BEST ADULT-ONLY DESTINATION IN SOUTH EAST

THE PARK PROVIDES A NUMBER OF GLAMPING options, hopefully soon to be joined by luxury safari tents

Two Hoots Glamping Site, near Winchester, has been named the Best Adult-Only Site in South East England at this year’s Camping and Glamping Awards. The accolade recognises parks that offer high-quality, peaceful experiences for adults seeking a tranquil escape.

Judges praised owners Shaun and Michele Ascough for providing guests with a “truly great experience” in stunning surroundings. Set in Brighton, close to the South Downs National Park, Two Hoots occupies five acres of countryside rich in wildlife, from hares and red squirrels to deer, pheasants, red kites, glowworms, and pollinators in the park’s wildlife meadow.

Shaun Ascough said the award was a fitting end to a busy year welcoming guests from across the UK and Europe. “There are many superb parks catering to families, but our focus is on peaceful surroundings for adults,” he said. “We attract visitors who want to relax, enjoy the countryside, and leave the stresses of everyday life behind.”

The park has built a loyal following of teachers, childcare professionals, young professionals in campervans, and mature couples. Plans are underway to expand with new luxury safari-style holiday homes. Two Hoots is the only South East England member of the Tranquil Parks consortium and is affiliated with the Holiday and Residential Parks Association. Shaun added: “Our aim has always been to create memorable experiences in an away-from-it-all setting, and this award shows we are on the right track.”

THE STAYCATION IS BACK FOR 2025!

More Brits plan to holiday in the UK than travel abroad this year, according to research from holiday park operator Away Resorts. Scotland tops the list of most desirable UK destinations for 2025, followed by the South West and Wales.

Yorkshire, London, and Northern Ireland also rank highly, while the West Midlands was deemed the least desirable. The survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 76% feel there are still plenty of UK spots they’d love to explore.

Top motivations for a staycation include rest and relaxation (36%), a change of scenery (26%), and quality family time (25%). Key 2025 travel trends include train travel (21%), nostalgia trips to childhood destinations (18%), and cold-weather “cool-cations” (15%). Solo travel is also gaining popularity, particularly among 25–40 year olds, with 21% planning solo trips, as well as 7% of over 65s.

AWAY RESORT’S PRESTIGIOUS Gara Rock Penthouse.

Inspired by 2024’s UK sightings of the northern lights, 14% of Brits aim to stargaze or chase the aurora borealis this year. Carl Castledine, Founder of Away Resorts, noted, “It’s encouraging to see the appetite for staycations remain strong. The UK offers incredible opportunities for adventure and relaxation in stunning surroundings.”

Planning habits vary, with 37% booking holidays far in advance for better deals, while 17% prefer last-minute spontaneity. This year, 28% of Brits aim to take more UK breaks, with 23% resolving to embark on small monthly adventures.

The staycation trend is alive and well, as Brits rediscover the beauty and variety of their own backyard. Away Resorts is one of the UK’s most-popular holiday park operators, with 25 locations across the UK, including Scotland, Lincolnshire, Isle of Wight, North Wales, Hampshire, Dorset, Cornwall, Hayling Island and Essex.

Away Resorts
0330 127 7834
www.awayresorts.co.uk

 

AWAY RESORTS St Ives Bay Holiday Park.

AWAY RESORT’S Glendevon Residential Country Park.