Local Wildlife

MSP CELEBRATES SCOTTISH TOURISM AT BERWICKSHIRE HOLIDAY PARK

Posted on May 14, 2025

MSP RACHAEL HAMILTON flew the flag for Scotland’s tourism industry (on 24 March) when she visited a popular Borders holiday park.

MSP Rachael Hamilton championed Scotland’s tourism industry on 24 March with a visit to Cockburnspath Holiday Park in Berwickshire during Scottish Tourism Month. Situated between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Dunbar, the park boasts a scenic backdrop of the Lammermuir Hills.

Ms Hamilton was welcomed by park manager Zoe Dixon and business owner Frank Maguire, who guided her on a tour of the extensive grounds. Cockburnspath Holiday Park is part of the Meridian Parks group, founded in 2009 by Mr Maguire’s father.

The MSP learned about the park’s tranquil setting, which offers families the opportunity to own a holiday home while preserving local wildlife and flora. Ms Hamilton also viewed luxury holiday homes, available from under £20,000.

Mr Maguire highlighted the park’s role in sustaining local businesses without impacting housing stock or property prices. “Tourism is vital to the Borders economy, and it’s fantastic to see how this park supports local jobs,” said Ms Hamilton. More information is available on the Cockburnspath Holiday Park website.

A HIGHLAND HAVEN

Posted on May 14, 2025

Beth Connor visits Loch Tay Highland Lodges...

Tucked away in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Loch Tay Highland Lodges offers visitors an unforgettable escape into nature. With breath-taking landscapes, a wealth of outdoor activities, and first-class accommodation, this scenic retreat provides the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Holiday Park Scene Magazine recently paid a visit to this hidden gem to uncover what makes it such a sought-after destination for holidaymakers. Situated on the banks of the majestic Loch Tay, the holiday park enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and shimmering waters.

The tranquil setting provides an idyllic backdrop for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As we arrived, the still, spring-cool air carried a refreshing crispness, perfectly complementing the serene beauty of the Highland landscape.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges offers a diverse range of accommodations, seamlessly blending comfort with the park’s breath-taking natural surroundings. Guests can choose from glamping domes, premium lodges, and traditional camping pods, each designed to provide a unique yet cosy retreat.

LOCH TAY HIGHLAND LODGES was nothing short of spectacular.

For those seeking a more exclusive getaway, the park’s Exclusive Houses provide spacious, high-end accommodation with stunning views and top-tier amenities. Meanwhile, the Premium Woodland Cabins stand out for their luxury features, including floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the serene Highland landscape and some with Hot Tubs.

Thoughtfully furnished, these hexagon-shaped cabins allow guests to enjoy modern comforts while staying immersed in nature. Their Signature Lodges are the highest, most luxurious grade of accommodation offering, ensuring every traveller finds their ideal stay.

Whether opting for glamping, luxury lodges, or a traditional camping experience, guests can enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and nature at this stunning Highland retreat. Loch Tay is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park’s prime location offers a wide range of activities to suit all ages and interests. Guests can take to the water with kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, while those who prefer to stay on dry land can enjoy scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, or even archery.

OFFERING PET-FRIENDLY accommodation, ensuring that your furry friends can join in on the adventure.

During our stay, we embarked on a guided boat tour of the loch, where we learned about the area’s rich history and if you’re lucky you’ll spot some local wildlife, including ospreys and red deer. For a slower pace, visitors can simply relax by the water’s edge, enjoying a peaceful afternoon with nothing but the sound of nature surrounding them.

No visit to the Highlands would be complete without sampling some local cuisine, and Loch Tay Highland Lodges does not disappoint. The on-site Boathouse Kitchen & Bar serves up a delicious menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Offering hearty comforting evening meals, every dish is a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges is a fantastic destination for families. The safe and spacious environment allows children to explore freely, while the park’s facilities ensure there is never a dull moment. The dedicated children’s play area, 18-hole disc golf course, and wildlife trails provide endless entertainment, making it an ideal choice for family getaways.

Our time at Loch Tay Highland Lodges was nothing short of spectacular. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this Highland retreat offers something for everyone. The stunning location, diverse accommodation options, and exceptional facilities make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of Scotland.

Loch Tay Highland Lodges
01567 820323
www.largoleisure.co.uk/holiday-parks-scotland/loch-tay

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

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

Winning Park Is Wildlife Magnet

Posted on January 5, 2018

Winning Park Is Wildlife Magnet

ABOVE: Woodside Lodges Country Park’s green policies have made it a magnet for wildlife.

ABOVE: Woodside Lodges Country Park’s green policies have made it a magnet for wildlife.

Woodside Lodges Country Park’s green policies have made it a magnet for wildlife. The world-famous botanist, David Bellamy, has presented Woodside Lodges Country Park in Ledbury with his prestigious Conservation Award at its top gold level. Professor Bellamy said the park’s owners, Ken and Janet Davies and their family, have shown themselves to be true friends of the countryside through their careful eco-management policies.

It’s the thirteenth year in succession that the park has scooped the award – but this year David Bellamy announced a bonus accolade. He also designated Woodside as an official “Honey Bee Friendly” park as part of his new initiative to help protect the threatened insects.

The family, said David Bellamy, have created a ‘wildlife wonderland’ on the 28-acre park which was originally bought as a smallholding by Ken and Janet 50 years ago. Today it provides luxury Scandinavian log cabins for hire, plus camping pods and facilities for holidaymakers with their own touring caravans, motorhomes and tents. One of the lakes has been designated for ‘wild swimming’ by guests, and holidaymakers are also invited to help themselves to the old-variety apples and damsons in the park’s orchard. A converted barn on the park has also been provided with a special roof which will allow the resident bats to flourish and encourage nesting swallows.

Red Letter Year For Center Parcs

Posted on February 11, 2014

Red Letter Year For Center Parcs

The Subtropical Swimming Paradise will be one of the highlights at the new Woburn Forest Center Parcs site.

2014 is set to be a red letter year for Center Parcs as it takes the wraps off its new 365 acre site at Woburn Forest, the fifth of its UK villages.
The £250 million Woburn Forest village will comprise of 625 forest lodges, a 75 bedroom hotel, a spa with associated spa suites and two leisure buildings including indoor sports facilities, restaurants and retail outlets. It will also include outdoor sports and leisure facilities and a 17,000m² lake.

A spokesperson for Center Parcs reveals: “Each of our villages have their own distinct characteristics and Woburn Forest is no different – it is an undulating area of forest and its own unique mixture of local wildlife.

“All of the leisure buildings and lodges are uniquely designed and built to nestle into the landscape to be close to nature. The subtropical swimming paradise is a completely new design, with a glazed front and curved shape to fit into the land behind it.”

An iconic part of all Center Parcs villages, the subtropical swimming paradises are one of the most popular elements of a Center Parcs break, with over 90% of guests visiting the swimming venue during their stay.

In spite of Woburn Forest being the smallest Center Parcs village, it will have the largest subtropical pool facility in the UK, featuring the Wild Water Rapids outside with views of the forest landscape. The Woburn water facilities will include a wave pool, toddler pool, family play area, lazy river and three new water rides that will be unique to Woburn Forest.

The completion date for the leisure buildings is January 2014.

The completion date for the leisure buildings is January 2014.

Charles Neuman of Water Technology Inc. who designed the Woburn Forest pool said: “The designs of the new subtropical swimming paradise are the result of a culmination of 25 years of experience and lots of research into what modern families want. We have taken the best from the existing four villages and added new exciting elements to give guests at Woburn Forest a unique and special water experience.”

Construction of the village began in September 2012 and has remained on track, despite the challenging winter weather conditions. The buildings will all be water-tight by the end of the year with many of the final touches and preparations happening in early 2014.
Once completed in the spring, Woburn Forest is expected to welcome over 400,000 visitors per year and will employ 1,500 staff on a permanent basis, the majority of whom, from the local area.