Ruda Holiday Park

MAKING WAVES

Posted on August 3, 2026

ADVENTURE AWAITS on Ustigate Waterplay’s Vortex Elevations™ pirate ship, where imaginative aquatic play helps holiday parks create unforgettable family memories.

Why swimming pools remain a vital investment for holiday parks...

Creating memorable guest experiences is essential for holiday parks seeking to attract new visitors and encourage repeat bookings. While accommodation and entertainment remain important, high-quality swimming pools consistently rank among the most valued facilities for families.

Heated indoor pools extend the season by providing year-round recreation, while outdoor pools and splash attractions become focal points during warmer months. Freshwater Beach Holiday Park in Dorset, for example, promotes its heated pools as one of its key family attractions.

Swimming pools offer benefits beyond recreation. They provide spaces where families can relax, exercise and spend quality time together while helping parks strengthen their competitive position and encourage repeat visits. Well-designed aquatic facilities become destination attractions in their own right.

RECENTLY REFURBISHED, the Cascades Tropical Adventure Pool is one of Ruda Holiday Park’s standout family attractions.

DESIGNING SAFE, EFFICIENT AQUATIC FACILITIES
Successful pool design prioritises safety, accessibility and efficient guest flow. Clear lifeguard visibility, well-planned circulation between pools and changing areas, and inclusive layouts all contribute to an enjoyable visitor experience.

Operating a swimming pool also requires robust management. Water quality should be maintained in line with PWTAG guidance through regular monitoring of disinfectant levels, pH and filtration.

Operators should have a Pool Safety Operating Procedure (PSOP), suitable risk assessments and appropriately qualified lifeguards where required. Pool covers also improve efficiency by retaining heat and reducing debris, helping lower maintenance costs.

INTERACTIVE WATER FEATURES create safe, engaging environments where families can play together.

CREATING VALUE THROUGH AQUATIC PLAY
Modern guests increasingly expect more than a traditional swimming pool. Interactive water play, sensory features and exciting attractions appeal to a wide range of ages while encouraging confidence in the water.

Multi-level play structures such as Vortex Elevations™ transform pools into immersive play environments with climbing elements, sprays, tipping buckets and interactive features. Their greatest advantage is the ability to entertain large numbers of guests within a compact footprint while offering activities suitable for toddlers through to older children.

This allows families with children of different ages to enjoy the attraction together, enhancing the holiday experience.

SEARLES LEISURE RESORT In Hunstanton, Norfolk, is proud of its excellent swimming pool facilities.

THE ENDURING APPEAL OF WATERSLIDES
Flumes remain among the most popular attractions in any swimming facility. Their combination of excitement, adventure and friendly competition makes them particularly attractive to families and teenagers.

Working with wiegand.waterrides, Ustigate Waterplay designs and installs stainless steel and fibreglass waterslides that meet European safety standards while incorporating engaging features and interactive elements. Adding a modern flume can significantly increase the appeal of a holiday park’s aquatic offering.

AWARD-WINNING LADRAM BAY Holiday Park creates unforgettable holiday memories with its family-focused pool and splash facilities

INCLUSIVE SPLASH PADS
Splash pads provide an accessible, inclusive water play experience for guests of all ages and abilities. Barrier-free access, ground-level play features and interactive water effects enable children, parents, grandparents and wheelchair users to enjoy the attraction together.

Unlike conventional pools, splash pads operate without standing water, reducing drowning risk and, subject to site-specific risk assessments and operating procedures, removing the need for lifeguard supervision. They also require less water than traditional pools.

Smaller installations may use flow-through systems that allow water to be reused for irrigation, while larger sites can benefit from recirculation systems that treat and recycle water in line with PWTAG guidance. Through its long-standing partnership with Vortex International, Ustigate Waterplay offers more than 150 Splashpad® products, enabling bespoke aquatic play areas tailored to each holiday park.

“Our aim has always been to create amazing memories with first-class facilities, and I think our splash zone comes right up to the mark!”

FRESHWATER BEACH HOLIDAY PARK
Freshwater Beach Holiday Park recently transformed its aquatic facilities by replacing a single-lane waterslide with a three-lane racer flume and installing a Vortex Elevations™ play structure featuring climbing activities, spray bars, cascading water effects and a tipping bucket.

Swimming Pool Manager Tristan Brookes commented: “Working with Ustigate Waterplay has been an absolute pleasure from start to finish. Their team was professional, efficient and flexible throughout the project, delivering outstanding results that exceeded expectations in both aesthetics and functionality.”

The redevelopment demonstrates how modernising existing facilities can broaden appeal across different age groups while encouraging longer stays and repeat use.

USTIGATE WATERPLAY supplies waterslides that remain among the most popular holiday park attractions, combining excitement, adventure and family fun.

LADRAM BAY HOLIDAY PARK
Award-winning Ladram Bay combines a heated indoor swimming pool with interactive splash features and seasonal outdoor water play, providing year-round aquatic entertainment for families.

Director Zoe House said: “Our aim has always been to create amazing memories with first-class facilities, and I think our splash zone comes right up to the mark!”

AWARD-WINNING LADRAM BAY Holiday Park creates unforgettable holiday memories with its family-focused pool and splash facilities

LOOKING AHEAD
Swimming pools remain one of the strongest investments available to holiday park operators. When complemented by aquatic play structures, waterslides and splash pads, they become destination experiences that appeal to guests of all ages.

Projects at Freshwater Beach and Ladram Bay demonstrate how thoughtful investment in water play can enhance guest satisfaction, differentiate parks in a competitive market and create memorable family experiences that encourage visitors to return year after year.

Freshwater Beach Holiday Park
www.freshwaterbeach.co.uk

Ladram Holiday Park
www.ladrambay.co.uk

Ruda Holiday Park
www.johnfowlerholidays.com/devon-holiday-park/ruda-holiday-park

Searles Holiday Park
www.searles.co.uk

Ustigate Waterplay
www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

FRESHWATER BEACH HOLIDAY PARK’S upgraded aquatic facilities, developed with Ustigate Waterplay, demonstrate how investment in water play can create memorable guest experiences for all ages.

LIFE’S BETTER AT THE BEACH

Posted on August 3, 2026

WHETHER IT’S A FAMILY MEAL, a light lunch or evening drinks, Ruda’s welcoming dining venues cater for every occasion.

Following its acquisition by family-owned operator John Fowler Holidays, Ruda Holiday Park delivers the ultimate Devon escape...

Few holiday parks in the UK can boast a location quite as spectacular as Ruda Holiday Park. Nestled on the golden sands of Croyde Bay in North Devon, this iconic destination has long been a favourite among families, surfers and holidaymakers seeking the perfect coastal escape. Now under the ownership of North Devon-based John Fowler Holidays, the park is entering an exciting new chapter.

Holiday Park Scene was delighted to be invited to experience Ruda first-hand and, after spending several days exploring the park, enjoying the facilities and relaxing in one of its luxury lodges, it quickly became clear why this destination continues to attract visitors year after year.

A STUNNING COASTAL LOCATION
The first thing that strikes you about Ruda is its exceptional setting. Positioned directly above the famous sands of Croyde Bay, the park offers something that many holiday parks can only dream of – direct access to one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.

A short stroll from the accommodation brings guests straight onto the beach, where golden sands meet rolling Atlantic waves. Whether you’re looking to relax by the sea, enjoy a coastal walk or try your hand at surfing, the stunning surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday.

The beach itself is widely regarded as one of Britain’s premier surfing destinations, attracting beginners and experienced surfers alike. Watching the sunset over the bay after a day exploring the park was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our stay.

RUDA HOLIDAY PARK enjoys an enviable position overlooking the golden sands of Croyde Bay, one of North Devon’s most popular coastal destinations.

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION WITH A TOUCH OF INDULGENCE
For our visit, we stayed in one of Ruda’s luxury lodges complete with a private hot tub, and it proved to be the ideal base for exploring the park and surrounding area. The accommodation was modern, spacious and exceptionally comfortable, featuring stylish interiors, well-equipped living spaces and everything needed for a relaxing break.

However, it was the hot tub that truly elevated the experience. After busy days enjoying the facilities and exploring the coastline, sinking into the warm bubbling water during the evening was the perfect way to unwind.

Whether enjoying an early morning coffee or relaxing beneath the stars after sunset, the hot tub added a genuine touch of luxury to our stay. The quality of accommodation across the park reflects the continued improvements being made at Ruda, helping to appeal to both traditional family holidaymakers and those seeking a more premium coastal getaway.

RECENTLY REFURBISHED, the Cascades Tropical Adventure Pool is one of Ruda’s standout family attractions.

MAKING A SPLASH AT CASCADES TROPICAL ADVENTURE POOL
No visit to Ruda would be complete without experiencing the impressive Cascades Tropical Adventure Pool. Recently refurbished as part of a wider programme of enhancements across the park, this standout facility combines fun, excitement and relaxation under one roof.

Designed to appeal to guests of all ages, the tropical-themed complex provides hours of entertainment whatever the weather. The flume was an immediate hit with our group and quickly became one of the most talked-about parts of the stay.

Whether racing friends to the bottom or simply enjoying the thrill of the ride, it proved impossible to resist. Beyond the flume, the tropical-themed environment creates a genuinely exciting atmosphere, with interactive water features and plenty of space for families to enjoy together. It’s easy to see why the pool has become one of the park’s most popular attractions.

John Fowler Holidays acquired Ruda Holiday Park from Parkdean Resorts in a multi-million-pound deal announced on 25 June 2025.

CATCHING WAVES AT THE SURF SCHOOL
Given Ruda’s enviable location overlooking one of the UK’s premier surfing beaches, it comes as no surprise that surfing plays a major role in the guest experience. The on-site surf school offers visitors the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors, with lessons available for all ages and abilities.

For beginners, it’s an ideal introduction to the sport, while more experienced surfers can take advantage of equipment hire and local expertise. One of the biggest advantages is the convenience. Guests can move seamlessly from accommodation to beach and into the water within minutes, making it incredibly easy to make the most of Croyde’s famous waves.

Even for those who prefer to stay dry, simply watching the surfers from the shoreline provides plenty of entertainment and adds to the unique atmosphere that makes Ruda such a special destination.

FROM FAMILY ACTIVITIES to live evening entertainment, there’s always something happening at Ruda Holiday Park.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
One area where Ruda truly excels is its extensive family entertainment programme. Throughout our stay there was always something happening, ensuring guests of all ages remained engaged and entertained.

From daytime activities and children’s events to live evening performances, there is a real sense of energy throughout the park. No traditional holiday park experience would be complete without bingo, and the lively sessions during our stay proved to be a real crowd-pleaser, delivering plenty of laughs, friendly competition and holiday fun.

Alongside bingo, guests can enjoy live entertainment, family games, children’s activities and evening performances, ensuring there’s always something to look forward to once the sun goes down. The entertainment team deserve particular credit for their enthusiasm and professionalism, helping to create a welcoming environment that encourages families to make the most of everything the park has to offer.

DIRECT BEACH ACCESS means guests are just moments away from the surf, sand and stunning scenery of Croyde Bay.

A BRIGHT FUTURE UNDER JOHN FOWLER HOLIDAYS
One of the most exciting developments for Ruda is its recent acquisition by John Fowler Holidays, one of the UK’s largest family-owned holiday park operators.

Based in North Devon, the company has been creating memorable holiday experiences for more than 70 years and now operates parks across the South West and Wales. Their local knowledge and long-standing commitment to quality tourism make them a natural fit for this iconic coastal destination.

Since taking ownership, John Fowler Holidays has invested around £1 million into the park, enhancing accommodation, facilities and guest experiences while ensuring Ruda retains the character and charm that generations of holidaymakers have come to love.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Ruda Holiday Park successfully combines everything guests could wish for from a modern seaside escape: an unbeatable beachfront location, quality accommodation, impressive facilities and a packed programme of family entertainment.

From relaxing in a luxury hot tub lodge and making a splash in the Cascades Tropical Adventure Pool to enjoying a game of bingo or watching surfers tackle the waves at Croyde Bay, every day offered something different to enjoy. With direct beach access, ongoing investment and the backing of one of the UK’s most respected family-owned holiday park operators, Ruda is firmly cementing its position as one of the South West’s leading holiday destinations.

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a couples’ retreat or an action-packed coastal adventure, Ruda Holiday Park offers the perfect base from which to experience the very best of North Devon.

Ruda Holiday Park
01271 890671
www.johnfowlerholidays.com/devon-holiday-park/ruda-holiday-park

JOHN FOWLER GROUP ACQUIRES RUDA PARK

Posted on July 31, 2025

JOHN FOWLER Holidays Leadership Team on Croyde Beach

John Fowler Holidays has announced the high-profile acquisition of Ruda Holiday Park at Croyde Bay from Parkdean Resorts, marking a major milestone for the family-run business. The multi-million-pound deal adds one of the UK’s most iconic coastal holiday parks to the North Devon-based operator’s growing portfolio— bringing its total to 14 parks across the South West and Wales.

“This is a landmark day for us,” said Managing Director Martyn Fowler. “Ruda’s location and reputation are second to none, and we’re proud to continue its legacy.” The 300-acre park features 817 pitches, a glamping village, a tropical pool and flume, multiple food and drink outlets, and direct access to Croyde’s blue flag beach—now under John Fowler’s stewardship.

Parkdean Resorts, who owned Ruda for 23 years, said the sale aligns with its strategic goal to reinvest in its wider UK park network. CEO Steve Richards praised Ruda’s staff and legacy, confident John Fowler will maintain its high standards. The deal cements John Fowler’s position as one of the UK’s largest family-owned holiday park groups, with over 800 employees and a turnover of £50 million. Guests with existing Ruda bookings will be contacted directly as the site transitions to new ownership.