Holiday Park Industry

OLD OAKS CUTS CONSUMPTION BY 14% WITH METPOW

Posted on May 6, 2026

OLD OAKS HOLIDAY PARK in Somerset—an award-winning destination now benefiting from smart, fully automated energy management across its site.

Old Oaks, an award-winning adults-only holiday park in Somerset with 88 touring pitches, implemented an automated electricity metering solution to improve billing transparency and drive energy efficiency. Rising energy costs and increasing demand from modern, power-hungry vans made it essential to introduce a scalable, future-ready system without adding operational burden.

THE CHALLENGE
With no electricity metering in place, energy costs were rising while usage remained largely untracked. The growing demand from modern touring vans placed additional strain on supply and made cost recovery difficult.

At the same time, introducing a traditional metering approach risked adding significant administrative workload. Old Oaks needed a solution that delivered accurate, fair billing and full visibility of usage without increasing staff effort or complexity.

THE SOLUTION
Old Oaks introduced Metpow, a fully automated, app-based metering and billing system. Each pitch was assigned a unique QR code, allowing guests to activate electricity on arrival. Usage is tracked in real time, with flexible payment options available. A centralised management portal provides full oversight, eliminating manual processes and reducing administrative time.

GUESTS CAN EASILY activate and manage their electricity via Metpow’s app-based system, delivering real-time usage tracking and transparent, pay-as- you-go billing.

KEY BENEFITS
• No manual meter readings or invoicing
• No additional administrative workload
• Transparent, usage-based billing for guests
• Improved guest experience with real-time tracking
• Full cost recovery with no financial risk

FINANCIAL IMPACT
During the 2025 season (March– October), Old Oaks recorded:
• Total energy usage: 128,255 kWh
• Total cost: £31,959
• Reduction in consumption: 14%
• Estimated saving (single supply): £4,900
• Total benefit: £9,587, with projected savings of ~£12,000

Old Oaks transformed its electricity management from an unmetered cost centre into a controlled, efficient system. The result is reduced energy consumption, full cost recovery, and a better guest experience delivered through a scalable, future-ready platform.

Metpow
info@metpow.com
www.metpow.com

SMARTER PARK MANAGEMENT WITH GEMAPARK

Posted on May 6, 2026

SMARTER PARK Management with Gemapark.

Gemapark provides an innovative park management system designed to help holiday and residential park operators streamline day-to-day operations and improve overall efficiency. The platform supports a wide range of functions, including bookings, customer data management, and financial reporting, all within a single, easy-to-use system.

Built to reduce administrative workload and enhance organisation, Gemapark helps park owners focus on delivering a better guest experience. Designed to be flexible and scalable, the system can be adapted to suit parks of all sizes, from small independent sites to large multi-park operators. It offers practical tools that support smarter decision-making and more efficient business management.

The Gemapark team is available to provide guidance, answer questions, and demonstrate how the system can be tailored to meet specific operational needs. Whether upgrading existing processes or introducing new digital tools, Gemapark offers a modern solution for today’s park operators.

Gemapark
01983 282 420
www.gemapark.co.uk

BESPOKE PADDLING POOLS TRANSFORM HOLIDAY PARK WATER PLAY EXPERIENCES

Posted on May 6, 2026

FOR YOUR BESPOKE PROJECTS including waterslides, paddling pools please contact us.

Paddling pools have become essential features in campsites and holiday parks. With over 30 years of experience in the sector, EDSUN designs these spaces on a bespoke basis to provide visitors and children with a safe and enjoyable environment to play, explore, and enjoy the water.

Today, they are much more than shallow pools: they are fully immersive, playful environments designed to create engaging experiences. With the APILOTI signature ranges, each paddling pool is fully customised according to the theme envisioned by the client. Once the concept is defined, a designer creates sketches from a unique moodboard, and the project is then modelled in 3D to visualise its integration into the space.

These paddling pools are therefore one-of-a-kind, offering visitors an original and distinctive experience. Tipping buckets, interactive games, and water jets are carefully designed to stimulate children’s imagination and encourage shared family moments. EDSUN also offers themed paddling pools with universes such as Nature, Explorer, Pirate, or Surf.

While following a predefined theme, they remain fully modular: size, layout, and colours can be adapted to perfectly fit each site. These installations ensure EDSUN’s quality and safety standards while allowing professionals to create attractive and engaging aquatic spaces for their visitors.

EDSUN
+332 51 91 68 70
www.edsunloisirs.com

WHY WILDFIRE RISK IS THE NEW CHALLENGE FOR UK CARAVAN PARKS

Posted on May 6, 2026

For decades, UK holiday park operators have focused on water-based risks such as flooding, storm surges, and coastal erosion. Most have robust flood evacuation plans and invest in drainage and coastal defences. However, a new threat is emerging at the opposite end of the spectrum: wildfire.

The Summer of 2025 highlighted the danger. Following England’s driest Spring since 1893, the UK recorded 117 wildfires – more than double 2023’s total. One near-miss occurred at Grouse Hill Caravan Park on the edge of the North York Moors, where a wildfire spread rapidly toward the site.

Only a change in wind direction and the heroic efforts of North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue prevented a catastrophe. Caravans are particularly vulnerable. Plastic and thin cladding, close proximity of units, and LPG cylinders create a “domino effect” risk.

Many parks are surrounded by forests, heathland, or long grass, which become fuel beds during dry spells. Compass Insurance data shows fire claims peaked at over £165,000 between June 2022 and May 2023 – a six-fold increase from the previous year.

PROACTIVE RISK MANAGEMENT IS NOW ESSENTIAL:
1. Defensible space: Clear vegetation and maintain buffer zones to slow or stop fire spread.
2. LPG and safety equipment: Store gas bottles upright in shaded areas and equip units with fire blankets and extinguishers. Regularly check smoke alarms and fire equipment.
3. Infrastructure and access: Ensure roads allow fire service access, hydrants are clearly marked and tested, and evacuation routes are never blocked.
4. Evacuation planning: Establish rapid communication channels and plan for residents with mobility issues. Wildfires move fast – unlike floods, there may be no warning.
5. Resident responsibility: Preventable causes such as careless barbecue use, improper cigarette disposal, and electrical overloads remain a major risk.

Temporary bans or designated zones can help Climate change is intensifying these risks. As insurers, we see that prevention is the most effective protection. By treating wildfire risk with the same attention as flooding, parks can remain safe for visitors and residents. Proactive planning, careful site management, and clear safety communication are essential to protecting property, people, and peace of mind in an era of extreme weather.

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compassparks.co.uk

QUALITY WITH LONGEVITY BUILT IN

Posted on May 6, 2026

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

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

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

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

Pinelog
01246 942842
www.pinelog.co.uk

DISCOVER OUR ‘ONE-STOP SHOP’ IN STONELEIGH!

Posted on May 6, 2026

Caravan Park Electrical Services will be heading to The World of Park and Leisure Homes Show, where we’ll be showcasing our extensive product portfolio. With over 40 years of industry experience, we pride ourselves on putting the customer at the heart of everything we do – delivering tailored solutions backed by expert knowledge and support.

As a trusted choice for both supply-only and full installation, our experienced team can handle enquiries of any size or complexity. Visit our stand to explore our comprehensive range, including connection units, multi-service bollards, lighting solutions (including solar), EV chargers, bulk metering units, distribution units and mains panels.

We’ll be demonstrating our latest metering systems, designed to suit your operational needs. Whether you prefer a card-based solution or a fully self-service system, you can choose the level of control that works best for your business At CPES, we are more than a supplier; we are your partner in achieving a sustainable and efficient electrical infrastructure – supporting your park every step of the way.

Caravan Park Electrical Services
01790 753153
www.cpes.co.uk

THE UK’S LEADING PARK & LEISURE HOMES SHOW RETURNS

Posted on May 6, 2026

THE ONLY UK event where you can walk through a full park home village.

Every year, the UK’s park and leisure home sector comes together for what feels less like an exhibition and more like a pulse check on the industry. The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show returns to Stoneleigh Park this June, bringing with it the innovation, energy, and momentum driving one of the UK’s most resilient leisure markets.

What sets the Show apart is its scale and purpose. It remains the only UK event where visitors can walk through a complete “village” of homes - from high end luxury lodges and residential park homes to compact and quirky leisure units - all fully furnished and presented in a real world setting.

It’s an experience that allows buyers, operators, and developers to see the detail, quality, and liveability of each model in a way no brochure or digital tour can replicate. The Show has also become a key launch platform for manufacturers. Many choose Stoneleigh as the moment to unveil brand new models, and this year is shaping up to be no exception.

A MUST-VISIT event for park owners, developers, and industry professionals

Several manufacturers are preparing exclusive designs specifically for the event, offering visitors a first look at the latest thinking in layout, materials, sustainability, and lifestyle led design. For park owners, operators, developers, and prospective buyers, this creates a rare opportunity to compare homes side by side and engage directly with manufacturers on specification, customisation, and future plans.

Beyond the homes themselves, the Show reflects the wider ecosystem shaping modern parks. From decking, landscaping, and outdoor living solutions to technology, finance, and sustainability services, the exhibitor line up mirrors the evolving needs of parks focused on enhancing guest experience and long term value.

With free entry and parking, it remains accessible while delivering a high quality, business focused environment. For those shaping the future of holiday and residential living, this is where ideas turn into action.

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

RAISING THE BAR

Posted on May 6, 2026

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

Park Upgrades Keeping Guests Coming Back

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlands End Holiday Park
www.wdlh.co.uk

Parkdean Resorts
www.parkdeanresorts.co.uk

York House Leisure
www.yhlparks.co.uk

WINNING EXPERIENCES

Posted on May 6, 2026

TURNING RAINY DAYS into revenue opportunities across UK holiday parks.

How redemption arcades are transforming guest engagement across UK holiday destinations...

In today’s competitive hospitality and leisure industry, operators are under increasing pressure to boost guest satisfaction, extend dwell time and maximise on-site spend. One of the most effective—and often underestimated—solutions is the provision of high-quality indoor entertainment.

As the UK climate continues to deliver its fair share of unpredictability, the ability to offer engaging, all-weather attractions is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. For owners and managers of holiday parks, caravan parks, camping and glamping sites, indoor entertainment serves as a vital pillar of year-round appeal.

Families are no longer satisfied with seasonal offerings alone; they expect consistent, memorable experiences regardless of the weather. Rainy afternoons and cooler evenings present an opportunity rather than a challenge—an opportunity to draw guests into vibrant indoor spaces filled with laughter, excitement and nostalgia.

At the heart of this indoor entertainment renaissance lies the enduring charm of arcade amusements. From the unmistakable sound of coins cascading through machines to the anticipation of tickets spilling out after a winning game, arcades continue to captivate all generations.

AN ARCADE HUB where multi-generational guests make lasting memories.

In particular, nostalgic coin pushers have seen a remarkable resurgence, appealing not only to children discovering them for the first time, but also to parents and grandparents reliving fond memories of seaside holidays. Coin pushers offer a simple yet highly engaging gameplay experience.

The tactile nature of inserting coins, timing the drop and watching the gradual build-up towards a potential win creates a sense of suspense that digital-only entertainment often struggles to replicate. For operators, these machines deliver strong and consistent returns, while requiring minimal supervision—making them a smart investment for busy holiday environments.

Complementing coin pushers is the ever-popular redemption arcade model, where gameplay is rewarded with tickets that can be exchanged for prizes. This format taps into a powerful psychological driver: the pursuit of a tangible reward. Whether it’s a small toy, a novelty item or a larger aspirational prize, the ticket system encourages repeat play, longer stays and increased spend per visit.

Crucially, it also creates a shared family experience, as children and adults alike collaborate—or compete—to accumulate tickets. A well-designed arcade space can quickly become a focal point of any holiday park. Bright lighting, engaging soundscapes and a mix of classic and modern machines create an atmosphere that draws guests in and keeps them entertained for hours.

WHERE FRIENDLY COMPETITION meets unforgettable holiday experiences.

Importantly, it also provides a reliable indoor option that operators can promote during off-peak seasons, helping to stabilise revenue throughout the year. Supporting operators in delivering these experiences is UK Amusement Supplies, a trusted name within the industry. With more than 15 years of experience, the company has established itself as one of the leading suppliers of redemption tickets across the UK and Europe, alongside innovative solutions designed to streamline and enhance arcade operations.

“Eyes on the prize” perfectly encapsulates the role that redemption systems play in modern amusement environments. From high-quality tickets to intuitive software, UK Amusement Supplies provides a comprehensive range of products tailored to the needs of operators of all sizes. Their expertise, shaped by working with some of Europe’s largest family entertainment centres, ensures that clients benefit from both reliability and value.

The company’s redemption tickets are produced to the highest standards, featuring double-sided designs, barcoding and sequential numbering. Manufactured using high-quality paper and offering excellent print resolution, these tickets are built for durability and performance in high-traffic environments.

Operators can choose from a wide range of generic designs held in stock for rapid delivery, or opt for custom-designed tickets that reflect their brand identity—an option that comes with no set-up costs when minimum order quantities are met. Beyond tickets, UK Amusement Supplies continues to innovate with products such as the popular “Ticket Monster Ticket Eater.”

HIGH-QUALITY redemption tickets designed for performance and durability.

This eye-catching machine transforms the simple act of counting tickets into an engaging experience in its own right, with high-definition animations and vibrant colours capturing the attention of players. Its success has led many operators to upgrade older machines, with a new model already anticipated for Autumn 2026.

Equally significant is the company’s free prize-shop software, a practical solution designed to bring greater control and efficiency to redemption operations. Easy to use and cost-effective, it enables operators to enhance security, track performance and manage inventory without the need for complex or expensive systems.

For many sites, this software has become an essential tool in maximising the profitability of their arcade offering. Ultimately, the integration of nostalgic coin pushers, ticket-based redemption games and modern support systems creates a compelling indoor entertainment proposition. For holiday park operators, the benefits are clear: increased guest satisfaction, stronger secondary spend and a more resilient business model that performs across all seasons.

As the expectations of holidaymakers continue to evolve, those who invest in engaging indoor experiences will be best positioned to stand out in a crowded market. By combining the timeless appeal of arcade fun with the expertise and products offered by industry specialists like UK Amusement Supplies, operators can ensure that their guests remain entertained, whatever the weather—and keep them coming back year after year.

UK Amusement Supplies
01253 868 868
www.ukamusementsupplies.co.uk