holiday park owner

WHEN THE STAY BECOMES THE STORY

Posted on February 13, 2026

THE ORRYN LODGE from Pinelog transforms the park landscape with a striking roofline and an inviting, experience-led design. With thoughtful design inside and out, The Orryn encourages guests to relax, socialise and create lasting memories in every season.

The increasing importance of experiential holiday park accommodation…

Holiday park accommodation is no longer a functional backdrop to a break away. It now shapes how guests relax, socialise and remember their stay. Comfort, design quality and usable space increasingly influence booking decisions and revenue.

The Orryn, the latest lodge design from Pinelog, has been developed in direct response to guest demand for memorable, experience-led accommodation. Rather than focusing solely on the internal layout, the design treats the lodge as a complete living environment, inside and out.

A defining feature is its projecting roofline. Architecturally, it creates a strong visual identity on park. Practically, it transforms external decking into a sheltered, year-round living and entertaining space. The extended roof projection provides protection for hot tubs, seating and dining areas, and can even accommodate a sauna, allowing operators to add premium features that remain usable in all seasons.

Like all lodges in the Pinelog range, The Orryn benefits from a fully bespoke approach. Layouts can be adapted to suit different guest profiles and park strategies, with options including integrated saunas, games rooms, accessibility features and pet-friendly additions.

These reflect growing demand for wellness, entertainment and multi-generational stays, while helping parks differentiate their offer and increase per-stay revenue. As experiential travel continues to shape the holiday park sector, Pinelog’s bespoke offering continues to lead the way in helping park operators move their accommodation into a central part of the guest experience, delivering stronger appeal and long-term commercial value. For luxury, memorable timber lodges, speak to Pinelog’s expert design team.

Pinelog
01246 942842
www.pinelog.co.uk

PARKDEAN LAUNCHES ALL-INCLUSIVE BREAKS

Posted on February 11, 2026

FAMILIES CAN NOW ENJOY hassle-free four-night getaways with meals and unlimited drinks included at 42 Parkdean Resorts across the UK.

Parkdean Resorts is making UK family holidays easier and more affordable than ever with the launch of its all-inclusive offer at 42 parks nationwide. Following a successful trial at ten parks in 2025, the holiday operator is now rolling out the upgrade across coastal and countryside destinations in England, Scotland, and Wales.

Available exclusively on four-night Monday-to-Friday breaks during select spring and early summer dates, the all-inclusive package covers three meals a day and unlimited soft drinks, including Costa Coffee. Prices start from just £25 per adult and £10 per child per day, offering families a simple, cost-effective way to enjoy a stress-free getaway.

For example, a family of four can enjoy four nights of accommodation, meals, and drinks for under £93 per day—a saving of over £300 compared with standard bookings. Guests can book the package in advance or add it after arrival at parks such as Bideford Bay in Devon, Camber Sands in Sussex, or White Cross Bay in the Lake District.

With over 65 parks, Parkdean Resorts provides activities for all ages, from swimming and mini golf to high ropes and arts and crafts, making it one of the UK’s largest and most family-friendly holiday operators. The all-inclusive offer is designed to combine convenience, value, and the beauty of the UK’s most scenic holiday destinations.

MEADOWBAY CELEBRATES DOUBLE WIN

Posted on February 11, 2026

MEADOW BAY VILLAGES’ team celebrates after winning two top awards at the British Travel Awards.

Meadow Bay Villages is celebrating a double triumph at the British Travel Awards, taking home accolades as Best Small Company for UK Family Holidays and Best Small Company for UK Short Breaks.

The awards, voted for by nearly half a million consumers, are widely recognised as the most influential in the UK travel industry. Winners were announced at a ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair, attended by senior figures from across the tourism and travel sector.

Chief Executive Geoffrey Smith said the recognition was particularly special given the group has only been operating for 18 months. “To be recognised so early in our journey is incredible and reflects the commitment of our amazing team to providing outstanding holiday experiences,” he said.

Meadow Bay Villages operates four parks, including Billing Aquadrome in Northamptonshire, a peaceful lakeside retreat, and Hayling Island Holiday Park in Hampshire, which now offers luxury platinum-grade caravans with private hot tubs, as well as dog-friendly gold standard units.

The group also runs Golden Leas and Hollybush Farm Holiday Parks on the Isle of Sheppey. Over the past 18 months, Meadow Bay Villages has invested £17 million in regenerating its parks, enhancing leisure facilities and accommodation for guests and holiday homeowners.

EUROPE’S FAVOURITE CAMPING DESTINATION

Posted on February 11, 2026

Castlerigg Hall Holiday Park in Keswick has been voted the most popular camping destination in Great Britain by campers from 33 European countries. The accolade comes from the ACSI, Europe’s largest publisher of camping information, which represents more than 9,400 campsites across the continent.

The family-run park, operated by the Jackson family since 1938, topped the poll for its combination of location, quality, and hospitality. David Jackson, who runs the park with his wife Jill and son Josh, said the award was “ a fantastic feather in the park’s cap” and praised his team for their contribution.

Castlerigg Hall offers a range of accommodation, from traditional camping pitches to luxury holiday caravans and touring pitches for motorhomes. The park also features innovative Hex Pods, sustainable glamping units with underfloor heating powered by renewable energy, furnished living areas, and kitchen and bathroom facilities beneath hexagonal glass roofs.

Earlier this year, the park won the 2025 Cumbria Tourism Award for Regenerative Tourism, recognising its commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural environment. Castlerigg Hall is a longstanding member of the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA).

ABOVE: Outside the Dutch headquarters of the ACSI, David Jackson and his wife Jill and their son Josh receive the organisation's top UK award from two of its senior holiday park inspectors.

THE HEART OF HOLGATES

Posted on February 10, 2026

We visit Silverdale Holiday Park, just outside Carnforth, is Holgates' flagship, blending top facilities with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere...

Silverdale isn’t just a place to stay – it’s a destination in its own right. At the heart of the park is the impressive leisure complex, where guests can enjoy two swimming pools, a fully equipped gym, steam room, sauna, and spa pool.

Whether you’re after a morning workout, a relaxing soak, or fun with the family, the complex caters to every need. Beyond the pools, the park offers a large restaurant and bar, bowling alley, arcade, soft play area, and an ice cream parlour. Open seven days a week, these facilities make Silverdale an all-weather, all-ages destination where there’s always something to do.

ACCOMMODATION FOR EVERYONE
Silverdale’s accommodation options are designed to suit all types of guests. Luxury lodges, offer a home-from-home experience for holidaymakers or owners looking for a longer stay. Touring pitches provide spacious, well-maintained spots for caravans and motorhomes, while still feeling part of the park’s welcoming community.

This variety makes the park perfect for multi-generational families, couples, or groups of friends. By combining holiday and ownership options, Holgates ensures every visit is tailored to its guests’ needs, providing comfort, convenience, and a touch of indulgence.

AERIAL VIEW OF SILVERDALE Holiday Park’s central leisure facilities set within the beautiful Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape.

STUNNING NATURAL SURROUNDINGS
One of Silverdale’s standout features is its location. Set within the Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape, the park is surrounded by natural beauty and offers guests easy access to scenic walking and cycling routes.

From cliff-top strolls with sweeping views to gentle countryside trails, outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of ways to explore the area. For those in lodges or touring pitches, mornings can start with panoramic vistas across Morecambe Bay, while evenings provide the perfect backdrop for a sunset walk. The combination of top-notch facilities and natural scenery creates a holiday experience that’s both relaxing and energising.

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY
Silverdale has something for everyone. Children can enjoy soft play, the arcade, and bowling, while adults can unwind in the restaurant, gym, or spa. Communal spaces also encourage families and friends to spend time together, while the park maintains a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere for those who prefer a quieter break.

The team at Silverdale really brings the Holgates ethos to life. Friendly, approachable, and attentive, staff make guests feel genuinely welcome. With around 200 employees across the Holgates group, Silverdale benefits from a mix of experienced full-time and seasonal staff, all committed to delivering that personal, family-run service that Holgates is known for.

DINING AND SOCIALISING at Silverdale’s restaurant and bar, a welcoming hub for meals and evening entertainment.

QUALITY AND SUSTAINABILITY
Silverdale’s five-star AA and VisitEngland ratings are testament to the park’s consistently high standards. Holgates also places a strong emphasis on sustainability, from energy-efficient measures to carefully considered landscaping, ensuring the park respects and enhances its beautiful surroundings.

Recent investments across the group, such as new lodges at Beetham Holiday Park, show Holgates’ commitment to growth and improvement, and while Silverdale already sets the benchmark, ongoing investment keeps the park modern, welcoming, and perfectly suited to today’s holidaymakers. A Holiday to Remember After a full day exploring Silverdale, it’s clear why it’s Holgates’ flagship park.

Whether you’re swimming in the pool, dining in the restaurant, or taking a walk along the cliffs, Silverdale offers a holiday experience that’s fun, relaxing, and memorable. For families, couples, or friends looking for a high-quality destination in the North West, Silverdale Holiday Park perfectly combines excellent facilities with stunning surroundings, making every stay a chance to create lasting memories.

Silverdale Holiday Park
T.01524 701508
www.holgates.co.uk/our-parks/silverdale

Seven Decades of Family Holidays

Posted on February 10, 2026

A Family Legacy Shaping Five-Star Escapes in the North West...

With more than seven decades of heritage behind it, Holgates Holiday Parks stands as one of the North West’s most established and respected holiday park operators.

Still proudly family-owned, the business has grown steadily while remaining rooted in the values that first defined it in 1956: quality, care and a genuine passion for helping guests create lasting holiday memories. Today, Holgates operates a portfolio of 10 parks, predominantly located across the stunning landscapes of Lancashire and Cumbria.

Nine of these parks sit within 10 to 15 minutes of the Carnforth and Silverdale area – a location long admired for its proximity to the Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape, the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. The tenth park extends the brand’s reach into the Ribble Valley, offering a contrasting but equally compelling countryside setting.

A CAREFULLY BALANCED PORTFOLIO
Holgates’ portfolio reflects a deliberate and considered approach to growth. None of the parks are residential, allowing the business to remain focused exclusively on holiday and holiday ownership experiences. Six parks welcome both holiday guests and holiday homeowners, while four parks are dedicated entirely to ownership, offering owners a peaceful, community-focused environment.

Across its six holiday parks, accommodation options are varied and tailored to different guest needs. Five parks offer a combination of holiday caravans, touring pitches and glamping pods, while Hollins Farm stands out as a touring-only park enhanced by two thoughtfully positioned glamping pods.

Complementing the parks is the Holgates Collection of 11 self-catering cottages, all located within easy reach of the core Carnforth and Silverdale area, further strengthening the brand’s appeal to multi-generational families and longer-stay guests. This diversity enables Holgates to attract a wide demographic – from touring enthusiasts and first-time holidaymakers to loyal owners who return year after year.

SILVERDALE HOLIDAY PARK’S flagship leisure complex, featuring indoor swimming pools, spa facilities and a fully equipped gym, open seven days a week.

FLAGSHIP FACILITIES AT SILVERDALE
Silverdale Holiday Park is widely regarded as the flagship of the Holgates portfolio, setting the benchmark for facilities and guest experience across the group. At the heart of the park is a comprehensive leisure complex that rivals many standalone attractions. Open seven days a week, the complex features two swimming pools alongside a fully equipped gym, steam room, sauna and spa pool.

Beyond leisure, guests and owners can enjoy a large restaurant and bar, a bowling alley, arcade, soft play area, pitch & putt, ice cream parlour and on-site shop – creating a true all-weather destination. Silverdale also serves as Holgates’ head office, reinforcing its role as the operational and cultural hub of the business.

INVESTMENT WITH LONG-TERM VISION
Recent years have seen continued investment across the estate, with a strong focus on enhancing quality rather than expanding at pace. A standout project has been the redevelopment at Beetham Holiday Park, where 20 new lodges and caravans have been added across a two-phase development.

The first phase completed in 2023, with the final phase finished in 2025, reflecting Holgates’ long-term commitment to careful, phased growth that respects both guests and surroundings. This approach has allowed the business to future-proof its parks while maintaining the character and tranquillity that its owners and guests value.

SET IN THE HEART OF THE NORTH WEST, Holgates parks offer easy access to beautiful walking routes through coast, countryside, and the Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape.

PEOPLE AT THE HEART OF THE BUSINESS
Holgates employs approximately 200 staff across its parks, a mix of full-time and seasonal roles. As a family-run business, the emphasis on personal service and staff engagement is clear, with many team members developing long-term careers within the group.

This stability not only supports consistent service delivery but also reinforces the welcoming atmosphere that has become synonymous with the Holgates name.

ETHOS, CHALLENGES AND SUSTAINABILITY
Holgates’ ethos is rooted in its family heritage and trusted reputation. The business positions itself as a provider of exceptional coastal and countryside escapes, where quality facilities are matched by genuine personal care.

This philosophy has proven particularly valuable during a period of wider industry challenges, including rising operational costs, changing guest expectations and increased focus on sustainability. In response, Holgates has continued to invest in energy efficiency measures across its parks, alongside thoughtful park layouts and landscaping that minimise environmental impact.

Sustainability is approached as an ongoing commitment rather than a single initiative, aligned with the company’s desire to preserve the landscapes that underpin its success.

GLAMPING PODS NESTLED IN NATURAL surroundings, providing a contemporary holiday option across selected Holgates parks.

RECOGNITION AND COMMUNITY COMMITMENT
Quality and consistency have been recognised through industry accolades, with all Holgates parks holding five-star ratings from both the AA and VisitEngland. Netherbeck Holiday Park has also received the prestigious VisitEngland Rose Award, while the Ribble Valley park was named a winner at the 2025 Stars in Tourism Awards.

Beyond tourism, Holgates places strong emphasis on community and charitable engagement. Each year, the business selects a charity to support across its parks. In 2025, Holgates chose Breast Cancer Now, setting an ambitious fundraising target of £10,000 – a figure the team exceeded, reaching £10,319!

LOOKING AHEAD TO A MILESTONE YEAR
As Holgates approaches its 70th anniversary in 2026, the focus remains firmly on the future while honouring the past.

With a loyal customer base, a well-invested portfolio and a clear sense of purpose, the business is well positioned to continue delivering five-star holiday experiences for generations to come Holgates Holiday Parks is a family-owned holiday park operator with over 70 years of experience in delivering high-quality coastal and countryside escapes across the North West of England.

With a portfolio of 10 five-star parks and a collection of luxury holiday cottages, Holgates is known for its commitment to quality, personal service and long-term investment.

Holgates Holiday Parks
01524 701508
www.holgates.co.uk/our-story

CABIN FEVER

Posted on February 10, 2026

Cabins and lodges have moved firmly from the margins to the mainstream of the holiday park sector...

Once viewed primarily as functional accommodation, they are now central to how parks define their brand, attract new audiences and drive long-term value. Design, build quality and the experience created both inside and outside the unit increasingly shape how guests choose where to stay — and how they remember their break.

Today’s holidaymakers are looking for more than a roof over their heads. They want space to relax, places to socialise, and accommodation that connects them to their surroundings. Timber cabins and lodges are particularly well placed to deliver this, offering warmth, character and a strong visual identity while sitting naturally within rural, woodland and waterside settings.

For park operators, they also provide flexibility — supporting everything from short breaks and off-season stays to premium upsells such as hot tubs, saunas and wellness features. This growing emphasis on experience-led accommodation is reshaping investment decisions across the sector.

Operators are placing greater value on durability, energy efficiency and year-round usability, alongside bespoke layouts that reflect the needs of families, couples, groups and multi-generational guests. External space has become just as important as internal design, with decks, covered terraces and outdoor living areas extending the usable footprint of each unit.

In this Cabins & Lodges focus, Holiday Park Scene explores how thoughtful design, quality construction and strategic placement are helping parks maximise returns while enhancing the guest experience. From innovative lodge concepts to real-world case studies, this section highlights why cabins and lodges have become one of the most powerful tools available to today’s holiday park operators.

CABINS AND LODGES now play a defining role in park identity, guest experience and long-term value, blending design quality with meaningful connections to the landscape.

NORWEGIAN LOG CABINS EXPAND THE LAKESIDE EXPERIENCE
In the heart of Somerset’s picturesque Cary Valley lies Viaduct Fishery, a gem among Britain’s commercial fisheries. Established in the early 1980s and lovingly managed by the Long family since 1999, this 23-acre haven boasts six mature, well-stocked lakes teeming with specimen carp, F1s, silvers, and mixed species.

Open year-round with dawn-to-dusk day tickets, it has long drawn anglers seeking both challenge and serenity amid natural surroundings that feel far removed from the modern world. Yet Viaduct is no longer solely a day-ticket destination for the dedicated rod. Over recent years, the site has evolved into a complete holiday experience, thanks in large part to the addition of luxurious Norwegian log cabins.

These seven beautiful cabins, supplied by the renowned specialists at Norwegian Log, have transformed the lakeside offering, blending authentic Scandinavian craftsmanship with the tranquil beauty of the Somerset countryside. What makes these cabins so special? Norwegian Log has been a market leader in premium log construction for over four decades, delivering high-specification buildings that prioritise insulation, durability, and year-round comfort.

Crafted from solid timber, the cabins provide that signature cosy warmth in winter while remaining pleasantly cool during summer months, an ideal match for Britain’s changeable climate. At Viaduct, the range includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom options, catering perfectly to couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting space to spread out, or groups of friends enjoying a shared angling adventure.

Several cabins sit lakeside, granting guests their own private fishing pegs right on the doorstep. Imagine waking at first light, brewing a cuppa, and casting a line without leaving your accommodation. Others offer stunning lakeview positions overlooking Middle Lake and the rolling Cary Valley, where mist often rises gently from the water at dawn, creating scenes of almost painterly tranquillity.

THOUGHTFULLY POSITIONED AND SENSITIVELY DESIGNED, The log cabins from Norwegian Log have transformed Viaduct Fishery into a multifaceted holiday destination.

Some lodges even feature private hot tubs on the decking, perfect for unwinding after a day’s fishing, with the soft glow of sunset reflecting across the lake. Inside, the cabins feel inviting and surprisingly spacious. The natural wood finishes create a warm, rustic ambience, complemented by modern essentials: fully equipped kitchens, comfortable bedrooms, gas central heating, double glazing, and free Wi-Fi.

It is the best of both worlds, timeless log-cabin charm without sacrificing any creature comforts. This expansion reflects a growing trend in the holiday park sector: the demand for stay-and-play destinations where non-anglers can relax while partners pursue their passion. At Viaduct, the cabins ensure everyone benefits.

Families can enjoy peaceful walks around the lakes, children can spot wildlife, and partners can soak in the hot tub or explore nearby attractions like Glastonbury, Yeovil, or the Somerset Levels. The on-site tackle shop stocks everything needed, making it effortless to focus on enjoyment rather than logistics. From Norwegian Log’s perspective, Viaduct represents an exemplary project.

Their cabins are built to exacting standards, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance, qualities that holiday park operators value highly. As demand for these Somerset retreats continues to rise, the partnership is poised for further growth, with hints of additional cabins in the pipeline to meet enthusiastic bookings.

In an era where holidaymakers seek authentic, nature-immersed escapes, Viaduct Fishery stands out. The Norwegian log cabins do far more than provide accommodation; they enhance the entire lakeside experience, turning a renowned fishery into a multifaceted destination for relaxation, recreation, and reconnection.

Whether you are a lifelong angler or simply someone who appreciates the restorative power of water and woodland, Viaduct offers something truly special. The marriage of world-class fishing with these exquisite Scandinavian-inspired cabins proves that thoughtful development can elevate a site without compromising its natural soul. As the Long family and Norwegian Log continue their collaboration, Viaduct is set to remain one of the Southwest’s premier holiday and angling retreats for years to come.

Norwegian Log
0118 9669 236
www.norwegianlog.co.uk

COVER THAT REALLY COUNTS

Posted on February 10, 2026

Protecting Today's Parks in an Increasingly Complex Risk...

Holiday parks and caravan sites have rarely operated in a more complex and fast-moving environment. Shifting guest expectations, digital booking journeys, extreme weather events, rising regulatory demands and increasing asset values are all reshaping how parks operate.

Against this backdrop, insurance is no longer a background administrative task — it has become a central pillar of business resilience and long-term sustainability. Today’s holiday parks look very different from those of a generation ago.

Alongside traditional touring pitches and static caravans, many sites now feature luxury lodges, glamping pods, on-site leisure facilities, retail outlets, food and beverage operations, and increasingly sophisticated online booking and payment systems. While these additions enhance guest experience and revenue potential, they also create a broader and more interconnected risk profile.

Property damage, public liability, employer’s liability, business interruption, customer-owned assets and digital exposure all intersect on a modern holiday park. Ensuring that insurance cover evolves alongside the business — rather than lagging behind it — has never been more important. Weather-related risks continue to be one of the sector’s most pressing challenges.

Storms, flooding and fire account for a significant proportion of claims, often with high severity and knock-on impacts. Climate volatility is placing greater strain on park infrastructure, drainage systems and siting decisions, while the density of caravans and lodges means that a single incident can escalate rapidly across multiple units.

At the same time, park operators are increasingly responsible for managing risk not only to their own assets, but also across hundreds — sometimes thousands — of customer-owned holiday homes on site. Damage to one unit can have consequences for neighbouring pitches, shared services and the wider reputation of the park, reinforcing the importance of coordinated, specialist insurance solutions.

Beyond physical risks, holiday parks are now firmly digital businesses. Online reservations, contactless payments, customer databases, Wi-Fi networks and automated systems bring efficiency and convenience for both guests and operators. However, they also introduce cyber risks that were barely on the radar a decade ago. Cybercrime is no longer confined to large corporations.

HOLIDAY PARKS are operating in an increasingly complex risk environment, where the right insurance cover plays a vital role in long-term resilience.

Small and medium- sized businesses are increasingly targeted, often because they are perceived as easier entry points with fewer safeguards in place. For holiday parks, a single cyber incident can disrupt bookings, compromise personal data, damage customer trust and lead to significant financial and regulatory consequences.

As reliance on digital systems grows, cyber insurance is fast becoming an essential consideration rather than an optional extra. This feature explores how specialist insurance solutions are responding to the evolving risk landscape faced by holiday parks. From protecting operators against emerging cyber threats, to safeguarding customer-owned caravans and lodges and managing complex site-wide liability, the focus is shifting from reactive cover to proactive protection.

Crucially, it highlights the importance of working with insurers who genuinely understand the realities of holiday park operations. Generic commercial policies may appear cost-effective on the surface, but they can leave dangerous gaps in cover when claims arise. Specialist providers bring sector-specific insight, tailored wordings and practical support that reflect how parks actually function day to day.

Later in this feature, Holiday Park Scene speaks directly to two leading insurance specialists who offer expert insight into different — but equally critical — areas of risk management. In the first contribution, Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass Insurance, examines the growing threat of cybercrime and explains why holiday parks are increasingly exposed.

He outlines common vulnerabilities, the potential impact of an attack, and why cyber insurance should now be viewed as a core component of a modern park’s risk strategy. We also hear from Gareth Walker, Head of Leisuredays Development, who focuses on the insurance of customer-owned holiday caravans and lodges.

His insight explores current claims trends, highlights the real-world impact of storms, floods and fire, and explains how proactive risk management and specialist partnerships can protect owners, operators and the wider site ecosystem. Together, these expert perspectives reinforce a simple but powerful message: insurance today is about far more than recovery after loss.

It is about preparedness, protection and peace of mind. For modern holiday parks operating in an increasingly complex risk environment, the right insurance strategy is not a cost to be minimised — it is an investment in stability, reputation and long-term success.

Please read the Cyber-Crime special by Compass Insurance here: https://www.holidayparkscene.com/lets-not-go-viral/ 

Please read the latest article from Leisuredays Insurance here: https://www.holidayparkscene.com/peace-of-mind-for-parks-from-leisure-days/

 

LET’S NOT GO VIRAL!

Posted on February 10, 2026

One of the increasing risks facing all businesses is cyber-crime. Computers now sit at the centre of almost every commercial activity, enabling consumers to find what they want quickly, pay for it, and have it delivered next day or even same day. The holiday industry is no different. Consumers search for destinations, read reviews, compare prices and then book and pay online.

Computers and the internet are intrinsic to 21st century trading. As an insurance professional, one of the most challenging products to sell to a customer has been Cyber Insurance. Ten years ago, when the cover was relatively inexpensive, we couldn’t give it away — there was absolutely no interest. Fast forward to today and the environment has changed dramatically.

Cyber-crime frequently hit the headlines and claims are rising. Major companies such as Marks & Spencer, the Co-op and Jaguar Land Rover have all been affected. Even government departments have suffered from cyber-attacks.

These attacks can lead to serious business interruption, significant costs in identifying and removing malware and further investment in security to prevent recurrence. On top of this, businesses may have to face ransom demands to regain control of their systems and, if found to have inadequate security, fines imposed by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

WHAT HAS ALL THIS GOT TO DO WITH HOLIDAY PARKS?
Cyber-crime is on the rise, and in the online world no one is immune. It is easy to assume that only large companies are targeted because those incidents make the news - but they are just the tip of the iceberg.

Small businesses are frequently targeted due to;
Perceived Vulnerability: Attackers often see SMBs as easier targets with weaker security.
Data Value: Even small businesses hold valuable customer data useful for identity theft and fraud.
Supply Chain Access: Small businesses can be used as entry points into larger digital supply chains

Holiday parks typically operate websites, booking systems, computerised accounts and billing. It’s surprising how much customer data is held, and if you hold customer data, you are responsible for protecting it.

SO, WHAT ARE THE MAIN RISKS?
• Financial Costs: Direct losses from theft, ransom payments, recovery costs (IT forensics, data restoration), legal fees, and potential fines.
• Operational Disruption: Ransomware and other attacks can halt business operations for days, leading to lost income and productivity.
• Reputational Damage: A data breach can undermine years of trust and goodwill.
• Data Loss: Compromise of sensitive customer and business data, including intellectual property.
• Business Failure: A significant number of small businesses never recover from major cyber-attacks
• What exactly are cyber-attacks or cyber-crime?
• Phishing: Fake emails tricking employees into revealing credentials or installing malware.
• SQL injection: An SQL injection happens when a cyber-criminal embeds harmful code into a webpage or application to access data.
• Malware/Ransomware: Malicious software that encrypts files and demands payment for their release.
• Denial-of-Service attacks (DoS): Flooding a system with traffic to make it unusable
• Man-in-the-Middle attacks: During a man-in-the-middle cyber-attack, a cyber-criminal will intercept conversations, transactions, and the transfer of data between the victim and a service they’re trying to use.
• Social Engineering: Manipulating people through fake emails, calls, or messages to gain access.

WHAT COVER IS AVAILABLE?
There are many providers of Cyber Crime or Cyber Liability cover which keeps the market competitive. Most will offer a comprehensive cover including:
• Data breach
• Security failure
• Illegal threat
• Cyber attack

The precise scope of cover will depend on the insurer and the policy wording. If a cyber-attack strikes, policies may also help with:
• Additional business expenses
• Data recovery costs
• Public relations costs

The consequences of cyber-crime are serious for both the business and their customers. The ICO can impose fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of a firm’s annual global turnover, whichever is higher. British Airways were fined £20M for a data breach and Marriott Hotels £18.4M. The ICO has teeth and isn’t afraid to use them!

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
compassparks.co.uk

PEACE OF MIND FOR PARKS FROM LEISURE DAYS

Posted on February 10, 2026

Leisuredays specialises in working with UK holiday parks to insure customer-owned holiday caravans and lodges. Parks refer owners directly to Leisuredays, where a dedicated team of more than 60 advisers is available seven days a week to quote, arrange cover, issue documents and manage renewals. Or customers can self-serve online and arrange their insurance with Leisuredays. Parks benefit from a valuable, ongoing income stream on policies sold and renewed.

Gareth Walker, Head of Leisuredays Development, says: “Parks appreciate how easy it is to refer owners to us and trust our specialist team to deliver great service. With increasing regulatory demands and pressure on staff time, many parks now prefer to direct customers to a specialist provider so park teams can focus on sales, customer experience and day-to-day operations and the continual development and improvement of their park/s.”

Claims trends have remained broadly consistent. Storm damage was Leisuredays’ most common claim in 2025, as well as escape of water and accidental damage. Flooding and fire losses continue to be the most severe in terms of overall cost, often leading to major repairs or full replacement of caravans and lodges. “We’ve also seen cases where a fire in one caravan has spread to neighbouring units,” Gareth explains.

GARETH WALKER, Head of Leisuredays Development.

“That really highlights the importance of every owner on a park having insurance in place, not just for their own protection, but to help manage wider financial and liability risks across the park.” Leisuredays continues to work proactively with parks at risk of flooding, alongside its underwriter Intact, and an independent flood consultant.

Risk mitigation measures such as siting units above flood levels, flotation systems, earth bunds, drainage improvements, and flood walls help protect parks and support the continued availability of flood cover at sustainable premiums for owners. Key policy benefits of Leisuredays’ holiday caravan and lodge insurance include cover for storm, flood, fire, theft and accidental damage, with many policies arranged on a new-for-old basis.

Where a unit is written off, cover includes costs for debris removal, plus re-siting and reconnection costs for replacement units. Emergency repairs cover also pays parks to carry out immediate works to make customer units safe and watertight following insured events. “Our team of Business Development Managers carry out regular reviews of parks and their risk management measures to make sure we can provide competitive premiums to holiday caravan and park home owners,” added Gareth.

Leisuredays Insurance
01422 396 693
www.leisuredays.co.uk/park-insure