scotland

PARKDEAN RESORTS CLEANS UP COASTLINE

Posted on November 12, 2025

THE CLEAN-UP TEAM at Parkdean Resort Cayton Bay Holiday Park in Yorkshire.

Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s largest holiday park operator, has celebrated another successful year supporting the Marine Conservation Society’s Great British Beach Clean. More than 150 volunteers from 35 Parkdean Resorts parks across England, Scotland, and Wales collected nearly 300kg of litter from UK beaches.

Now in its eleventh year of participation, Parkdean Resorts also encouraged inland parks and central offices to take part by organising local litter picks and canal path clean-ups. The nationwide initiative, which attracts thousands of volunteers each year, helps the Marine Conservation Society gather essential data to support its marine conservation efforts.

Tim Scott, Head of Sustainability and Energy at Parkdean Resorts, said: “We’re proud to support the Great British Beach Clean once again and grateful to every volunteer who helped us achieve these fantastic results. Initiatives like this reflect our commitment to protecting our parks and giving back to local communities.”

Clare Trotman, Beachwatch Officer at the Marine Conservation Society, added: “We’re so thankful to Parkdean Resorts and their volunteers. Every piece of litter removed helps protect marine life and provides vital data to influence change.” Parkdean Resorts operates 65 parks across the UK, covering 3,500 acres of diverse natural landscapes.

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 SCOTTISH ESCAPE

Posted on July 31, 2025

Beth Connor visits Oban Holiday Park, a scenic Scottish escape by the sea...

Oban Holiday Park, situated within the picturesque 340-acre expanse of Gallanachmore Farm, offers a tranquil retreat on Scotland’s west coast. Located just three miles from Oban’s vibrant town centre, the park provides a serene escape with breath-taking views of the Isle of Kerrera.

Operated by Highland Holidays, Oban Holiday Park has undergone significant investment in recent years, resulting in a beautifully maintained and modern park that manages to retain its connection to the wild Scottish coastline.

JUST A SHORT DRIVE from Oban, the park is a peaceful base for ferry trips and seaside strolls.

ACCOMMODATION WITH A VIEW
One of the standout features of Oban Holiday Park is its wide choice of accommodation and the views that come with it. Guests can choose from a range of luxury lodges, glamping pods, touring & camping pitches.

The high-spec lodges in particular are a real highlight, many of which feature private hot tubs on decking that overlooks the bay, a setting that’s hard to beat for a sunset soak. For those who enjoy the charm of camping without compromising on comfort, the glamping pods offer a cosy and convenient alternative, with electricity, heating and spectacular sea views as standard.

Touring and motorhome guests are also well catered for, with spacious pitches and excellent on-site amenities including modern shower blocks and laundry facilities.

MODERN LODGES with private hot tubs offer the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

THE GATEWAY TO THE HEBRIDES
Oban Holiday Park’s location makes it the ideal base for exploring the wider region. Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Isles” the town of Oban is a hub for ferry travel to the Hebridean islands, including Mull, Iona, and Coll - perfect for adventurous day trips.

Back on the mainland, visitors can enjoy scenic drives, coastal walks and wildlife watching, with regular sightings of seals, otters and sea birds.

Within a short drive, there’s a rich selection of attractions including Dunstaffnage Castle, the Oban Distillery and the dramatic landscapes of Glen Coe. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, kayaking, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature.

SOAK UP THE PEACEFUL surroundings and unwind with all the comforts of home.

WARM HOSPITALITY & FAMILY-FRIENDLY
The park is particularly popular with families, offering a safe and peaceful environment for children to play and explore. On-site play areas and open green spaces give kids plenty of freedom, while parents can enjoy a more relaxed pace of holiday life.

The park is also dog-friendly, which means four-legged family members are more than welcome to join in the fun. Oban Holiday Park strikes a great balance between providing freedom and convenience. While it doesn’t have the loud entertainment you might find at larger commercial resorts, it excels in offering a more tranquil, nature-led experience that many holidaymakers increasingly crave.

What really sets Oban Holiday Park apart is the warmth of its hospitality. Staff are known for going above and beyond to make guests feel welcome, from check-in through to departure. Visitors frequently comment on the friendly and helpful team who are always on hand to offer local tips and support.

A Highland Escape to Remember In a world where holidays often feel fast-paced and overly commercialised, Oban Holiday Park offers something refreshingly different. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, take in the scenery, reconnect with nature and loved ones, with a slower, more meaningful kind of holiday.

Whether you’re a returning visitor or discovering the area for the first time, Oban Holiday Park is the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression and a longing to come back.

Oban Holiday Park
0333 188 1930
www.highlandholidays.com/holiday-parks/oban/

PANORAMIC VIEW OF OBAN Holiday Park set against the stunning backdrop of the Island of Kerrera.

THE PARK IS ALSO DOG-FRIENDLY, which means four-legged family members are more than welcome.

OBAN IS A CHARMING COASTAL TOWN in Scotland, known as the “Seafood Capital of Scotland”.

HIGHLAND HOLIDAYS

Posted on July 31, 2025

Highland Holidays prides itself on delivering unforgettable holidays in the most iconic and beautiful parts of Scotland. Led by the Campbell family, with Andrew and Emily at its helm, Highland Holidays operates three holiday parks across the Scottish Highlands and Argyll: Ben Nevis Holiday Park situated close to Fort William, Oban Holiday Park on the scenic west coast, and Tyndrum Holiday Park, nestled in the heart of the Highlands.

Ben Nevis Holiday Park opened in 2020, shortly before the world faced its first lockdown. Undeterred, the Campbell family used the time wisely to set about transforming the park into a contemporary and quality destination that offers its guests exceptional access to the incredible beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

Ben Nevis Holiday Park is just ten minutes away from the Outdoor Capital of the UK, Fort William. With a location literally in the foothills of Ben Nevis itself, hikers and outdoor adventurers would be hard pressed to find a better basecamp for a holiday. The broad choice of accommodation with 15 accommodation types means that the park has wide appeal.

Guests can choose from standard and hot tub lodges, caravans, camping pods, as well as touring and camping pitches. Common across all accommodation types are the spectacular mountain views! In 2023 & 2024, Ben Nevis Holiday Park won the Hoseasons Diamond Award for ‘Relax and Explore – Scotland’.

HIGHLAND HOLIDAYS aim to create an authentic Scottish experience for their guests.

The park has been widely praised for the high quality of its accommodation and outstanding guest satisfaction. “Being a family-owned, independent group deeply rooted in the Scottish Highlands gives us a unique advantage,” explains Andrew Campbell, Director.

“We truly understand the local landscape and culture, and we use that insight to craft truly memorable guest experiences. We’ve turned potential challenges into opportunities - for example, the growing demand for diverse accommodation has led us to expand our offerings, from spacious hot tub lodges to rugged camping pods, catering to both comfort-seeking travellers and adventure lovers.”

In 2022, the Campbell family acquired Tyndrum Holiday Park (formerly Pinetrees Caravan Park) and set about modernising it. Positioned on the West Highland Way, this park primarily offers holiday and short-stay accommodation for walkers and road trippers, with 11 different accommodation types on offer.

The park’s location is the perfect stopover for those travelling through to Glencoe, Oban or the Scottish islands, but its stunning setting also makes it ideal for a longer stay. The hot tub pods are a standout feature, offering guests a luxurious glamping experience in a picturesque Highland setting. Holiday home ownership is also on offer with a range of modern lodges and caravans available.

BEN NEVIS HOLIDAY PARK has an outstanding location in the foothills of Ben Nevis itself

A mix of holiday rental accommodation and holiday home ownership is also on offer at Highland Holidays’ most recent investment – Oban Holiday Park (previously known as Gallanach Caravan & Camping Park), which opened in July 2023. This stunning park has a prime location on the scenic west coast, overlooking the Isle of Kerrera and Oban Bay.

Oban Holiday Park offers an impressive 16 different accommodation types but there is a focus on providing high-specification lodge experiences. “We introduced luxury waterfront hot tub lodges at Oban,” explains Andrew Campbell. “Now the primary accommodation on the park, these lodges offer front- row views of the sea, stylish interiors, spacious decking with a private hot tub, and direct access to some of Scotland’s most stunning sunsets - perfect for couples or small groups seeking comfort, relaxation, and a view.”

Another new development on the park is a series of four-bedroom hot tub lodges. Recently introduced, these spacious, premium lodges are ideal for families or groups. Featuring modern interiors, open-plan living areas, private hot tubs, and outdoor decking, the new lodges offer a high-end retreat in a coastal setting.

Holiday home buyers can choose from a selection of stylish new lodges and static caravans. Ownership at Oban offers the opportunity to return time and again to a personal coastal retreat in one of Scotland’s most scenic locations, with the option to sublet when not in use. More exciting new additions at Oban Holiday Park are in the plans for the coming years.

LUXURY WATERFRONT Hot Tub Lodges offer front-row views of the sea and stunning sunsets

The holiday parks business comes with its fair share of challenges – from changing guest expectations to increased competition and the need for sustainable tourism. Highland Holidays has responded by staying true to their core strengths while continuously evolving to meet modern demands. Their business model hinges on quality informing every aspect of the guest experience, as well as a keen understanding of what modern holidaymakers seek.

Each park is pet-friendly, family-friendly, and designed to offer both adventure and relaxation in equal measure. “With multiple parks, our focus is on maintaining consistently high standards across every touchpoint,” explains Andrew Campbell.

“We aim to create memories that last a lifetime through exceptional customer service, carefully selected park locations in stunning natural surroundings, and a range of high-quality amenities and accommodation to suit every guest.” There’s more than a nod to sustainability and seamless integration with those stunning surroundings too.

TOURING AND CAMPING options are also available at Oban Holiday Park.

Oban Holiday Park gets its water supply from nearby hillside springs, making it a particularly environmentally friendly choice. Tyndrum Holiday Park is surrounded by pine forests, home to a variety of wildlife, and offers a children’s quiz to encourage early adoption of eco-responsibilities.

At Ben Nevis Holiday Park, Campbell’s Café serves meals made with locally sourced ingredients, giving visitors a chance to enjoy delicious native Scottish cuisine. Through Highland Holidays, the Campbells are particularly proud to present an authentic Scottish experience for their guests, set against breath-taking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

“With travellers now prioritising flexibility, pet-friendliness, and multi-generational appeal, we’ve designed our parks to be inclusive and adaptable,” says Andrew Campbell. “Highland Holidays embodies the spirit of togetherness. As a family-run business we truly recognise the importance of family time and the joy of shared experiences. Our mission is to offer our guests unforgettable family holidays in Scotland.”

Highland Holidays
0333 188 1930
www.highlandholdiays.com

FULLY MANAGED

Posted on July 31, 2025

A New Fully Managed WiFi Service for Parkdean Resorts...

Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s leading holiday park operator, runs 65 parks across England, Scotland, and Wales. Each year, over 3 million guests and 20,000 homeowners rely on its WiFi.

Reliable WiFi is essential—not just for guest satisfaction and loyalty, but also for operations like mobile payments, ordering, and team support. When the old system had reached its limit, Wifinity stepped in to upgrade the infrastructure, boosting performance for both guests and staff.

WIFINITY PROVIDED
• Great connectivity for guests, employees and secure operations
• Simplified guest WiFi user experience
• Premium ‘paid for’ and freemium tiers
• Scalable network to cope with park expansion
• Fully managed service
• Cost effective integration with existing infrastructure

Site surveys began in 2019 and continued through the 2020 COVID-19 closures. Parkdean Resorts used the downtime to restructure and upgrade its WiFi, preparing for growth, expansion and rising guest demand. The upgrade included a direct-to-van (DTV) setup with Cambium backhaul, Ruckus access points and a fully branded captive portal for easier guest access.

A corporate SD-WAN delivers high-speed local internet for cloud services, while a VPN overlay links to private datacentre systems. Both corporate and guest networks are fully managed by Wifinity, which ensures performance, handles network operations with Parkdean, and provides 24/7 UK-based support—so staff can focus on giving guests a great holiday.

THE GUEST USER JOURNEY
• “One and done” process: User connects to login page
• Key lasts indefinitely: Account created key shown and sent
• Works with any device: Home-like connection process
• No interruptions: No need to re-login or re-enter the password

Most of the park is covered, allowing guests to roam without drop-offs, and staff devices stay connected too. During its first full season with the new guest WiFi solution:
• More than 500,000 individual accounts were created
• The premium, paid service generated added revenue
• There was a 400% increase in devices using the optimised DPSK user journey
• Customer satisfaction ratings increased
Wifinity and Parkdean continue to collaborate to improve service and respond to feedback, aiming for a successful 2025 and high guest satisfaction.

THE UPGRADE NOW DELIVERS WIFINITY PROVIDED
• Park-wide, high-speed internet access
• Corporate WiFi service with firewall to run EPOS, guest services and corporate devices
• Automatic onboarding for corporate managed devices with certificate-based network authentication for Parkdean Resorts’ MDM services
• Streaming and entertainment across devices
• High quality VOIP and video calls, supporting remote working
• Home-like guest onboarding using DPSK
• Free or premium ‘paid for’ options
• Flexible plans by day, weekend, week, month or year
• Fully branded Park Connect service
• 24/7 customer services, co-branded communications, help guides
• Monthly service reviews, for customer satisfaction and troubleshooting
• Proactive issue identification and resolution for a better overall network service

Wifinity
020 8090 1290
www.wifinity.co.uk/holidayparkscene

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

LARGO LEISURE PARKS

Posted on May 14, 2025

Putting the needs of their customers at the heart of their business is the philosophy of Largo Leisure, owner and operator of half a dozen award-winning Scottish holiday parks. Largo Leisure Parks was founded in 2003 when it acquired its first holiday park in Scotland, Sauchope Links Park in the East Neuk of Fife.

Over the years, three further parks joined the portfolio: one more in Fife - Letham Feus Holiday Park, and two in Perthshire - Loch Tay Highland Lodges, and Braidhaugh Holiday Park. In March 2022, Largo Leisure Parks was acquired by Limerston Capital.

Perthshire’s Cruachan Farm Caravan and Camping Park was acquired in 2023 and in 2024, Campsite Glen Holiday Park, close to Glasgow, joined the group, making a total of six parks. Each Largo Leisure park has its own unique characteristics and offers a varied choice of holiday accommodation to rent and own including self-catering glamping, wooden cabins, cottages, deluxe beach huts, premium lodges, and caravans.

With a 50/50 split between holiday home rental and ownership across the portfolio, all parks share a common theme, providing luxurious accommodation in stunning natural surroundings. Considered a flagship park of the group, Loch Tay Highland Lodges is situated on the private Milton Morenish Estate in Killin, Perthshire.

ONE OF TWO LUXURY Loch Tay Highland Lodges that are available for holiday rental at Loch Tay.

Acquired in 2006, the park offers an exceptional base for a holiday in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. Visitors can choose from the widest variety of accommodation: from camping and glamping in Geodesic domes and wooden pods, to Scandinavian-built holiday lodges, and two luxury large self-catering houses that can sleep up to eight and ten guests respectively.

“Our two luxury houses in Loch Tay are the epitome of luxury holiday homes and the flagship rental accommodation at our parks,” says Rachel Mabbs, Commercial Director at Largo Leisure Parks. “Both properties are perfect for large gatherings of family and friends. Loch Tay House boasts a hot tub for up to ten people and superb views of the Loch from its balcony.

We added the architect-designed Mill House in 2020. This stunning four bedroom home also offers a large hot tub, and a secluded, tranquil setting in amongst pretty woodland with scenic mountain views. Mature, private gardens, fire pits and the finest fixtures and furnishings complete both houses.” Whatever accommodation they choose, guests staying at Loch Tay Highland Lodges can take advantage of a host of activities that showcase the best of the park’s natural setting.

From archery, hill walking, bird watching and golf, to canoeing, boat hire and stand up paddle boarding courtesy of the on-site activity provider, In Your Element, Scotland After an active day out on the water or out and about in the countryside, it’s time to enjoy the waterside setting and delicious Scottish delicacies of The Boathouse Kitchen & Bar.

BEACH HUT accommodation with wood-fired hot tub at Sauchope Links Park.

Elsewhere in Scotland, 2024 saw two large developments within the Largo Leisure group. Their seaside holiday park, Sauchope Links, benefited from an £800k investment in July to create eight new holiday home pitches and five new units. Sauchope Links offers an innovative mix of accommodation including one bedroom beach huts and glamping pods, with a few offering hot tubs.

The park’s enviable setting, moments from the idyllic fishing village of Crail, and just ten miles from Scotland’s home of golf, St Andrews, means that Sauchope Links is also a popular choice for holiday homeowners. The park offers a variety of new and used lodge-style homes for sale including those from leading manufacturers such as Willerby and Prestige.

In September 2024, a £350k development at Braidhaugh Holiday Park in Crieff saw the introduction of 14 new caravans. The project was a key part of ongoing investment from Largo Leisure’s owners, Limerston Capital, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing Scottish tourism and supporting local economies.

Nestled on the banks of the scenic River Earn, on the doorstep of the historic market town of Crieff, Braidhaugh is an ideal base for a self-catering countryside holiday. “Previously, we only had contemporary lodges and glamping pods at Braidhaugh,” explains Rachel Mabbs.

PET-FRIENDLY holidays are encouraged at Largo Leisure Parks.

“Since the site was already popular for its hard-standing touring pitches, we decided to landscape this area and expand our accommodation choice with some more traditional caravan units to cover a greater range of price points. The park now offers four new rental units: two 2-bedroom caravans, and two 3-bedroom caravans. One of each size is pet-friendly accommodation also.”

As part of the same re-development, ten new caravans for holiday home ownership were also added to the park. Further expansion is also planned. “During the development work, our team worked closely with the David Bellamy Conservation Scheme to help sustain the many animal, bird and plant species in the grounds,” says Rachel Mabbs.

“The work included the planting of native trees and hedgerows, as well as maintaining areas of wildflowers to provide new and protect existing wildlife habitats.” With parks situated in some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, Largo Leisure embraces their commitment to the environment wholeheartedly.

Recycling facilities encourage greater responsibility for guests and staff at all the parks, and many of the glamping accommodations offer wood fired hot tubs that are greener and more sustainable. They are also more in keeping with the natural surroundings.

RETREAT LODGES AT SAUCHOPE LINKS PARK.

“Each park page on our website promotes the local wildlife, historical sites and other local attractions in the area. We’re also planning to create wildlife guides for each of our parks to point out the many animals and birds which can be seen from our parks and in the local area,” explains Rachel Mabbs. The organisation is also keen to give back to the wider community.

Through their active partnership with the charity ‘Give us Time’, Largo Leisure donates much-needed respite breaks to UK military families facing difficulties. During 2023 and 2024, a total of 58 breaks were pledged, offering a chance for families to reconnect and enjoy quality time together away from the pressures of daily life.

Encouraging guests to switch off and unwind is at the heart of the Largo Leisure business model. The parks offer an enticing choice of accommodation, much of it pet-friendly, and first-class facilities – no big, noisy entertainment venues here. Moreover, it’s the tremendous natural beauty of their locations that is the big attraction.

Expanding their parks so more people can enjoy Scotland’s magnificent countryside, is key to Largo Leisure’s future development. Most recently, the group has responded to the opportunity – and challenge - of increasing last-minute demand by introducing flexible arrival days and two-night weekend stays with a late check-out on a Sunday. No visit is too short for guests to appreciate Scotland’s natural splendour.

Largo Leisure
01567 820323
www.largoleisure.co.uk

AWAY RESORTS’ NEW ENTERTAINMENT MANAGER

Posted on February 13, 2025

Away Resorts has taken a bold step toward elevating guest experiences by appointing Melody Munday as its new Senior Head of Entertainment Operations. With an impressive 34-year career spanning hospitality, leisure, and entertainment management, Melody is no stranger to transforming experiences into unforgettable memories.

Her resume boasts work with leading UK brands like Grosvenor Casinos and Mecca Bingo, where she introduced innovative entertainment concepts that successfully appealed to younger audiences. Now, she’s set to bring that same creativity and expertise to Away Resorts, broadening the scope of live shows, seasonal events, and activities across its 27 parks in England, Scotland, and Wales.

Known for its vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, Away Resorts has built its reputation on providing memorable holidays with entertainment at the heart. Holidaymakers rave about the unique shows and activities, which are often highlighted in glowing online reviews. Melody’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to enhancing these experiences even further.

MINISTER VISITS DRUMMOHR CAMPING & GLAMPING

Posted on February 13, 2025

Scotland’s Tourism Minister Richard Lochhead visited Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site in East Lothian last Autumn, celebrating its success as a leader in quality and sustainability within the tourism industry.

Drummohr, located on the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh, was recently named UK Campsite of the Year by Camping magazine and Best Park in Scotland by Pitchup.com. Minister Lochhead toured the 11-acre park, known for its eco-friendly practices and top-tier accommodations, including luxury lodges, glamping pods, and en suite bothies.

Site Manager Angie Purves showcased initiatives such as solar energy generation, EV charging points, and support for local transport links. Biodiversity projects include wildflower gardens, bug hotels, and native flora protection, making the park a haven for wildlife.

During the visit, the Minister planted a cherry blossom tree to commemorate the park’s AA five-star award and honoured a long-standing seasonal guest who recently passed away. Lochhead also met staff, including site wardens and the gardener, who contribute to the park’s environmental goals.

The Minister praised Drummohr’s commitment to sustainability and its role in boosting Scotland’s economy. “Businesses like Drummohr are crucial to Scotland’s high-value tourism sector, contributing to a thriving, sustainable future,” he said.

Angie Purves highlighted the park’s community impact, from supporting local businesses to sourcing products from nearby suppliers. Drummohr, part of the WCF employee-owned group, employs 13 staff and continues to invest in guest satisfaction and sustainability.

Drummohr Camping & Glamping Site
01316 656867
www.drummohr.co.uk

AA REVEALS TOP UK STAYCATION SPOTS FOR 2025…

Posted on February 12, 2025

As UK travel trends continue to favour local and sustainable tourism, the annual AA Caravan & Camping Awards have announced the top outdoor accommodation spots for the 2024-25 season.

This year’s winners offer the best of scenic retreats and luxurious glamping, with a new Sustainable Park award showing a growing preference for eco-friendly and unique staycations among UK travellers. The awards celebrated 12 exceptional sites across the country, selected by the AA’s expert inspectors for their outstanding quality and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Categories included AA Glamping Site of the Year, AA Campsite of the Year, and AA Most Improved Campsite of the Year. This year’s winners span the UK, from the rich history and sweeping views from the Isle of Anglesey in Wales to the stunning ancient woodlands nestled within the South Downs of West Sussex.

Hosting the awards, Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Media, said, “As local travel continues to grow and sustainable tourism gains momentum, we are excited to announce the best camping and caravanning destinations for the upcoming year.

This year’s winners have demonstrated outstanding quality along with a strong dedication to eco-friendly practices and customer satisfaction, making them excellent options for UK travellers.” All winners of the awards feature in the 57th edition of the AA Caravan & Camping Guide, which is £14.99 and available to buy in bookshops now.

Congratulations to all 2024-25 winners, the full list of this year’s AA Caravan and Camping Awards winners can also be found on RatedTrips.com.

Rated Trips by AA Media
The UK’s top campsites and caravan parks for 2025 | AA RatedTrips.com