ongoing investment

WHERE COUNTRYSIDE CHARM MEETS FAMILY ADVENTURE

Posted on May 6, 2026

A countryside escape where farm life and family holidays come together...

Set within 100 acres of rolling Somerset countryside, Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park offers a truly distinctive holiday experience that blends traditional farm life with modern holiday park comforts. Established in 1970, this long-standing, family-run destination has been welcoming guests for over five decades, building a strong reputation for warm hospitality, a safe environment, and authentic rural charm that keeps visitors returning year after year.

Owned and operated by Gary and John Bowden, Dulhorn Farm is far more than a holiday park—it is a working farm at heart. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the rhythms of countryside life, where cows graze peacefully in the fields and sheep roam freely across the landscape.

This living, working environment creates a rare opportunity for families—particularly younger visitors—to experience agriculture up close in a relaxed and engaging setting. One of the standout highlights of any stay is the guided tractor and trailer farm tour, which runs throughout the high season.

These tours offer a fun and educational journey across the farm, giving guests the chance to learn more about daily operations while enjoying close-up encounters with the animals. It is an experience that consistently proves to be a guest favourite, often cited as a memorable moment that defines their stay.

WITH OPEN COUNTRYside and dedicated walking areas, Dulhorn Farm is a welcoming destination where four-legged family members are just as included.

A PERFECTLY POSITIONED SOMERSET ESCAPE
Ideally located between the popular seaside resorts of Weston-super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea, Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park offers the best of both worlds. Guests can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the countryside while remaining just a short drive from sandy beaches, traditional coastal attractions, and local Somerset amenities.

This unique positioning makes the park an appealing choice for a wide variety of visitors. Families are drawn to the space and activities, couples appreciate the peaceful rural setting, and solo travellers enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Whether guests are seeking an action-packed family break or a quiet countryside retreat, the park provides a welcoming environment for all.

Importantly, Dulhorn Farm is also proudly dog-friendly, ensuring that four-legged family members are fully included in the holiday experience. With open countryside surroundings and dedicated walking areas, it is a destination where dogs can enjoy the break just as much as their owners.

This living, working environment creates a rare opportunity for families— particularly younger visitors—to experience agriculture up close

INVESTING IN THE GUEST EXPERIENCE
Continuous improvement is a cornerstone of the park’s philosophy. Recent investment has focused on enhancing both guest safety and enjoyment, with the introduction of a brand-new cycle and dog walking path.

This carefully designed route allows guests to explore the park at their own pace—whether on foot, by bicycle, or while walking their dogs. Set against the peaceful Somerset landscape, it provides a safe, traffic-free environment to enjoy fresh air, scenic views, and gentle outdoor activity.

The path has been designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring it is accessible to guests of all ages and abilities. Whether it’s a young family out for a morning stroll or couples enjoying an evening walk, the route adds another layer of relaxation and freedom to the guest experience. The park also benefits from a secure barrier entry and exit system, offering additional reassurance and peace of mind throughout every stay.

A TRUE WORKING FARM at heart, guests can enjoy close-up encounters with grazing cows and sheep roaming freely across the Somerset landscape.

FACILITIES FOR ALL AGES
Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park prides itself on offering a wide range of facilities designed to keep guests of all ages entertained. Children are well catered for with three dedicated play areas, each offering safe and engaging outdoor spaces to explore.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the fishing lake and wildlife pond provide peaceful settings to unwind and enjoy nature. More active guests can make use of two recreational sports fields and the cycle trail, while the indoor gaming area ensures there is entertainment whatever the weather.

One of the most popular experiences remains the tractor rides, which continue to delight guests by offering a closer connection to the farm and its animals. Accommodation options are equally diverse. The park features 175 seasonal pitches, including 11 serviced pitches, alongside 25 hard-standing pitches and 18 grass pitches for touring guests.

In addition, there are four fully equipped self-catering cottages, sleeping between two and six guests, providing a comfortable alternative for those seeking a more traditional holiday stay. Among touring visitors, hard-standing pitches remain the most popular due to their convenience and year-round usability.

ONE OF THE PARK’S highlights, guided tractor and trailer tours offer guests a fun and memorable way to explore the farm and learn about daily life on site.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRUSTED SUPPLIERS
Behind the scenes, the success of Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park is supported by a trusted network of suppliers who help maintain high standards across every aspect of the business. These partnerships play a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a consistently high-quality guest experience.

Tourer Techs Caravan Services Ltd provides expert servicing and repairs for leisure vehicles, helping to ensure touring guests are safe and supported throughout their stay. In House Training & Consultancy delivers essential fire, health, and safety services, ensuring compliance and best practice are always maintained.

SUEZ supports the park’s environmental management and sustainability efforts, while Tim Goddard Electrical provides reliable electrical services across the site. AUK Hygiene supplies professional cleaning and hygiene products, helping to ensure facilities remain clean, safe, and welcoming for all visitors.

A DESTINATION GUESTS RETURN TO YEAR AFTER YEAR
Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park continues to stand out in an increasingly competitive market by remaining true to its roots while embracing thoughtful, guest-focused improvements. Its unique combination of working farm experiences, family-friendly facilities, and peaceful countryside surroundings creates a destination with wide appeal.

From a child’s first tractor ride to a quiet walk through the Somerset countryside, or simply time spent relaxing in a safe and welcoming environment, Dulhorn Farm offers something meaningful for every guest. With its strong heritage, ongoing investment, and clear commitment to guest satisfaction, it is no surprise that visitors return year after year to experience everything this Somerset gem has to offer.

Dulhorn Farm Holiday Park
01934 750298
info@dulhornfarm.co.uk
www.dulhornfarmholidaypark.co.uk

RAISING THE BAR

Posted on May 6, 2026

MAJOR UPGRADES and new attractions are set to welcome guests at Highfield Grange and Vauxhall Holiday Parks in Spring.

Park Upgrades Keeping Guests Coming Back

In the highly competitive UK holiday park sector, the key to keeping guests returning season after season is continual reinvestment. Operators who regularly refresh their facilities, introduce new activities, and enhance the overall guest experience build loyalty, generate repeat bookings, and stay ahead of market expectations.

Modern holidaymakers increasingly seek parks that combine high-quality accommodation with engaging leisure, entertainment, and dining options. Failing to evolve can leave even established parks struggling to meet rising expectations. Innovation doesn’t always have to mean massive expenditure, but a well-thought-out investment strategy can transform a park’s appeal.

From upgrading play areas and leisure complexes to introducing new sports and interactive attractions, small and large enhancements alike contribute to guest satisfaction. Successful investments often have a dual purpose: elevating the visitor experience while supporting local employment and boosting regional tourism.

Operators who take a proactive approach to upgrades also position themselves strongly in awards, reviews, and media coverage, which further strengthens their reputation and revenue. In this issue, we look at some of the standout examples of investment and upgrades across the UK, from multi-million-pound leisure developments to creative re-imagining of classic park attractions, demonstrating how operators are keeping their parks fresh, exciting, and profitable.

“There is a strong argument for rethinking some of the attractions our industry has long provided – and Footgolf is a perfect illustration of this.” - James Loveridge, Highlands End Holiday Park

Parkdean Resorts - £50M Investment
Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s largest holiday park operator, is set to invest £50 million across its portfolio in 2026, focusing on both facilities and guest experiences. Highfield Grange Holiday Park in Essex and Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth will each receive £5 million in upgrades, introducing new attractions such as indoor adventure golf, upgraded high and low ropes courses, and immersive Bear Grylls escape rooms.

Existing Tots Zones are being expanded, and off-road driving ranges will offer activities for children aged four and over. A new sports bar concept, Hat-Tricks, will combine food and drinks with interactive indoor sports like darts and shuffleboard. Beyond enhancing guest experiences, the investment will generate up to 100 new jobs in the local communities.

Steve Richards, CEO, emphasises the importance of ongoing investment: “Guests return to us year after year because they trust us to deliver the quality and consistency they expect. We are committed to raising standards to remain at the forefront of the UK holiday market.” Parkdean Resorts’ record results and numerous Tripadvisor accolades reflect how a well-planned investment strategy pays dividends, reinforcing both brand reputation and customer loyalty.

INNOVATIVE AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Highlands End’s Footgolf course reimagines a classic park attraction.

Highlands End Holiday Park – Footgolf Innovation
Not all upgrades require huge budgets. At Highlands End Holiday Park in Dorset, marketing chief James Loveridge replaced the traditional pitch-and-putt course with an 18-hole Footgolf course in May 2024.

The result? More than 15,000 visitors have taken part, generating a twentyfold increase in revenue compared with the old course. The course, designed in-house using local suppliers for obstacles, ramps, and themed signage, combines fun with a family-friendly challenge, appealing to both children and adults.

Loveridge believes the success demonstrates that rethinking traditional attractions can refresh guest engagement and create new profit centres. The park’s recognition in the Dorset Tourism Awards highlights the value of innovative thinking combined with minimal investment.

BROTHERS PHIL AND TIM Brierley mark 60 years since their parents pioneered York House Leisure.

York House Leisure – Celebrating 60 Years with £1M Investment
York House Leisure, a family-run group in North Yorkshire, celebrated its diamond anniversary with a £1 million investment across its parks, including residential parks and the popular visitor attraction Monk Park Farm.

The upgrade included a new animal barn and enhancements to existing attractions. Brothers Phil and Tim Brierley, along with sister Heather, emphasise that the business philosophy of constant reinvestment keeps parks appealing while supporting local employment and community engagement. York House Leisure welcomes more than 80,000 visitors annually, and ongoing upgrades ensure both holidaymakers and residential park residents enjoy a high-quality, safe, and enjoyable environment.

These examples highlight that investment and upgrades are not just about adding attractions— they’re about maintaining standards, enhancing experiences, and building guest loyalty. Whether through multi-million-pound leisure complexes, innovative low-cost attractions, or ongoing enhancements to play areas and facilities, UK holiday park operators are demonstrating that reinvestment is essential for long-term success.

From large operators like Parkdean Resorts to family-run groups such as York House Leisure, the message is clear: staying ahead of guest expectations requires vision, creativity, and a commitment to continual improvement, ensuring visitors return year after year.

Highlands End Holiday Park
www.wdlh.co.uk

Parkdean Resorts
www.parkdeanresorts.co.uk

York House Leisure
www.yhlparks.co.uk

THE HEART OF HOLGATES

Posted on February 10, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HENDRA HOLIDAY PARK RETAINS GOLD AWARD

Posted on November 12, 2025

STAFF AT HENDRA HOLIDAY PARK in Newquay celebrate another Five-Star Gold Award from VisitEngland.

Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay has once again achieved VisitEngland’s prestigious Five-Star Gold Award, earning an exceptional 96% quality rating for 2025. This marks the 18th consecutive year the Cornish park has been assessed by VisitEngland, reflecting its enduring commitment to excellence in UK holiday hospitality.

During the August inspection, Hendra was praised for its outstanding facilities, high-quality accommodation, friendly staff, and immaculate presentation. The inspector commended the park’s continued investment and described it as “a jewel in the crown of Cornish hospitality,” noting the recent redevelopment of the Beach House Bar and Pizza and upgrades to the Deck Bar, which now hosts up to 450 guests in a vibrant, festival-style setting.

Further improvements include new staff accommodation and ongoing investment in team development — with 75 employees celebrating over five seasons of service in 2024. Park Manager Chris North said: “We’re absolutely thrilled with VisitEngland’s continued recognition. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. Ending the season on such a high is incredibly rewarding.

KUBOTA INVESTS IN GROUNDCARE

Posted on August 3, 2023

KUBOTA INVESTS IN GROUNDCARE

THE KUBOTA UK TEAM showed off the company’s latest products at a recent special event.

Media spanning sports turf, landscaping, amenity and equine were recently given a rare insight into the ‘behind the scenes’ workings of one of the most recognisable brands in groundcare, as Kubota UK opened their doors for a special event. The overarching theme of the two days was Kubota’s ongoing investment into the industry with updates on recent acquisitions and new initiatives in the areas of warranty and recruitment.

Kubota has been a leading manufacturer of agricultural equipment, construction equipment, lawn mowers and industrial engines since 1890. With its global headquarters in Osaka, Japan, offices in more than 120 countries and more than 41,000 employees in North America, Europe and Asia, Kubota had a turnover of $20 billion in 2021.

Although agricultural, construction and turf equipment are its main product lines, Kubota also produces a wide range of products such as city water purification systems, irrigation systems, piping systems, roof and home construction, and large underground valves.

Commenting on the event, Kubota UK Marketing Manager Rob Edwards said: “We, like all manufacturers, are aware of the issues facing the industry and that doesn’t just stop at having the right products to fit today’s market. “It was brilliant to be able to demonstrate to the press the programmes we’re delivering to support our dealers and our customers and show how proud we are to be re-investing in the needs of the next generation.”

The presentations concluded with a ‘ride and drive’ experience where Press representatives had the opportunity to test-drive a number of machines from across the range, including the recently-launched FC3 and FC4 mowers, and the LXe – Kubota’s first electric compact tractor, in the UK currently for extensive testing.