CABIN FEVER

Cabins and lodges have moved firmly from the margins to the mainstream of the holiday park sector...

Once viewed primarily as functional accommodation, they are now central to how parks define their brand, attract new audiences and drive long-term value. Design, build quality and the experience created both inside and outside the unit increasingly shape how guests choose where to stay — and how they remember their break.

Today’s holidaymakers are looking for more than a roof over their heads. They want space to relax, places to socialise, and accommodation that connects them to their surroundings. Timber cabins and lodges are particularly well placed to deliver this, offering warmth, character and a strong visual identity while sitting naturally within rural, woodland and waterside settings.

For park operators, they also provide flexibility — supporting everything from short breaks and off-season stays to premium upsells such as hot tubs, saunas and wellness features. This growing emphasis on experience-led accommodation is reshaping investment decisions across the sector.

Operators are placing greater value on durability, energy efficiency and year-round usability, alongside bespoke layouts that reflect the needs of families, couples, groups and multi-generational guests. External space has become just as important as internal design, with decks, covered terraces and outdoor living areas extending the usable footprint of each unit.

In this Cabins & Lodges focus, Holiday Park Scene explores how thoughtful design, quality construction and strategic placement are helping parks maximise returns while enhancing the guest experience. From innovative lodge concepts to real-world case studies, this section highlights why cabins and lodges have become one of the most powerful tools available to today’s holiday park operators.

CABINS AND LODGES now play a defining role in park identity, guest experience and long-term value, blending design quality with meaningful connections to the landscape.

NORWEGIAN LOG CABINS EXPAND THE LAKESIDE EXPERIENCE
In the heart of Somerset’s picturesque Cary Valley lies Viaduct Fishery, a gem among Britain’s commercial fisheries. Established in the early 1980s and lovingly managed by the Long family since 1999, this 23-acre haven boasts six mature, well-stocked lakes teeming with specimen carp, F1s, silvers, and mixed species.

Open year-round with dawn-to-dusk day tickets, it has long drawn anglers seeking both challenge and serenity amid natural surroundings that feel far removed from the modern world. Yet Viaduct is no longer solely a day-ticket destination for the dedicated rod. Over recent years, the site has evolved into a complete holiday experience, thanks in large part to the addition of luxurious Norwegian log cabins.

These seven beautiful cabins, supplied by the renowned specialists at Norwegian Log, have transformed the lakeside offering, blending authentic Scandinavian craftsmanship with the tranquil beauty of the Somerset countryside. What makes these cabins so special? Norwegian Log has been a market leader in premium log construction for over four decades, delivering high-specification buildings that prioritise insulation, durability, and year-round comfort.

Crafted from solid timber, the cabins provide that signature cosy warmth in winter while remaining pleasantly cool during summer months, an ideal match for Britain’s changeable climate. At Viaduct, the range includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom options, catering perfectly to couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting space to spread out, or groups of friends enjoying a shared angling adventure.

Several cabins sit lakeside, granting guests their own private fishing pegs right on the doorstep. Imagine waking at first light, brewing a cuppa, and casting a line without leaving your accommodation. Others offer stunning lakeview positions overlooking Middle Lake and the rolling Cary Valley, where mist often rises gently from the water at dawn, creating scenes of almost painterly tranquillity.

THOUGHTFULLY POSITIONED AND SENSITIVELY DESIGNED, The log cabins from Norwegian Log have transformed Viaduct Fishery into a multifaceted holiday destination.

Some lodges even feature private hot tubs on the decking, perfect for unwinding after a day’s fishing, with the soft glow of sunset reflecting across the lake. Inside, the cabins feel inviting and surprisingly spacious. The natural wood finishes create a warm, rustic ambience, complemented by modern essentials: fully equipped kitchens, comfortable bedrooms, gas central heating, double glazing, and free Wi-Fi.

It is the best of both worlds, timeless log-cabin charm without sacrificing any creature comforts. This expansion reflects a growing trend in the holiday park sector: the demand for stay-and-play destinations where non-anglers can relax while partners pursue their passion. At Viaduct, the cabins ensure everyone benefits.

Families can enjoy peaceful walks around the lakes, children can spot wildlife, and partners can soak in the hot tub or explore nearby attractions like Glastonbury, Yeovil, or the Somerset Levels. The on-site tackle shop stocks everything needed, making it effortless to focus on enjoyment rather than logistics. From Norwegian Log’s perspective, Viaduct represents an exemplary project.

Their cabins are built to exacting standards, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance, qualities that holiday park operators value highly. As demand for these Somerset retreats continues to rise, the partnership is poised for further growth, with hints of additional cabins in the pipeline to meet enthusiastic bookings.

In an era where holidaymakers seek authentic, nature-immersed escapes, Viaduct Fishery stands out. The Norwegian log cabins do far more than provide accommodation; they enhance the entire lakeside experience, turning a renowned fishery into a multifaceted destination for relaxation, recreation, and reconnection.

Whether you are a lifelong angler or simply someone who appreciates the restorative power of water and woodland, Viaduct offers something truly special. The marriage of world-class fishing with these exquisite Scandinavian-inspired cabins proves that thoughtful development can elevate a site without compromising its natural soul. As the Long family and Norwegian Log continue their collaboration, Viaduct is set to remain one of the Southwest’s premier holiday and angling retreats for years to come.

Norwegian Log
0118 9669 236
www.norwegianlog.co.uk

POLMANTER TOURING PARK TAKES GOLD AT VISITENGLAND AWARDS 2025

The 2025 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence celebrated the very best in UK tourism, with the coveted Camping, Glamping & Holiday Park of the Year category highlighting outstanding parks across the country. This year’s Gold winner was Polmanter Touring Park in Cornwall, with Rebecca and Phillip Osborne proudly accepting the award on stage at the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange.

Joining them were VisitEngland Advisory Board member Allan Lambert and compere Peter Hancock. Polmanter Touring Park has long been recognised for its exceptional customer service, welcoming atmosphere, and outstanding facilities. Its award-winning status reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and creating memorable experiences for visitors.

The Osbornes’ dedication to both the park and the wider tourism community was evident in their heartfelt acceptance, with many praising their attention to detail and passion for the holiday park sector.

Silver was awarded to Mendip Basecamp in Somerset, a site known for its adventurous glamping offerings and family-friendly activities, while Bronze went to Hippersons Boatyard in Suffolk, which impressed judges with its combination of traditional charm and modern facilities.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence continue to showcase the innovation and dedication that make the UK holiday park and glamping sector one of the most competitive in Europe. Winning parks, like Polmanter, set the standard for service, quality, and guest experience, inspiring operators across the country to aim higher.

For holiday park professionals, the awards serve as a benchmark for excellence, proving that attention to detail, creative offerings, and a focus on visitor experience remain the keys to success in this growing and dynamic sector.

The awards serve as a benchmark for excellence, proving that attention to detail, creative offerings...

THE LAND LEISURE & TOURISM SHOW 2024…

The Land, Leisure & Tourism Show 2024, held at Birmingham’s NEC from November 5th to 6th 2024 this show is a B2B event for the tourism, leisure, hospitality, and rural industries. Drawing thousands of attendees and featuring more than 400 exhibitors, the show provided a dynamic platform for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and explore innovative solutions.

The event’s comprehensive agenda included over 50 seminar sessions, addressing key industry topics such as sustainability, digital transformation, and design innovations. Notably, discussions on eco-friendly practices and the integration of technology to enhance guest experiences resonated with many participants.

A highlight of the show was the recognition of excellence through various awards. The Farm Diversification of the Year award, sponsored by NFU Mutual, was presented to The Silly Sheep Fibre Company, applauded for its resource maximisation and community spirit.

WHEN VISITING the LLT show you discover new products and services, explore investment prospects and network.

Additionally, Padstow Holiday Village in Cornwall received the Gold award for Holiday Park of the Year, commended for its commitment to environmental practices and achieving B Corp status.

The show also emphasised the importance of future planning and asset management, with seminars like “Futureproofing your assets through strategic review” underscoring the need for strategic and collaborative approaches in the industry.

Overall, the Land, Leisure & Tourism Show 2024 successfully facilitated meaningful conversations, showcased industry innovations, and celebrated achievements, reinforcing its pivotal role in shaping the future of the leisure and tourism sectors.

The 2025 Land Leisure & Tourism Show will take place on 5th & 6th November 2025, register your interest today.

Land Leisure & Tourism Show
www.lltshow.com

PICTURE POSTCARDS FROM THE SHOW…

A HIGHLIGHT OF THE SHOW WAS THE RECOGNITION OF EXCELLENCE THROUGH VARIOUS AWARDS

HOLIDAY PARK OF THE YEAR

Recognises holiday parks, sites and villages that provide exceptional guest experiences across static vans, touring pitches and more.

CAMPING OR GLAMPING SITE OF THE YEAR

Recognises camping and glamping sites that provide exceptional guest experiences across tents, touring pitches, shepherd’s huts and more.

AA REVEALS TOP UK STAYCATION SPOTS FOR 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

FREE RANGE CAMPING

Beth Connor visits Petruth Paddocks, a serene escape in the heart of Somerset...

Nestled on the outskirts of Cheddar, Somerset, Petruth Paddocks offers a charming escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This family-owned campsite is run by Jules, his family and site manager Abby, boasts a welcoming atmosphere, stunning scenery, and a range of accommodations that cater to various tastes and budgets, making it a standout destination for holidaymakers, providing a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.

From the moment you arrive, the welcoming atmosphere at Petruth Paddocks is palpable. The friendly staff greet you with genuine warmth, ensuring that your stay begins on a high note. The park is thoughtfully laid out, with a variety of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets.

Whether you opt for a cozy pitch for your tent, a socialising group pitch, or one of the beautifully furnished glamping options, you’ll find comfort and convenience at every turn. “We spring out of bed to put a spanner in the hamster wheel of work, free from the addiction of social media, and challenge the frantic pace of life today.”

- Jules Sayer One of the standout features of Petruth Paddocks is its stunning natural setting. Surrounded by rolling hills and open fields, the park offers breathtaking views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The well-maintained grounds are perfect for leisurely strolls, while the nearby Mendip Hills provide a more challenging terrain for avid hikers.

TWENTY YEARS IN, Jules, Steve & Team employ thirty people to help run the site.

For families, the spacious play areas and pet-friendly policy make it easy to enjoy quality time together in the great outdoors. The facilities at Petruth Paddocks are top-notch, designed to enhance your camping experience. Modern shower blocks, clean toilets, and well-equipped washing up areas ensure that even the most basic needs are met with ease.

The recycled fire pits are a popular feature, which are delivered direct to your pitch each evening, a perfect opportunity to gather to share stories and perhaps even toast a marshmallow under the starry sky. “We believe we all owe it to ourselves and our children to press pause, relax and appreciate the simpler things in life recharge, reflect, reengage, reset and realign.” - Jules Sayer

For those looking to explore beyond the park, Cheddar Gorge and the charming village of Cheddar are just a stone’s throw away. The iconic gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and ancient caves, offering fascinating tours and breathtaking vistas. The village itself boasts quaint shops, delightful tea rooms, and, of course, the world-famous Cheddar Cheese.

What truly sets Petruth Paddocks apart, is the personal touch and attention to detail. The owners, Jules and the team, are passionate about creating a memorable experience for their guests. Their dedication is evident in the little extras, from the on-site shop stocked with local produce to the organised activities that cater to both children and adults.

PETRUTH PADDOCKS is more than just a campsite, it’s a gateway to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Somerset.

“We achieve that through our friendly, caring team and our thoughtfully created outdoor environment where adults and children alike feel safe, valued, comfortable and grounded.” - Jules Sayer In summary, Petruth Paddocks is more than just a campsite; it’s a gateway to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Somerset.

With its welcoming ambiance, excellent facilities and stunning surroundings, it promises a relaxing and enjoyable retreat for all who visit. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquillity, Petruth Paddocks delivers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Somerset countryside.

Petruth Paddocks
01934 257055
www.petruthpaddocks.co.uk

SOUTH WEST TOURING SUCCESS

DISPLAYING RECENT AWARDS at the Wareham Park (from left) park managers Adam and Nicky Wake, plus family members Sarah Birch, Tony Birch, Chrissy Bracey and Ben Bracey.

The South West’s top destination for campers and the owners of motorhomes and touring caravans has been officially named as Wareham Forest Tourist Park near Poole. The family-owned business was awarded the top gold accolade against fierce competition in the Camping and Caravanning Park category of this year’s South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

Judges announced their decision at the glittering awards ceremony at the Great Hall of the University of Exeter, attended by finalists and sponsors from the tourism and hospitality industry across SW England. Lynmouth Holiday Retreat near Exmoor beat hundreds of other parks to take the silver accolade in the Camping and Caravanning Park category of the South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

The family-owned business is one of four award-winning holiday parks in Devon, Somerset and Cornwall owned by the family’s 35-year-old business, Coast & Country Parks. The group’s parks provide not just pitches for tents, touring caravan and motorhomes but also luxury holiday homes to own and to rent.

Ian James said everyone was delighted that Lynmouth Holiday Retreat had been singled out by judges as one of the South West’s top destinations for people seeking a perfect rural escape: “What makes us especially proud is that the South West Tourism Award judges looked not just at the quality of our facilities, but also at the high standards of hospitality we provide.

“Delivering this is largely in the hands of our park team, and they deserve a big share of the credit for their crucial role in creating a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere,” said Ian.

FAMILY VALUES

The Hoburne Group was established in 1912 in Dorset when ‘Hubborn Farm’ was acquired at auction by its tenant farmer John Burry. Embracing his new life as a landowner, Mr Burry soon added nearby Naish Farm to his budding property empire and, amidst the growing interest in caravanning, the seeds of the Hoburne Group were sown.

Today, the Hoburne Group is one of the south’s largest and most successful tourism companies and is still, crucially, family-owned and operated, now by the fifth generation of the Burry family. “Without question, what makes our business unique is our family values,” explains Jim Forward, Chief Executive of the Hoburne Group.

“Like most family businesses, these start with integrity, a factor which is of the utmost importance to the board of directors; it is vital that as a company, we behave in a way that is genuine and provides customers with genuine products, genuine services, professionalism, efficiency, and value for money.”

FAMILY ACTIVITIES ARE KEY within the family- run Hoburne Group. Pictured, Adventure Golf.

The Hoburne Group encompasses eight holiday parks in the south and southwest of England, offering modern holiday accommodation and holiday home ownership with accompanying leisure, entertainment, and dining facilities. These are Hoburne Park in Dorset; Hoburne Naish and Hoburne Bashley in Hampshire; Hoburne Devon Bay in South Devon; Hoburne Cotswolds in Gloucestershire; Hoburne Blue Anchor in Somerset; and Hoburne St Mabyn and Hoburne Doublebois in Cornwall.

Holiday home ownership accounts for 70% of Hoburne’s business and the company caters to 2,500 holiday home owners. The remaining 30% is hire fleet for holidays. Hoburne also owns and operates two residential parks: Hoburne Naish in Hampshire has a small residential offering, and there is one solely residential park located in Swanage, Dorset.

The group’s largest park, Hoburne Naish, has been attracting caravanners in their droves since John Burry purchased Naish Farm in 1920. Now, Hoburne Naish welcomes over 12,000 holidaymakers each year and has in excess of 1000 units. Covering 110 acres, the park is superbly positioned on the clifftop, with direct beach access and incredible panoramic sea views to the Isle of Wight, Christchurch Harbour and Mudeford Quay.

THE NEWLY OPENED INDOOR play zone is part of a significant investment in Hoburne Cotswold.

HEAVENLY SLICE
Two new developments offer the chance for holidaymakers to purchase their own slice of heaven in this iconic Great British holiday spot. Sunset Cliffs and Chewton Bunny feature a choice of the latest holiday homes from top manufacturers including the new Omar Seafronter Super Lodge, designed specifically with coastal settings in mind.

2024 is a busy year for the Hoburne Group, as they launch a new sister park, Hoburne Cotswold Reach situated next to established Hoburne Cotswold in the middle of the Cotswold Water Park. “Hoburne Cotswold Reach has been designed for those wanting a peaceful hideaway in which to relax and escape,” explains Jim Forward.

“This quiet, exclusive park still allows guests to enjoy the main park facilities at Hoburne Cotswold, giving them truly the best of both worlds.” £4.7m is being invested in the park facilities at Hoburne Cotswold to support the expansion which will bring an additional 84 holiday homes to the business.

Several major developments are underway to improve the overall functionality and appeal of the park’s leisure facilities. “Phase one of the substantial upgrade is already complete with the opening of our exciting brand-new indoor play zone just before Easter,” says Greg Nolan, General Manager for Hoburne Cotswold.

“This new area provides a dedicated play space for families with young children. Working with the industry’s leading play equipment suppliers, we have designed an inspiring forest-themed play area with incredible features for our younger guests.” The redesigned indoor pool area including changing rooms, sauna and steam room is scheduled to re-open in early Summer. The work on the main pool will see the addition of children’s water play equipment to suit a range of ages.

INDOOR POOL
With a mission statement that emphasises the importance of providing “an outstanding customer experience”, delivering “exacting standards” and “continual investment”, it’s not surprising that the Cotswolds development is just one of many being masterminded by the team at the Hoburne Group headquarters in Christchurch, Dorset.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to continually enhance the customer experience, we also have an exciting refurbishment taking place at Hoburne Devon Bay this year,” explains Jim Forward. “We’re upgrading key elements within the South Devon park’s main venue to ensure they meet the highest standards of comfort and functionality, whilst carrying out a comprehensive interior and exterior makeover, incorporating contemporary design elements that complement the park’s coastal surroundings.

Through this investment, we will undoubtedly enhance our operations, expand our capabilities, and overall improve our offering for our guests by creating an even more enjoyable and fulfilling experience.” The rise of low-cost package holidays abroad might have cast a temporary shadow over homegrown holidays, but more recent developments have led to the introduction of a whole new customer base.

“The pandemic enabled us to promote our beautiful locations, plus the ease of travelling to our sites versus the many issues and delays which can be experienced with airline travel,” says Jim. “We welcomed a new audience, many of whom had never been to a UK holiday park before. With our extensive and continual programme of investment in park accommodation and facilities, Hoburne’s holiday guests and owners enjoy the very best of what holiday caravan and lodge accommodation has to offer.”

LUXURY LODGE WITH HOT TUB at Cornwall’s Hoburne St Mabyn.

ECO INVESTMENT
As part of this continual investment, the Hoburne Group is at the forefront of embracing initiatives that save energy and improve sustainability. In 2022, they became members of the Green Tourism programme, which promotes greener ways for businesses and organisations to operate.

In the last two years, Hoburne has rolled out solar technology including the installation of 2,231 solar panels; replaced all street lighting with LED lightbulbs; replaced all petrol grounds tools with battery-powered equipment; installed 24 EV vehicle chargers; introduced new food waste bins and the use of 100% recycled paper for welcome packs; and joined the David Bellamy Blooming Marvellous Pledge For Nature, planting new trees and wildflower meadows, as well as building bug hotels and bird boxes to create new wildlife habitats across their parks.

Over the years, the Hoburne Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence in service and standards has resulted in many awards. Most recently, they have been awarded Feefo’s Gold Trusted Service Award in recognition of online reviews from holidaymakers recognising their commitment to providing exceptional customer service.

They have also achieved an industry first with a landmark accreditation for the holiday park sector after passing the stringent requirements of the new Safe to Trade® Hospitality and Retail Industry Food Safety and Hygiene Standard, to become ‘Approved’ on the Safe to Trade® Register.

“We are delighted to have become the first holiday park operator to be awarded the much-coveted approved status,” explains Jim. “Safe to Trade® is a clear, comprehensive, assured standard. It’s the first voluntary, third-party assurance programme for the hospitality sector, designed to protect and care for the public. Something that is at the very heart of everything that we, at Hoburne, strive to do.”

Hoburne Group
Tel. 01425 282358
www.hoburnegroup.com

WINTER BLUES FOR PONTINS CLOSURES

WINTER BLUES FOR PONTINS CLOSURES

CAMBER SANDS WAS one of three Pontin’s resorts to close this winter. Pic. cheekylorns

Following recent closures there are now just two parks left in the Pontins brand, Pakefield Holiday Village in Lowestoft, Suffolk, and Sandbay Holiday Village in Kewstoke, Somerset. No public explanation was given by Pontins, or its owner Britannia Hotels, at the time, but employees were allegedly told via email the closure was due to a ‘decline in business’, according to multiple media reports.

No longer visible, The Sun reported a website statement that read: “It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Pontins Southport Holiday Park. “After assessing the future viability of the park, we have come to the difficult decision to close our doors.

“Unfortunately, this means that Pontins Southport Holiday Park will be closing from Wednesday 3rd January 2024. Extracts from e-mails addressed to employees and shown to local newspapers read: “Due to business levels, Pontins Prestatyn Sands will be closing with immediate effect.

“The company have been reviewing the business levels of the park throughout the 2023 season and have concluded that continuing trading at this park in to 2024 is no longer a viable business decision. “Therefore, it is for that reason that the company have made the difficult decision to implement proposed redundancies at Prestatyn Sands.”

Some members of staff had their employment terminated with immediate effect, while others were instructed to continue working at the park until further notice. The e-mail to employees added: “The hospitality industry all suffered a dramatic downturn during COVID.

“The company continues to review the business levels for the park, and since COVID, this park has not been able to return to reasonable business levels. “Current projections are that the park will make a financial loss in the 2024 season and beyond. “The company are looking to close the holiday park to the public for the foreseeable future.”

There has been frenzied speculation on how the vast sites will be used going forward including claims, denied by the Home Office, that accommodation would be used for refugees. Britannia Hotels were approached for comment but no response was received.

BIGGER NOT ALWAYS BETTER

BIGGER NOT ALWAYS BETTER

THE TWO CENTRE RESORT Potters tops the Which? holiday park survey

Butlins, Pontins and Center Parcs were all beaten by smaller independents in the Which? annual survey of holiday park destinations published this summer. The consumer group asked 1,355 Which? members and members of the general public to complete an online survey about their experience of recent stays at UK holiday parks and resorts.

Which? rated 18 holiday parks for cleanliness, accommodation, facilities, customer service, entertainment, food and drink, value for money and costs per night. It was the lesser known names that triumphed over their megabrand rivals in the results which were undertaken from April 2022. Only the top performing parks and resorts have been awarded Which? Recommended Provider (WRP) status.

Respectable marks were attributed to Center Parcs at 72% and Butlins with 71% but Pontin’s could only manage 59% based on reviews of ‘grotty chalets’ and ‘lacklustre’ entertainment. First and second-placed Potters Resorts and Waterside Holiday Group, are both family-run brands that have been in the business for decades. They scored five stars in every category, including customer service and value for money.

Operating for over 100 years, Potters was opened by founder Herbert Potter after he won £500 in a competition. With all-inclusive resorts in Norfolk and Essex, Potters scored top marks with an impressive overall score of 88%. More a resort than a park, accommodation at Potters is in bungalows, hotel rooms and suites. Nudged into second spot with 87%, the small regional brand, Waterside Holiday Group has four luxurious parks, three in Dorset, one in Cornwall.

INDEPENDENTS like Fowlers scored highly in the Which? survey

Their caravans are as classy as they come – at least 3.6 metres wide, with central heating and double glazing, plus fully equipped kitchens and widescreen TVs. Or you can glamp in a safari lodge with a private hot tub. Unlike Potters, Waterside does not offer an all-inclusive rate, meaning visitors pay extra on top to dine at its beachfront bars or restaurants.

A close third, Bluestone Wales attracted a customer score of 81%. Founder William McNamara originally opened up his dairy farm to guests in the 1980s when milk quotas threatened his livelihood. Today this single five-star resort has expanded to a sprawling 500 acres, where rolling countryside meets rugged coastline within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Scoring 78% in fourth spot, John Fowler began in 1953 as one caravan in a field but has expanded to 11 coastal locations across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, with a wide range of accommodations and prices. Like many independents, John Fowler Holidays stood out for its customer service – rated five stars with the Which? verdict: “It’s cheaper than Pontins and about the same price as Butlin’s, but better than both.”

MAKING IT MAGNIFICENT!

MAKING IT MAGNIFICENT!

Windmill Retreat and Spa offer's the 'wow' factor to woo guests...

WINDMILL RETREAT & SPA’S new luxury lodge development

 

Outdoor baths, balconies and fire pits are just some of the features designed to attract luxury-loving guests to Glastonbury lodge resort Windmill Retreat and Spa this summer. All are included in four new state-of- the-art lodges owner Nick Ridgment is adding at his rural Somerset escape and selling exclusively through staycation specialist Hoseasons.

“We’ve always tried to push the boundaries when it comes to what we offer our guests,” Nick says, adding: “There are lodge parks everywhere these days, so it’s vitally important to stay one step ahead and give customers everything they need for an unforgettable holiday experience when they weigh up their options for a UK break.” Panoramic views of the Somerset Levels, roomy open-plan living, and hot tubs also come as standard with these large three-bedroom properties – the addition of which brings to nine the number of beautifully-designed bespoke lodges to choose from at the park, which Nick opened as a newcomer to the industry in 2015 and chose to partner with Hoseasons to bring to market.

 

CONTEMPORARY LIVING styles are offered in both apartment and cottage accommodation.

 

Since then, the park’s high-end reputation has been cemented with the addition of its state-of-the-art Elements Boutique Spa, as well as an accompanying product range available in Holland and Barrett. The on-site Levels Country Kitchen also adds to the cool vibe with delicious breakfast and lunch options made with fresh ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Nick credits his long-established partnership with Hoseasons as being crucial to the success of the site over the last six years. “It’s one thing attracting customers and another staying ahead of the competition to keep them coming back for more,” says Nick.

“We always had the vision to develop our offering but working with the team at Hoseasons has really helped us realise the potential of the business. “They gave us the confidence to believe in our product in the early days and have offered invaluable insight and guidance over the last few years to ensure we get the best return on our investment in this new development.” Much of that guidance has come from Luke Hansford, Vice President Business Development, at Hoseasons who says Windmill Retreat and Spa is the perfect example of a location that knows it has to develop its offer to stay relevant in the modern UK holiday market.

THE ELEMENTS BOUTIQUE SPA is a huge draw for the Windmill Retreat & Spa

 

ASPIRATIONAL QUALITY
“The innovation and diversification we’ve seen in our industry over the last 18 months has been remarkable, with those used to holidaying abroad pre-pandemic now looking for the same level of aspirational quality in their UK staycation. “The data clearly shows people want more from their UK break and that’s exactly what we’re able to give them through Windmill Retreat and Spa and other high-end locations in our portfolio.”

The exceptional standard of lodge and cottage-style accommodation and facilities at Windmill Retreat and Spa recently led to it being one of only five wow-factor locations included in Hoseasons’ new Magnificent Collection - something the staycation specialist has launched to recognise new standards of quality and innovation across the self-catering holiday industry. Inclusion in the new collection means Windmill Retreat is being marketed to millions of Hoseasons customers looking for top quality accommodation design, premium on-park facilities, exceptional customer service and a genuine commitment to sustainability – something Nick hopes will help to mark it out as one of the country’s premier locations for an aspirational getaway.

NICK RIDGMENT AND ILZE PARANUKA are the owners of Windmill Retreat & Spa.

 

“We’re delighted to have been recognised as magnificent enough for Hoseasons’ new collection and are really looking forward to sharing our fantastic location with even more guests over the weeks, months and years to come.” Magnificent has been launched at a time when demand for luxury UK getaways is at an all-time high, and the number of high-end accommodations joining the Hoseasons portfolio continues to grow. Bookings for luxury properties this year are up 27% compared to the same point in 2019, while the size and scale of parent group Awaze’s luxury portfolio through brands including Hoseasons and sister company cottages.com has grown 45% over the last three years.

For more information about Hoseasons’ Magnificent Collection go to www.hoseasons.co.uk/magnificent