holiday season

SEAMLESS SWIMMING, WHATEVER THE WEATHER

Posted on May 6, 2026

Venus Pool Enclosures are manufacturers of the world’s number one brand of retractable telescopic pool buildings, supplying bespoke buildings aimed at the holiday park, camp site, hotel, and commercial leisure industry.

• Gives your customers and guests all the benefits of an indoor pool when the weather is poor.
• A fraction of the cost, and fewer regulatory and planning issues than a pool built inside a permanent building.
• Can be opened up on hot sunny days affording all the benefits of an outdoor pool.
• Extends the pool’s usage at the start and end of main holiday season.
• Reduces pool heating, water treatment, and maintenances costs, and keeps dirt and debris out.
• Uniquely, glazed with almost unbreakable toughened safety glass, making Venus buildings ideal in commercial environments where safety is paramount; and with the added benefit that it won’t scratch, fade or craze over time.
• Patented manufacturing processes and highest quality materials mean single spans up to 26m wide are achievable.
• Fully lockable preventing any accidental or unauthorised access when pool is not in use.
• Opens and retracts fully within a matter of minutes by one or two people. Can also be motorised for fully automated operation.
• Gives you a major competitive advantage.

For further information and a brochure.

Venus Pool Enclosures
01672 560721
www.enclosure-pool-spa.com

PARKDEAN ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH COCA-COLA

Posted on May 1, 2026

PARKDEAN RESORTS ANNOUNCES major partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners

Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s leading holiday park operator, has announced a new partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP), the world’s largest independent Coca-Cola bottler. An immediate rollout is underway to introduce CCEP’s soft drinks portfolio across all Parkdean Resorts parks in the UK that feature bars or restaurants.

As part of the partnership, CCEP will invest £1.5 million in new, state-of-the-art equipment for Parkdean Resorts’ bars. Guests will soon be able to enjoy a full range of CCEP products, including Coca-Cola Classic, Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Dr Pepper, Appletiser, and the Schweppes range.

David Morrison, Retail Director at Parkdean Resorts, said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing guest experience across its parks, welcoming over three million holidaymakers each year. He added that the investment will improve both product choice and service quality ahead of the busy holiday season.

Pat Humphries, Associate Director – On Premise at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, said the collaboration is focused on elevating guest experiences and ensuring teams are equipped with high-quality equipment to deliver excellent service. In addition, select parks will relaunch with Parkdean Resorts’ new all-inclusive offering, with prices starting from £25 per adult and £10 per child per day, including three meals and unlimited soft drinks.

PLAY FOR KEEPS

Posted on August 7, 2024

The allure of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamping sites lie in their ability to offer a break from the routine, a chance to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity for families to create lasting memories. Central to this experience is the provision of high-quality outdoor play areas.

These spaces not only enhance the holiday experience for children but also provide a significant return on investment (ROI) for the business owners by attracting and retaining guests. Children’s play is a crucial aspect of development, fostering physical, social, and cognitive growth.
In today’s digital age, encouraging children to step away from screens and engage in physical activity is more important than ever. Play areas in leisure settings serve as a catalyst for this shift, offering children a safe and stimulating environment to explore and have fun.

For parents, knowing that their children are happy and engaged allows them to relax and enjoy their holiday, making the overall experience more enjoyable for the entire family. High-quality play provisions are more than just an added amenity, they are a strategic investment.
According to Proludic’s research, 93% of visitors consider play areas an important factor when choosing a holiday park, leisure, or visitor attraction. This statistic underscores the significant influence that play areas have on consumer decisions, making them a key component of successful holiday venues.

ALL OF WICKSTEED’S products are tested to the appropriate British and European Safety standards.

CREATING MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES
Playgrounds contribute to creating memorable experiences that families cherish. Proludic’s findings highlight that the most cherished memories from holidays often stem from the joy and adventure experienced in play areas.
In an era where unique experiences drive consumer choices, leisure businesses that prioritize high-quality, well-designed playgrounds can differentiate themselves in a competitive market. These positive experiences foster brand loyalty and generate positive online reviews, enhancing the reputation of the holiday park.

As guests share their positive experiences with others, either through word-of-mouth or online platforms, the park gains increased visibility and attracts new visitors, thereby ensuring a steady flow of guests and repeat visits. Wooda Farm Holiday Park in North Cornwall exemplifies the impact of investing in play areas. The park recently revamped its play area to reflect the local North Devon coastline incorporating new vibrant play equipment.
This investment not only enhanced the park’s appeal but also provided children with an engaging and enjoyable environment. The timely delivery of the new play area by Proludic ensured that it was ready for the busy holiday season, contributing to a successful and profitable period for the park.

PROLUDIC STRIVES TO ENSURE that their play areas cater to the needs of children from toddlers through to teenagers.

THE FINANCIAL UPSIDE OF PLAY PROVISIONS
Demonstrating ROI on play area investments can be challenging, but strategic planning can yield significant financial benefits. Siting play areas near cafes and other paid leisure facilities can boost revenue by encouraging families to spend more time and money on-site.
Parents can enjoy a coffee or a meal while their children play nearby, creating a win-win situation for both the families and the park operators. Proludic’s primary research supports this approach, indicating that well-placed and high-quality play areas are a compelling factor for visitors. This evidence highlights the financial viability of investing in play areas as part of a broader strategy to enhance visitor satisfaction and increase on-site spending.

INCLUSIVE PLAY
Inclusivity is a key consideration in the design of modern play areas. Ensuring that play spaces cater to children of all abilities not only promotes social integration but also aligns with principles of diversity and equality. Proludic and Wicksteed, two leading providers of play equipment, emphasise the importance of inclusive play spaces.
By offering equipment that accommodates a wide range of abilities, these companies help create environments where all children can participate in play. Inclusive play areas are not just about meeting legal requirements; they demonstrate a commitment to providing a welcoming environment for every guest. This approach enhances the overall appeal of the holiday park, making it an attractive option for families with children of varying abilities.

WICKSTEED HAVE PROUDLY BEEN manufacturing playgrounds in the heart of the UK for more than 100 years

THE ROLE OF QUALITY AND SAFETY
Wicksteed have proudly been manufacturing playgrounds in the heart of the UK for more than 100 years, making them the UK’s premier Outdoor Playground, Leisure and Fitness Manufacturer. As the exclusive UK partner and sole distributor of Berliner Seilfabrik and having recently partnered with Russell Play, we offer a diverse range of distinctive outdoor play equipment, showcasing remarkable imagination and creativity within the market.

Their industry-leading, comprehensive warranties are a testament to the longevity and durability of their products, and also offer a wide range of warranty terms to cover various components, demonstrating their commitment to delivering high-quality solutions that stand the test of time.

As a UK-based company, they are uniquely positioned to provide efficient and responsive support for all your outdoor playground needs. Their headquarters in Kettering serve as a hub of readily available spares, enabling them to swiftly address maintenance requirements and minimise downtime for valued customers.

This proximity to spare parts translates to a faster turnaround, ensuring that your play equipment remains in optimal condition and ready for enjoyment. With the focus on accessibility, they take pride in delivering prompt solutions, enhancing the overall experience of working with them.

PROLUDIC’S RESEARCH found that memorable experiences created through play are often the most cherished by visitors.

DESIGNING OR UPDATING PLAY AREAS:
KEY CONSIDERATIONS When designing or updating play areas, several key considerations can help maximize their impact:
1. Age Inclusivity:
Play areas should cater to various age groups, ensuring that children of different ages find suitable activities. This inclusivity broadens the park’s appeal and keeps visitors engaged.

2. Inclusive Equipment:
Incorporating inclusive play equipment ensures that children of all abilities can participate. This fosters a sense of belonging and promotes social integration.

3. Themed Play Areas:
Themed play areas, like the coastal-themed playground at Wooda Farm Holiday Park, can create a unique and memorable experience that reflects the local environment.

4. Safety and Durability:
High-quality, durable equipment that meets safety standards is essential. This not only ensures the safety of children but also reduces maintenance costs and downtime.

5. Strategic Placement:
Placing play areas near cafes and other paid facilities can boost revenue by encouraging families to spend more time and money on-site.

WICKSTEED’S DESIGN and manufacture bespoke play equipment allowing holiday parks to tailor their play area.

Providers like Proludic and Wicksteed offer comprehensive support, from initial design consultations and cost estimates to installation and ongoing maintenance. Their expertise ensures that play areas are not only fun and engaging but also safe and durable.
Wicksteed’s capability to design and manufacture bespoke play equipment allows holiday parks to tailor play areas to their specific needs and themes. This flexibility ensures that each play area is unique and aligns with the park’s overall branding and environment.

Investing in high-quality, inclusive play areas is a strategic move for holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamping sites. These investments enhance visitor experiences, foster brand loyalty, and provide substantial financial returns. By understanding and leveraging the power of play, leisure businesses can create memorable experiences that attract and retain visitors, ensuring long-term success and profitability.
Incorporating diverse, inclusive, and well-designed play areas can transform a holiday park into a preferred destination for families. As the demand for unique and engaging experiences grows, those who prioritize the quality and inclusivity of their play provisions will stand out in the competitive leisure market.

By partnering with experienced providers like Proludic and Wicksteed, holiday parks can ensure that their play areas are not only fun and engaging but also safe, durable, and reflective of their unique identity.

Proludic
0115 982 3980
www.proludic.co.uk

Wicksteed Playgrounds
01536 517028
www.wicksteed.co.uk

Children's play is a crucial aspect of development, fostering physical, social, and cognitive growth.

ITV ZOOMS IN ON DORSET PARK

Posted on August 6, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Lytchett Manor
www.southlytchettmanor.co.uk

LUXURY MONGOLIAN yurts are a new glamping option.

LONDON MEET IS JUST CAPITAL

Posted on March 13, 2024

LONDON MEET IS JUST CAPITAL

DEVON MP Kevin Foster was invited by Beverley Holidays to the recent British Holiday & Home Parks Association annual conference.

Devon MP Kevin Foster was invited by Beverley Holidays to the recent British Holiday & Home Parks Association annual conference. Torbay MP Kevin Foster was the guest of Paignton’s Beverley Holidays at February’s annual conference of the British Holiday & Home Parks Association.

Held at the QEII Conference Centre in Westminster, just a short distance from Parliament, the event was attended by representatives from many of Britain’s 3000-plus holiday parks. The MP was welcomed to the conference by Beverley directors Claire Flower, Nicola Furneaux and Gary Furneaux whose family business last year marked its 65th anniversary.

Started originally by Claire and Nicola’s grandparents in the 1950s, Beverley Holidays is today one of Devon’s most thriving park enterprises providing over 50,000 bed nights each year. It employs up to 180 people in the main holiday season, and maintains 70 full-time posts all year round with training opportunities for those seeking a career in tourism and hospitality.

Kevin Foster heard at the conference how the park was currently investing in new top-end accommodation and guest facilities for visiting families and holiday home buyers in 2024: “For 65 years, Beverley Holidays has been making magical holiday memories for those who visit our beautiful bay at the heart of the English Riviera,” he said. “For Torbay, family fun is a serious business, with thousands of local jobs and many businesses supported by our holiday parks.

“They make our bay what it is, and it was great to join the team from Beverley Holidays at the conference to reflect on how national policy can further support them,” added Kevin Foster. Claire Flower told the MP that Beverley was proud to be able to play a major role in the tourism economy of East Devon, and that its visitors supported many other local businesses.

The conference, she said, had coincided with the publication of a new independent study which examined the economic impact of holiday parks in the UK. It found that parks generate £12.2bn in visitor expenditure each year in the UK and provide over 226,000 FTE jobs whilst representing 5% of the GDP of all UK tourism.

FIVE STAR BLISS

Posted on August 2, 2023

FIVE STAR BLISS

Beth Connor visits Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa...

THIS 80-ACRE holiday destination caters for both adventure seekers and those in search of tranquillity.

Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa, nestled in the heart of Devon’s picturesque landscapes, has marked its first successful year by garnering an impressive average 5-star review on TripAdvisor. Having recently introduced two new luxury escape packages, this 80-acre holiday destination offers an array of activities and amenities that cater for both adventure seekers and those in search of tranquillity.

For water sports enthusiasts, the resort has put together an activity package that includes fishing, kayaking, wild swimming and paddle boarding lessons on their leisure lake. The resort seamlessly coordinated the lessons, providing top-notch equipment and experienced instructors who patiently guide visitors through the activities.

The picturesque leisure lake setting added an extra touch of charm to this invigorating adventure, leaving unforgettable memories. If relaxation and pampering is on the wish list, Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa has created a package designed to immerse you in pure bliss. The resort’s spa, overlooking the serene lake, offers a range of indulgent treatments that aim to rejuvenate both body and mind.

EARLY BOOKING IS ADVISED at the popular Apple and Grape restaurant.

From luxurious massages to rejuvenating facials, every moment spent in the spa is sheer bliss. The attentive staff and serene ambiance further enhanced the experience, allowing me to truly unwind and escape from the stresses of everyday life. The resort itself is a picturesque haven, surrounded by lush greenery and sparkling lakes.

The well-appointed accommodation options provide a cozy and comfortable retreat, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Visitors wake up to each morning to views of wildlife from their lodge, feeling refreshed and energised, ready to explore the resort’s extensive grounds.

Walking along the scenic trail, visitors can discover hidden gems, including charming picnic spots and many tranquil fishing lakes, where they can spend hours immersed in the serenity of nature. Guests can take in the sweeping views of the estate from the Apple & Grape, a new Al Fresco dining area, featuring a retractable roof and glass walls to provide the perfect indoor/outdoor dining experience.

CLAWFORD LAKES RESORT and Spa has marked its first successful year with an impressive average 5-star review on TripAdvisor.

LUXURY COCOONS
Since opening in April 2022, new accommodation has continually been added to meet demand, including seven further, exclusive to the UK, luxury cocoons, six floating lodges and many more luxury holiday lodges. Further accommodation will be added this year including lodges, holiday homes and exclusive Family Pods.

Lakeshore Leisure Group is a UK leisure brand offering high quality holiday accommodation including self-catering rental cottages and lodges, hotel accommodation and privately owned lodges across three Devon locations; Otter Falls, Lakeview Manor and Clawford Lakes.

Graham Plant, Operations Director at Lakeshore Leisure Group commented: “When we created Clawford Lakes, our vision was to offer guests a truly unique way of experiencing this remarkable and beautiful part of Devon. “We wanted to ensure whether you visit us as a family, in a couple or a group of friends that you would have a holiday to remember and we’re delighted that our first year has been so successful.

 

“As we head into our second holiday season, we wanted to improve our offering even further so, with extra accommodation available and the two new escape packages we have just announced, we feel that we’ve enhanced an already excellent holiday park into something truly outstanding.”

The staff at Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa deserve special commendation for their warm and attentive service. Expect to be greeted with genuine smiles and a willingness to cater for every need. Their dedication and professionalism lifts a stay, making it truly exceptional.

Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa lives up to its aim to provide an idyllic escape for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. With their newly introduced luxury escape packages, the resort has ensured that every guest can find their perfect getaway. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to conquer water sports or simply seeking a serene retreat, this resort offers an unforgettable experience.

Clawford Lakes
01409 678018
www.clawfordlakes.co.uk

HAND TO HAND SUPPORT

Posted on February 15, 2023

HAND TO HAND SUPPORT

Leisure Days is the trading name of Caravan Guard, that helps holiday park owners by taking care of the insurance administration of customers’ holiday accommodation. Parks work with Leisure Days as Introducer Appointed Representatives. They effectively introduce the customer to Leisure Days a quote, then Leisure Days sets up and administrates insurance policies.

Common claims dealt with in the 2022 holiday season have been both internal and external accidental damage, escape of water and storm damage. The team has dealt with claims where trees have fallen onto static caravans, winds have caused roof damage as well as leaks from showers.

Leisure Days is able to service customers via an award-winning Adviser team, that are available seven days a week, or via their website, to make sure they remained covered. Parks are able to keep a track of customer insurance and are kept fully informed with which customers have taken cover via the Leisure days Live system.

Specialist insurance policies takes care of specific risks faced by residential or holiday park residents, such as accidental damage, fire, theft, storm and flood. Specialist insurance will also cover fixed items to outbuildings around a park or holiday home, so sheds, storage boxes, decking, or in the case of park homes, patios and garages as part a home’s structure.

Leisure Days
E. park-operator@leisuredays.co.uk
Tel. 01422 396 693