hospitality

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.

KUBOTA ZERO -TURN TICKS EVERY BOX FOR WINDSOR HOLIDAY PARK

Posted on February 9, 2026

Gareth Hagan, Owner of Windsor Holiday Park, knows the importance of creating a strong first impression for his guests. That’s why, when it comes to the maintenance of the lawned areas of the site – nestled just outside of Newcastle, County Down - nothing less than a ‘bowling green’ finish is acceptable.

Delivering that, alongside significant efficiency and safety benefits and so much more is a ZD1211 from Kubota. Windsor Holiday Park is proudly a five-star, AA Gold-rated resort, family owned and operated by Gareth, his wife and two children. The commitment to quality extends well beyond hospitality – it’s evident in every blade of grass across their 7-acre site.

“The presentation of the grounds is what creates either the right or wrong first impression of someone’s holiday which is why we put so much emphasis on this being perfect” he explains. “I’ve grown up in the industry and was familiar with Kubota, so turned to Laird Grass Machinery when we needed to replace our previous mower.

The team at Laird are absolutely first-class. They knew exactly what we needed and, while we knew the specification of the ZD1211 was going to be spot on, its performance has truly exceeded all expectations.” “We’ve cut our mowing time by 50%.” Gareth expands, “The productivity of this machine is outstanding, and we can navigate between the statics and glamping pods with such ease that the whole job can be done in just half a day in good weather.”

The manoeuvrability of the ZD1211 has also made the day-to-day work much safer and simpler. “Before, we had to reverse in and out of pitches, which isn’t ideal with guests and children moving around. Now, we can turn on the spot, so we’re always forward facing with full line of sight.” From Kubota’s recently expanded Zero-Turn mower range, the ZD1211 prioritises efficiency with a 60” cutting width and hydraulic-lift deck.

Its suspension seat means greater comfort and less operator fatigue – something Gareth and his team of wardens appreciate. “Gone are the days of sore backs… The seat is like nothing else on the market, you could literally have it in your living room!” To reduce the transportation of clippings around the site, Gareth opted to equip the ZD1211 with Kubota’s mulching kit.

“We don’t have capacity to lift grass so this keeps both the site clean and the guests happy.” He concludes, “We’ve now used the ZD1211 for two seasons and the machine continues to impress. The presentation is consistently where we need it to be, the comments we’ve had from guests are incredibly positive and the back up support we’ve had from Laird is second to none – it just ticks every box.”

Find your nearest dealer at www.kubota.co.uk

THE ZD1211’S MANOEUVRABILITY and mulching kit ensure Windsor Holiday Park’s lawns stay immaculate, creating the perfect first impression for guests.

Kubota Powers Trevornick Holiday Park’s Award-Winning Success

Posted on November 11, 2025

Kubota delivers five-star contribution for the award-winning team at Trevornick Holiday Park Who were recently awarded the title of ‘Holiday Park of the Year’ at the prestigious AA Caravan and Camping Awards – an accolade they attribute to a momentous ‘team effort’ across the site.

Part of that team, supporting both the maintenance and grounds operations, is a fleet of equipment from Kubota which the venue has praised for its versatility, productivity and robust reliability. Located in Newquay and boasting picturesque views over Holywell Bay and the iconic Gull Rocks, it’s been an eventful few months for the site.

Following the elation of recognition by The AA, the site fell victim to freak weather at the end of January 2025 with a mini-tornado causing extensive damage to a number of their static caravans. Thankfully, no-one was injured and the recovery is well underway, led by General Manager Adrian Tribe and Head Gardener Ross Bramhall.

Having initially worked in the hospitality side of the park, Ross made the switch to the grounds team and adopted the head role 12 years ago. “One of the first things I did was get a demonstration of some new cut and collect mowers, including the G-Series from Kubota. The superior cutting deck, build quality and ease of use of the G261 won me over straight away” he explains.

“Mowing is the primary maintenance task we undertake so we quickly added a second Kubota G261 to the fleet and these two now cut every blade of grass on our site.” “These mowers do such a good job on grass of all lengths and wet grass as well, when we are forced to cut in less-than-ideal conditions on changeover days.

THE KUBOTA G261 MOWERS In action — keeping Trevornick’s parkland picture- perfect, whatever the weather.

They’re an ideal size and have a great turning circle which we need for manoeuvring and mowing between the vans.” Ross continues, “Both of our G261’s are the low dump configuration, lifting and collecting the clippings without clogging for quick and easy disposal which helps to limit grass being walked into tents or toilet blocks and creating that picture-postcard finish.”

Alongside the two Kubota G261’s, is a B1241 compact tractor complete with tipping trailer. “This is an absolute workhorse and punches well above its weight! This tractor is used for everything - moving machinery, transporting soil and materials and collecting rubbish, hedge trimmings, branches… the list goes on.

It is incredibly reliable, and the tipping trailer speeds up every job which is incredibly valuable when there’s only two of us on the grounds team” he adds. “The most recent purchase was two new Kubota RTV 520’s, joining two larger RTV 900’s we were already using. These are the go-to for us and the maintenance team anytime we need to get people or materials around the site and, in my mind, can’t be beaten for the power and performance they give us.”

Another important part of the ‘team’ effort has been the parks relationship with local dealer Vincents, in particular, Jon Day. “Jon and his colleagues have always given us top support and advice, finding the right equipment to meet our needs and providing help with servicing and parts on the very rare occasion we’ve needed something.”

Ross concludes, “Trevornick, the company and its owners have always understood the importance of investing to support its staff and give our customers the best possible experience. To do that, we need the right machinery to achieve the five-star standards we’re looking for and with Kubota, we have the right equipment to deliver that.”

Kubota
www.kubota.com

A PLATFORM BUILT WITH PARKS

Posted on November 11, 2025

Hospitality moves fast, and the most useful ideas come from a mix of places — hearing directly from other parks, and learning from outside voices who bring a new perspective. That is why Holidaymaker is more than a platform.

Yes, clients are joining for our branded guest apps, Seeview digital displays, AI chat and rebooking tools, but they stay for our community. A space where teams can speak to each other, share challenges, and hear what it is really like from people who face the same pressures every day.

This autumn we are bringing that spirit into the room with our XP Hospitality events in Dorset, Edinburgh and Norfolk. They are free to attend, with lunch provided, and built around conversation. You will hear practical insights from creative and digital experts, and there will be plenty of park teams in the room to connect with, share ideas and compare experiences.

Holidaymaker was built to give teams a clear and practical way to stay in control of their digital touchpoints. But it is the people using it, and the ideas they share, that make it valuable.

Holidaymaker
01305 542075
www.holidaymakerapp.co.uk/xp-hospitality

THE UK’S BIGGEST TOURISM & LEISURE EVENT RETURNS

Posted on November 4, 2025

Taking place on 5-6 November 2025, NEC Birmingham...

The Land Leisure & Tourism Show is the UK’s largest event dedicated to holiday parks, leisure, attractions and rural businesses. Welcoming over 400 exhibitors and thousands of visitors, the show provides a creative space where you can gather ideas and learn from other experts in the field.

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

A HUB FOR INDUSTRY GROWTH AND INSPIRATION
This year’s show brings together three sectors under one roof, Holiday Parks, Family Attractions and Resorts, and Hospitality, creating an unmissable opportunity to explore the latest trends, connect with leading suppliers, and discover innovative solutions to enhance your business.

Plus with the Farm Business Innovation Show running alongside, farmers and landowners can access even more expert guidance on diversification and land optimisation.

EXPERT-LED SEMINARS & INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLES
Gain valuable insights from industry experts through a packed schedule of seminars, workshops, and discussion panels. The show’s keynote, Geoffrey Smith, CEO of Meadow Bay Villages, will open with a fresh perspective on the UK holiday park sector, rethinking the holiday experience through innovation and investment.

Expect thought-provoking discussions, covering key issues, trends, and opportunities that will shape the future of land, leisure, and tourism. This unique platform provides both professionals and newcomers in the industry the opportunity to network, learn and explore new opportunities.

Gain valuable insights from industry experts through a packed schedule of seminars, workshops, and discussion panels.

NEW FOCUS ON HOSPITALITY & VALUE-ADDED SERVICES
For 2025, we’re placing an even stronger emphasis on hospitality offerings, helping holiday park operators and rural businesses expand their services and increase profitability.

Expect tailored insights into enhancing guest experiences, adding premium facilities, and implementing effective marketing strategies to drive success.

YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO CONNECT & GROW
Whether you’re looking to source new products, gain expert advice, or network with industry leaders, the Land Leisure & Tourism Show is the must- attend event to take your business to the next level.

Join us on 5-6 November 2025 at NEC Birmingham and be part of the UK’s most influential event for the tourism sector.
Scan the QR code to register for your free ticket today!

SPEAKERS NOT TO MISS!

MEADOW BAY VILLAGES REIMAGINING THE UK HOLIDAY PARK EXPERIENCE
05 Nov 2025 @ 10:00 - 10:30
Land, Leisure & Tourism Theatre

Geoffrey Smith, CEO of Meadow Bay Villages, opens the Land Leisure Tourism Show with a fresh perspective on the UK holiday park sector.

Discover how Meadow Bay is rethinking the holiday experience through innovation and investment and explore the opportunities shaping the future of holiday parks and rural leisure.

THE REAL COST OF ENERGY METERING - HEAR FROM PARKS WHO HAVE MADE THE SWITCH
05 Nov 2025 @ 10:00 - 10:30
Land, Leisure & Tourism Theatre

Join industry leaders and park owners as they share their real experiences with energy metering.

From reducing costs to improving guest satisfaction, hear first-hand what works, what doesn’t, and how.

HOW GULLIVER’S WORLD IS SHAPING TOMORROW’S ATTRACTIONS - JULIE DALTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR - GULLIVER’S THEME PARK RESORTS
06 Nov 2025 @ 10:00 - 10:30
Land, Leisure & Tourism Theatre

In this opening address, Julie Dalton, Managing Director of Gulliver’s Theme Parks and Resorts group, which includes Gulliver’s World, shares the journey of the independent, family-run theme park group as it adapts to shifting visitor expectations and industry challenges.

From launching immersive events and unique guest experiences to navigating changing leisure trends, Julie offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Gulliver’s has evolved its offer while staying true to its core values of affordability, accessibility, and family-first fun.

THIS YEARS MUST-SEE EXHIBTORS INCLUDE: TOP TEN

 

 

A SCOTTISH ESCAPE

Posted on July 31, 2025

Beth Connor visits Oban Holiday Park, a scenic Scottish escape by the sea...

Oban Holiday Park, situated within the picturesque 340-acre expanse of Gallanachmore Farm, offers a tranquil retreat on Scotland’s west coast. Located just three miles from Oban’s vibrant town centre, the park provides a serene escape with breath-taking views of the Isle of Kerrera.

Operated by Highland Holidays, Oban Holiday Park has undergone significant investment in recent years, resulting in a beautifully maintained and modern park that manages to retain its connection to the wild Scottish coastline.

JUST A SHORT DRIVE from Oban, the park is a peaceful base for ferry trips and seaside strolls.

ACCOMMODATION WITH A VIEW
One of the standout features of Oban Holiday Park is its wide choice of accommodation and the views that come with it. Guests can choose from a range of luxury lodges, glamping pods, touring & camping pitches.

The high-spec lodges in particular are a real highlight, many of which feature private hot tubs on decking that overlooks the bay, a setting that’s hard to beat for a sunset soak. For those who enjoy the charm of camping without compromising on comfort, the glamping pods offer a cosy and convenient alternative, with electricity, heating and spectacular sea views as standard.

Touring and motorhome guests are also well catered for, with spacious pitches and excellent on-site amenities including modern shower blocks and laundry facilities.

MODERN LODGES with private hot tubs offer the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

THE GATEWAY TO THE HEBRIDES
Oban Holiday Park’s location makes it the ideal base for exploring the wider region. Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Isles” the town of Oban is a hub for ferry travel to the Hebridean islands, including Mull, Iona, and Coll - perfect for adventurous day trips.

Back on the mainland, visitors can enjoy scenic drives, coastal walks and wildlife watching, with regular sightings of seals, otters and sea birds.

Within a short drive, there’s a rich selection of attractions including Dunstaffnage Castle, the Oban Distillery and the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, kayaking, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature.

SOAK UP THE PEACEFUL surroundings and unwind with all the comforts of home.

WARM HOSPITALITY & FAMILY-FRIENDLY
The park is particularly popular with families, offering a safe and peaceful environment for children to play and explore. On-site play areas and open green spaces give kids plenty of freedom, while parents can enjoy a more relaxed pace of holiday life.

The park is also dog-friendly, which means four-legged family members are more than welcome to join in the fun. Oban Holiday Park strikes a great balance between providing freedom and convenience. While it doesn’t have the loud entertainment you might find at larger commercial resorts, it excels in offering a more tranquil, nature-led experience that many holidaymakers increasingly crave.

What really sets Oban Holiday Park apart is the warmth of its hospitality. Staff are known for going above and beyond to make guests feel welcome, from check-in through to departure. Visitors frequently comment on the friendly and helpful team who are always on hand to offer local tips and support.

A Highland Escape to Remember In a world where holidays often feel fast-paced and overly commercialised, Oban Holiday Park offers something refreshingly different. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, take in the scenery, reconnect with nature and loved ones, with a slower, more meaningful kind of holiday.

Whether you’re a returning visitor or discovering the area for the first time, Oban Holiday Park is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression and a longing to come back.

Oban Holiday Park
0333 188 1930
www.highlandholidays.com/holiday-parks/oban/

PANORAMIC VIEW OF OBAN Holiday Park set against the stunning backdrop of the Island of Kerrera.

THE PARK IS ALSO DOG-FRIENDLY, which means four-legged family members are more than welcome.

OBAN IS A CHARMING COASTAL TOWN in Scotland, known as the “Seafood Capital of Scotland”.

A DIGITAL UPGRADE

Posted on July 31, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SMART INTEGRATIONS from GemaPark help deliver modern, sustainable service.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CampManager
www.campmanager.com

GemaPark
www.gemapark.co.uk

Holidaymaker App
www.holidaymakerapp.co.uk

AWAY RESORTS’ NEW ENTERTAINMENT MANAGER

Posted on February 13, 2025

Away Resorts has taken a bold step toward elevating guest experiences by appointing Melody Munday as its new Senior Head of Entertainment Operations. With an impressive 34-year career spanning hospitality, leisure, and entertainment management, Melody is no stranger to transforming experiences into unforgettable memories.

Her resume boasts work with leading UK brands like Grosvenor Casinos and Mecca Bingo, where she introduced innovative entertainment concepts that successfully appealed to younger audiences. Now, she’s set to bring that same creativity and expertise to Away Resorts, broadening the scope of live shows, seasonal events, and activities across its 27 parks in England, Scotland, and Wales.

Known for its vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, Away Resorts has built its reputation on providing memorable holidays with entertainment at the heart. Holidaymakers rave about the unique shows and activities, which are often highlighted in glowing online reviews. Melody’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to enhancing these experiences even further.

THE LAND LEISURE & TOURISM SHOW 2024…

Posted on February 12, 2025

The Land, Leisure & Tourism Show 2024, held at Birmingham’s NEC from November 5th to 6th 2024 this show is a B2B event for the tourism, leisure, hospitality, and rural industries. Drawing thousands of attendees and featuring more than 400 exhibitors, the show provided a dynamic platform for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and explore innovative solutions.

The event’s comprehensive agenda included over 50 seminar sessions, addressing key industry topics such as sustainability, digital transformation, and design innovations. Notably, discussions on eco-friendly practices and the integration of technology to enhance guest experiences resonated with many participants.

A highlight of the show was the recognition of excellence through various awards. The Farm Diversification of the Year award, sponsored by NFU Mutual, was presented to The Silly Sheep Fibre Company, applauded for its resource maximisation and community spirit.

WHEN VISITING the LLT show you discover new products and services, explore investment prospects and network.

Additionally, Padstow Holiday Village in Cornwall received the Gold award for Holiday Park of the Year, commended for its commitment to environmental practices and achieving B Corp status.

The show also emphasised the importance of future planning and asset management, with seminars like “Futureproofing your assets through strategic review” underscoring the need for strategic and collaborative approaches in the industry.

Overall, the Land, Leisure & Tourism Show 2024 successfully facilitated meaningful conversations, showcased industry innovations, and celebrated achievements, reinforcing its pivotal role in shaping the future of the leisure and tourism sectors.

The 2025 Land Leisure & Tourism Show will take place on 5th & 6th November 2025, register your interest today.

Land Leisure & Tourism Show
www.lltshow.com

PICTURE POSTCARDS FROM THE SHOW…

A HIGHLIGHT OF THE SHOW WAS THE RECOGNITION OF EXCELLENCE THROUGH VARIOUS AWARDS

HOLIDAY PARK OF THE YEAR

Recognises holiday parks, sites and villages that provide exceptional guest experiences across static vans, touring pitches and more.

CAMPING OR GLAMPING SITE OF THE YEAR

Recognises camping and glamping sites that provide exceptional guest experiences across tents, touring pitches, shepherd’s huts and more.

CUMBRIA COUPLE CELEBRATES VISITENGLAND’S TOP 100 RECOGNITION

Posted on November 4, 2024

Rachael and Ian Gowing from Kirkby Stephen are thrilled after their holiday business, Pennine View Park, was named one of Britain’s top accommodation providers by VisitEngland. The park received this year’s ROSE award, recognising exceptionally high quality standards.

The accolade was presented by Lady Victoria Borwick at a special ceremony in Newbury, Berkshire. Rachael, a former Red Bull events organizer, launched the park in 2017, with Ian leaving his construction job to join her. They transformed a former railway yard into a premier holiday destination. Pennine View Park has achieved a five-star grading from VisitEngland and is shortlisted for Cumbria Tourism’s Holiday Park of the Year in 2024.

The park, which includes 80 pitches for campers and touring caravans, has also added cozy timber glamping pods. The couple opened The Engine Shed, a family bar converted from an old railway goods shed, featuring outdoor seating and a street-food inspired menu with live music events.

Now among the top 100 businesses recognised by VisitEngland, the ROSE award highlights their commitment to providing an exceptional experience for guests. Rachael expressed pride in this recognition, emphasising that it reflects not just the park’s facilities but also the warmth and hospitality of their team.

“We’re already receiving bookings for next year, with many guests returning or coming through personal recommendations,” she noted.

Pennine View Park
www.pennineviewpark.co.uk