holidaymakers

LANDAL GREENPARKS UK

Posted on November 12, 2024

A market leader in holiday resort management and operations since their inauguration in 1954, the Landal GreenParks portfolio comprises more than 200 resorts in the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, France and Denmark.

20 of these parks are spread across England, Scotland and Wales - from five parks in Cornwall, to the furthest north in Dundee. It’s an impressive portfolio, but one with a common ethos. Getting back to nature is at the heart of the Landal GreenParks business.

Despite its size, there is a priority across the entire organisation towards what they refer to as “sustainable and engaged entrepreneurship.” Each of the parks is located at the “heart of nature” in stunning, natural locations.

And a holiday at a Landal GreenParks resort is one that focuses on offering guests the enjoyment of immersive outdoor adventures from the comfort of top-tier accommodation. Their aim: to deliver “unforgettable holidays in nature.”

MUCH OF THE ACCOMMODATION at Landal Barnsoul is designed to bring nature closer to the interior space.

All parks are Green Key accredited, and parks employs an interdepartmental “Green Team” to ensure global sustainability standards are met. At grassroots level this involves everything from using fewer chemicals to installing LED park lighting, from implementing sustainable procurement to accessible accommodation.

Each step is one closer to Landal GreenParks overall goal of being CO2 neutral by 2030. Landal GreenParks UK, with its Head Office in Norwich, offers a diverse range of resorts. From luxury spas like Landal Dylan Coastal Resort and Landal Laceby Manor Resort & Spa, to resorts that focus purely on accommodation in beautiful natural settings, such as Landal North Lakes and Landal Rockingham Forest.

The resorts primarily feature lodge accommodations, but they also provide a wide selection of cottages and apartments. Recently, the brand has expanded its offerings with more innovative options, such as treehouses, domes, and pods, all centred around high quality and luxury. Many accommodations also feature outdoor hot tubs for added relaxation.

Landal GreenParks operate a pure holiday rental model. Some park owners retain ownership of all the accommodation, whilst others sell lodges to lifestyle investors who want a mix of return and some holiday usage. There is plenty to keep guests entertained.

GWARI SPA BARN at Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa.

Cornish Parks Landal Gwel an Mor and Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa both feature onsite ‘farms’, giving holidaymakers the chance to interact with animals and explore local wildlife. “At Feadon Wildlife Centre in Landal Gwel an Mor, guests can enjoy a variety of unique experiences,” explains Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK.

“These include activities such as a night-time Badger Watch, woodland picnic breakfasts, reindeer walks, becoming a ‘keeper for the day,’ owl encounters, and even fox feeding, making Landal Gwel an Mor an ideal choice for family getaways.”

Additionally, the same park has introduced a Wild Kitchen concept, where guests can enjoy a variety of cooking styles under a retractable canvas and hardwood tent, providing an al-fresco dining experience in any weather. Careful expansion is always on the agenda as Landal GreenParks UK seeks to maximise the experience of their guests and capitalise on the continuing demand for staycations.

“Landal GreenParks UK is always seeking new partnerships to help us innovate and introduce the next generation of holiday resorts,” explains Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK. Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa and Landal Twin Lakes were added to the Landal GreenParks portfolio in 2024, alongside Scotland’s Landal Whitekirk Hill.

FEADON WILDLIFE Centre in Landal Gwel an Mor offers guests many unique experiences.

Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa is set in 450 acres of secluded Cornish countryside close to Bude. The park offers a range of 24-character cottages, barn conversions and a refurbished farmhouse dating back to the 14th century. Currently undergoing a multi-million-pound investment, the resort will see 50-60 new, luxury self-catering units developed over the next two years.

Landal Twin Lakes, which makes the most of its superb setting in Carnforth between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, will also see significant expansion plans over the coming years with 60 units available for rental. Earlier this year, Markus Deutsch, Chairman of Landal Twin Lakes, said: “We’re delighted about the partnership with Landal GreenParks - it’s clear our values align on various levels.

All our lodges are made from timber harvested from sustainable forests and classified as contributing towards UK’s ‘Net Zero’ goal.” Another exciting new development opened in Scotland in late Autumn 2023. Landal Barnsoul, set amongst ancient woodland in Dumfries & Galloway, is believed to be the first architect-led holiday resort in the region.

The accommodation is not only extremely innovative in design, but also underpinned by strong environmental credentials. Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK, said that the organisation had wanted to create a concept holiday resort since launching in the UK and believed that “this site will act as a blueprint for the future of the sector.”

INNOVATIVE AND MODERN accommodation at Landal North Lakes.

He continued: “To help us achieve this objective we have worked with different architects and interior designers to create new lodge styles to offer the very best of modern and innovative living in a wonderful part of the UK countryside. Landal Barnsoul aims to be one of the greenest and most technologically advanced parks in Europe”

The lodges at Barnsoul are designed to combine the outdoor experience of modern glamping, with the interior look and feel of a boutique hotel. Each Landal GreenParks resort is firmly rooted in its local community but with some 6,000 employees across the wider company, the organisation also recognises that having an enthusiastic and motivated team is essential to the success of the business.

Potential challenges affecting all organisations within the sector include rising operating costs and staffing difficulties, especially in rural and remote locations. Paul Hardingham, Managing Director of Landal GreenParks UK says: “We are committed to creating an environment that attracts and retains talented staff while leveraging innovation and automation to eliminate repetitive administrative tasks.”

Key initiatives that have been introduced to this end include keyless check-in, digital food ordering and automated facility cleaning. These measures free up staff to focus on what they do best, providing excellent service to Landal GreenParks UK’s guests.

Landal GreenParks Resort
www.landal.co.uk
01603 367 066

A TRANQUIL ECO-RETREAT

Posted on November 12, 2024

Landal Rockingham Forest Holiday Park is a tranquil, eco-friendly resort nestled in the heart of Northamptonshire, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers, families, and couples alike. Known for its luxurious, self-catering lodges, this relatively new holiday park promises a peaceful retreat, surrounded by lush woodlands and scenic countryside.

I recently had the opportunity to stay at the resort, and this review reflects my comprehensive experience with its accommodations, amenities, location, and overall atmosphere. One of the main attractions of Landal Rockingham Forest is its idyllic setting. Situated within the historic 200 acre Rockingham Forest, the holiday park is surrounded by sprawling woodlands and gentle rolling hills.

This location offers a great sense of seclusion, providing the perfect environment for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Despite this rural location, the park is relatively easy to reach from major towns and cities such as Peterborough, Northampton, and Leicester, making it a convenient choice for weekend getaways.

The forest itself is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Numerous trails meander through the woodland, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re interested in hiking, cycling, or simply strolling through the forest, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.

WINNER OF THE ENGLAND Rose Award, London & South East England Prestige Awards Nature Retreat.

During my stay, I found these forest walks to be one of the highlights of the trip – the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to spot local wildlife, such as deer, butterflies and various bird species. The lodges at Landal Rockingham Forest are designed with luxury and sustainability in mind.

These eco-conscious cabins are spacious, stylish, and equipped with modern conveniences to ensure a comfortable stay. I stayed in one of the two-bedroom lodges, I was impressed with the quality of the furnishings and the attention to detail in the lodge’s design.

The interiors feature a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic, with neutral tones, wood finishes, and large windows that flood the space with natural light. Each lodge is fully self-catering, with a well-equipped kitchen, including all the necessary appliances.

We found the kitchen to be perfect for preparing meals during our stay, and the open-plan living and dining area provided plenty of space for relaxing together in the evenings. One of the standout features of the lodge was the outdoor decking area, complete with a private hot tub – the ideal spot for unwinding while enjoying the tranquil woodland views.

SITUATED WITHIN the historic 200 acre Rockingham Forest, the holiday park is surrounded by sprawling woodlands.

For those looking for larger accommodations, the park offers a selection of three and four bedroom lodges, which are perfect for bigger groups or families. These lodges also come with the same high-end amenities and are equally stylish and comfortable. Landal Rockingham Forest excels in providing a range of high-quality amenities that enhance the holiday experience.

Although the park’s focus is on offering a peaceful, nature-based retreat, there are still plenty of on-site facilities to keep guests entertained. For those looking to stay active during their holiday, the park has several outdoor activities available. Cycling is particularly popular here, and bikes can be rented on-site for guests wishing to explore the forest trails.

There’s also a small fitness area and several play areas for children, making the park a family-friendly destination. While the self-catering nature of the lodges encourages guests to prepare their own meals, there are a few other options of dining without leaving the park.

There’s an on-site Bistro, recommended pizza delivery, locally sourced luxury hamper ordering service and there are also several charming pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages, and we enjoyed exploring these during our stay. Sustainability is a core value at Landal Rockingham Forest, and this is evident in the park’s design and operation.

THE LODGES ARE STYLISH and equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

The lodges are built with eco-friendly materials, and the park aims to minimise its environmental impact through energy efficiency, waste reduction, and the promotion of sustainable tourism practices. I was pleased to see that recycling bins were provided in each lodge, and there were clear efforts made to reduce plastic waste, such as the use of refillable toiletries in the bathrooms.

The resort also works to preserve the natural beauty of Rockingham Forest, and it was clear that a great deal of care has gone into maintaining the surrounding environment. The friendly staff are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and the conservation efforts in place, which added a sense of purpose to the park’s operations.

It was reassuring to stay somewhere that actively prioritizes the preservation of the natural world while still offering a luxurious holiday experience. The service at Landal Rockingham Forest was, in general, excellent. From the moment we arrived, the staff were welcoming and helpful. Check-in was contactless, quick and efficient, and we were provided with all the information we needed to make the most of our stay.

The staff were always available to answer any questions, whether it was about activities in the park or recommendations for nearby attractions. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere was reflected in child-friendly activities on offer. For families traveling with their furry friends, the park is a Pet Paradise with miles of woodland trails that start right from the door of your lodge.

THE LODGES ARE STYLISH and equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Venture further afield and visit the grounds of Rutland Nature Reserve, Ferry Meadows and Fineshade Wood, all nearby and offering a great space for dogs to explore. Overall, my experience at Landal Rockingham Forest Holiday Park was highly positive.

The combination of luxurious, eco-conscious accommodation, stunning natural surroundings, and excellent service made for a memorable and relaxing holiday. The resort’s emphasis on sustainability and connection with nature is particularly commendable, making it a great choice for those looking to escape to the countryside without compromising on comfort.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or an active outdoor adventure, Landal Rockingham Forest offers something for everyone. It’s a place where you can unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy quality time with loved ones in a serene and beautiful setting. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful yet luxurious countryside escape.

Landal Rockingham Forest Holiday Park
01780 432250
www.rockinghamforestpark.co.uk

PYTHON PITCHES PARK INTO NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT

Posted on November 12, 2024

THE 14-FOOT SNAKE was discovered resting in the grass, image from Simon Kewley.

A West Dorset holiday park has made headlines after an unexpected guest recently found in its grounds was identified as a fully grown Burmese python. The 14-foot snake was discovered resting in the grass at Monkton Wyld Holiday Park near Charmouth by two holiday guests who thought at first it was a large branch.

Pictures and a video of the python, which appeared to be perfectly content in its new five-star park surroundings, featured across national media. But Bella – as she was affectionately christened by staff – couldn’t be given residential status by park owners Joanna and Simon Kewley, and help was called in.

In a four-hour operation, Bella was safely captured by professionals from a nearby reptile rescue centre who later reported her to be in good health and receiving proper care. Joanna and Simon first started welcoming guests to their family farm in the early nineties, and have since gone on to receive a host of quality awards for their park.

They include David Bellamy “Blooming Marvellous!” conservation scheme accolades for their work to protect native wildlife in the park’s 26-acre grounds. Bella, the latest species clearly attracted to living conditions Monkton Wyld, is thought to have been abandoned by its previous owner, and is now enjoying life in her new home.

Monkton Wyld Holiday Park
www.monktonwyld.co.uk

COASTDALE PARKS QUEST FOR POD PERFECTION

Posted on November 12, 2024

Coastdale, an award-winning independent parks group, is elevating glamping with innovative two-tier sleeping pods. The family-owned business has invested significantly in glamping facilities across its three seaside parks in Whitby, North Yorkshire; Porthmadog, North Wales; and Hayle, Cornwall.

Peter Brewer notes a “massive swing” towards holidays offering unique experiences, especially among younger families. Glamping provides memorable holiday moments, with high-spec accommodations being particularly popular.

Coastdale, established nearly 50 years ago, has chosen top-tier models from UK manufacturers, including the Platinum S-Pod from Swift Holiday Homes, which accommodates four and features a mezzanine floor, vaulted ceiling, and a deck for al-fresco dining.

Each new pod includes private hot tubs, bathrooms, central heating, and hotel-quality linens. These pods are now located at Whitby Holiday Park, Garreg Goch Caravan Park, and Atlantic Coast Holiday Park. Alongside touring pitches and holiday home sales, Coastdale offers an unmatched array of pod experiences.

Peter emphasises the evolution of pod accommodations, which were once basic but have now become popular first choices for guests. The parks have received quality ratings from VisitEngland and positive reviews from guests, alongside accolades for conservation efforts.

Coastdale Parks
www.coastdaleparks.co.uk

CUMBRIA HOLIDAY PARK WELCOMES CBBC’S STANLEY

Posted on November 12, 2024

Guests at Waterfoot Park on Ullswater were thrilled this summer when Stanley, the lovable star of CBBC’s “Saturday Mash-Up!”, dropped by. Rather than causing mischief, Stanley was on a mission to discover why caravan holidays are so beloved.

Accompanied by a film crew, Stanley arrived one August weekend and wasted no time getting started. He chatted with park guest Marjorie Kettle and her three grandchildren about their favourite moments in their touring caravan. Stanley then toured Waterfoot Park, located near Pooley Bridge, to explore the fun and adventure it offers families.

He even hopped aboard a passenger boat, attempting to take the helm— much to the captain’s polite decline! The boat is operated by Ullswater Steamers, part of Lake District Estates, which also manages six award-winning parks, including Waterfoot.

Rachel Bell, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Lake District Estates, expressed the park’s excitement: “We were thrilled to host this popular children’s show and enjoyed watching Stanley’s antics both at Waterfoot Park and aboard Ullswater Steamers.

We hope the show inspires more families to visit and appreciate this beautiful part of the Lake District.” Waterfoot Park offers glamping, self-catering holidays, and holiday home ownership, and is a member of the British Holiday & Home Parks Association.

Lake District Estates
www.lakedistrictestates.com

CBBC’S STANLEY CUDDLES UP TO CARAVANNING!

AI FOR HOLIDAY PARKS, CAMPSITES AND HOLIDAY RENTALS

Posted on November 10, 2024

Staff at holiday parks, campsites and holiday rentals now have increasingly more advanced reservation and property management at their disposal that help them process and streamline operations and management.

However, most of the decisions they need to take regarding pricing, booking, or recommendations are still based on their own insights. Maxxton, the enterprise platform for accommodation providers, has been developing data-driven features to support staff in making these decisions.

By integrating a data science team within its core development group, Maxxton is laying the groundwork for business intelligence insights and machine learning. They are also creating intelligent features based on customer needs and insights from various industries.

One notable advancement is dynamic pricing, already utilized in sectors like airlines, rental companies, and retail. This model allows businesses to adjust prices based on customer demand and market conditions. For example, during high-demand periods, prices may increase, while discounts might be offered during slower times to encourage bookings.

By adopting dynamic pricing, companies can enhance revenue compared to fixed pricing models. Maxxton has implemented AI-driven dynamic pricing to determine the optimal rates for different types of accommodation. Its tool forecasts future demand based on actual bookings.

This demand forecasting, combined with a price elasticity engine that measures how sensitive demand is to price changes, helps identify the best pricing strategy—whether the goal is to maximize occupancy or increase revenue. Rates are then automatically updated based on these insights.

The results have been impressive, with RevPAR and ADR both rising by over 11%. But Maxxton is doing so much more with smart features, it automatically reallocates accommodation units to maximise occupancy, driving more bookings while increasing the proportion of preferred reservations.

Additionally, it recommends add-ons based on stay dates, travel party, and accommodation type. Maxxton’s platform has always aimed to enhance staff collaboration. Now, with the integration of advanced intelligence, it empowers both staff and management to make more informed decisions.

Maxxton
020 4578 1490
www.maxxton.com

 

MP DISCUSSES TOURISM TAX

Posted on November 8, 2024

OUTSIDE ONE OF THE PARK’S luxury woodland lodges are (from left) John Lamont MP, park manager Scott McDonald, and park owner Edward Maitland-Carew.

MP John Lamont visited Thirlestane Castle Caravan Park in the Scottish Borders this August to assess the summer tourism season. As the shadow Secretary of State for Scotland, Lamont engaged with park owner Edward Maitland-Carew, site manager Scott McDonald, and Sarah Allanson, Scottish Director of the British Holiday & Home Parks Association.

The park, popular for its luxury woodland lodges equipped with hot tubs and al-fresco dining, was reported to be having a busy year. Lamont toured the grounds, noting the park’s sustainability efforts, including a ground source heat pump and solar energy for heating and hot water, as well as native tree plantings to support local wildlife.

During his visit, Lamont addressed issues facing Scottish holiday parks, including the proposed “tourism tax,” which would add an extra nightly charge for visitors. The British Holiday & Home Parks Association has strongly opposed this levy, citing concerns about its impact on tourism growth. Maitland-Carew expressed appreciation for Lamont’s visit, highlighting the park’s contributions to local employment and businesses in nearby Lauder.

He emphasized their commitment to providing a memorable guest experience and their plans for future expansion. After the visit, Lamont reiterated the importance of supporting local tourism businesses and urged the Scottish Government to reconsider the tourism tax proposal, warning it could harm the sector.

Thirlestane Castle Caravan Park
www.thirlestanecaravanpark.co.uk

COMPASS INSURANCE HAS PARTNERED UP WITH HOLIDAYMAKER PARK APPS

Posted on November 7, 2024

Compass Insurance has partnered with Dorset-based technology start-up, Holidaymaker, to support its mission to bolster the holiday park and hospitality industry with cutting edge guest engagement technology.

As part of this partnership, content from Compass will feature across holiday park apps powered by the Holidaymaker platform. Providing guests with reliable information on holiday home insurance, and holiday parks with the reassurance of accurate and validated guidance from an FCA regulated business.

In 2020, the Holidaymaker guest experience app was created to drive revenue, boost brand loyalty, and increase repeat business for hospitality brands. The founding aim of Holidaymaker was to develop a technology that revolutionises the way businesses in the sector connect with guests.

Karen Stacey, Managing Director at Compass Insurance, explained: “We are delighted to partner with Holidaymaker to strengthen the relationship between us and holiday parks across the UK. By providing support and advice on insurance related content on holiday park life hosted within the Holidaymaker app, Compass is demonstrating how dedicated it is to helping parks build loyalty and trust with their customers”

Commenting on the partnership, David McRobbie, Co-Founder of Holidaymaker, said: “Trusted partnerships with leading and respected businesses within the hospitality sector is a vital part of growing the Holidaymaker platform for the benefit of all our clients. By working with experts, we can continue to ensure the best possible products and services.

The partnership with Compass, furthers Holidaymaker’s mission to create a supportive platform for the industry, that not only provides technology such as guest, staff and owner apps, digital screens and kiosks and flexible sales channels but shares knowledge and insights that drive the whole sector forward.

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

MENTORING PROGRAM FOR FUTURE PARK CHIEFS

Posted on November 5, 2024

BH&HPA HAVE A NETWORK of some 4,800 park people, pooling resources and sharing experiences.

The Next Generation Network (NGN), part of the British Holiday and Home Park Association, has introduced a mentoring scheme to support members advancing in their park careers. This initiative offers aspiring park leaders free one-on-one mentoring to prepare for their next steps, connecting them with experienced professionals in the holiday and residential park sectors.

NGN Chair Sarah Kemp, involved in her family’s park business, believes this self-service initiative will equip members with essential skills and confidence while fostering a supportive community. With around 40 mentors available, including senior industry figures specializing in marketing, management, sustainability, and business growth, members can find guidance tailored to their needs.

Kemp expressed excitement about the interest generated since NGN’s launch, noting that many members are ready to play a larger role in their family businesses. She highlighted the success of previous member gatherings, emphasizing a shared commitment to preparing for future challenges. While sessions are informal, the NGN website offers guidance on maximizing their benefits.

For more information about the Next Generation Network, including mentoring opportunities and free membership, visit British Holiday & Home Park Association www.bhhpa.org.uk/next-generation-network

NEW PASSENGER VEHICLE FOR PARK LIFE

Posted on November 4, 2024

The latest electric passenger vehicle for holiday parks has arrived in the UK, bringing with it a focus on quality and comfort.

From turfcare manufacturer Toro, the Vista passenger vehicle is available with seating options for four, six or eight passengers, and is already being noticed on the UK racing scene as the passenger vehicle of choice to travel the British Touring Car Championships circuits with MB Sports driver Jake Hill and his team.

Holiday park owners will particularly like its smart look, quiet operation and speed. It can travel up to 16 miles per hour and there’s the option to place the vehicle in eco or performance mode at the flip of a key switch. As Jake says: “It’s nippy, fast and streamlines operations. Being able to accommodate eight passengers means we don’t need to leave people standing at the gate for as long.”

The Vista boasts a sturdy frame design, ample storage, cargo-enabled fold-down rear seats and a lightweight cargo bed for luggage and independent suspension. And there are several accessories available to further enhance comfort, including an optional canopy for weather protection and a folding windscreen.

The display scene clearly shows the hour metre, battery level indicator, estimated charge time, gear indicator, speedometer, and diagnostic fault codes. But what is particularly appealing about the Vista is its HyperCell battery system, which has been designed with an integrated Battery Management System to extend life and allow the batteries to communicate with each other for the utmost efficiency.

And you don’t need to remove the batteries to charge them, there are onboard chargers, so all you need to do is plug in to the nearest wall outlet.

Reesink UK Ltd
01480 226800
www.reesink-evehicles.co.uk