tents

PAWS AND RELAX

Posted on July 30, 2024

A guide on how to boost your bookings through dog-friendly holidays...

As pet ownership in the UK continues to rise, the demand for dog-friendly holiday destinations has surged. For managers and owners of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamp sites, catering to this growing demographic presents a significant opportunity to enhance guest satisfaction and boost bookings.

Here’s how you can transform your holiday park into a haven for dog lovers. The UK boasts one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with around 31% of households owning a dog.

For many of these owners, their furry friends are part of the family, and leaving them behind during holidays is not an option. By offering dog-friendly facilities and services, holiday parks can attract this substantial market segment, ensuring higher occupancy rates and increased revenue.

*ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS*
Ensure that your accommodations are suitable for dogs. This includes durable, easy-to-clean flooring, secure outdoor areas, and ample space for dogs to move around. Providing a welcome pack with essentials like dog bowls, waste bags, and a list of local vet services can enhance the experience.

*SAFE AND SECURE SPACES*
Designated dog exercise areas are essential. These should be securely fenced, allowing dogs to play off-lead safely. Adding agility equipment can make these areas more engaging. Clearly marked dog-friendly walking routes within or near the park can also be a major draw.

*ON-SITE AMENITIES*
Consider adding dog washing stations for guests to clean their pets after a day of adventures. Dog-friendly dining options, such as cafes or pubs where pets are welcome, can also significantly enhance the guest experience. Offering pet sitting or dog walking services can provide added convenience for guests who may need some time without their pets.

*RULES AND REGULATIONS*
Clearly communicate your park’s pet policies. This includes leash rules, areas where dogs are allowed, and waste disposal protocols. Providing plenty of waste bins and biodegradable bags around the park can help maintain cleanliness.

EFFECTIVE MARKETING can help ensure that dog owners are aware of your pet-friendly facilities.

*MARKETING YOUR DOG-FRIENDLY FEATURES*
Effective marketing can help ensure that dog owners are aware of your pet-friendly facilities. Highlight your dog-friendly amenities on your website, in brochures, and across social media platforms. Collaborate with pet-related businesses, such as local pet shops or grooming salons, to create cross-promotional opportunities. Encouraging guests to share their experiences on social media, using specific hashtags, can also help build a community of pet-loving travellers and enhance your park’s reputation.

*PARTNERING WITH LOCAL ATTRACTIONS*
The surrounding area can greatly influence the attractiveness of your holiday park. Partnering with local dog-friendly attractions, such as parks, beaches, and walking trails, can enhance your appeal. Providing information about these attractions, including maps and guides, can help guests plan their activities.

*EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES*
Hosting dog-centric events can create a unique selling point for your park. Consider organising events like dog shows, agility competitions, or pet-friendly festivals. These events can attract visitors, provide entertainment, and foster a sense of community among guests.

 

It’s important to ensure that your staff is knowledgeable about all dog-friendly policies and amenities. Training sessions on how to handle common issues, such as barking or stray dogs, can improve the overall experience for guests. Staff who are comfortable and friendly around dogs can also enhance guest satisfaction.

Maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment is essential for the wellbeing of all guests, including dogs. Use eco-friendly cleaning products and ensure that waste disposal systems are in place to manage pet waste effectively. Regularly inspect and maintain dog-friendly facilities to ensure they are safe and hygienic.

Looking at successful examples can provide inspiration and practical insights. Parks like Trevornick Holiday Park in Cornwall have effectively integrated dog-friendly features and reported increased bookings and guest satisfaction as a result. White Cross Bay in the Lake District are offering dog-friendly lodges with enclosed decking areas, dog exercise fields, and even a dedicated dog shower facility.

DOGS AND THEIR OWNERS are big business which is why thousands of holiday destinations are offering pooch-friendly stays.

White Cross Bay Trevornick Holiday Park has gone a step further by offering dog-friendly beaches, dedicated dog walking fields, and a dog agility course. Both parks highlight their pet-friendly features prominently in their marketing materials, attracting dog owners from across the UK.

Transforming your site into a dog-friendly destination can set you apart from competitors and open up a substantial market of dog-owning holidaymakers. By creating a welcoming environment for pets, offering tailored amenities, and effectively marketing your dog-friendly features, you can enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty, ensuring a successful and prosperous operation.

As the trend for pet-inclusive holidays continues to grow, now is the perfect time to embrace the opportunity and make your holiday park a favourite destination for dog lovers across the UK.

 

BACK-TO-BASICS LIFESTYLE

Posted on May 17, 2024

In an age marked by constant connectivity and digital saturation, there’s a growing movement toward mindfulness and seeking solace in nature. Indeed, a number of studies have shown lower stress and anxiety levels in individuals who’ve spent time in forest and natural areas compared to those who’ve walked in urban neighbourhoods.

According to industry experts at Glamping Hideaways, there has been a significant rise over the past decade in rural revitalisation and the back-to- basics lifestyle of people looking to disconnect (some glamping sites don’t even get signal let alone have wi-fi) and re-energise.

“When we first started out in 2014 ‘Glamping’ was a very new concept,” June Brocklebank, camping site manager of 10 years explains. “No one we knew had actually been on a glamping holiday, it was a niche - you were either camping and roughing it or going on an all-inclusive break away,”

“Since then, however, we’ve seen the gap filled for people who desire nature-focused holidays without having to sacrifice everyday necessities!” Glamping Hideaways’ site in Rutland’s Exton Park offers the perfect balance between luxury and simplicity - something we’ve seen our guests increasingly yearning for.”

GLAMPING HIDEAWAYS has something for every person looking to disconnect.

Glamping Hideaways offers a range of accommodations, from safari tents to rustic cabins, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether guests are seeking a lavish retreat with king-sized beds and hot tubs or a more rustic experience with cosy campfires and starlit skies, Glamping Hideaways has something for every person looking to disconnect.

In addition to providing a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, Glamping Hideaways is also committed to supporting rural communities and sharing local life with tourists. By partnering with local artisans, farmers and businesses, Glamping Hideaways contributes to the growth, support and awareness of rural areas and their natural beauty.

“We run short courses for people on site that have become increasingly popular, from bird box making to nature meditation”, explains farm owner and camping site manager, Andrew Parsons-Mann. “We often see holidaymakers arrive after a stressful work week, looking like they’re carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders.

“After just a weekend at our site, Sweffling Hall Farm, with the help of mindful activities we host, they are visibly brighter, more energetic and importantly, recharged,” Andrew continues. “Glamping is very much about reconnecting with nature and prioritising health and wellbeing.

“Studies have shown that spending time in rural areas can have numerous benefits for mental and physical health, including reducing stress and improving mood.”

www.glampinghideaways.co.uk

EXTENDED TRADE OPPORTUNITIES

Posted on May 17, 2024

Save some significant June dates in your diary as The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show, sponsored by Berkeleyparks, returns to the NAEC Stoneleigh, Stoneleigh Park, nr Coventry & Leamington Spa in Warwickshire this June. The Trade-only preview day will take place on Thursday June 27, followed by public open days from Friday to Sunday, June 28 to 30.

Open from 10am till 4pm – no ticket is required, simply turn up to gain admission. Bowing to demand, this year also sees an Extended ‘Trade Days Area’ for those companies only wishing to speak to trade and they will be exhibiting on both Thursday and Friday June 27 and 28. So don’t miss out on discovering this area.

IDEAL OPPORTUNITY
The Show provides a unique and exclusive opportunity for Park Owners and Operators along with Landowners and others in the Trade to spend quality time viewing a massive display of more than 50 Park and Leisure Homes. It offers the ideal opportunity to discuss specific requirements directly with leading manufacturers in the beautiful surroundings of Stoneleigh Park.

What better place to give landowners, park owners, park operators, and others, a unique opportunity to spend quality time with the manufacturers, whether discussing cutting-edge designs, revamps or traditional etc. It’s the perfect environment to do business and a great chance to simply catch up with friends and colleagues from across the Industry.

If you target the leisure and park home industry then this is the show for you to exhibit. If you are a Park Owner / Operator, the organisers have additional promotional opportunities just for you. For the tenth year running, Holiday Park Scene magazine will be supporting the show.

Now a special Supporting Partners – why not pick up the latest Issue when you visit on the ‘trade preview’ day? This is your ‘personal invitation’ to come along and enjoy a special Trade ‘preview’ Day at Stoneleigh on Thursday June 27th – bring your colleagues and/ or family too.

World Park & Leisure Homes Show
Tel 01789 491451
www.parkhomeandleisure.co.uk

UPGRADE GUEST EXPERIENCE

Posted on May 17, 2024

KAASPEED electric, lightweight, self-balancing, wide-wheeled scooters join Reesink e-Vehicles’ existing range of STAR EV electric utility and passenger buggies to offer a new, innovative, eco-conscious answer to guests’ transportation and mobility needs.

Whether it’s for a leisurely cruise, off-road adventure, or smooth transportation on tarmac, the scooter’s modular design, range of features, and accessories enable venues to tailor their fleet to their customer’s exact needs. Versatility is at the core of KAASPEED’s design philosophy.

With the option to choose between two different types of 18 x 9.5-8 tyres, venues can confidently customise their scooters according to the park’s terrain. For flat surfaces there’s the standard multi-use turf/hard surface tyres available in both a standard radius and as flat self-balancing, and the Scorpion tyres provide superior traction for woodland and sandy surfaces.

USERS CAN ATTACH MULTIPLE configurations to the rear of each scooter, making it the ideal companion for any journey.

TAILOR-MADE
One of the standout features of KAASPEED scooters is their easy-to-use interchangeable system. With this system, users can attach multiple configurations such as a shopping basket, cargo rack, cool box or golf bag rack to the rear of each scooter, making it the ideal companion for any journey.

Embracing eco-consciousness without faltering in efficiency is a priority for Reesink e-Vehicles and something that features across its entire range of STAR EV electric passenger and utility vehicles. KAASPEED scooters continue that legacy with a car-grade LG cell lithium-ion battery.

In addition to a long-range capability of up to 38 miles and a top speed of 28 mph, customers can explore vast areas without worrying about running out of power. The smart battery management system ensures temperature resistance, increasing the longevity of the scooter. KAASPEED scooters join STAR EV’s range of award-winning lithium and sealed battery-powered utility vehicles and golf buggies under the Reesink e-Vehicles brand.

Reesink UK Ltd
Tel. 01480 226800
www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk

KEY LEISURE PRODUCT CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

Posted on May 17, 2024

INVESTMENT IN WAREHOUSING and logistics has enabled LKQ Leisure and Marine to create a centre of excellence in the UK.

LKQ Leisure and Marine, has completed a £400,000 programme of investment in its Central UK distribution centre and HQ, to enhance its already market-leading availability and customer service. Key initiatives being driven through the Leisure and Marine business include live-stock updates and live order-tracking, direct delivery, click and collect, and a focus on hitting 100% availability on key lines – now extending to over 500 products.

Adam Ramsden, Managing Director of LKQ Leisure and Marine, said: “This programme of investment has helped us to create a national centre of excellence at Century Park, so that we can deliver an even better experience for our customers. “Today we carry more inventory across more product lines, and our availability and next day delivery performance is better than ever.

Our investment in digital systems and in our people has continued to build a customer-centric organisation at every level. “We are in a strong position to keep investing, growing, and improving, both as a supplier and an employer, as part of the LKQ UK and Ireland Group.”

LKQ UK and Ireland is comprised of LKQ Leisure and Marine, LKQ Euro Car Parts, LKQ Bodyshop and Digraph, and distributes parts and accessories for all makes of car, motorbike and light commercial vehicle, HGV, bus and coach, and static and touring caravan, motorhome, and marine vehicle.

The business, formerly known as Arleigh Group, encompasses LKQ Nova Leisure, LKQ Arleigh, LKQ Aquafax, and Midland Chandlers and acts as fulfilment support for ASAP Supplies. Each division boasts a comprehensive product range strategically centralised at Century Park, Nuneaton, with additional stock at five marine branches across the United Kingdom.

The ASAP Supplies site in Beccles, Suffolk, contributes to the overall distribution network supported by a local customer-facing team. Changes to the facility include the incorporation of a mezzanine level which has added an extra 8,500sq ft of warehouse space, taking the total to 87,000sq ft. The warehouse is now home to more than 24,000 product lines, with capacity for further expansion.

SOUTH WEST TOURING SUCCESS

Posted on May 17, 2024

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.

SUFFOLK PARK HITS TOP GEAR

Posted on May 17, 2024

The American Car, Bike & Hot Rod Show 2024, in association with Carrot Town Garage (CTG), will hold its ever-popular club’s and private owner’s showcase day on Sunday 21 July at Stonham Barns Park - one of Suffolk’s premier leisure, retail and holiday destinations.

The fourth show in the series is all about American cars, bikes and hot rods with muscle, power and fabulous paintwork. It will be an event strongly supported by the classic car community exhibiting a dazzling array of cars, bikes, trucks and hot rods.

Cars on show at the event will span the last six decades, and include Buicks, Cadillacs, Chevrolets, Chryslers and Fords. Also attending will be Motion Pictures Motors – a movie car club - which will be bringing some famous movie cars to the event and there will be live music from The Sixteenth’s.

Each of the exhibits will arrive for a stunning static display before being expertly driven around the showground in the ‘Show and Shine’ parade. Among the many attractions on the day will be trade and club stands and autojumble as well as food and drink concessions.

Josh Forward from the Stonham Barns Park Events Team added, ‘This event draws huge numbers of enthusiasts from around the region. It’s a family day out not to be missed which is full of colour, fun and surprises. You can’t suppress the enthusiasm of the owners – they are devoted to restoring and showing their prized vehicles and getting these exhibits all together at one venue always makes for a stunning show.’

AUTHENTIC GROWTH REWARDED

Posted on May 17, 2024

A COLLECTIVE TEAM effort has seen Pure Leisure Group clinch a coveted award.

Independent holiday park operator, Pure Leisure Group, has won the coveted Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Award at Lancashire’s prestigious Red Rose Awards 2024. The Group was recognised for its authentic and organic growth, unwavering commitment to community, charity and country and its contribution to the local economy, fighting off tough competition to be crowned winners of the sought-after accolade.

The awards, which are now in their 14th consecutive year, look to celebrate businesses and individuals across Lancashire, delivering outstanding service and performance, across 21 different categories. Winners were revealed at an exclusive ceremony hosted at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens in front of a 1,000-strong audience.

Commenting on the win, John Morphet, Owner of Pure Leisure Group said: “We are absolutely delighted and incredibly proud to have won the Red Rose Award for Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality and want to thank each of our team members for the hard work that got us here. Pure Leisure Group was founded in 2004 by local entrepreneur John Morphet and has gone from strength to strength since.

Today, it boasts over 1000 acres of land, over 4000 caravan and lodge bases, 154 touring pitches, 25 pods + three Rustic Glamping Pods across its portfolio of 19 holiday parks across England and Scotland. John added: “It is this collective effort that has led to our continued growth and success in Lancashire and beyond and we have enjoyed sharing our success with important community groups and organisations, most recently providing a £50,000 donation to Stockport’s Beechwood Cancer Care Centre and St John’s Hospice in Lancaster as part of our charitable initiatives.”

ULTIMATE MOWING PERFORMANCE

Posted on May 17, 2024

Kubota is inviting holiday destinations to keep their grounds in top condition with Kubota’s Z2-481 zero-turn ride-on mower to achieve a professional-grade finish with its great-value, high-performance, versatile mower. When you need the ability to mow large grass areas, around trees, flower beds or residents’ holiday homes, Kubota’s Z2-481 zero-turn ride-on mower comes into its own.

Powered by an economical and efficient 24hp petrol engine, the Z2-481 features a 48” (122cm) twin-blade, side-discharge rotary deck with a simple dial for height adjustment and a foot-operated mechanical deck lift. An optional mulching kit is also available.

COMPACT DESIGN
Its compact design, combined with Kubota’s zero-turn system, offers an impressive 360-degree turning ability that’s easily operated with a pair of steering levers. This precise control of forward and reverse steering allows you to effortlessly mow around tricky obstacles and tight spaces.

The Z2-481 is not just about performance, it’s also about your comfort. It’s designed with plenty of legroom, a wide foot pan, and easy access. The K-ride comfort system includes a deluxe suspended high back seat with adjustable suspension, armrests, and lumbar support, making your mowing experience a breeze.

ACHIEVE A PROFESSIONAL- GRADE finish with Kubota's great-value, high-performance, versatile mower.

The ergonomically positioned controls ensure effortless operation, and there’s even a cup holder for those long mowing days! The mower’s large rear tyres, fuel tank position and low centre of gravity offer excellent stability and traction and include foldable ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure) for safe and versatile operation.

In addition to Kubota’s standard 2-year warranty, the Z2-481 mower can be further protected with Kubota’s flexible extended warranty—Kubota Care. This warranty offers up to 5 years/1000 hours based on the hours used and is fully transferable when you come to sell. Full warranty support is provided by your local Kubota dealership, ensuring your Z2-481 is maintained to the highest standards serviced by Kubota-trained service engineers.

Kubota
www.kubota.co.uk

THE PET POUND

Posted on May 17, 2024

Longstanding Hoseasons partner Hemsby Beach Holiday Park has always been pet-friendly, but owners Richardsons Leisure Limited started to understand the real value of investing in the pet pound in 2018. It was at that point that Chief Executive, Greg Munford, took the conscious decision to increase the number of pet-friendly units at the park from 24 to 44.

Since then and boosted by significant increase in pet ownership during Covid, Hemsby Beach has steadily increased its pet-friendly offering, so that today a total of 116, or 31%, of the park’s 391 luxury holiday homes and lodges welcome guests’ four-legged friends. But it’s not just the number of pet-friendly units that have increased - the quality of those units has markedly improved too, so much so that they are now some of the best the park has to offer, with nearly half featuring a hot tub.

GIVING PEOPLE the chance to be with their pets on holiday obviously comes with a financial benefit.

BOOKINGS UPLIFT
It’s not a surprising strategy when you consider recent Hoseasons stats showing that owners who take a pet see an average 46% uplift in booking volume vs locations that don’t accept a pet. But Greg says gone are the days when pet-friendly meant sectioning off a few shabby chalets on one corner of the park and expecting people to embrace the experience.

“Our purpose is to create an environment where customers can holiday with family and friends and create memories that last a lifetime. For an increasing number of people that means having their pets with them, and that shouldn’t mean having to compromise on the quality of their holiday experience – quite the opposite in fact, which is why we’ve made the changes and investments we have and why we take our approach to looking after pets and their owners so seriously.”

One example of this is the £10k Richardsons Leisure recently spent on decking gates for its pet-friendly lodges and luxury holiday homes – something that was requested by pet owners keen to maximise security for their pets and in turn enhance their own holiday experience. The park also provides dog-friendly areas in its restaurant and entertainment venues and shares information with guests about the best dog walks in the area, as well as a list of useful contacts including local vets, pet shops and other services.

RICHARDSONS LEISURE recently spent £10k on decking gates for its pet-friendly lodges.

PAYING DIVIDENDS
It’s an approach that is clearly paying dividends in terms of bookings, with Hoseasons data showing that the park saw a 24% increase in pet bookings last year compared to the year before, and a massive 106% increase compared to 2 0 1 9. Greg says being pet-friendly also leads to wider benefits for the park beyond the bottom line.

“Giving people the chance to be with their pets on holiday obviously comes with a financial benefit, but it also really adds to the happy, relaxed atmosphere on park too.” Hemsby Beach Holiday Park is part of Hoseasons’ Go Active Breaks+ Collection and sits just 350 yards from the golden sands and rolling dunes of Hemsby Beach. Greg says the national market insight he gets from his long partnership with the brand has been invaluable in making investment choices.

“Obviously Hoseasons provide us a good number of bookings, but the true added value comes from their sector expertise and commercial acumen, both of which make all the difference when considering large-scale investment in specific accommodation types and the right accommodation mix,” says Greg. “The scale they operate at means their data is second to none when it comes to spotting trends and advising owners accordingly.”

GREG MUNFORD, TOOK the conscious decision to increase the number of pet-friendly units at the park from 24 to 44