RISING DEMAND FOR UK HOLIDAYS AS STAYCATIONS CONTINUE TO SURGE

The UK holiday park and caravan sector is experiencing an unprecedented boom as staycations remain the preferred choice for British holidaymakers. With international travel costs soaring and environmental concerns influencing decisions, more people are opting for domestic holidays, presenting both opportunities and challenges for holiday park operators.

Recent industry reports highlight a 25% rise in bookings for UK holiday parks compared to pre-pandemic levels. Initially spurred by COVID-19 restrictions, the staycation trend has remained strong despite the reopening of international travel.

Economic uncertainty, high fuel prices, and the rising cost of overseas holidays have reinforced the appeal of UK-based breaks. Additionally, increasing sustainability awareness is driving holidaymakers to seek low-carbon alternatives, further boosting demand for caravan and lodge holidays.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR HOLIDAY PARK OPERATORS
To meet evolving customer expectations, holiday park operators are embracing innovation and investment in key areas:

• Enhancing Accommodation: Many parks are introducing premium lodges, glamping pods, and eco-friendly cabins to attract a wider demographic. High-quality, self-catering options with modern amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
• Sustainability Initiatives: With eco-conscious travel on the rise, parks investing in renewable energy, water conservation, and waste reduction are gaining a competitive edge.
• Technology Integration: Contactless check-ins, digital guest experiences, and app-based bookings streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Expanding Activities and Attractions: To rival international destinations, many parks are developing adventure parks, wellness retreats, and themed entertainment to broaden their appeal.

With staycations firmly established as a dominant travel trend, the future looks bright for UK holiday parks. Operators prioritising innovation, sustainability, and exceptional customer experiences are best positioned to thrive in this rapidly evolving market.

MSP CELEBRATES SCOTTISH TOURISM AT BERWICKSHIRE HOLIDAY PARK

MSP RACHAEL HAMILTON flew the flag for Scotland’s tourism industry (on 24 March) when she visited a popular Borders holiday park.

MSP Rachael Hamilton championed Scotland’s tourism industry on 24 March with a visit to Cockburnspath Holiday Park in Berwickshire during Scottish Tourism Month. Situated between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Dunbar, the park boasts a scenic backdrop of the Lammermuir Hills.

Ms Hamilton was welcomed by park manager Zoe Dixon and business owner Frank Maguire, who guided her on a tour of the extensive grounds. Cockburnspath Holiday Park is part of the Meridian Parks group, founded in 2009 by Mr Maguire’s father.

The MSP learned about the park’s tranquil setting, which offers families the opportunity to own a holiday home while preserving local wildlife and flora. Ms Hamilton also viewed luxury holiday homes, available from under £20,000.

Mr Maguire highlighted the park’s role in sustaining local businesses without impacting housing stock or property prices. “Tourism is vital to the Borders economy, and it’s fantastic to see how this park supports local jobs,” said Ms Hamilton. More information is available on the Cockburnspath Holiday Park website.

A HIGHLAND HAVEN

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

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

THE WAVE OF THE FUTURE

How Water Play is making a big splash in the Holiday Park industry...

In an era where guest expectations are higher than ever and competition is fierce, water play is quickly becoming one of the most powerful tools in the holiday park operator’s arsenal. Across the UK and Europe, parks of all sizes are recognising that innovative aquatic attractions aren’t just for cooling down, they’re driving footfall, extending stays and creating lifelong memories.

For site owners and managers looking to refresh or expand their facilities, two leading players Ustigate Waterplay and Edsun are delivering exciting, energy-efficient, and inclusive water play experiences that cater to every age and ability. From playful splashpads to adrenaline-pumping waterslides, the latest developments in water play are offering a whole new level of engagement for families and thrill-seekers alike.

FRESHWATER BEACH HOLIDAY PARK’S multi-racer slide and Elevations™ have transformed the pool. Photo Credit: USTIGATE WATERPLAY.

DESIGNING FOR FUN, BUILT FOR THE FUTURE
Ustigate Waterplay, with over 50 years of expertise in aquatic play, continues to push boundaries in both design and sustainability. Partnering with world leaders Vortex Aquatic Structures International and wiegand.waterrides, Ustigate creates water attractions that are visually striking, tactilely engaging, and operationally efficient. “Our mission is to maximise fun while minimising resource use,” explains a Ustigate spokesperson.

“Whether we’re designing a brand-new splashpad or modernising an existing pool, every element is planned with inclusivity, energy efficiency, and long-term adaptability in mind.” This philosophy is best illustrated through their recently completed project at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park in Bridport, Dorset.

USTIGATE’S NEW VECTORY™ collection
offers a fresh take on splashpad interactivity.

FRESHWATER BEACH HOLIDAY PARK, DORSET
Freshwater Beach, a popular privately owned holiday park on the Jurassic Coast—underwent a significant aquatic upgrade in early 2025. Ustigate replaced a single-lane waterslide with a multi-racer version capable of entertaining three riders simultaneously.

The transformation also included the installation of Vortex Elevations™, an action-packed water structure filled with climbing features, interactive spray bars, cascading floral showers, and the ever-popular Seeflow™ dumping buckets. According to Tristan Brookes, the park’s Swimming Pool Manager, the impact has been immediate:

“Working with Ustigate Waterplay has been an absolute pleasure. From concept to completion, the process was seamless, and the finished result has far exceeded expectations. The guest feedback—even before opening— has been overwhelmingly positive. We’re confident it will be a major driver of visitor numbers this season.”

General Manager James Newman echoes the sentiment: “This project is part of our wider redevelopment strategy. Not only does the new facility look fantastic, but we’ve also reduced humidity in the pool hall and made the environment more comfortable and efficient to run. It’s a win-win.”

PARK HOLIDAYS’ CHICHESTER Lakeside Holiday Park scooped Swimming Pool Awards in February.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2025
For operators looking to invest in the latest aquatic trends, Ustigate’s new VECTORY™ collection offers a fresh take on splashpad interactivity. With nine brand-new elements and three innovative technologies—Twistflow™, Pulsespray™ and DualSpray™—children can rotate, push, and pull their way to unexpected splashes and strategic group play.

The collection includes Dynamik, a series of low-level water wall obstacle courses, and Apex, a thrilling dual-sided feature where competitors battle to tip a water bucket over their opponent. Also turning heads in 2025 is the Watergarden range—nature-inspired features such as Helico Butterflies, spinning orbs, and floral showers that provide both sensory stimulation and visual appeal.

Its water play that’s not only fun but deeply connected to the natural world. Ustigate’s CoolHub™ is a multi-functional chill-out zone that blends relaxation with playful engagement.

Available in six Abrio modules, CoolHub™ includes shaded benches, a soft rain curtain, stone weirs for flow play, and integrated solar LED lighting. It’s ideal for extending guest dwell time and offering respite for families between more active water play sessions.

USTIGATE WATERLAY’S full suite of waterslides are sourced from their partner, wiegand.waterrides.

SMART, SUSTAINABLE, AND COST-EFFECTIVE
Water and energy efficiency remain central to Ustigate’s design ethos. Key innovations include:

• On-demand water activation: Play features remain dormant until a button is pressed, reducing water waste when not in use.
• Sequenced play zones: Features operate in groups or staggered bursts to conserve water while maintaining the element of surprise.
• Overspray zones: Reclaim and recycle water within the splashpad footprint.
• Remote-access controllers: Manage water usage, maintenance and scheduling from anywhere, via Ustigate’s smart plant room technology.
• Optional solar PV integration: Lower your site’s carbon footprint with solar support from Ustigate’s affiliated power experts, Burnell.

For multi-site operators, Ustigate’s Safeswap™ anchor system allows for seasonal product changes without excavation—making it easy to rotate features between parks or upgrade zones in phases.

CUSTOMISATION AND CREATIVITY WITH EDSUN
French specialist Edsun also brings more than 30 years of aquatic expertise to the table, offering ergonomic, safe, and vividly themed water play features. Their approach is especially appealing to sites looking for highly customisable elements that tie into broader branding or storytelling.

Edsun’s waterslides, made using RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding), are available in family-friendly and thrill-seeker variants. They come with a sleek, glossy finish and can be tailored to suit any environment in colour, layout, and theme. For younger visitors, Edsun’s wading pool accessories—including pirate ships, jungle animals, and water tables—bring gentle play and imaginative interaction into shallow water settings.

Beyond splash zones, Edsun also supplies durable timber and aluminium outdoor play equipment, blending beautifully into woodland or coastal settings. Their comprehensive design-to-installation service includes 3D visualisation, ensuring each site gets exactly what it envisions.

Each play area is more than a feature - it's a destination within your park.

PROVEN RESULTS ACROSS EUROPE
Edsun’s portfolio includes standout installations at major campsites and leisure parks, including Camping Amfora in Spain.

Clients praise the company’s flexibility, responsiveness, and ability to deliver creative solutions that resonate with family audiences. “Our aim is always to provide long-lasting, fun-filled experiences that drive repeat visits,” says an Edsun representative.

“Each play area is more than a feature—it’s a destination within your park.”

EDSUN INTERACTIVE water walls are great for all ages.

NOW’S THE TIME TO DIVE IN
Water play has evolved from passive paddling pools to interactive, strategic, and inclusive play zones that drive visitor satisfaction, boost site reputation, and offer impressive ROI.

Whether you’re reimagining an ageing facility or planning a new development, companies like Ustigate Waterplay and Edsun offer solutions that blend creativity, reliability, and forward-thinking sustainability.

As families continue to prioritise active, outdoor fun, there’s never been a better time to dive into water play!

EDSUN
www.edsunloisirs.com

USTIGATE WATERPLAY
www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

UK Pool & Spa Awards
www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

SBLASH AQUA PARK IN PENMAENMAWR, Conwy, was launched last May and immediately captured the public’s imagination.

WASHROOM REVIVAL

Elevating Toilet, Shower & Washroom Facilities on your site...

As UK holidaymakers continue to prioritise comfort, cleanliness, and eco-consciousness during their travels, the humble washroom has emerged as a key player in shaping guest satisfaction.

For owners and managers of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites and glamping sites, upgrading toilet, shower, and washroom facilities is no longer a luxury – it’s an essential component of modern hospitality.

With new innovations in design, functionality, and sustainability, there’s never been a better time to invest in next-generation facilities.

BILLING AQUA DROME supplied and fitted by Total Cubicles.

WHAT GUESTS EXPECT IN 2025
Today’s Park guests seek facilities that are not just functional, but pleasant and hygienic. The days of draughty, dimly lit, and poorly ventilated toilet blocks are long gone. Visitors now expect washrooms to reflect the same quality they enjoy at home – if not better.

This shift has seen a boom in the popularity of cubicle systems that are durable, waterproof, hygienic, and visually appealing. Total Cubicle Solutions, a leading manufacturer and supplier in this space, is helping transform tired facilities into bright, modern, and stylish spaces.

Their cubicles, lockers and vanity units have enhanced sites like Park Holidays Ltd’s Sand Le Mere and Par Sands parks, and Billing Aqua Drome’s outdoor shower units, setting the bar for premium site amenities. “Our systems are built not only for durability and hygiene but also to help operators inject real style and identity into their washroom areas,” says a spokesperson from Total Cubicle Solutions.

“Each cubicle is customisable, making it easy to match existing branding and elevate the entire guest experience.” With high footfall throughout peak seasons, easy maintenance and longevity are just as important as aesthetics. Solid-grade laminate options provide a long-lasting, vandal-resistant solution that remains easy to clean and resilient in all weather conditions.

SAND LE MERE SINK and basin
supplied and fitted by Total Cubicles.

TACKLING THE WATER CRISIS HEAD-ON
Another major consideration for park operators is sustainability – particularly water conservation. With the UK facing mounting pressure on water resources, efficiency is now critical. One company at the forefront of water-saving technology is Cistermiser, which has welcomed Ofwat’s new £100 million Water Efficiency Fund as a pivotal move towards sustainable progress.

“We strongly support the fund and its potential to drive meaningful reductions in water usage,” says Richard Braid, Managing Director of Cistermiser. “But innovation doesn’t have to be complex. Our infrared urinal controls and sensor-activated WC dual flush systems are smart, effective, and proven to deliver real savings.”

Cistermiser’s EasyflushEVO, a leak-proof siphonic dual flush valve, is a standout example of this innovation. By eliminating below-waterline seals prone to wear and scale build-up, it provides a reliable solution to the UK’s 1.5 million estimated leaky toilets – each potentially wasting up to 400 litres of water a day.

Such technologies don’t just help holiday park operators cut water bills; they also ensure compliance with growing sustainability regulations. As the hospitality industry evolves to meet eco-friendly targets, adopting efficient washroom systems has become both a financial and environmental imperative.

The days of draughty, dimly lit, and poorly ventilated toilet blocks are long gone.

AWARD-WINNING STANDARDS IN GUEST FACILITIES
Holiday parks that go the extra mile in their washroom facilities are gaining recognition, too. The Loo of the Year Awards continues to celebrate the best in British washrooms, including caravan and camping sites.

The 2024 awards, held at the National Motorcycle Museum, honoured Bryndu Caravan Park’s Eva Tamaz-Szora as the UK’s top washroom technician. Her win underscores the importance of dedicated maintenance and high standards in ensuring exceptional guest experiences.

Becky Wall BEM, organiser of the awards, highlighted the broader impact: “Toilets and washrooms are an essential part of customer service. Celebrating those who prioritise cleanliness, accessibility, and care shines a light on what modern guests truly value.”

The awards’ rigorous 101-point grading system covers everything from signage and accessibility to hygiene and decor, inspiring operators to keep pushing standards higher.

WATER BILLS on the rise advise Cistermiser.

FUNCTION MEETS FLAIR
Washroom design is undergoing a renaissance. Whether it’s stylish vanity units, nature-inspired interiors, or enhanced lighting schemes, design is being used to both impress and serve.

Seamless surfaces, sensor taps, and contactless flushing all support hygiene while elevating the visual and tactile guest experience. Operators are now also investing in private shower pods, family-friendly washroom suites, and even accessible Changing Places facilities to accommodate visitors with complex needs.

The latter, championed by Martin Jackaman – recent recipient of the Loo of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award – are rapidly expanding across the UK, ensuring inclusivity for all.

DESIGN AND PRACTICALITY in abundance for this outstanding facility at Flamingo Land.

INVEST TO IMPRESS
Ultimately, upgrading washroom facilities isn’t just about style or environmental responsibility – it’s about guest retention and reputation. In a world where online reviews can make or break a destination, providing clean, modern, and well-managed washrooms is a business essential.

For those managing campsites, holiday parks, or glamping getaways, these upgrades can lead to happier guests, better reviews, and stronger bookings season after season.

With support from forward-thinking suppliers like Cistermiser and Total Cubicle Solutions, and the visibility offered by initiatives like the Loo of the Year Awards, there’s never been a better time for park owners to raise the bar.

Cistermiser
0118 969 1611
www.cistermiser.co.uk

Total Cubicle Solutions
0151 298 1509
www.totalcubicles.co.uk

Loo of the Year Awards
01531 640715
www.loo.co.uk

MORE IMPORTANT THAN A COMFY BED!

Hybrid working has blurred the lines between ‘holiday’ and ‘home’ and as a direct result, connectivity expectations have undertaken a seismic upturn. Recent research showed that 78% of guests expect ultrafast Wi-Fi across the entire park with 31% considering reliable Wi-Fi as more important than a comfortable bed.

Today’s holiday park visitors don’t just want but demand the same seamless on-line access they get at home. That means delivering strong and robust Wi- Fi has become as essential as providing water and electricity. Poor Wi-Fi experiences lead to lower park review scores and reduced guest retention.

Parks that fail to deliver a strong connection risk losing out to competitors who recognise the importance of a top-tier digital experience. “The UK leisure and holiday park sector is an industry going through one of the most dynamic periods of transformation I’ve seen,” says Kendal Stacey of Wifinity UK, on the back of 25 years of specialist experience.

“It’s no longer just about delivering Wi-Fi to a static caravan — it’s about enabling a smart, digital-first environment where every touchpoint, from check-in to entertainment, is frictionless.” Founded in 2007, Wifinity has become a market leader in managed connectivity solutions, specialising in complex and hard-to-reach environments.

THE DEMAND FOR FAST, reliable Wi-Fi at holiday parks isn’t a passing trend, it’s an expectation that will only continue to grow.

Originally founded to solve connectivity issues for military personnel living in remote MOD barracks, Wifinity has expanded its expertise to a variety of industries including education, healthcare and residential communities.

Wifinity works with 4/5 of the UK’s top parks, providing internet to over 25,000 holiday let accommodation units, and holiday parks is a significant specialist area. Winning holiday destinations now need to think like both hoteliers and tech providers combined, taking a broad perspective encompassing:
• Smart energy management
• Digital signage
• EV infrastructure

Kendal reports: “Parks are investing in IoT, mobile-first guest platforms, and cloud-based infrastructure to stay competitive, meet guest expectations and optimise operations. These need a strong underpinning connectivity network to be effective. “It’s an exciting space — one that blends decades of traditional guest service with the cutting edge of tech innovation.”

Investing in the IT network and Wi-Fi is not just about investment cost but also revenue generation by future-proofing your venue as a key asset while improving guest satisfaction. By comparison, poor connectivity can lead to negative reviews, lost repeat bookings, and brand damage.

Strong connectivity and premium Wi-Fi tiers drive revenue streams. Smart point-of-sale systems, kiosks and mobile ordering rely on a robust network foundation. Better connectivity leads to more on-site spend, especially when guests can easily order food, book activities or upgrade experiences via an app.

Smooth operation allows holiday businesses to think outside of the box with such innovations as pop-up food and beverage, retail or services and providing secure EPOS, allowing you to trade anywhere “Strong connectivity actually becomes a selling point in itself,"

Kendal points out, “Reviews go up. Word of mouth spreads. Repeat visits increase. “Parks that can market “connected luxury” or “work-from-holiday” win business over those that can’t,” he points out. Guests now bring an average of 3–5 devices per family member — phones, tablets, smart TVs, gaming consoles. Investing in the network enables:
• Streaming services in accommodation
• Smart room features (heating, lighting)
• App-based bookings and real-time info

But it is not all about the guest experience. Streamlined operations is proven to reduces cost through increased efficiency as a strong IT network supports:
• Staff communication and mobility
• Smart energy management (reducing utility costs)
• CCTV and ANPR systems
• Real-time occupancy and usage tracking.

This all adds up to lower overheads and better decision-making. “Investing in a robust network keeps your business competitive,” comments Kendal. “Other parks are already doing this — those who don’t invest will fall behind.”

OPERATORS WHO INVEST in robust, future-proof solutions will not only see higher guest satisfaction but also increased revenue and operational efficiency.

“With hybrid working and workations now the norm, guests are choosing locations with reliable connectivity so they can stay longer and blend work with leisure.” Building trust through security and compliance, modern networks include enterprise-grade security, guest data protection and content filtering — protecting your brand and your guests from risks.

Especially important for family-friendly and corporate clientele including:
• Guest data protection (GDPR compliance)
• Network segmentation to protect business systems
• Content filtering for family-friendly environments

A foundation in future technology is essential for holiday venues looking to introduce features such as:
• EV chargers
• Mobile check-in
• Smart TVs
• In-park digital signage

All of that depends on a scalable and resilient network including:
• Wi-Fi 7 adoption for higher speeds and lower latency
• Edge computing at park level to process data locally
• AI analytics to understand guest behaviour and improve services
• Integration with CRM systems for personalised guest experiences
• Data driven decisions

Kendal urges: “A modern IT network is not just about Wi-Fi — it’s about creating a digitally enabled park that delights guests, empowers staff, reduces costs, and builds brand loyalty. “For park owners, it’s an investment in long-term growth. It’s a fundamental and valuable asset that every park owner would consider when buying or selling a park.”

Wifinity
020 8090 1290
07376 053094
www.wifinity.co.uk

GETTING THE JOB DONE QUIETLY

The tough, hard-working Yamaha UMX AC is designed to handle a huge range of tasks, indoors or out. With a large cargo bed and spacious front locker, this easy-to-operate and quietly efficient all-electric workhorse is the quick and cleaner way to get the job done.

WHISPER QUIET MOTOR:
At the heart of this compact machine is an easy starting 5.0kW electric motor that delivers smooth, whisper quiet efficient power to take it just about anywhere in a park, or resort…. just point and go.

The fully automatic transmission makes it easy to drive whilst efficiency saving one-touch tailgate openings save time and reduce effort.

DRIVER AND PASSENGER COMFORT:
The two ergonomically designed individual seats and variable rate suspension system work together to give a high standard of driver and passenger comfort, making this nimble and easy- to-manoeuvre light utility vehicle a real pleasure to work with.

SPACIOUS AND DURABLE STORAGE:
It’s designed to carry an impressive payload of tools, equipment and supplies, thanks to its durable aluminium cargo bed, with convenient one-touch tailgate.

The spacious bed measures 104.6 cm long x 116.6 cm wide x 30.2 cm deep. There’s also a large 29 litre front-storage box featuring a hood that is fitted with a convenient one-touch opening mechanism.

RUGGED AND STABLE:
The rugged and durable bodywork is designed to withstand heavy duty usage. Recessed reflector-type LED headlamps emphasize the purposeful looks and the wide tyres spread the load to minimise surface impact.

Designed to operate on a variety of surfaces, even uneven ground, its tough skid plate, stable suspension and wide tyres give it the ability to traverse non-extreme off-road terrain, giving you the confidence to get to where you need to go.

YAMAHA ASSURANCE:
All of these features are backed up with a Yamaha 2-year factory warranty and professional dealer network on hand to keep your UMX running as it should. If you want to find out how these vehicles could make light work of your heavy lifting, find your nearest Yamaha Dealer.

Yamaha Motor Group
0114 553 3099
www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/en/dealer-locator/?category=GCM

THE WORLD OF PARK & LEISURE HOMES SHOW RETURNS WITH A FRESH LOOK IN 2025

The highly anticipated World of Park & Leisure Homes Show is set to return to NAEC Stoneleigh from June 5th to 8th, bringing park owners, operators, landowners, and the general public a vibrant showcase of the latest in leisure and residential park living.

This year’s event promises a fresh new experience, with over 50 stunning homes from 18 leading manufacturers on display. Attendees can explore innovative designs, discover the latest park trends, and connect with carefully selected exhibitors offering expert advice, products, and services tailored to the industry.

The show kicks off on June 5th with a dedicated Trade, Parks, and Press Preview Day, followed by three days open to all. It’s an invaluable opportunity to network with industry experts, explore parks, and discover solutions to enhance park operations.

Jo Turner, Show Organiser, emphasises the event’s role as “the perfect environment to do business, gain impartial advice, catch up with colleagues and friends across the industry.” With free entry and parking, there’s every reason to attend.

SHOW DETAILS:
• Dates: June 5 (Trade Preview) | June 6-8 (Open to All)
• Times: 10 am to 4 pm daily
• Venue: NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2TA
www.parkhomeandleisure.co.uk