sandy beaches

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

A NORFOLK COASTAL CLASSIC

Posted on May 5, 2026

Blending tradition, variety, and year-round family-run excellence on the Hunstanton coast...

 

Located on the beautiful North West Norfolk coastline in Hunstanton, Searles Leisure Resort is one of the region’s most established and well-loved family-run holiday parks.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere, wide range of accommodation, and strong sense of tradition, the resort continues to attract families, couples, and holiday home owners seeking a classic British seaside escape with modern comforts.
Set against the backdrop of Norfolk’s sweeping coastline and famously sunny microclimate, Searles offers a complete holiday experience where guests can relax, explore, and enjoy a wide variety of on-site facilities and activities.

 

A TRUE FAMILY-RUN COASTAL RESORT
At the heart of Searles is its identity as a long-standing family business. This heritage is evident throughout the park, from the warm welcome guests receive on arrival to the ongoing focus on quality, care, and consistency across all areas of the resort.
The park is also a significant local employer, with up to 250 staff members working across the site depending on seasonal demand. This workforce plays a vital role in maintaining the resort’s high standards across accommodation, entertainment, dining, maintenance, and guest services.
This strong team structure ensures that whether guests are staying for a weekend break or a longer summer holiday, they benefit from a seamless and well-supported experience.

SEARLES LEISURE RESORT offers a traditional seaside escape on the North West Norfolk coast.

A WIDE RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Searles Leisure Resort offers one of the most diverse accommodation selections in the region, catering to a wide variety of holiday preferences and budgets. The resort features 153 holiday hire units, including well-appointed lodges and comfortable holiday homes designed to provide a home-from-home experience close to the sea.
For guests seeking a more flexible or traditional outdoor stay, Searles also offers dedicated touring and camping facilities, including pitches for tents and tourers. These areas are popular with returning visitors who enjoy the freedom of outdoor holidays combined with access to resort amenities. In addition, the resort provides camping pods, offering an elevated camping experience that bridges the gap between traditional camping and lodge-style comfort.
These are particularly popular with families and couples looking for something a little different while still enjoying the outdoor environment. This mix of accommodation types ensures that Searles appeals to a broad audience — from first-time campers to long-standing holiday homeowners.

A complete holiday experience where guests can relax, explore, and enjoy on-site activities.

LEISURE, ACTIVITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT
Searles Leisure Resort continues to enhance its guest experience with a wide and varied programme of activities designed to suit all ages and interests. Among the most popular recent additions are outdoor cinema experiences, which offer guests the chance to enjoy films under the stars in a relaxed and social setting.
This has quickly become a highlight of the seasonal entertainment calendar. Another standout activity is laser clay shooting, which adds a more adventurous and unique offering to the resort’s leisure programme. These experiences reflect Searles’ commitment to providing more than just accommodation, focusing instead on creating memorable and engaging holidays.
Alongside these, the resort continues to offer a full programme of family-friendly entertainment, ensuring there is always something happening on site throughout the season. Looking ahead, Searles is also developing a new range of safari-style bell tents, which will introduce a fresh glamping option to the park.
This addition reflects the growing popularity of experiential outdoor stays and will further diversify the resort’s already extensive accommodation offering.

SIDNEY THE SEALION AND HIS FRIENDS are always ready to make every guest smile, bringing fun, laughter, and unforgettable holiday memories at Searles!

A RESORT THAT CONTINUES TO EVOLVE
While Searles has a long and proud history as a traditional seaside holiday park, it continues to evolve in response to changing guest expectations.
Recent operational developments, including improved team facilities and enhanced infrastructure, have helped support a more efficient and guest-focused environment behind the scenes. With up to 250 staff working across the resort, this investment in people and systems plays an important role in maintaining the high standards for which Searles is known.
However, at its core, the resort remains focused on delivering enjoyable, high-quality holidays in a relaxed coastal setting — something it has done successfully for generations.

THE RESORT CONTINUES to invest in enhancing guest experiences across all areas of the park.

OWNERSHIP AND LONG-STAY APPEAL
In addition to short breaks and touring holidays, Searles is also a popular destination for holiday home ownership. The resort offers a dedicated ownership community, with a strong sense of belonging among owners who return year after year.
The introduction of a dedicated sales showground further enhances this offering, allowing prospective owners to explore available options in a more structured and accessible way.
This focus on ownership helps strengthen the resort’s long-term community feel and ensures a consistent base of returning guests who are deeply connected to the park.

DIVE INTO FUN at the swimming pool facilities, where guests can splash, relax, and make the most of every moment of their holiday.

THE NORFOLK COASTAL EXPERIENCE
One of Searles’ greatest strengths is its location. Hunstanton, often known as “Sunny Hunny,” is one of the East of England’s most popular seaside destinations, offering traditional charm, sandy beaches, and stunning sunsets over the Wash.
Guests staying at Searles benefit not only from the resort’s facilities but also from easy access to Norfolk’s wider attractions, including coastal walks, nature reserves, and nearby historic towns and villages.
This combination of resort-based amenities and regional exploration makes Searles a strong all-round holiday destination.

 

A LASTING COASTAL FAVOURITE
Searles Leisure Resort continues to stand out as one of Norfolk’s leading holiday parks thanks to its combination of scale, variety, and strong family values. Its ability to balance tradition with modern guest expectations ensures it remains relevant in a competitive and evolving holiday park market.
From its wide range of accommodation options and diverse activity programme to its strong sense of community and coastal location, Searles offers a complete holiday experience that appeals across generations.
As it continues to evolve, one thing remains unchanged — its commitment to delivering memorable seaside holidays in one of the UK’s most iconic coastal settings.

Searles Leisure Resort
01485 534211
www.searles.co.uk

A WIDE RANGE of accommodation ensures Searles caters for families, couples, and returning owners alike.

A SERENE GETAWAY TO NORTH WALES

Posted on February 11, 2025

Beth Connor visits Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat, a perfect peaceful break...

Some of Wales’ most iconic landscapes and heritage sites can be found in the Dee Valley area. Close to the sandy beaches but surrounded by the stunning mountains it’s the ideal retreat! Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of North Wales, the Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat offers a serene escape for guests looking to unwind in nature’s embrace.

Combining the rustic charm of a traditional lodge with the modern amenities that enhance comfort, this retreat is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity in a natural and historic setting. Located within a stone’s throw from Snowdonia National Park and other iconic Welsh landscapes, the lodge appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples alike.

The accommodation at Plas Isaf are well-designed to blend modern luxury with countryside charm. Each lodge has been thoughtfully decorated with a mix of traditional Welsh character and contemporary comfort, creating a cosy yet refined atmosphere.

From wood-panelled walls to plush sofas and local artwork, every element is curated to enhance the sense of warmth and connection to the local culture. Each lodge includes a spacious living area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a private outdoor area. Many lodges are fitted with fireplaces, perfect for chilly Welsh evenings, adding a comforting ambiance to evenings spent indoors.

OUR HOT TUB HOLIDAY BREAKS are ideal for an intimate getaway for two or for families looking to relax

The lodges also cater to a range of group sizes, making it suitable for couples on a romantic getaway, small groups of friends, or even families. The bedrooms are comfortable and spacious, with high-quality bedding, ample storage space, and, in some cases, en-suite bathrooms. The bathrooms are fitted with modern fixtures and come stocked with premium toiletries, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

Some lodges even offer private hot tubs, which are a real treat after a day of exploring the rugged landscapes of North Wales. Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is well-equipped with a range of facilities aimed at enhancing the guest experience. The retreat offers high-speed Wi-Fi, which is convenient for guests who need to stay connected, although the surrounding environment encourages a digital detox.

The private outdoor areas are a highlight, with many lodges featuring outdoor seating, barbecues, and scenic views, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty around them. For guests staying in lodges with hot tubs, the experience is elevated even further, as there’s nothing quite like soaking in a warm tub under the stars after a day spent hiking or sightseeing.

The retreat offers communal spaces, including a reception area with knowledgeable and friendly staff who are always ready to help with directions, local recommendations, or even provide a map for nearby walking trails. There are options for laundry facilities, which can be particularly useful for longer stays, especially for guests who partake in outdoor activities.

ALL DARWIN ESCAPES resorts are pet-friendly

While the lodge does not have an on-site restaurant, the fully- equipped kitchens make self-catering easy, and nearby towns offer a variety of dining options, from quaint cafes to classic Welsh pubs serving local delicacies. One of the standout features of Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is its proximity to some of North Wales’ most stunning natural attractions.

Located a short drive from Snowdonia National Park, the lodge is an excellent base for those looking to explore the majestic mountains, lush forests, and scenic lakes of the region. Popular nearby trails include the paths leading up to Mount Snowdon, where hikers are rewarded with breath taking views.

Other nearby natural attractions include the Conwy Falls, Lake Bala, and the Gwydir Forest, each offering unique opportunities for hiking, fishing, and photography. The lodge is also a short distance from historical landmarks and charming Welsh towns. Betws-y-Coed, a picturesque village known for its quaint architecture and riverside views, is just a short drive away.

Here, visitors can explore local shops, art galleries, and cafes. Additionally, the castles of Conwy and Caernarfon are within driving distance and provide a fascinating glimpse into Welsh history, architecture, and culture. These attractions make Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat a fantastic choice for those looking to combine outdoor activities with cultural exploration.

IT’S A PLACE to disconnect and soak in the scenery

Staying at Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat is a memorable experience that captures the essence of North Wales. The lodges’ rustic charm paired with modern comforts make it a perfect choice for travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, and with the abundance of natural beauty surrounding the area, it’s hard not to feel inspired by the landscape.

The outdoor spaces and hot tubs add an extra layer of luxury, creating a spa-like atmosphere that enhances relaxation. One of the most appreciated aspects of the retreat is the friendly and attentive staff. Their local knowledge, willingness to provide recommendations, and eagerness to help make guests feel welcomed and well-cared for.

The attention to detail in the lodges, from the decor to the amenities, reveals a commitment to quality that is rare to find, making each stay feel special. Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat in North Wales is an excellent choice for travellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Its location, amenities, and thoughtful design make it suitable for a variety of travellers, whether they are seeking adventure in the Welsh wilderness or simply hoping to unwind in a cozy setting. While the lodge may be a bit remote for those looking to stay connected to city life, the seclusion is precisely what many guests love about it.

It’s a place to disconnect, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the quiet beauty of North Wales. Overall, the Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat combines the rustic appeal of a traditional lodge with modern luxuries, creating a memorable getaway. Whether enjoying a sunrise over the mountains from your private deck or unwinding in the hot tub under the stars, a stay here is bound to leave a lasting impression.

Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat
www.darwinescapes.co.uk/plas-isaf
01352 961506