your free ticket also allows entry to an invaluable programme of seminars designed to help you maximise return on investment, whether you are already operating a site or planning to launch one soon.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see the latest innovations, gain expert insight and connect with suppliers and fellow site owners to drive your business forward. So, what are you waiting for? Put the date in your diary and claim your FREE TICKET today on our website, simply click ‘Register’ and secure your place.

The Glamping Show
01582 767254
www.theglampingshow.com

GROW YOUR ESTABLISHED Glamping Business, image credit Yurts for Life

LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS with over 11 industry professional speakers

ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS AT LLT

Posted on July 31, 2025

The Land Leisure & Tourism Show is the UK’s largest event dedicated to holiday parks, leisure, attractions, and rural businesses. The show provides a creative space where you can gather ideas and learn from other experts in the field.

Whether you’re an established industry professional seeking fresh concepts or a newcomer looking to maximise your land’s potential, this event provides a unique platform for networking, learning, and innovation.

This year’s show offers an unmissable opportunity to explore the latest trends, connect with leading suppliers, and discover innovative solutions to enhance your business. Plus, with the Farm Business Innovation Show running alongside, farmers and landowners can access even more expert guidance on diversification and land optimisation.

For 2025, we’re placing an even stronger emphasis on hospitality offerings, helping holiday park operators and rural businesses expand their services and increase profitability. Expect tailored insights into enhancing guest experiences, adding premium facilities, and implementing effective marketing strategies to drive success.

Whether you’re looking to source new products, gain expert advice, or network with industry leaders, the Land Leisure & Tourism Show is the must-attend event to take your business to the next level. Join us on 5-6 November 2025 at the NEC Birmingham and be part of the UK’s most influential event for the tourism sector. Scan the QR code to register for your free ticket today.

The Land Leisure & Tourism Show
www.lltshow.com

LLT IS THE LAUNCHPAD for your next big SHO idea

EXPLORE THE LATEST innovations and speak directly with leading suppliers

STONELEIGH 2025 WHAT A SHOW!

Posted on July 31, 2025

Stoneleigh once again proved why The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show is the premier event in the industry calendar. This year’s show radiated unity, passion, and professionalism, with exhibitors and supporters coming together from across the UK and beyond.

From park operators and manufacturers to suppliers of decking, solar panels, chassis, finance, estate agents, insurance, independent experts, outdoor furniture etc. etc. The event was a true showcase of the sector’s breadth and innovation. The spirit of collaboration was unmistakable.

In a challenging economic climate, the importance of working together was clear and embraced. The connections made and strengthened at Stoneleigh highlighted the collective commitment to driving the industry forward.

Visitor numbers were strong, and the atmosphere was charged with energy and enthusiasm. Beyond business, Stoneleigh continues to be a space where lasting connections are formed and the spirit of the industry is celebrated.

A highlight of the event was the special recognition given to organisers Jo and Pat, who received the Outstanding Services to the Park & Leisure Home Industry award — a moment of well-deserved pride. As the curtains close on Stoneleigh 2025, anticipation is already building for an even more exciting 2026.

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

RISING DEMAND FOR UK HOLIDAYS AS STAYCATIONS CONTINUE TO SURGE

Posted on May 14, 2025

The UK holiday park and caravan sector is experiencing an unprecedented boom as staycations remain the preferred choice for British holidaymakers. With international travel costs soaring and environmental concerns influencing decisions, more people are opting for domestic holidays, presenting both opportunities and challenges for holiday park operators.

Recent industry reports highlight a 25% rise in bookings for UK holiday parks compared to pre-pandemic levels. Initially spurred by COVID-19 restrictions, the staycation trend has remained strong despite the reopening of international travel.

Economic uncertainty, high fuel prices, and the rising cost of overseas holidays have reinforced the appeal of UK-based breaks. Additionally, increasing sustainability awareness is driving holidaymakers to seek low-carbon alternatives, further boosting demand for caravan and lodge holidays.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR HOLIDAY PARK OPERATORS
To meet evolving customer expectations, holiday park operators are embracing innovation and investment in key areas:

• Enhancing Accommodation: Many parks are introducing premium lodges, glamping pods, and eco-friendly cabins to attract a wider demographic. High-quality, self-catering options with modern amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
• Sustainability Initiatives: With eco-conscious travel on the rise, parks investing in renewable energy, water conservation, and waste reduction are gaining a competitive edge.
• Technology Integration: Contactless check-ins, digital guest experiences, and app-based bookings streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Expanding Activities and Attractions: To rival international destinations, many parks are developing adventure parks, wellness retreats, and themed entertainment to broaden their appeal.

With staycations firmly established as a dominant travel trend, the future looks bright for UK holiday parks. Operators prioritising innovation, sustainability, and exceptional customer experiences are best positioned to thrive in this rapidly evolving market.

MSP CELEBRATES SCOTTISH TOURISM AT BERWICKSHIRE HOLIDAY PARK

Posted on May 14, 2025

MSP RACHAEL HAMILTON flew the flag for Scotland’s tourism industry (on 24 March) when she visited a popular Borders holiday park.

MSP Rachael Hamilton championed Scotland’s tourism industry on 24 March with a visit to Cockburnspath Holiday Park in Berwickshire during Scottish Tourism Month. Situated between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Dunbar, the park boasts a scenic backdrop of the Lammermuir Hills.

Ms Hamilton was welcomed by park manager Zoe Dixon and business owner Frank Maguire, who guided her on a tour of the extensive grounds. Cockburnspath Holiday Park is part of the Meridian Parks group, founded in 2009 by Mr Maguire’s father.

The MSP learned about the park’s tranquil setting, which offers families the opportunity to own a holiday home while preserving local wildlife and flora. Ms Hamilton also viewed luxury holiday homes, available from under £20,000.

Mr Maguire highlighted the park’s role in sustaining local businesses without impacting housing stock or property prices. “Tourism is vital to the Borders economy, and it’s fantastic to see how this park supports local jobs,” said Ms Hamilton. More information is available on the Cockburnspath Holiday Park website.

A HIGHLAND HAVEN

Posted on May 14, 2025

Beth Connor visits Loch Tay Highland Lodges...

Tucked away in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Loch Tay Highland Lodges offers visitors an unforgettable escape into nature. With breath-taking landscapes, a wealth of outdoor activities, and first-class accommodation, this scenic retreat provides the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Holiday Park Scene Magazine recently paid a visit to this hidden gem to uncover what makes it such a sought-after destination for holidaymakers. Situated on the banks of the majestic Loch Tay, the holiday park enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and shimmering waters.

The tranquil setting provides an idyllic backdrop for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As we arrived, the still, spring-cool air carried a refreshing crispness, perfectly complementing the serene beauty of the Highland landscape.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges offers a diverse range of accommodations, seamlessly blending comfort with the park’s breath-taking natural surroundings. Guests can choose from glamping domes, premium lodges, and traditional camping pods, each designed to provide a unique yet cosy retreat.

LOCH TAY HIGHLAND LODGES was nothing short of spectacular.

For those seeking a more exclusive getaway, the park’s Exclusive Houses provide spacious, high-end accommodation with stunning views and top-tier amenities. Meanwhile, the Premium Woodland Cabins stand out for their luxury features, including floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the serene Highland landscape and some with Hot Tubs.

Thoughtfully furnished, these hexagon-shaped cabins allow guests to enjoy modern comforts while staying immersed in nature. Their Signature Lodges are the highest, most luxurious grade of accommodation offering, ensuring every traveller finds their ideal stay.

Whether opting for glamping, luxury lodges, or a traditional camping experience, guests can enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and nature at this stunning Highland retreat. Loch Tay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park’s prime location offers a wide range of activities to suit all ages and interests. Guests can take to the water with kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while those who prefer to stay on dry land can enjoy scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, or even archery.

OFFERING PET-FRIENDLY accommodation, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the adventure.

During our stay, we embarked on a guided boat tour of the loch, where we learned about the area’s rich history and if you’re lucky you’ll spot some local wildlife, including ospreys and red deer. For a slower pace, visitors can simply relax by the water’s edge, enjoying a peaceful afternoon with nothing but the sound of nature surrounding them.

No visit to the Highlands would be complete without sampling some local cuisine, and Loch Tay Highland Lodges does not disappoint. The on-site Boathouse Kitchen & Bar serves up a delicious menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Offering hearty comforting evening meals, every dish is a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges is a fantastic destination for families. The safe and spacious environment allows children to explore freely, while the park’s facilities ensure there is never a dull moment. The dedicated children’s play area, 18-hole disc golf course, and wildlife trails provide endless entertainment, making it an ideal choice for family getaways.

Our time at Loch Tay Highland Lodges was nothing short of spectacular. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this Highland retreat offers something for everyone. The stunning location, diverse accommodation options, and exceptional facilities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Scotland.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges
01567 820323
www.largoleisure.co.uk/holiday-parks-scotland/loch-tay