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AWAY RESORTS

Posted on November 12, 2025

Redefining the UK Holiday Park Experience...

In an era when the staycation has become not just a necessity but a lifestyle choice for millions, few operators have done more to reimagine the British holiday park than Away Resorts.

With a fast-growing portfolio of twenty-five locations stretching from Scotland to Cornwall, the brand has become synonymous with creativity, innovation, and a spirit of difference that sets it apart from the competition.

From quirky themed accommodation and digital innovation to sustainability initiatives and an ethos grounded in care, Away Resorts is positioning itself not just as a provider of holidays, but as a disruptor changing the way the UK thinks about leisure breaks.

STANDING OUT IN A COMPETITIVE MARKET
What makes Away Resorts unique? In a crowded sector, the company has developed a reputation for “discover different,” their core brand ethos.

Rather than simply replicating the tried-and-tested caravan or lodge model, Away Resorts has created a portfolio of imaginative accommodation options that delight guests and surprise even seasoned holidaymakers.

From luxury lodges with hot tubs to glamping tents and classic chalets, there’s a style to suit every budget and taste. Standout offerings include Rockstar-themed accommodation with retro touches adding a playful, immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

This sense of creativity and character has become a hallmark of the operator, proving that innovation and fun are as important as convenience in attracting today’s holidaymakers.

ADVENTURE PLAYGROUNDS, POOLS, and activities keep all ages entertained.

VALUES THAT INSPIRE
The company’s vision is simple yet powerful: “to inspire everyone to holiday in the UK.” This vision is underpinned by Away Resorts’ guiding values of being Amazing, Attentive, and Lovers – principles that are woven through every aspect of their parks.

• Amazing: Constantly surprising and delighting guests with new experiences, from themed breaks to exciting park entertainment.
• Attentive: Ensuring the details matter – whether through responsive customer service or well-maintained facilities.
• Lovers: A passionate commitment to their people, customers, and the environment.
• This values-led culture has allowed the operator to foster strong loyalty, not only among guests but also among its workforce of 1,000+ employees.

LUXURY LODGES WITH A TWIST, from hot tubs to themed décor, accommodation is designed to delight.

A DIGITAL-FIRST APPROACH
Holiday parks are no longer places where guests expect to switch off completely from technology. Instead, visitors increasingly demand digital convenience at every stage of their journey – and Away Resorts has risen to the challenge.

More than 65% of bookings are now made online, reflecting the brand’s commitment to ensuring the booking process is as seamless as possible. Significant investment has also been channelled into the Away Resorts App, designed to give holidaymakers real-time access to everything they need during their stay.

From booking activities and checking entertainment schedules to ordering food and drink, the app serves as a digital concierge in your pocket.

AWAY RESORTS’ imaginative approach keeps visitors coming back year after year.

SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION
Modern holidaymakers are increasingly conscious of sustainability, and Away Resorts has taken proactive steps to reduce its environmental footprint.

Initiatives across all parks include:
• Recycling bins and bags provided in every accommodation unit.
• Plastic-free drives, reducing single-use plastics across food outlets and retail areas.
• Broader commitments to energy efficiency and eco-friendly operations (more details can be found at awayresorts.co.uk/about/sustainability).

By embedding sustainability into everyday operations, Away Resorts is not only meeting guest expectations but also aligning with long-term environmental goals that benefit communities across the UK.

THE UK HOLIDAY MARKET TODAY
The rise of the staycation has been one of the defining travel trends of recent years, and Away Resorts has been at the forefront of this surge. The UK holiday market has seen excellent volume growth, with bookings up by 12%, reflecting an appetite for breaks closer to home.

Interestingly, the company notes that last-minute bookings are arriving later than ever, a sign of the changing behaviour of today’s consumers. Flexibility and the ability to respond quickly to demand are crucial, and Away Resorts’ diverse accommodation portfolio and tech-driven booking systems place it in a strong position to capitalise on these shifts.

LEADING THE WAY – With innovation, values, and a playful spirit, Away Resorts is shaping the future of UK staycations.

AMBITIONS FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, Away Resorts remains committed to its role as a disruptor in the UK holiday park sector. The company’s short and long-term goal is clear: to continue innovating and delivering amazing experiences for customers and owners alike.

From a single holiday park business to one of the UK’s fastest-growing operators, Away Resorts has carved out a distinctive space in the market. With twenty-five parks nationwide, a clear ethos of “discover different,” and a passion for pushing boundaries, it is redefining what the British holiday park can be.

By blending imaginative accommodation, sustainability, and digital innovation with strong values and attentive service, Away Resorts isn’t just offering a place to stay – it’s creating experiences that guests can’t wait to repeat. And with the staycation trend showing no signs of slowing down, the future looks bright for this bold and imaginative operator.

Away Resorts
0330 053 7000
www.awayresorts.co.uk

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

EXTENDING VISITOR SEASONS

Posted on October 27, 2022

EXTENDING VISITOR SEASONS

Neil Campbell reports on his recent autumnal holiday stay...

 

THE CCC LISTS 18 of its campsites as being open all year round.

 

With modern motorhomes and caravans now built to withstand cold weather, equipped with proper insulation and efficient heating, more and more sites are extending their bookings to include autumn and winter stays. My wife and I recently decided to give out-of-season touring a go and hired a motorhome for a long weekend at the St Neots campsite run by the Camping and Caravanning Club (CCC), situated next to the River Great Ouse in Cambridgeshire.

The Hardwick Road campsite is open until the end of October — long enough to embrace the autumn half- term holidays and Halloween. We had checked in online as the CCC encourages you to do, and this made arrival a seamless process. We were met at the gate as we arrived with a friendly welcome, which makes all the difference. We didn’t even have to get out of the motorhome and were led by one of the managers to our pitch – and in fact we were given a choice of three.

 

YOU CAN BUY FISHING LICENCES on-site for the nearby River Great Ouse.

 

A speedy reception and check-in makes all the difference and makes for a more relaxed start to your holiday, with online check in a massive advantage. It is a real help if there is plentiful local information, with brochures for local cafes, takeaways and taxi firms, and several maps showing the local area. Hooking-up could not have been simpler, with the electricity point directly behind the pitch.

There was a waterpoint about 10 metres away if we needed it, although we had a full tank. There was also a well-equipped motorhome service point where you could drain grey water and fill up with fresh water, and two chemical toilet disposal points. We were on a hardstanding pitch of about 8 metres by 4 metres, with an electric hook-up.

There was just about room for our pop-up gazebo, although we didn’t put it up in the end as the weather was good. There would have been ample space for a motorhome awning, and as the CCC has a policy of six metres between pitches, the whole site felt well spread out. The grounds had very well-kept grass and mature trees across the site, so that it retained a feeling of being in the country even though it was on the edge of a town, about 10 minutes’ walk away.

 

TOURING SITES NEED to balance the benefits of extended visitor seasons against the increased costs involved.

 

STAY RATES
We paid just under £100 for three nights for two adults. A grass tent pitch with electric would have been about £95, or a tent pitch without electric just under £80. We paid a 25% deposit, with the balance being collected on our day of arrival. It would also have been straightforward to change the dates of our booking online. There was also a lot of site information available on the CCC website, so we knew what would be there.

Check-in time was from 1pm, and contactless, which is a real advantage for arriving campers, particularly when the days are getting shorter, and checkout was mid-day, allowing for a leisurely start to the day without any need to rush. Facilities were excellent – spotlessly clean and spread across two blocks, so when one was shut for cleaning for 45 minutes, the other one was open. There were plenty of showers, although no shower curtains although there were locking doors of course.

 

THE ST NEOTS CCC SITE in Cambridgeshire is open until the end of October — long enough to embrace the autumn half-term holidays and Halloween.

 

The washing-up areas were under cover and there was plenty of hot water, and the laundry looked well-equipped with plenty of machines. Disabled access to the facilities looked to be excellent. There was a parent and baby room. I was also very impressed that there was a defibrillator machine, in my opinion every campsite should have one – it could save someone’s life. The bins were located at one location near the entrance, presumably so that the dustbin lorries only had one place to pick up from.

There were no separate recycling bins, so everything went in one rubbish bag. We were told that they were sorted out by the refuse collection teams. The campsite wifi was also very effective, and with an easily remembered password. There were lots of dogs and it seemed a very pet-friendly site. There was a code to get through the barrier onto the site, and an automatic barrier when you left. There was also a code for one of the loo blocks, as I think passing walkers had been using the facilities for free!

 

THE TOWN FACILITIES were within easy reach for walking or cycling.

 

ON-SITE SHOP
There was no shop on site although LPG gas was available from reception, as was the ability to freeze ice packs crucial if you are tent-camping. You could also get fishing licences for the nearby River Great Ouse. I think in an ideal world motorhome or caravan hardstanding areas would have individual water supplies and drainage points for grey water.

A small shop stocking essentials would be very useful – canned goods, bread, basics such as pasta, milk and perhaps eggs. If there is a shop, the essentials of camping gas, charcoal, firewood and batteries for torches should be freely available. Highly desirable food items would include marshmallows, hot chocolate, cake and anything that can be toasted on a fire — crumpets and teacakes chief among them.

Providing local information is also vital some sites offer the wonderful service of a visiting pizza or fish and chip van, but if not then leaflets for local takeaways, and directories for other services, can make a huge difference. Games, books or DVD’s to borrow or buy offer added value. The CCC lists 18 of its campsites as being open all year round, with the most northerly being Moffat in Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland and the most southerly being Tavistock in Devon.

Touring sites will of course need to balance the potential to attract visitors during the off season against the cost of doing so. From the campers’ point of view, a full range of facilities need to be available if a campsite is open — hot showers and a laundry being probably top of the wish list. Our experience of holidaying in autumn has only served to make us want more — we are already planning a winter trip and wondering if we are hardy enough to try it in a tent!