UK Staycation - Issue 1

UK STAYCATION YOUR KEY TO SECURING YOUR NEXT GREAT BRITISH BREAK !

ISSUE 1 FEBRUARY 2021

Off the beaten track Explore the UK from your armchair!

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STUNNING PLACES TO STAY SELF CONTAINED HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION Ways to secure your space in 2021!

HOLIDAY HOME OWNERSHIP HOW IT WORKS AND WHERE TO START

HEALTHY RECIPES

Tempting treats for anytime

INTERIOR STYLING

Best home and holiday vibes

THE BEST OF UK BREAKS Surprising hot-spots to visit

GARDEN INSPIRATION

Make the most of your space!

WHAT WE COVER

ADVERTISE WITH US!

UK STAYCATION is a monthly digital magazine, hosted on ISSUU and supported by a further newswire at www.ukstaycation.org which reports on the latest leisure industry news, as it happens.

To advertise on either platform, please contact us at office@ukstaymedia.co.uk telling us a little about yourselves so we can advise on the best package for your business.

UK STAYCATION Welcome We’re thrilled you could join us. We’re all longing for a holiday of some sort – whether that’s for a return back to normality or a quick break away from the home environment we find ourselves in. Right now, with a roadmap out of current restrictions possibly on the horizon, it could well be the time to start creating your own plan in terms of how you might want to make your holidays happen again.

This magazine is created to help you navigate the way forward enjoyably, and to help kickstart that process. For now, that may be enjoying your home environment in a staycation which starts and stops within your home premises, and that’s where we’ve started with this issue – revamping your immediate orbit, while also daring to tip-toe out into the wider UK landscape. We may only have a few more weeks before we start getting out and about a bit more, so let’s make sure we enjoy it!

We’ll be taking a look at some inspiring destinations and accommodation options to start whetting your appetite for UK travel again too, ready to book when you feel the time is right and restrictions permit, or perhaps with a view to owning your own escape. So, let us take you on our virtual reality trip for a few moments of enjoyable escapism from your armchair…

Ed

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Published by UK Stay Media

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E office@ukstaymedia.co.uk

W www.ukstaycationmagazine.co.uk UK Staycation

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CONTENTS

Exploring Ireland with Adrian Dunbar

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THE HOME STAYCATION 12 14 19 32

Refreshing your home environment Explore the UK by screen Home decking ideas The benefits of virtual travel

LIFESTYLE 34 54

Recipe corner Better sleep, home and away

PLANNING AHEAD 4 47

Are you Staycation ready?

Get your vehicle ready to go!

SHORT STAYS 6 7 26 52

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Mental wellbeing break The year of the Staycation Insta-good accommodation Rothay Manor Hotel

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HOLIDAY HOME OWNERSHIP 22 24 36 41 63

Why buy a holiday home Looking for your ideal holiday home?

One-off luxury lodges Step up from a static Buying a holiday home

HOLIDAY PARKS 26 42 48 56

Lawnsdale Country Park, Lancashire South-West parks from Paladin Woodward Lakes in South Yorkshire Mossyard Holiday Park, Dumfries & Gallway

Short stay inspiration

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Tempting treats

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BEHIND THE SCENES 65 66 69 70 72 76 80

Beautiful places to stay @UkstaycationOrg

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Marketing your properties Holiday home dressing insights Thinking of hiring your holiday home out?

Enhancing the guest experience Eco-structures for parks Firm footings for all types of holiday home From field to Wpark – make use of that land!

Better sleep, home or away!

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ARE YOU READY?

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y February most of us have usually booked our holidays for the year and the New Year scrabble for available accommodation has passed its crescendo.

That’s been a little different this year for obvious reasons, although despite mixed messages, that surge could be about to happen soon as we near a pivot point in the unlocking process. The question is, are you ready?

Following the news that British residents arriving in England from Covid hotspots would have to quarantine in hotels, many have started to re-think their holiday plans, turning their line of sight firmly

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back to the British staycation instead.

That’s already prompted a steep rise in interest and activity, and when things start to unlock a bit more, we predict that there could be quite a surge in demand.

With accommodation providers still honouring bookings rolled over from last year, it may pay to start looking now if you want to try a getaway in the UK this year as availability may also be starting to narrow. Many booking channels and accommodation providers have incorporated built-in protection to their bookings process in case restrictions, or personal circumstances change again

due to Covid-19, so they are working very hard to rebuild confidence. On holiday parks with lodges and statics, the accommodation itself is socially distanced by design in many ways, so that’s why we’ve featured quite a few here as that will no doubt appeal to many.

We’ve also introduced the concept of holiday home ownership as buying your own holiday home may make sense now more than ever. After all, you’d never have to scramble for dates again or share if you don’t want to, and if you do need to hire it out to help cover the costs then demand could be about to hit an all-time high!

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Holidays – good for our mental wellbeing!

Four in 10 Brits said the past year is the longest they have ever gone without a holiday – taking a toll on their overall mood and wellbeing.

A study of 2,000 adults found that prior to the pandemic, they would have enjoyed a holiday or mini break from their daily routine every four months. But in the past year, 58 per cent have had to cancel three or more planned breaks. This has affected people’s wellbeing though with 49 per cent believing that trips away positively impact their physical and mental health.

The research, commissioned by IHG Hotels & Resorts, also found 38 per cent of those who travel for work feel business trips improve their working mood and make them more motivated. An optimistic 57 per cent plan to or have already rebooked trips, with family holidays and visiting loved ones topping travel wish lists for 2021. And 47 per cent believe it’s important to have something to look forward to.

Psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos, said: “Having a sense of balance in terms of how much we work and how much we rest is key.

“The term vacation means to vacate – to stop worrying about to do lists, and switch that ‘should’ or ‘have to’ mode off – allowing you time to rekindle meaningful connections, relax/de-stress and come back

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feeling more energised. “The impact of the pandemic on our mental health and our daily lives has been something that many of us have never experienced - having to cancel breaks where we would normally recharge, rest and nurture relationships has meant that many of us have not had that much needed downtime.

“It is important for our mental health to gain balance - to recharge and to make time to connect with things other than the ‘have-to’s and to do lists that dominate our minds. Planning things to look forward to, whether it be a novel activity a short weekend away with friends or a far flung holiday in the future – it can bring some focus and positivity into a time that

currently still feels challenging and a bit unknown.”

The research also found more than a third of adults believe a break isn’t only important for themselves, but also for their relationships with family, friends and partners. And four in 10 claim spending quality time with others has the greatest positive impact on their mood and wellbeing when on holiday.

Which may suggest why the trip 36 per cent are most looking forward to going on postpandemic is a family holiday, while only eight per cent plan to solo travel.

But when it comes to safety, 43 per cent intend to hold off travelling until a Covid vaccine is widely and easily available.

And nearly a fifth said clean and safe surroundings have a positive impact on their mood and wellbeing while travelling.

Karin Sheppard, SVP, managing director for Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts said: “With so many looking forward to rebooking missed experiences, whether it’s travelling to spend time with family, a trip away with friends, or travelling for work – it’s evident that there’s a hunger for human connection again. “We know travel may still look a little different this year, but we are committed to continue innovating and finding new ways to help people connect and experience our own backyard and beyond. So, when the world is ready to travel again, they can feel confident doing so.”

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2021 the year of

The Staycation Reconnect, explore and make every second together count

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ykes Holiday Cottages is one of the UK’s leading independent holiday cottage rental agencies, with almost 30 years’ experience and the choice of more than 16,000 properties across the UK for staycation holidays. Whether it’s the tranquillity of a cosy countryside cottage or the excitement of a beachside abode, Sykes Holiday Cottages caters for a range of holiday requirements.

Choosing to holiday in the UK is not a sacrifice of wanderlust. It is simply an opportunity to discover holiday gems on home soil, minus the extensive travel costs and long queues at security.

Choosing to holiday in the UK can make the most of precious free time.

There is a desire to get away from it all and make up for lost time with loved ones by experiencing

something new; whilst an exotic beach break or a foreign city escape may not be feasible right now, there are plenty of staycation destinations to satisfy the need to escape the usual four-wall setting.

From families hoping to reconnect, to dog-owners seeking to explore with their trusty companions, to couples wanting to make every second together count, there is truly something for everyone!

Discover the crystal blue waters of Cornwall, the mighty mountains of North Wales and the romantic setting of Bath three of Sykes’ top staycation destinations for 2021.

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Cornwall - Best for UK family holidays

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ith sublime beaches, a majestic countryside and plenty to see and do, it is little wonder that generations have flocked to the south-west corner of the country for years. Families can look forward to enjoying 250 miles of sublime coastline and over 300 beaches, with the iconic sandy beaches of the north coast exposed to the Atlantic swell, producing excellent surfing conditions.

Alternatively, for families seeking something

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more leisurely, the south coast offers peaceful coves backed by picturesque fishing harbours.

As well as beaches, there is a plethora of attractions to suit families of all ages. The famous coastal town of Newquay has its exciting zoo, as well as the Blue Reef Aquarium and Lappa Valley Steam Railway, whilst the south of Cornwall has a number of gardens, which are sure to guarantee wonderful experience days. Discover the

sub-tropical Trebah Garden near Falmouth, Eden Project in Bodelva and The Lost Gardens of Heligan in Saint Austell.

With a collection of nearly 2,000 properties that can be booked through Sykes Holiday Cottages, enjoy a family holiday in a cottage within striking distance of the beach, a property that offers a touch of luxury or perhaps something unusual for a unique holiday experience.

Boscarne is an excellent choice for families

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to call home while exploring the wonders of Cornwall. With five stunningly appointed bedrooms and an excellent location within St Ives, there is no better place to enjoy a holiday in this part of the UK. Continuing to impress is the external area of the property, where summer afternoons can be spent dining alfresco with family, with an indulgent hot tub to unwind in and the Cornish coast providing a stunning backdrop.

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Woodburning stove Hot tub 4 x super-king-size bedrooms Great entertainment system Off-road parking for three cars Half a mile to the beach Short walk to the shop and pub

Sublime beaches, a majestic countryside and plenty to see and do.

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North Wales – Best for dog-friendly holidays companions are welcome.

This glorious farmhouse sits on the Chirk Castle Estate and boasts a great outdoor area to stretch the legs. From this property, enjoy easy access to the delights of the National Trust property’s grounds, the pretty town of Llangollen and the World Heritage Site of Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

As a nation of dog lovers, it comes as no surprise that Sykes Holiday Cottages has had the pleasure of taking 112,144 dogs on holiday in 2020, along with their owners.

Booking with Sykes Holiday Cottages means no family member will be left behind!

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uring 2020, Sykes took nearly 16,000 beloved pets on holiday to this ever-popular destination. With its plethora of outdoor adventures, it is no surprise that North Wales is the top holiday destination for dog owners. From long walks across the Snowdonia National Park to sandy strolls along the coast, canine companions will not be short of things to do.

If fitness permits, go for a hike up the highest mountain in England and Wales.

Snowdon Ranger Path is the pick of the litter for many dog owners taking on the challenge of Snowdon. Complete the challenging journey and be rewarded with some of the best far-reaching views in the UK. Alternatively, there is a wealth of simpler paths to enjoy within the national park.

Head to the coast to find a number of dog-friendly beaches, where four-legged friends can enjoy a paddle. Conwy Morfa Beach is one of the best for dogs, with no restrictions, even during the summer months. Another dog-friendly attraction in North Wales is Sygun Copper Mine, an excellent opportunity to explore the underground.

With a choice of nearly 2,000 dog-friendly

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Woodburning stoves Lockable bike storage WiFi Off-road parking Pub within 1 mile Plenty of dog-friendly attractions nearby

properties in Wales, find the perfect dogfriendly cottage with Sykes. Pant Dafydd Goch is one of many stunning holiday homes within North Wales, where canine

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Bath – Best for couple’s holidays

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he feel-good city of Bath is one of the best places in the UK for couples to enjoy a staycation. Experience the wealth of history in a city that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been a place of relaxation since the Roman times.

Treat a loved one to an afternoon at the famous Thermae Bath Spa, with a rooftop pool and several thermal baths for relaxation. What better way to take a break and reconnect? In addition to the ancient springs, the romantic city has a host of things to see and do, from meandering streets lined with honey-coloured Georgian architecture, to an excellent collection of museums and galleries. Couples visiting Bath should pay a visit to the impressive Royal Crescent, a sweeping crescent of 30 Grade I listed terrace houses, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The city is overflowing with great places to dine, perfect for that long-awaited foodie break. From fine dining experiences at a Michelin-starred restaurant to the famous Sally Lunn’s, one of the oldest houses in Bath (c.1482) where the French refugee established her bakery in 1680, there is something for all palettes.

Sykes Holiday Cottages offers a number of places to stay within Bath itself, from townhouses to apartments. With Sykes Holiday Cottages, choose to escape to the nearby countryside by booking a Somerset log cabin or a cottage with a hot tub, for an even more relaxing experience. Pheasant Cottage is just one of the many examples of a romantic getaway that Sykes offers.

A staycation in Bath promises an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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A characterful cottage King-size bed WiFi An immaculate garden Off-road parking A short distance to the city

For further UK travel inspiration: Visit https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/inspiration/

To book your next staycation: Visit https://www.sykescottages.co.uk

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Refreshing your home environment

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ith many still working from home, a quick refresh of your environment can pay dividends in terms of wellbeing, and it could cheer up those around you too. It’s not just about making the space you’re in work better practically, but about giving it a better sense of atmosphere, so you can quite simply enjoy your time in it a bit more.

https://www.habitat.co.uk Rattan Screen £120 Chair £139 Desk with storage drawer £295 Rope shade £22 Co-ordinating Artisan mug £4

Chair and pink office set with Moda chair www.cultfurniture.com time working from home, but positively enjoying it! If you’re sharing space with others then it can offer privacy too, so they can relax in the casual side of the room while you’re doing your own thing and focusing without too much distraction.

Invest in the desk!

Define the space Walking into a zone set aside for work is a great way of getting into the right mindset for productivity. You’ll also be more motivated if your space is inviting and comfortable, so it’s worth considering investing in your space to ensure you’re not not just get through your remaining

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Improvisation may have been the way forward at the start of lockdown, but for a longer-term solution it’s worth considering something a little more robust. For a home office within a larger space it’s worth looking at a desk which will blend in nicely with your room as a statement piece of furniture, so it becomes a feature rather than visual distraction. Make sure it is the right height

for your screen to sit on or invest in a riser solution to ensure you’re not hunched up.

Your workplace may even be able to offer useful advice before you buy if you’re not sure what to look for.

Defining your workspace can help you get into a productive mindset @UKStaycation.org

Get organised!

Speaking of clutter, there are some beautiful storage options available which can become part of your décor and theme if you choose wisely. Try and organise your space so that you can pop papers and office work out of sight at the end of the day and create a regular end-of-day routine in doing that, then you’ll be able to switch off that bit easier. Make the most of vertical spaces where you can as that’ll increase capacity if you need it.

Koble Silas Smart Desk from Cuckooland.com The Koble Silas Smart Desk will leave you wishing all of your furniture was multifunctional! Packed with hidden features; update your home office, spare bedroom or hallway with this innovative design. Avoid the dreaded ‘0% battery life’ with the wireless charging surface, simply set down your compatible smart phone and tablet to quickly power up! Don’t have a wireless device? Not to worry, there are USB points too. Including 2 hidden Bluetooth speakers, connect your device and enjoy your favourite music or audiobooks while your work and control the volume with the touch sensitive buttons built into the grey glass table top. And with matt grey, powder coated metal legs and a handy storage drawer, when your desk looks this good you’re sure to be more productive! £375 Cuckooland.com

Light it well Positioning your desk where there’s a natural light source is ideal, however we all know that’s not always possible! Cool light is thought better for concentration, although it can be harsh on the eyes if you add too much, so this is all about balance and the ability to mix things up as your eyes start to tire. LED lighting can add a useful top-up for natural light and can help create a great ambience which works for both night and day. However, it’s most important to make sure that your

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immediate task lighting is up to the job – a good, adjustable desk lamp could be the easiest solution. If you don’t want to make the space feel TOO work orientated why not add another table lamp or wall-mounted light – they could make a massive difference.

Plants and colour Did you know that plants are proven to reduce stress and improve concentration?

That splash of greenery also adds a pretty visual contrast in any space, softening it up a bit. This is probably the cheapest and easiest item to add too. Why not add a bit more colour nearby with a bright cushion, ornament or picture as it’ll draw the eye in a mood-lifting way. If you’re Zooming a lot and want to refresh your background, it’s worth considering that bright, high impact items can draw attention away from other areas.

Patterned print binders www.cambridgeimprint.co.uk

Comfortable, ergonomic chairs This is a really key element of your home office, and to avoid developing issues due to bad posture and positioning it’s important to make sure that your chair is designed to support you properly.

Investing a little in a good chair can mean you can work comfortably and more effectively for longer, so it should pay for itself quickly.

Don’t know where to start?

Succulent pot, Wilko £10

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EXPLORE THE UK

BY SCREEN

AN UPLIFTING JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY – FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR ARMCHAIR! TV programme planners seem to have tuned in to the fact that we have been missing getting out and about, providing us with a wealth of opportunity to explore the UK via our TV screens. The result is a veritable feast of superb programmes at the moment, so just in case you’ve missed any, we thought we’d offer a bit of a round-up. If you’ve missed them, most are available on catch-up so you can still watch them at your leisure. Just the job to help inspire us for future planning while also helping to quench our thirst for travel now.

Cornwall and Devon Walks With Julia Bradbury ITV Hub From the epic wilderness of Dartmoor to the soaring cliffs of Land’s End, Cornwall and Devon Walks with Julia Bradbury takes us to parts of the Westcountry that can only be explored on foot. From beautiful beaches to remote wilderness, ancient woodlands to winding estuaries, this uplifting new series harnesses the country’s love of the outdoors and the best walks the south west has to offer. Along the way Julia will meet the people who live and work in these two counties as well as sampling some of its legendary fare. Episodes include: Salcombe, Dartmoor, the Dart Valley, Isles of Scilly, Land’s End, Helford, The Lizard and Padstow. Rachel Innes-Lumsden, Director of Programmes for Twofour West and Executive Producer, said: “This year has been like no other and us Brits are embracing the outdoors more than ever.” Julia said: “There couldn’t be a more apposite series right now: Nature and green spaces are more important to us than ever before. In this series I feel that connection strongly and I hope it inspires people to head out and experience Vitamin N (nature) for themselves, in the best possible way – on foot.”

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Adrian Dunbar’s,Coastal Ireland Catch up now on My5 In this new Channel 5 series, airing at 8pm on February 4th, Adrian Dunbar is reconnecting with his roots as he travels the wild and rugged west and north coasts of the island of Ireland. Covering over 600 miles Adrian visits breath taking locations, drives beautiful coastal roads, sees fantastic feats of engineering and tastes amazing cuisine. He meets up with old friends and makes new ones along the way. Adrian shares some of his favourite places and fulfils ambitions as he makes it to locations he’s always wanted to see. For the Channel 5 viewer in Lockdown, Adrian Dunbar’s Coastal Ireland is a wonderful escape, reminding viewers of the incredible locations that aren’t too far from home.

Sally Lindsay’s Posh Sleepover Channel 5 Sally Lindsay is a house guest at some of the poshest homes in Britain. From English country houses set in thousands of acres, to Mayfair pads with more floors below ground than above.

For 36 hours sally will live the multi-millionaire high life.

Having a cheeky nose around their 5-star home and getting a taste of their luxury lifestyles – it’s a hard job… but she’s up to the challenge! So if you’re missing those posh stays some of us like to take from time to time and want to glam it up a step further, you can do it virtually, free, through the eyes of Sally in in this lovely series. Sally’s sense of humour adds an extra level of entertainment to this engaging concept.

Susan Calman – Grand Day Out Channel 5 In this entertaining new six-part series Susan Calman hits the road for her very own grand days out in a vintage campervan, named in honour of her favourite person, Helen Mirren, to discover six of Britain’s most scenically stunning road trips.

Taking in the Lake District, Devon and Cornwall, Wales, Yorkshire, the Cotswolds and her native Scotland, Susan will explore six breathtakingly beautiful, quintessentially British places and meet some amazing characters along the way. If you missed it on the first round, this is a must-watch to pop back to!

Darcy Bussell’s Wild Coasts of Scotland More 4 Darcey Bussell’s Wild Coasts of Scotland follows the former ballet star and Strictly Come Dancing judge as she swaps her ballet shoes for walking boots to trace her Scottish ancestry, exploring the stunning landscapes and beautiful islands off the west coast of Scotland

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Extraordinary Escapes with Sandi Toksvig Channel 4 Sandi Toksvig takes us on a tour of Britain’s best holiday spots, with celebrity guests in tow, in this four-part series. Tonight, she is joined by actor Alison Steadman, at a 19th-century Martello tower in Suffolk. They take in some cloud-watching on the heritage coast before heading to a converted priory deep in the countryside, where Toksvig quizzes Steadman on her acting career and hobby of fungi-spotting. Wickedly hilarious, this is a bit like watching a mini-break undertaken by mischievous best friends.

Home Sweet Home – Travels in My Own Land with Joanna Lumley Catch up via ITV Hub After a lifetime of travels that have taken her across the globe, Joanna Lumley is making her most personal journey yet. Over three episodes, she travels from the Yorkshire Dales to St Michael’s Mount, from the Highlands of Scotland to the cobbles of Coronation Street, retracing old steps, meeting inspiring people, and exploring the wonders of the country she calls home.Joanna Lumley said: “I seem to have spent a lifetime travelling the world, but as I get older, I realise there’s so much of my own country I haven’t seen. So, I decided that using my traveller’s eyes…I’m going to turn that vision onto this country, the place that I now call home.”

“A journey of discovery around our great country” Joanna Lumley

TAKE THE JOURNEY FOR YOURSELF, WHEN YOU CAN! In the first of the series Joanna visited the Settle to Carlisle railway. The 73-mile-long main railway line in northern England crosses the remote, scenic regions of the Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines and is included on Ffestiniog Travel’s Lake District Steam Extravaganza tour. You can recreate this journey courtesy of Ffestiniog Travel as their UK portfolio of escorted group rail holidays for the 50+ market includes six tours visiting some of the places included in Joanna’s journey. Owned by a Charitable Trust with profits supporting the world-famous Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, Ffestiniog Travel was established in 1974, making it one of the UK’s longest running rail holiday operators, arranging rail tours around the UK, Europe and worldwide. The company prides itself on developing unrivalled rail holidays while supporting the preservation of the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railways.

Appealing to train enthusiasts as well as holiday makers who enjoy the train journey being part of the holiday, Ffestiniog Travel is the only UK tour provider with more than 45 years in operation, boasting in-depth expertise, and whose founder is still part of the business today. www.ffestiniogtravel.com

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Rail Holidays of the World

Explore More of the UK by Train!

Leave the car behind and tour Britain by train instead. Make the journey part of the holiday. Ffestiniog Travel has been helping travellers tour the country by train since 1974 by both modern and heritage steam railways!

Escorted Tours The Western Isles of Scotland ~ Departs 2 September 2021 - 14 Days from £2,935pp Head to the Outer Hebrides by train towards the Isle of Skye - journey on the famous Jacobite steam train through stunning scenery and visit some of Scotland’s cultural jewels.

Northern Ireland ~ Departs 30 June 2021 - 6 Days from £795pp Explore the railways of Northern Ireland, large and small, and visit famous sights including the Giants Causeway, Bushmills Distillery and Inch Abbey.

Lake District Steam Extravaganza ~ Departs 23 July 2021 - 8 Days from £1,522pp Experience steam in all its glory in the Lake District, with rides on various steam and scenic railways, a steam gondola cruise and the chance to see the largest collection of steam vehicles in the North.

Wales: From North to South ~ Departs 9 Sept 2021 - 13 Days from £2,158pp From beautiful Snowdonia National Park to Cardiff, this tour journeys by famous narrow gauge railways through magnificent landscapes and visits historic castles along the way.

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways ~ Behind the Scenes ~ Departs 15 Oct 2021 - 5 Days from £795pp A fabulous opportunity to explore the oldest narrow gauge railway in the world. Go behind the scenes of the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways in North Wales on a special unique tour

Tailored Rail Holidays Create your own bespoke rail odyssey from Cornwall to Yorkshire or from the Isle of Wight to the Isle of Man! We can help plan your route, accommodation and sightseeing stops along the way. Visit our website for more information.

Visit our website to see all our 2021 tours in full Call 01766 512400; Email info@ffestiniogtravel.co.uk www.ffestiniogtravel.com Guidelines in Place so you can Travel with Confidence Full Refunds Given if we Cancel Tours due to COVID

Profits from our rail holidays and tours go to support the continued preservation of the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways

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To find out more visit themayfieldgroup.co.uk Follow Us

Reinvent Your Summer Living At Home or Away!

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n August 2020, people in the UK spent £478 billion transforming their outdoor living space. Why? Because our gardens became our escape, our sanctuary and the place that makes a house a home. We enjoyed the summer at home. And now everyone has caught the bug.

If the last year has taught us anything, it’s that just because we’re in lockdown doesn’t mean we have to feel locked down. With so many people working remotely, everyone is certainly getting a lot more use out of their homes than ever before. We’ve seen everyone’s home transformations over the last year and, as we look towards the summer, we’re looking to our gardens for the next hit of inspiration.

luxury decking with a wealth of options and styles. They work closely with holiday parks and homeowners to create madeto-measure decking to suit everybody’s needs. More importantly, they will turn your garden into a private haven ready for this summer.

Quick, easy and adaptable to your budget Made-to-measure decking doesn’t have to be an exhausting project. The Mayfield Group creates luxury, bespoke decks to suit your budget, style and home. Their deck designers work with homeowners across the UK

Re-invent your summer living Your garden shouldn’t be an add-on to your home; it should be an extension of it. Upgrading your outdoor space might be exactly what you need to reinvent your summer living. The Mayfield Group are one of the UK’s leading suppliers of

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living and can really turn your garden into an escape. You can create this feeling by adding a luxurious finish to your outside space and making it somewhere that you want to spend more time relaxing, taking in the summer sun and socialising with friends and family (when we are allowed to). Turn your garden into the sanctuary that you deserve.

Your deck should be an addition to your garden and a reflection of your home.

It’s a great place to add a touch of your personality - after all, it’s your garden and it’s your decking! Think about how you and your family are going to use it.

Perhaps you’ll need an outside space to relax on those warm July afternoons, a ramp for improved access of elderly and disabled, or even a hot tub to soak in

to create spectacular projects for residential gardens, whether the goal is to make the most of limited space, or to create a large, luxurious deck area.

Don’t be afraid to try something new!

Decking inspiration doesn’t have to be limited by your garden’s specifics, The Mayfield Group are used to working with uneven landscapes. So we can guarantee to catch the best sun spot in your garden. Adding simple features and

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accessories to your garden deck can be a great way to turn a neglected area into an open, usable and beautiful space.

With six popular colours to choose from, your decking can be designed to match the aesthetics of your home. Bring the outside inside, and vice versa, by creating more space and a place to be proud of.

Turn your garden into an escape A deck from The Mayfield Group is the first step towards reinventing your summer

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with a glass of bubbly in the evening. The Mayfield Group offer a range of luxury decking accessories making it easy to design a bespoke deck tailored to the needs of you and your family.

Your space, your way With several trusted suppliers across the UK, your dream garden renovation is just a phone call away. Start thinking about how you would like to use your outside space, making the most of those nooks and crannies that have been left untouched.

Why not revamp that unused space, or finally re-jig the garden to how you’d like it? Take advantage of the range of deck accessories on offer by putting some of your personality into your made-tomeasure decking.

What are you waiting for?

Don’t spend another summer wishing you were somewhere else. Transform your garden into the place that you want to spend your time. Let The Mayfield Group help you turn your garden into your personal, private sanctuary with a deck designed for you, your family, and your needs. Reinvent your Summer.

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To find out more visit themayfieldgroup.co.uk 01202 233 959

enquiries@themayfieldgroup. co.uk

UK Staycation

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Why buy?

Have you ever considered buying your own holiday home? Now might be the best time to think about it, and here are 8 good reasons why!

SOCIALLY DISTANCED BY DESIGN

Holiday homes – the new phrase used for static caravans, and holiday lodges are actually built to be socially distanced by design when you think about it.

They’re well spaced out, self-contained accommodation units which allow you to self-cater. You can be sociable in them while also keeping a polite distance from your own decking or terrace, and parks are even gearing up for virtual check ins nowadays – as socially distanced holidays go, they’re a pretty solid target!

HAVING A HASSLE-FREE HOLIDAY

At the moment we are obviously restricted on travel, and it’s clear that Staycations are going to be the least complicated option in many ways, and that could last for some time. Even in ‘ordinary time’, nobody likes being stuck in crowded or overpriced airports, putting up with cancelled flights, unsuitable accommodation or any of the small details of going on holiday such as overseas insurance, transfers or setting aside holiday money. Luckily, if you have a holiday home in the UK you won’t have to put up with any of it. Once you’ve bought the home, that stress can all be a thing of the past!

AN INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

If you’re happy to allocate some or all of your lodge time to recouping a return on your investment, then it could bring you a healthy return! It’s worth considering the

24 UK Staycation

location, capacity and layout of your lodge carefully if this is the route you’re thinking of taking as that could increase both the letting price potential and occupancy rates. You also need to make sure the park permits subletting and think about who handles the changeovers - fortunately many parks will have systems in place to take care of this for you, which makes it all easy!

HOLIDAYS ON DEMAND

A holiday home is yours to use at any time when you so choose, regulations permitting, and if you buy somewhere closer to home, a last-minute escape is always an option. Even if you’re offering your holiday home to let, if you only offer dates when you know you won’t be using it, you can always plan a quick holiday for any time you want. Why settle for a single holiday a year when you can have as many as you want? With an impending likely increase in demand for Staycation accommodation, buying your own place delivers more of a plus point than ever with a holiday escape whenever you want to use it, without having to compete to secure your dates at potentially variable prices.

YOUR ESCAPE, YOUR WAY!

When you have a holiday home of your own, you can decorate it with whatever is necessary for your family to feel comfortable during holidays. There’s no need to constantly bring all of your stuff

back and forth each time you want to have a break when you own a holiday home since you can customise it to be exactly how you need it to be. Spend less time packing and more time relaxing.

Everything is right where you left it.

TIME WITH THE FAMILY

Buying a holiday home is an investment in your family, not just a financial investment. Giving your family fond memories of time spent with each other is something that’s priceless. Just think of all the memories you’ll make with your children or grandchildren when they come and stay!

THE DOG CAN COME WITH YOU

If you have a holiday home in the UK it’s easy to take the dog, so none of the family have to be left behind. It also helps that you no longer need to go through the stress of finding them a kennel or getting them a pet passport, so less time is spent stressing over where to send the dog and more time can be spent enjoying their company.

FREEDOM TO DO AS YOU PLEASE!

There’s nothing better than being able to look forward to spending time in an area you love, exploring the culture, activities, restaurants and attractions. Buying your first holiday home is a huge step towards that, and when restrictions ease you’ll be really well placed to make the most of your new-found freedom.

@UKStaycation.org

Find your Find yourdream dream holiday home holiday home today! today!

Browse 1,000’s Holiday Homes, Browse Overof 1,300 Lodges andLodges Staticand Caravans Static Caravans andofJoin 1,000’s of Happy New Owners! and Join 1,000’s Happy New Owners!

Specialists in our field, the Sell My Group have helped thousands of people, just like you, buy a holiday home in desirable and prime locations across the UK.

Across the UK, we have got the park industry covered!

Visit Visit www.sellmygroup.co.uk www.sell my group.co.uk

LOOKI N G F O R YOU R PERFECT H O L I DAY HOM E ?

Sell My Group is the marketplace for the UK park industry, and it’s the perfect place to start if you’re looking for a holiday home of your own, or that extra special spot you’ve always dreamed of! We caught up with its founder, Justin Allitt to find out more.

the portal for park and leisure Q Ishomes only, and why?

We’ve helped thousands of happy customers to buy park and holiday homes in great locations all across the UK and are specialists in our field. You could probably say we’re the Right Move of the park industry! We’re passionate about promoting the benefits of buying park and leisure homes and work hard to make the process easier for both buyers and parks with holiday homes to sell. makes this easier from Q What trying to just run an online search myself?

The Sell My Group site hosts a lot of key

26 UK Staycation

information and elements you may want to know when buying, and that can make your buying journey much more enjoyable, cutting out the churn of searching and making it a far more enjoyable and engaging browsing experience. On the leisure side we have a huge choice of parks, plots, lodges and static caravans to choose from. The great thing about the portal is that it brings everything together to show you the closest match for your requirements; park information and current availability, visitor attractions nearby, plots with or without holiday homes already on them, models to browse and all the key information we think you may need to

know immediately to hand. It’s really user friendly. would I find on the website?

Q What You can search by ideal location, distance you’re prepared to expand your search from that location, property type; residential park home, lodge or caravan.

We have one of the most powerful search systems in the UK, which will look within a couple of hundred feet of your target zone to check the properties available nearby, then show you everything about them quickly and easily.

You’ll find home features, park features, useful buying information, a comprehensive list of properties to

@UKStaycation.org

not sure where I want to go Q I’m – how will it help?

On our home page we have plenty of inspiration to offer according to interests, and parks which are featured for a variety of reasons. There’s even a dog-friendly parks section there!

I need to know more about Q Ithefeelbuying process first, how can

USEFUL ADVICE

Once you’ve found a park you’re interested in, double check the park licence shown to ensure it’s correct for the way you want to use it. If you want to live in your home as your main residence the park must hold a residential licence. That goes for the home too - if your park is open for 12 months of the year a unit built to British Standard BS:3632 or equivalent is advisable, as that’s designed for use at any time of year including the winter, whereas EN:1647 is the European standard which is usually perfectly suitable for warmer months. All these elements are shown on Sell My Group’s property details to make things easy and this topic is covered further on their website.

you help?

Yes, there’s nothing we love more than talking about the benefits of buying a park or holiday home, so we’ve added lots of useful features and blogs on the website which should help, and if you find anything missing you’d like to know, just ask us! We also have a regular newsletter you can sign up to, and that will update you by email with details on new park developments and plots as they are launched, open weekends in your area of interest, home showcase events and general news we think might be of interest to you. We never share your details with third parties and you can unsubscribe at any time, so you could find them really useful, and the best bit is that it’s all totally FREE!

FOR MORE INFORMATION W: www.sellmygroup.co.uk Tel: 03333 445014 Email: info@sellmygroup.co.uk

consider with pricing or a shortlist if you choose to narrow down your search further. It’ll tell you where nearby facilities are, what is on the park and any key rules or restrictions and give you contact details if you want to visit the park to see it for yourself. Importantly, if at any point you need to ask us a question we’ll be happy to help.

Visit the Sell My Group website today to find out more about buying a park or leisure home!

@UkstaycationOrg

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HOLIDAY PARK SPOTLIGHT

I

f you’re looking for a holiday home in Lancashire, then you’ll find Lawnsdale Country Park is a wonderfully mature, green site, situated at Moss Side, between the coastal gem of Lytham and the awardwinning town of Wrea Green. This is a pretty exclusive and desirable area, so we thought it a worthy target for our Holiday Park Spotlight from the Sell My Group park portfolio.

Why Buy at Lawnsdale Country Park?

Lawnsdale Country Park is only a short distance from Wrea Green village. The village has won Lancashire’s Best Kept Village award on numerous occasions and its scenic greenery and large maintained pond make it an ideal backdrop for

28 UK Staycation

@UKStaycation.org

leisurely strolls and picnics. On the outskirts of Wrea Green- a five-minute direct drive from the site is the five-star luxury holiday village of Ribby-Hall with a spa retreat, state-of-the-art health club and great option of different of eateries including the mouth-watering Pappa Johns and speciality sweet treats at Ribby Hall’s own Tea Rooms.

The scenic coastline along Lytham front provides a great walking destination and the town is also home to the Lowther Pavilion meaning a holiday at Lawnsdale offers the perfect opportunity to go and watch live comedy, drama and music. A twenty-minute car-journey from the site leads you to the seaside resort town of Blackpool, with its many attractions. The seaside town is saturated with fun-family things to do and visit including Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Blackpool Zoo, The Tower and Blackpool Illuminations.

Click to explore the Omar Ikon

AT A GLANCE • • • • • • •

Click to explore the Omar Ikon

Click to explore the Wessex Spinney

Quiet holiday park Close to Wrea Green Good sized plots Semi-rural location 50 week occupancy schedule 1 minute walk from railway station Near to Blackpool, Lytham, St Annes, Kirkam and Preston • 3 minute walk to bus-stop (Blackpool-Preston route)

Click to explore the Wessex Spinney

Click here to find out more about Lawnsdale Country Park @UkstaycationOrg

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INSTA-GOOD ACCOMMODATION

H

oliday makers will soon be able to staycation in one of the UK’s most Instagrammable accommodation types as Away Resorts launch the all-new ‘The Esme’.

Exclusive to their Sandy Balls site, Away Resorts’ stylish Esme accommodation is certainly worthy of a social post or two and its boutique edge makes it the perfect base for a girly (or boys!) weekend or a romantic break.

Comprising of two bedrooms, two bathrooms and an outdoor deck, this luxurious accommodation type may be compact, but it’s definitely not lacking.

Instagram enthusiasts will love the on-trend neon lights, statement wallpaper and allpink furniture, whilst yummy mummies will enjoy the king size divan bed, kitchenette, the fire, and the beds made on arrival.

Set in the leafy serenity of the New Forest, Sandy Balls – the home of Esme - boasts beautiful indoor and outdoor pools, a beauty treatment suite and several drink and dine options offering something for everyone.

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@UKStaycation.org

@UkstaycationOrg

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Speaking about the all-new accommodation, Away Resorts’ Sales and Marketing Manager, Laura Miller said: “We are so excited about this launch, even the name Esme means ‘to love’ and we know our customers are going to love it!

“Designed exclusively by ladies, Esme has a big personality and provides plenty of allimportant Instagram photo opportunities.

We can’t wait for our customers to experience it.”

With Away Resorts already predicting another strong year ahead for the staycation they recommend those wishing to book with them do so early to avoid disappointment.

The brand reports that new demand bookings for summer 2021 are already up 14% year on year and that autumn is up 6% too.

Customers wanting to experience Esme for themselves can book today on the Away Resorts website

www.awayresorts.co.uk 32 UK Staycation

@UKStaycation.org

Joining the staycation nation in 2021?

We’ve got

Whitecliff Bay

Bembridge, Isle of Wight A magical bay hidden beneath the cliffs

Tattershall Lakes Tattershall, Lincolnshire

Lakeland paradise within the gorgeous countryside

Mersea Island

Mersea Island, Essex Perched peacefully on the Blackwater Estuary

you covered!

Sandy Balls

UK getaways from £99*

New Forest, Hampshire Nestled deep within beautiful woodland

• Unique locations

Barmouth Bay

Gwynedd, North Wales Sandwiched between the Snowdonia mountains and the sea

• Range of accommodation available • Jam-packed activity programmes • Outstanding entertainment and events

Mill Rythe

Hayling Island, Hampshire A south coast gem nestled on Hayling Island

• Fantastic facilities, including swimming pools

Boston West

Boston, Lincolnshire Set on acres of stunning countryside

• On-site bars and restaurants • Dog-friendly

Book your next getaway with confidence at awayresorts.co.uk or call us on 03432 496 310 Holiday whenever you like, and own your very own holiday home from £24,995^ @AwayResortsHolidays

@AwayResortsUK

@AwayResortsHolidays

*Price based on a 2-night stay in Comfort accommodation at Whitecliff Bay in May 2021. ^£24,995 holiday homes available at Mersea Island and Whitecliff Bay. Prices correct at time of print. Any day arrivals are applicable to a 2-night minimum.

For more information on our Coronavirus Booking Guarantee, please visit our website.

Experts reveal the health benefits of virtual travel

W

ith avid travellers stuck at home due to ongoing travel restrictions, new expert insight from UKCaravans4Hire.com reveals why Brits should turn to virtual travel to get their fix and how this could benefit their health and wellbeing.

Speaking with UKCaravans4Hire.com, Lee Chambers, Psychologist and Wellbeing Consultant said: “Virtual travel has become an exciting way to immerse ourselves, with access to traditional travel currently restricted. The ability to visually experience the novelty of places we haven’t been or can’t access is powerful, boosting our mood by anchoring us in the moment, forgetting our worries and anxieties.”

UKCaravans4Hire.com also spoke to Dennis Relojo-Howell, founder of Psychreg, who added: “Aside from learning new things and meeting new people, travelling can be really beneficial to our mental health. For instance, we mainly travel as a form of relaxation since it lowers our stress and allows us to relax physically and mentally.”

“The pandemic has significantly affected our travel plans, but we can use this to our

advantage. There are lots of travel films and TV shows available to stream as well as vlogs on YouTube – which can give us a feeling of being on a virtual travelling expedition and help us to explore some of the worlds most loved destinations from the safety of our homes.”

Gareth Irving, director of UKCaravans4Hire.com commented: ”With travel restrictions continuing, we wanted to highlight the importance of

Lee explains the three main benefits of virtual travelling: •

•

•

It can trigger excitement and awe, stimulating positive neurotransmitters such as serotonin, making us feel happier and more content.

Watching natural environments can leave us feeling grounded and connected to something bigger, reducing blood pressure and stress levels.

An often overlooked aspect is how grateful it makes us feel, seeing places on our planet, triggering thoughts of possibilities and otions, rather than threats and what we can’t do.

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@UKStaycation.org

virtual travelling and how you can travel the world from the comfort of your own home!

“There are so many benefits of travelling from learning new things and gaining new experiences, but it’s really important to recognise that travelling can also benefit our health and wellbeing. Whilst we may not be able to jet off on holiday in the UK or abroad, virtual travel is a great option for families up and down the UK to stay engaged with their passion for travelling.

“We hope our insight is beneficial for Brits looking for a little escapism!”

To help Brits navigate the world of virtual travel, UKCaravans4Hire. com share six ways to travel the world from their sofa: 1. Travel TV and Films Why not take advantage of your many entertainment subscriptions and get exploring with a travel TV show, film or documentary. From city breaks on Travel Man (available on All 4) to exploring America’s National Parks (available on Netflix) there are plenty of options when it comes to travel TV and films.

Whether you’re an adventurer, wildlife lover, explorer, city break lover or looking for more of a spiritual journey, UKCaravans4Hire.com shares the best travel TV and films to stream now.

themselves on spiritual getaways. Calm has recently launched a #Calmgetaways series where users can lay back, relax and travel through Africa.

About UKCaravans4Hire.com

2. Walking tours on Youtube If your favourite part of going on holiday is getting out on a walking tour, then YouTube is on hand to help you fill this void at home. Over 20K people have subscribed to this channel which allows viewers to visit Lanzarote, Portimao, Amsterdam and even Ramsgate in Kent.

3. Virtual park walks Being able to get out on foot and explore local parks is also a favourite holiday activity for many. If you want to take a look around London’s Hyde Park, Madrid’s Rio Park or Paris’ André Citroën Park, there are a whole host of first person perspective park walks to be viewed on YouTube. This particular series has over 40 park walks for viewers to indulge in.

4. Real life safaris Part of many family getaways is meeting and exploring the local wildlife. And while zoos and safari parks are currently shut due to the lockdown here in the UK, animal lovers can head over to Chester Zoo’s YouTube channel for a virtual tour of the zoo. For those looking for something a little further adrift, andBeyond and WildEarth have an amazing range of real time safari experiences online.

5. Scenic cycling Cycling holidays have become increasingly popular, especially in the UK where the scenic landscapes offer up the perfect conditions to get out on your bike.

Luckily for those missing their cycling holidays, Peloton have created a series of scenic rides for their users to enjoy and take a break from the surroundings they have come to know all too well during lockdown. Visit Peleton to find out more.

6. Mindful travelling And while some people miss the hustle and bustle of travelling, others miss the escapism and chance to reconnect with

@UkstaycationOrg

UKcaravans4hire.com is the UK’s only listing platform specifically targeting static caravan hire which also offers an online booking system. Featuring listings from owners nationally, the site caters to every need when it comes to booking a caravan holiday.

UKcaravans4hire.com launched the direct booking platform in 2019, meaning that it is now easier and quicker to book a holiday with peace of mind, and it is easier to list a caravan and rent it out than ever before.

The Huddersfield-based business is family-owned and the team has over a decade of experience in providing holiday-goers and caravan owners with a fantastic and reliable service.

In 2018/19 UKcaravans4hire.com welcomed 4 million visitors to the website, generated 400,000 enquiries and secured millions of pounds worth of bookings for over 5,000 owners who listed their caravans for hire on the site. From a single holiday home in a farmer’s field to a top-ofthe-range holiday lodge in Primrose Valley, UKcaravans4hire.com has it all.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.ukcaravans4hire.com Twitter: @ukcaravans4hire Facebook: @ukcaravans4hire Instagram: @ukcaravans4hire Linkedin: ukcaravans4hire

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Recipe corner While quite a few of us are at home, we thought we’d bring you light lunch ideas which are also perfect to re-use when you’re on holiday - we think they look really tasty!

Avocado Toast with Blue Cheese, Radish & Walnut The ever-popular brunch dish is given a crunchy twist by topping with pretty, peppery French breakfast radishes and walnuts.

Serves: 1 Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 2 minutes You’ll need: 1 slice of sourdough bread, toasted ½ ripe avocado, mashed Squeeze of lime Salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 French breakfast radishes, sliced 20g Danish blue cheese, crumbled 4 walnut halves roughly chopped and toasted Drizzle of olive oil (optional) What to do: Combine the mashed avocado and lime juice and season well with salt and black pepper. Spread on the toast.

Lay the radish slices over the avocado then crumble the cheese over the top, scatter with walnuts and season.

Drizzle with olive oil if desired.

Avocado Toast with Isle of Wight Tomatoes, Radishes & Cayenne pepper Serves: 1 Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 2 minutes

½ ripe avocado, mashed Squeeze of lime Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 large or 3 small, ripe tomatoes, sliced 3 French breakfast radishes, sliced into matchsticks Pinch of cayenne pepper

What to do: Combine the mashed avocado and lime juice and season well. Spread on the toast.

Slice the tomatoes and radishes and lay them on the avocado then sprinkle with a pinch of cayenne pepper and salt.

You’ll need: 1 slice of sourdough bread, toasted

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@UKStaycation.org

Avocado Toast with Feta, Mint and Celery Serves: 1 Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 2 minutes You’ll need: 1 slice of sourdough bread, toasted ½ ripe avocado, mashed Squeeze of lime Salt and freshly ground black pepper 20g feta 1 stick of celery, sliced 2-3 mint leaves, torn What to do: Combine the mashed avocado and lime juice and season well. Spread on the toast.

Spread the celery slices over the avocado then sprinkle with the feta and torn mint leaves.

 Spring Onion & Celery Loaded Potato Skins A firm favourite, these potato skins are stuffed full of spring onions, celery, sour cream and cheese and baked until crisp and golden on top.

Serves: 4 as a starter or 2 as a main course Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 1hr 10 minutes You’ll need: 2 large baking potatoes 2 tsp olive oil plus extra for dressing the leaves Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tbsp sour cream 25g cheddar cheese (we used Godminster) 4 spring onions, finely chopped 2 sticks of celery, finely chopped

Pinch of smoked paprika (optional) Bag of Fresh & Naked Spicy Mixed Leaves What to do: Heat the oven to 200C/180C Fan. Prick the potatoes a few times with a fork.

Put the oil in a medium bowl with a good pinch of salt and pepper and, one at a time roll the potatoes in it so they’re completely covered. Bake them in the oven for 1hr until they’re crispy on the outside and soft in the middle. Leave to cool slightly.

Once they’re cool enough to handle, cut in half and scoop out the centre. Use a fork to mash the potato in a bowl with the sour cream and cheddar then stir in the spring onions and celery and season.

Load the mash mixture back into the skins, sprinkle with a pinch of smoked paprika (if using) and grill for a few minutes until the tops start to brown.

Toss the mixed leaves in a little olive oil and season, put on a platter or divide between plates and top with the loaded skins.

www.lovecelery.co.uk @UkstaycationOrg

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Bespoke, one-off luxury lodges where your imagination is the limit! where your imagination is the limit

Image courtesy of Kentisbury Grange

O

mar Group is well known for building high-quality, residential standard luxury lodges, but what you might not be quite so aware of, is their bespoke service and flair for creating stunning, one-off lodges. We decided to take a look at what high-end luxury could mean with Omar Group!

If you ask around what the ‘ultimate super-lodge’ would look like, you would get a different answer every time and that’s exactly why Omar and Wessex don’t focus on a ‘standard’ but offer a personalised bespoke service. Here’s a taste of some of the features that have appeared in their super-lodges.

Exceptional quality

Omar Group offer exceptional quality BS 3632 residential standard luxury lodges that are individually built to order. The BS 3632 standard means that every lodge is manufactured to a rigorous program of test and inspection and certified by the NCC. Striking architectural features include curved, off-set or monopitch roof lines, roof terraces or even living roofs. All achieve a real wow factor and Omar have experience in building all of these. It’s not all about the roof line though, extensive use of glazing to make the most of a view and panoramic doors that invite the outside inside also frequently feature.

All about high-tech

Image courtesy of Luxury Lodges, Clowance Estate

38 UK Staycation

For those drawn to technology, if it’s out there, it can be included. Examples include mirrors that double as TV’s, electronically controlled curtains, cleverly integrated audio systems that give you high quality music throughout and smart technology including systems that can be controlled remotely.

@UKStaycation.org

Everything Eco

Looking after the environment is a hot topic and as awareness grows, more eco systems are developed. Frequently included basic features include intelligent heating controls, energy saving high specification windows and doors and reduced water consumption appliances, but it doesn’t stop there. More specialist systems include rainwater harvesting, air to water heat pumps, solar photovoltaic panels, solar water heating and ground source heat pumps.

A Designer Finish

Interior design style has always played a big part in lodge design – from a particular feel such as warehouse or rustic chic, mood lighting, or perhaps furnishings from a particular designer, it’s all down to personal taste and can be achieved through a one-to-one design service.

Entertainment

Are you tempted by a lodge with spa facilities such as a jacuzzi bath and sauna or do your eyes light up at the thought of

a games or cinema room? We all love to be entertained and when taking a break, why not indulgence in having your own personal facilities!

When it comes down to it, we’re all very different so yes, the ultimate super lodge could include any one, or combination of these features, but it’s likely to be as individual as you are.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.omar.co.uk 01842 810 673 sales@omar.co.uk

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THE WARM FEELING OF HOME MORSØ WOOD BURNER STOVE INSTALLATION IN PARK HOMES Wood burner stoves bring a cosy and warm feel to homes and continue to grow in popularity, however, until recently, installation in BS 3632 park homes and lodges was not recommended. Working alongside Omar Group and the NCC, Morsø have addressed these concerns and issued instructions specifically for installation in BS 3632 structures making them the only NCC verified wood burning stove manufacturer for Park Homes and lodges. Recently installing one of their beautiful 4043 stoves in an Omar Ikon park home at Haulfryn, Willows Riverside Park in Windsor, Berkshire.

Morsø has a rich heritage spanning close to a 170-years, this Danish manufacturer has held the coveted title of Purveyor to the Royal Court since 1915. With its reputation for innovation, style, and quality they have developed into a global design company, bringing

Morsø is the leading stove manufacturer for the park home industry

since 1853

warmth and comfort to homes around the world.

The Morsø 4043, has contemporary styling and functional design which makes it very versatile and suitable for most homes. The stove has a stunning large-curved window giving a lovely, soul satisfying view of the fire, it is easy to operate and simple to use. With the benefit of small distances to combustibles there is no risk of discolouration to walls, even with a snug fit, making it particularly suitable for residential or holiday homes.

In addition, this eco 2022 design ready stove meets the strictest environmental standards.

A retrofit is available (subject to survey), in Omar Group park homes and lodges and installation is quick and simple, taking under a day. Chris Tyler, Morsø Business Development Manager said: “Morsø is the leading stove manufacturer for the park home industry and we’re proud to be working with a top UK park home manufacturer. It was also a pleasure to install a wood burning stove on such a beautiful park, Willows Riverside Park in Berkshire.”

For All Enquiries Contact; Chris Tyler cht@morsoe.com

THE CLASSIC Luxury Lodge

Unique lodges and park homes with a 50 year heritage, built upon industry leading design, quality and excellent customer service.

Built to BS 3632 residential standard | 10-year GoldShield structural warranty Superior build quality | Bespoke design solutions | Industry leading customer care

Scan to see more

t: 0345 257 0400 | e: sales@wessexparkhomes.co.uk | w: wessexparkhomes.co.uk Wessex Unique Lodges & Park Homes, Pleszko House, London Road, Brandon, Suffolk IP27 0NE

KI N G FIS H E R LUXU RY LO DG E New 2021 Model! One of the most long-standing and popular lodges in the UK has just got even better!

• S tunning new interior design and a new colour scheme of soft naturals with subtle, patterned fabrics • E xtensive range of cladding options such as the flat log profile pictured • W hite clad vaulted ceilings and feature cladding with inset shelf around a contemporary wall-mounted fire

• S ociable open-plan living space with lounge, dining and kitchen areas • G enerous master bedroom with dressing area and en-suite • Available with a roof terrace - the Kingfisher RT

To see more scan this QR code with your smartphone camera

Omar Park & Leisure Homes, Head Office & Show Centre, Pleszko House, London Road, Brandon, Suffolk IP27 0NE

www.omar.co.uk | 01842 810 673 | sales@omar.co.uk

A luxurious yet affordable introduction to lodge living!

Do you love breaks away in a caravan or static holiday lodge? Are you ready for the next level in luxury?

Consider an Omar Group BS 3632 single luxury lodge. Here we take a look at why single luxury lodges offer the perfect stepping-stone between a static holiday lodge and a twin luxury lodge.

S

mall can be beautiful, and you may not want or need the extra space that a twin luxury lodge provides. A single lodge will also be more affordable and therefore the perfect step up!

SUPERIOR BUILD QUALITY

One of the main differences between a static holiday lodge (built to EN 1647) and the luxury lodges we’re talking about (built to BS 3632), is build quality.

BS 3632 is a residential standard; lodges built to this standard are certified by the NCC (National Caravan Council) and every home is manufactured to a rigorous program of test and inspection.

Amongst many other requirements, BS 3632 requires: high levels of insulation; low energy lighting; good ventilation; minimum maintainable room temperatures, and laboratory testing of wall construction to prove sound reduction. These requirements mean genuinely superior lodges with significant differences in terms of energy efficiency and overall standard.

Omar do a range of single luxury lodges including the Southwold, Arden and Breckland

GET AWAY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Traditionally, holiday parks have generally been open for a set number of months a year, closing during the colder months.

However, a shift in public behaviour has seen more of us wanting to get away yearround, including during the winter. As BS 3632 lodges have superior insulation, they are more suitable for breaks away throughout the year, even when the temperature drops to chilly winter lows.

LUXURY

With the higher build standard, you also get a more luxurious feel. Fully fitted and furnished with full size integrated appliances, you can even specify the interior to include luxury items such as wine coolers, branded appliances or perhaps designer features. If you’re looking to upgrade, why not see the difference for yourself and try a break away in a BS 3632 luxury lodge!

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.omar.co.uk | 01842 810 673 | sales@omar.co.uk @UkstaycationOrg

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South-West parks from Paladin Where the ethos is to enjoy more and worry less!

P

aladin Parks operate a number of luxury lodge locations in the South West, and not only have some great spots to choose from, but unusually they also have freehold opportunities on one of their parks.

A partner park to Pathfinder Homes, the lodges on Paladin parks are perfect as romantic retreats or the base for an adventurous escape, all with the flair in design and practicality Pathfinder is so well-known for.

Holiday home ownership with Paladin Parks starts from £129,000, and with 12 month holiday licences available and appealing buy-to-let opportunities, these parks really do have a lot to offer.

This highly skilled collaborative park group has over 60 years combined experience in infrastructure, construction, design and holiday park management, with plans to further expand their portfolio of parks to create special places for people to holiday in Devon and Cornwall. Although part of the Paladin group, each park is independently owned and run, so their parks will have a family feel with all the benefits of being part of a larger resource and collaboration base.

We take a look at three great Paladin Parks for luxury lodge ownership.

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HIGHER CHARATON PARK A unique freehold opportunity in Cornwall

• Ground rent is £0 a year • unique FREEHOLD opportunity • Attractive Buy to Let options • Accessible Homes Available • 12 Month Holiday License • Close to local Shops • Design your own home • Close to local bus routes

C

ompletely nestled in the beautiful Cornish countryside, Higher Charaton Park is perfectly placed for your holiday base. A small, exclusive park with only nine holiday homes, Higher Charaton Park is unique in so many ways.

Located in a rural setting on the edge of the picturesque village of Pensilva, the park has immediate access to the shops, playing fields and a community center with gym, function facilities with bar, café post office, farm shop, public house and it has plenty of great attractions nearby to

explore. Local tourist attractions in close proximity of the park include the fishing villages of Looe, Polperro, Mevagissey and Fowey. Looe has a fish market, Moorings and a slipway for sailing or even paddle boarding.

Higher Charaton is located on the edge of Bodmin Moor which has recently been the backdrop for the filming of the BBC drama Poldark and is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with enhanced public access the first designated with international dark skies in 2017. This is

the home of Pathfinder Homes’ original Charaton lodge, which we think is a beautiful design, and the freehold opportunity here is, for many, the ultimate goal, as you own the building and the land it stands on outright in perpetuity, so ground rent on this park is nil – a significant annual saving. Another unique point here is the accessibility of the lodges for those who have restricted mobility, or those who want to future-proof their purchase to make sure they will work for them if they lose mobility in the future.

Mevagissy Harbour, Cornwall

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SPRINGFIELD RETREAT

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Holiday lodges in Devon available from £129,000

pringfield Retreat is a wellestablished park currently being transformed into a luxury lodge retreat. Located exactly in the heart of rural Devon in an area of outstanding natural beauty, this is a peaceful, familyrun and very spacious green park. Easy access to the A30 and A38 gives owners the opportunity to visit both Devon and Cornwall in a day, so it’s very well situated. Set on the outskirts of the quiet little village of Tedburn St Mary, the views Springfield Retreat offers are by all accounts breathtaking.Luxury lodge

owners have their very own, exclusive area of the park and access to these retreats are gated and secure. You can design your own holiday home here or select from the various Pathfinder Homes designs, and plots cater for single or twin options so whichever size of lodge you need they should have a plot to suit.

Lodges here also offer an investment opportunity, so you can even buy to let and make your home work for you in the periods you aren’t using it! The great news is that the first year is free of groundrent so 2021 could be a fabulous year!

• Buy to Let options • Part exchange • 12 Month holiday license • Finance available • Private gated entrance • Design your own home • First year ground rent free

CADDY’S CORNER

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An exclusive Cornish destination

addy’s Corner is just a 20-minute drive from both the north and south coasts of Cornwall, with far reaching views of the Lizard Peninsula.

Having been offering rental lodges for some time Caddy’s Corner is an established park about to embark on it’s newest adventure – now offering the opportunity of lodge ownership.

Due to the park’s popularity, great TripAdvisor ratings and limited availability, this may well be a park which sells out quickly, with two plots available now and 10 more available for reservation for 2021.

These beautiful lodges are set in a World Heritage site and surrounded by cattle grazed common land. There are no street

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Port Isacc, Cornwall lamps or passing cars making the site very peaceful. This is the perfect destination for individuals & families alike looking for a Cornish break. Ideally located in the centre of Cornwall, Caddy’s holiday lodges are within easy to reach of the Eden Project, St Ives, Land’s End, Falmouth, St Michael’s Mount and much more! Whether you’re interested in surfing, dog walking, sailing, crabbing or visiting an attraction, Cornwall really does offer year-round family fun and this could be your perfect base to enjoy it from for years to come.

• Accessible Homes Available • 11 Month Holiday License • Close to local Shops • Design your own home

For further information on Paladin Parks

• Close to local bus routes

Visit www.paladinparkhomes.co.uk or email info@paladinparkhomes.co.uk

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Lodge Ownership, exactly how it should be

UNIQUE FREEHOLD OPPORTUNITIES Protect your future holidays & leisure time with your very own holiday home and enjoy holidays to last a lifetime. With fabulous locations to choose from across the South West, now’s the time to make time.

- Luxurious holiday homes - Stunning locations - 12 month holiday license’s available - Buy to let opportunities offering up to 10% ROI Each park is independently owned and run and therefore offerings vary on a park to park basis.

Call to book your Covid Safe Viewing now 01626 833 799 | paladinparkhomes.co.uk

We may not be back out on the road yet

But we can all get ready-to-go!

We’re all looking forward to getting out and about again on the road in the UK, heading off to enjoy our next staycation. So, while we’re waiting, maybe now is the time to get vehicle ready, fine-tuning our cars, motorhomes and caravans ready for a safer and more economic driving experience when we do get to jump back in the driving seat!

TyrePal are giving leisure vehicle owners a bit of a helping hand this year. As many of us might normally be exploring the latest product innovations at the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show, which was scheduled for 23 – 28 February, they didn’t want their customer to miss out, so are offering two great discounts on their systems, virtually.

So that’s why they’ve discounted their two best-selling leisure vehicle TPMS systems for that week by 20% if you use their VSHOW discount code at the checkout.

BRAND NEW FOR 2021 The Solar Colour Pro

Perfect for touring cars and motorhomes

 Bigger screen  Clearer display  Larger solar panel ENJOY THE JOURNEY AS MUCH AS THE DESTINATION

RECOMMENDED FOR CARS AND MOTORHOMES Then there’s the new Solar Colour Pro, which is perfect for cars, motorhomes or a twin-axle caravan. If you have a motorhome and you tow a car, using an a-frame, why not buy two at the discounted price. You can then independently monitor the tyres on both vehicles!

Tyrepal TPMS kits help you:

MONITOR YOUR TYRE PRESSURES ON THE GO...

Treat your caravan, campervan or motorhome to one of our tyre pressure monitoring kits, and enjoy the drive in 2021

www.tyrepal.co.uk

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FOR ALL VEHICLES The TC-215 is TyrePal’s do-it-all monitor, for all outfits from towing to commercial vehicles, so it is very versatile and user friendly.

 Save Fuel – Correctly inflated tyres reduce

rolling resistance, and save fuel

 Save Tyres – Correctly inflated tyres run cooler, and wear less



Enjoy The Drive – Allowing you to focus on driving, without unexpected delays or interruptions

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Fancy your own, socially-distanced escape?

Woodward Lakes and Lodges is a park renowned for its peaceful, natural environment, and the lodges are set well apart from each other.

T

he park sits in 300 acres of land which has been very thoughtfully developed to a high standard, and it now also has the feel of a nature reserve across the lakes from the main lodge development areas. In winter you can enjoy the beauty of snow on the ground, weather permitting of course, while watching the wildlife adapt to each season. Then you can be here as spring bursts into all its glory too - this really is a park for all seasons!

Lodges are grouped in clusters named after birds which live on the park, and they all have great views. The park supports several breeding species, and during the summer months, it is occupied by families of ducks and geese. In winter, many birds gather including black-headed gulls, greylag geese, coot, teal, wigeon and lapwing, so the comings and goings of all of these make for quite an entertaining sight. This is a habitat which also hosts a number of birds of prey, including kestrels, sparrow hawks and common buzzards and the fields around the site are used by foraging owls, particularly tawny

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and barn owls. For keen photographers it will be an ever-changing landscape of opportunity, and for bird watchers it’s the absolutely perfect place to unwind.

SAFE AND SECLUDED What you WONT get here is ‘herds’ of people, general traffic or noise. Lodge owner and wildlife enthusiast Trevor said; ‘‘I love the ever-changing view from my patio windows. I can see wildfowl, songbirds, owls, birds of prey, deer, foxes, all just outside my little place in the country. It’s somewhere peaceful where I can pursue my hobby, observing and filming wildlife.’’

restaurants and shops if you need a bit of activity, current tiering regulations permitting of course.

If you’d rather stay on the park as much as possible, you can even arrange food deliveries as it’s an accessible location for most suppliers to get to. That said,

THE LOCATION Woodward Lakes is an easy-to-access location too - just 10 minutes off a motorway and you could be sitting on your decking watching a sunset at Woodward Lakes. Robin Hood Airport, Doncaster and Leeds city centre are all in easy striking distance so you won’t have far to go to find good amenities,

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with on-site security it’s also in a little secluded bubble which could be miles from anywhere in the countryside if you didn’t know better – it offers the best of both worlds!

When restrictions lift and you can get out and about, you’ll find loads of great places to explore locally, and we can testify to those as we love returning to this park and

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haven’t exhausted all the options yet – far from it.

lead to a nearby wildlife park and another nature reserve.

WHAT’S ON THE PARK

There are several beautiful show lodges here to choose from, but it’s also a unique opportunity for you to design, build and take ownership of your very own luxury dream holiday lodge, working with park sales manager Julie Lench and Prestige Homeseeker Park and Leisure Homes,

Facilities on site include a 9 - hole golf course, boules court, bowling greens, tennis court and a 43 acre well-stocked fishing lake of specimen species. Off-road cycle routes and meandering nature trails

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who build the lodges here.

The park has a 12-month holiday licence, so you’ll be able to enjoy staying at any time, and you’ll get brilliant value for money as the lodges are accessible in price for such a stunning park, or if you have a little spare budget you could go for quite a palatial lodge option!

There’s a refreshingly unpressurised approach to sales here too, and buyers here prefer that as it allows them to explore the park in their own time in a relaxed way. In fact, some of the owners here love it so much, they ended up buying more than one lodge here – we think that speaks volumes!

NEW DEVELOPMENT A brand new development has just been released at Woodward Lakes called the ‘Kingfisher’ so it’s a great time to get in touch to discuss possible preferred plots.

There’s a total of 28 lodges lakeside, and a further five just set back slightly. This is another enormous lake which will be stocked with fish, and you can even have your own boat on it if you’d like to – and we think that sounds pretty idyllic!

LODGES FROM £99,950 Lodges here start from £99,950 and can be designed to suit your budget, interior design tastes, plot and views, and the way you need to use it.

For further information For all enquiries and viewings, please call Julie 01302 833962 or 07976 390477.

Please ensure you make an appointment before travelling to view, and comply to all current governmental regulations in relation to Covid-19.

Woodward Lakes and Lodges can be found off of Junction 4 on the M18 at Holme Wood Lane, Doncaster DN3 3EH.

www.woodwardlakesandlodges.co.uk

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Phase 3 Under Construction

A unique Developmentof Luxury Lodges in an exclusive South Yorkshire location with spectacular rural views and onsite facilities.

Prices from

£99,950 A park for all seasons Investment Opportunities Available

Holiday home ownership at Woodward Lakes and Lodges makes a great investment too.

Investment opportunities are available to enable owners to generate an income

Woodward Lakes and Lodges is open every day of the year and has a full 12 month holiday park licence ensuring total piece of mind and the very best of value for your investment.

Askern

A1

M18 Moorends Thorne

Adwick Le Street

Hatfield

A19

4

A630 A1(M)

DONCASTER A638

A630

4

M18 Junction 4

Rossington

Conisbrough

A638

Inspired luxury living at Woodward Lakes and Lodges

Luxurious Lodges built to your specific desires and needs Contact Julie for an informal chat on: 01302 833962 or 07976 390477 e: info@woodwardlakesandlodges.co.uk

www.woodwardlakesandlodges.co.uk

A1(M) M18

M180

A18

Tickhill

Sat Nav

DN3 3EH Bawtry

Junction 4 M18 • Holme Wood Lane Doncaster • DN3 3EH

Part of the Blue Anchor Leisure group

HOTEL STAY

ROTHAY MANOR HOTEL Nestled in the heart of the English Lake District, Rothay Manor Hotel is a truly memorable place to stay.

LOCATION Brilliantly located in Ambleside and the Lake District at the turn-off to the Langdales, halfway between the town and Engand’s largest lake, which is in easy strolling distance.

AMBIENCE Think Regency decor with a country house feel - unpretentious yet formal with crisp white linen and exquisite service standards.

ROOMS There are 19 individual rooms here and we found them particularly well appointed and practical for modern requirements, with USB sockets by the bedheads so you could reach your phone while re-charging.

Everything had been thought of, through to mirrors being well positioned for lights and sockets. Each room comes complete with en-suite, flat screen televisions with Sky TV, Molton Brown toiletries and large fluffy bathrobes and towels. Accessible and dog-friendly rooms are also available.

DINING Where do we start? Not often are hardened travel writers left speechless, but then one person’s gastronomic utopia might not be the same as another’s. It was definitely ours, and a delightful fine dining journey through subtle flavours and textures which left us wanting to return as soon as posible. The Designated Driver cocktail comes highly recommended, and we loved the fact that there was

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something for everyone on the extensive wine list. Make sure you book for dinner and if you can, the 8 course Tasting Menu - it’s part of the experience!

ENCHANTING SURROUNDINGS We enjoyed afternoon tea in the beautiful

garden, relaxed in the lounge while thumbing through the Beatrix potter book out on display, and relaxed quickly here.

Staff here made us feel really welcome, and nothing was too much trouble. It’s the kind of hotel where after visiting once you’ll feel like a regular guest.

SPECIAL TOUCHES If you feel like a day fell walking you can request a mountain pack, and you can

start your day with the papers and a very good breakfast including home-made preserves.

PROS/CONS PROS: Outstanding dining experience, accessible suites, dog friendly, easy parking, wonderful ambience and great service.

CONS: We really didn’t find any - we absolutely loved it!

hotel@rothaymanor.co.uk www.rothaymanor.co.uk 01539 433605 @UKStaycation.org

The Sleep Geek’s guide to getting a better night’s sleep on holiday

I

f the worry of getting a poor night’s sleep away from your own bed is crushing your holiday excitement, fear not, because in conjunction with holiday home manufacturer Willerby, Channel 4’s Sleep Geek, James Wilson, has delivered some valuable top tips to get the best slumber possible.

Consistency is key When sleeping in two different environments, try and keep some consistency across the places that you sleep. Mirroring your bedroom at home by using the same pillow and duvet, or even buying two and leaving one at your holiday home will make a real difference to helping you get a quality night’s sleep.

Top tip: Smell is a very powerful sense when trying to make a new environment feel like home, so if you use a particular air

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freshener, or brand of washing powder, be sure to use the same one in your holiday home.

Mattress decisions When it comes to selecting your mattress in a holiday home, look for one with springs, as this will provide an airflow under your sleeping body which will allow the drop in core temperature your body needs to sleep well. Pocket springs combined with quality fillings will ensure your body has the support it needs.

Keep it cool Having the correct room temperature is key to getting a good night’s sleep.

For most people, the bedroom needs to be cooler than the rest of your holiday home and you should be able to feel this coolness as you walk into the room. Aim for a core temperature between 16 and

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20 degrees celsius, which you easily can monitor with a mini thermostat, or even keep track of on digital and smartphone versions.

Tend to your sleep needs Once the room temperature is correct, you must also ensure the immediate sleep environment is right (between the mattress and duvet). If you are a hot sleeper then changing your duvet to a lighter one, or with a different filling, can make you more comfortable and ensure that you go to sleep and, more importantly, stay asleep. Having a separate duvet from your partner can really help, as we all have different sleep needs and having a duvet that is right for you is important. It also stops us fighting over the duvet during the night!

Top tip: If you feel the cold in your sleep look for feather, down and man-made materials which are designed to trap the heat in. For those who struggle to stay cool, select more natural fillings such as silk, bamboo, wool and alpaca fleece that will allow your body to breathe and ensure your core temperature is maintained.

Fall asleep, stay asleep Your body loves consistency when it comes to the sleeping environment, for example, if you fall asleep with sound, or

have a light on as you fall asleep, these should stay on all night. This is because, throughout the night your body goes through numerous sleep cycles, and when you come out of one cycle and enter into the next, the body will check to make sure everything is as it was when it went to sleep.

BETTER SLEEP IN YOUR HOLIDAY HOME To help ease your way into ‘The Land Of Nod’, Willerby offers a Simply Better Sleep upgrade option, with a Hypnos superior sprung double or king-sized mattress.

This also includes the Super Sleep singles range which has been especially designed to cater to the size of all twin bedrooms across the Willerby range.

You can find out more about their new Simply Better Sleep upgrade option at willerby.com/sleep. While you’re there, why not explore some of their stunning holiday homes and lodges and find out more about holiday home ownership – they have a wealth of useful information on their website and it’s like taking a bit of a virtual-holiday just looking!

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Mossyard Holiday Park

BEACHCOMBING FOR HIDDEN GEMS WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE PERFECT PARK FOR MAKING MEMORIES AS A FAMILY

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Views out to the Mouth of Fleet Bay

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UMFRIES AND Galloway is an area that we’ve all heard of but not all of us will know where it is, but pop it into your search engine and you’ll soon realise it’s a bit of a hidden gem, very worthy of a closer look.

Situated in the South West of Scotland, here you’ll find an undulating coastline of rocky shoreline and sandy beaches, with plenty of great walks, inclines, forests and green spaces to explore.

The park we’re looking at here is a great example, situated near Gatehouse of Fleet and looking out over Fleet Bay and with a choice of sandy beaches. The shallow side of the bay is perfect for families looking for a safe place to potter in the water, and the park owners tell us that families tend to return year after year once they’ve found it, to enjoy paddling, kayaking, boating and an array of water sports this spot lends itself to.

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Stunning lodges designed to make the most of the views

MOSSYARD HOLIDAY PARK

Mossyard has been the home of the McConchie Family for five generations and offers visitors the hospitality of a family run tourism business with the attractions of a working farm – a beef and sheep farm totalling 1300 acres. The holiday park is now run by John and

Joanna McConchie, backed by their team on park.

What makes this park different from most is the community feel; families returning through the generations to enjoy their holidays on a park with that same family feel, intrinsically linked with the local area and all it has to offer. It becomes their go-to

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Retreat Homes and Mossyard Holiday Park worked together to create these stunning escapes

Comfortable and luxurious accommodation looking out at fantastic views - what more could you wish for?

escape where family memories are made; off the beaten track yet with so much to enjoy that it’s a bit of a treasure trove of natural riches.

There are several ways to stay here; with cottages, static holiday homes and lodges all offering great variety of accommodation and price range.

There are also motorhome/touring and camping facilities.

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There’s plenty to explore in the area too, from historic castles and pretty towns to visitor attractions and lovely walks to enjoy. The Galloway Forest is nearby, known for its dark skies, and if you fancy a quick walk from your lodge then the nearby Ben John will quench your thirst for an elevated view.

HEADLAND LODGES

In 2020 a new development of lodges has been added on their headland area with wonderful views out to Fleet Bay which can be enjoyed from inside the lodge living areas or on the enclosed decks at the front of the lodges. So, with sea views to the front, they have evening sunsets and views to Ben John and the Galloway

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Modern, contemporary and practical

Warm and inviting at any time of year

Hills from the rear of each lodge.

These vistas are what captured our attention to look at this park closer, recognising immediately the stunning lodge interiors with the signature feel of Retreat Homes, the manufacturer who builds them. The concept behind this lovely development was they needed to provide the ultimate seaside retreat, and we think they’ve achieved that

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Families are well catered for here

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admirably. Each lodge has it’s own interior theme and colour scheme, and a great deal of attention has been paid to detail in the design which will pay off for the guests.

The theming reflects the location and environment, and so does the experience. Furniture is sourced locally, and the welcome packs include local produce and even flowers from a local farm. For those with their own boat there’s a slipway and help is available with boat launching if needed.

The accommodation offers the perfect self-contained retreat, and local suppliers such as the butcher and fishmonger deliver to the park, so you can simply relax and enjoy every moment of your stay here.

DESIGN FLAIR IN THE LODGES

Speaking of the process of working on the lodges with Retreat, Jo McConchie told us; “We knew we wanted to work with Retreat again straight away. They supplied us with lodges on another area of the park and we knew that they would understand exactly what we were aiming to achieve with the new lodges on the headland development. They also build to a very high quality. I had quite a few ideas and they are great listeners, happy to have input as all their lodges are individual and unique.

I wasn’t afraid to be demanding as I knew we all shared the same exacting standards and vision. We’re really pleased with the end result.”

Looking at the lodges closely we can see that there are some fantastic practical elements built in here which

The design and specification in these lodges is exe (this is the Clover Lodge and the others shown are

Each lodge is themed differently and the detail is exquisite

It would be really easy to relax and unwind quickly in such a stunning spot!

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@UKStaycation.org

ABOUT RETREAT HOMES & LODGES The perfect park partner for this stand-out park With a reputation for innovation in design and superb build quality, Retreat is both a model and brand name, a unique lodge space which many have tried to replicate but few have truly captured.

Every Retreat lodge is unique, with architectural detailing, solid timber cladding and sedum roof options, galvanised steel guttering and floor to ceiling windows. The kitchens are all bespoke, with solid wood kitchen worktops and there’s a crisp, contemporary feel throughout all their models.

Alan Rooke, managing director of Retreat Homes & Lodges describes their ethos; “We never set out to become a mass manufacturer, preferring a steady stream of excellent homes we’re truly proud to put our name to.

emplary e the Muir Lodge)

They are also created to be a destination in their own right, an indulgent experience to stay in, and they do tend to be found in some of the very best parks in the UK, as is obviously the case here. It’s no surprise then to find them the partner of choice for this beautiful park, ensuring that the end result for guests staying in these lodges will be an experience which is as memorable for the indoor environment as the location – a tall order for such a special spot!

For further information about Retreat go to www.retreathomes.co.uk

take real understanding of what it’s like to stay in a lodge, so we feel compelled to congratulate both parties on the superb specification.

From thinking about what the view will be like from every seat to considering if another window should be added to make the most of dual aspect views; they’ve thought of it all. We love the dining area seating, the level of comfort offered by the furniture and the clean and crisp feel.

The décor is quirky and interesting, with textures, tones and materials all adding interest and grounding the lodge with links to the local landscape. We can easily imagine days spent pottering and paddling on the shoreline, or taking in the view from our deck with comfort and luxury at hand inside.

This park is a real gem indeed, and these lodges are absolutely stunning.

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HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE A BIT MORE

Breaks here are being booked quickly so we would recommend hopping onto their website quickly to secure your lodge and preferred dates. After you’ve secured those safely you can sit back, relax or take a tour of the holiday lodge you’ve booked, happy in the knowledge that you have an ultimate lodge break safely in the bag for your family.

To find out more go to www.mossyard.co.uk or www.discoverscotland.net

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BEHIND THE SCENES F

or most of us, arriving at our holiday destination is our getaway from having to think about the world of work. For many, creating our ultimate destination is their passion, and an industry they are proud to work in.

This is why in each issue we’ll be taking time to showcase some of the services, products and components which could all come together to create the next great UK Staycation destination or place to stay.

BUYING A HOLIDAY HOME Key points to consider

There are a number of important questions which would-be buyers of holiday homes should ask before reaching a final decision.

How far afield should I look?

To get the most out of holiday home ownership, many people choose a park location no further than two or three hours’ drive from where they live.

When can I use my holiday home?

It is important to check the months of the year in which a park is open for you to use your holiday home. Some parks are open all year, but many close for two or three months in winter.

How can I tell if the park is right for me?

Visit several parks to get a feel for what’s on offer, if you can, speaking to existing owners if possible. Some parks may also hire holiday homes, and you could consider a short break in order to better judge the park and surrounding area.

What influences the cost of a holiday home?

Prices for a caravan holiday home or lodge vary up and down the country, and like conventional properties, location is a key factor influencing the cost – together with the range of facilities offered by the park, such as a pool or entertainment.

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What’s included in the price?

The quoted price will almost invariably include all of the carpets, furnishings, kitchen appliances and other basic equipment. If buying a new holiday home, there may be options such as double glazing, upgraded central heating, decking or even a hot tub on the veranda to consider.

What else should I budget for?

If you are buying a brand new unit – as opposed to buying a holiday home already located on the park – check if there’s extra to pay for having the unit transported, sited and connected to utilities. Other costs to consider will be the annual pitch fee (what you pay for the right to occupy your pitch on the park), utilities such as water, gas and electricity, plus rates and insurance for your holiday home.

Will I be asked to sign a contract?

It’s in your own interests to ensure that you sign a written contract (known as a “licence agreement”) from the park. In fact, we would not advise going ahead with buying a holiday home unless you have been provided with a written agreement – and have read, understood and are happy with its terms. It is important that you review and are satisfied with the terms offered to you at the park of your choice.

What should I look for in the agreement?

caravan holiday home, but the term may be longer – especially if you are buying a lodge.

Also check the agreement for any park rules which might apply to you. For example, if you wish to sub-let, is this allowed? Are pets permitted on the park, and will this affect you? Will you have free use of park facilities such as a swimming pool?

What happens if I decide to sell?

Check the agreement for what will happen if you decide later to sell the holiday home or to move it off the park, and what the financial arrangements will be. The agreement should specify, for example, the amount of commission which may be applied to the selling price. The commission recognises the park owner’s interest in the land, and the transfer of the agreement rights to the new owner.

Is my holiday home just for leisure use?

Yes, most definitely. You can use your holiday home for short breaks and longer holidays, and some retired people spend many of the summer months in their second home. But it cannot be used as your main residence as this would breach the park’s site licence, and you would have none of the protection in law provided to occupiers of residential parks. Don’t be surprised if the park asks you for proof that you have a permanent home address elsewhere.

Check especially how long the agreement runs for as this will lay down how many years you can keep your holiday home on the park. Ten years should be the minimum for a

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Dynamic Web Marketing by the Park Industry Specialists “Sell My Group is the U.K’s number one park industry portal for Buying a Lodge or Static Caravan.

Our mission is to provide buyers with an excellent, fast and stress-free experience, delivered by specialists”

Justin Allitt

Why Use Sell My Group?

Over visits daily a month to Sell Up to 45,000 800 visitors to the the Group Sell Mywebsite Group website My

6000+ followers on social media

Recommended by the major manufacturers

A 1500 word unique park description on our website

Over 8,500 6,000 Emails emails registered registered on our our GDPR GDPR safe safe data database base

Fortnightly property for sale updates

Regular e-shots

Premium Rightmove listings

Sell My Group also provides support for park operators in all aspects of marketing and lead generation, contact us for details.

Call: 03333 445014 or email: info@sellmygroup.co.uk

The Marketplace forthe The Marketplace for the Park Industry UKUK Park Industry

S

ell My Group, the marketplace for the UK park industry, has reached out to parks navigating a tricky marketing landscape in 2021 to offer help.

With Staycations becoming the way forward for many after the pandemic, both short and long-term, the potential is clear.

There is undoubtedly increased demand for lodges and holiday homes in the UK, from both rental and holiday home ownership perspectives, and more holidaymakers than ever are also becoming aware that lodges and holiday homes in park settings are now of such a luxurious standard that they can compete with other accommodation options, faring well in the comparison. Add to that the fact that they are socially distanced by design, and it’s no wonder they are becoming hot property!

Managing Director Justin Allitt said; “Selling a park home, lodge or caravan/ pitch can take time and effort, and the proposition is different from traditional housing in many ways, which is why it’s so important for both purchasers and vendors to use experts, and that’s why I founded Sell My Group in the first place.

Justin concludes; “This is the time for parks to be seen, and for parks with stock or plots available they need to make sure they are being found by potential buyers looking in their area and engaging with them.”

Traffic to the website increased in January 2021 year on year by 97.7%, a clear and promising reflection of the interest in ownership options, and the increasing trend that buyers are now searching online to find out more. Justin added ‘‘There’s a big demand for park holiday homes across the UK and our industry looks set to play a big part in the British recovery!”

That’s great news for parks as many are having to review how they create interest, engage and convert at the moment, making registration with Sell My Group a must-have part of the marketing mix.

STAND-OUT OFFERING There are a few similar websites selling listings for parks so what makes this different? Having been established for several years we’ve already invested in our systems significantly to make them a great resource of information for buyers.

We have the largest directory of parks in the UK, a manufacturer section, and an events page for shows and open days.

We also have a blog offering news, views and advice and a section for park industry services as many of these will be needed by buyers.

OUR PROMOTIONAL METHODS In addition to regular digital and print magazine coverage, we have a range of inhouse methods which work hard to reach potential buyers.

On Rightmove we have general and Premium Listings options, and these can turbo-boost park sales considerably. We also regularly send e-shot marketing bulletins out to over 5,000 subscribers, and can create single park or service promotional versions as another turboboost for sales.

Add our busy, well established social media channels posting daily and it’s easy to see why we are one of the most effective park promotion tools available.

WHAT NEXT? For a no-obligation conversation to find out more about listing your property with Sell My Group you can contact Justin by emailing info@sellmygroup.co.uk, calling 03333 445014 / 07872894192.

To explore the website go to www.sellmygroup.co.uk

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DRESS PACK SOLUTIONS

For holiday homes

As many park owners will know, while park and holiday homes are beautifully dressed at shows and quite rightly so, the dress pack isn’t usually included in the package. Whether you’re a park owner or potential home owner it’s sometimes an element you will need to think about. So, if you inadvertently find yourself with a home which needs dressing, where do you go?

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stablished in 2017 by Tracy Dallow, Dress Pack Solutions has dressed a wide range of holiday homes.

Their service is designed to maximise the desirability and sale price of the home or lodge they are dressing, or to get it ready for rental occupation.

Leading the business, Tracy has worked for over 20 years in the holiday park sector and has a wealth of park and leisure home experience from park operations to management, dressing and show support, making her the perfect expert

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for us to quiz about home dressing.

Known for being dedicated, trustworthy and adaptable, she spotted a growing need for quality dress packs to the sector by offering an alternative to what has become the industry standard.

Who would use your services?

I supply manufacturers, parks with homes and holiday homes they need dressed to help them sell, and holiday home-owners looking to refresh their properties.

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So do the homes not arrive with dress packs?

if you try and do it yourself, and easier for the cost to over-run.

Very few do. Caravans, lodges and park homes come fully furnished and with window dressing, but with no accessories, and all other types of holiday accommodation vary.

For most holiday destinations using our service helps them concentrate on the other elements of their role without distraction There’s also a danger that you can inject too much of yourself into the home design – that can be a good thing with some rental units but not necessarily if you have a holiday home up for sale and you want it to appeal to a broad spectrum of potential buyers.

Why would I use someone to do this rather than do it myself?

There’s both a time and cost benefit to be had by getting a home dressed professionally, and it can sometimes be a false economy for park owners to try and do that themselves. Dressing a home is not as expensive as you might think, but it can both add to the saleability of a property, so it should bring a solid return on investment in helping a home achieve the optimum price.

The same goes for rental properties for short stays. With our home-dressing service there’s no wastage and we can buy at a competitive price.

It can actually be quite time-consuming

So how much do they cost?

For holiday homes such as cottages and glamping units we offer a no-obligation tailored quote. For static caravans, prices start from £525 with 14ft wide caravans from £895 and lodges from £1200.

The majority of our work is in bespoke dress packs for homes and lodges to make them really stand out. Because we know most homes fairly well and have good relationships with the manufacturers and our suppliers, we can quote fairly quickly.

Our brief changes according to the customer as most will want them in keeping with the home’s interior design but also to feel individual and creatively dressed, and that’s where we’re in our element!

How does the pack arrive and who puts it in?

Our bespoke packs arrive by courier, packaged into room sets to help make it really easy to dress the home, and we’re always on hand to talk our customers through where to place items of dressing for maximum impact. That’s also a very Covid-secure way of working if needed. There is a Platinum Dressing Service available so we can do that for you, and the price will vary according to the number of homes to dress and the location.

Do you help parks and manufacturers with open weekends and shows?

Yes absolutely, we attend most of the main trade shows and will help parks get ready for their open weekends – we can even attend to support the sales teams ourselves if it’s helpful and we have sufficient notice. Park sales has been a major part of my background experience in the industry, so I do think that taught me attention to detail. You only get one chance to make a good first impression and I think that’s behind my inspiration for the business. That buzz and energy of selling is something I love.

What if I already have a holiday home and want to refresh it?

Yes we can help with this and can make it quite a personalised service. We carry out this service for parks with units taken in part exchange, and also for owners who simply want to give their home or holiday home a fresh feel.

We have a passion for interior design, and work alongside many of the designers creating original park and leisure home interiors, so we know how to make a space look stunning and fresh. The homes are beautifully built, and it can be such a shame if they don’t have that final finishing touch added which make them

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While that helps engage potential buyers for longer and in different ways, it also allows me to discount the park if working on several sets together. That said, we do work on individual properties too, and quite a few of them!

Do you work in a particular geographical ares?

Although we work all over the UK, we are based on the Devon/Cornwall border so dress all types of holiday accommodation locally including cottages, glamping units, yurts and apartments. With many of these needing to use photography for their online bookings channels, good dressing can make them stand out and improve occupancy rates, so the packs usually pay for themselves pretty quickly.

feel special, and help to connect perfectly with the potential owner or holidaymaker.

Refreshing a unit can include replacing furniture and accessories, blinds and curtains and soft furnishings.

What do you love most about your job?

It’s really satisfying to dress a home personally and see it all in place and working well, but when I’ve just dressed or updated a home and hear it’s then sold shortly afterwards, that really is a great feeling, as I know someone has fallen in love with the feel of the lodge, and I know the dressing will have played a big part in that sale.

What makes you different from other dress pack suppliers?

There are lots of really great leisure developments in progress at the moment, and our service is ideal for several homes being shown at once.

Rather than putting set identical packs in, I can dress them all differently with their own identity and theme in keeping with both the home model and the values and identity of the park.

For further information: T: 01288 321185 E: info@dresspacks.co.uk W: www.dresspacks.co.uk

Running my own business allows me to be flexible, too. Instead of customers having to choose from ‘take it or leave it’ options which might not have everything in they are looking for, or may have more than they want in, I can create tailor made sets, for example with fleet units that only need a select few items added to them to complete a package or add wow factor.

I have plenty of ideas to ensure that the homes are dressed as they need to be, within the client’s budget and that often all starts with a simple conversation.

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THINKING OF HIRING YOUR HOLIDAY HOME OUT? CAN HELP! our aim is for it to be a really user-friendly resource for both those looking to book their next holiday, and the owners with holiday homes available for breaks.”

“With additional support to help both parties navigate through the additional pandemic challenges, we like to think that’s added real value.”

WHAT HOLIDAY HOME OWNERS SAY ABOUT UKCARAVANS4HIRE

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f you’re thinking of buying a holiday home and need to generate an income from it to help offset the costs, then registering with ukcaravans4hire.com could be the best move you’ve ever made.

Successful because it works!

Their business story is a remarkable one, as it grew very naturally after a very simple start, as ukcaravans4hire’s Gareth Irving explains; “I initially set the website up as a favour to a number of holiday home owners who were struggling to pay their site fees,

to try and see if I could put them in contact with holidaymakers.

Within days the website was generating enquiries and an owner had their first confirmed booking within a week! By the end of the first year all the owners had managed to earn enough income to keep their holiday homes and the holidaymakers had stayed in some fantastic accommodation for a great price.”

“We’re not just another listing website –

“I found your website and within 3 weeks I’m on my way to paying the £3000 site fees.” Shelley “Just wanted to say what a brilliant site this is. Within a week both adverts have paid for themselves several times over” - Rachel Steele & family “Just a by the by, your website is brilliant.

We have had over 200 enquiries for this year up to mid February (stopped counting then!) and fully booked to September!”

Janet “Wow... you put us live at 1.30pm this afternoon, 8 hours later we already have a booking for this upcoming weekend and 2 further enquiries.” Douglas “I have had lots of enquiries this year via your site and my bookings are looking good. I am so pleased that I put my caravan advertising with ukcaravans4hire.com!”

Kathleen

For further information; T: 01484 535340 E: email@ukcaravans4hire.com W: www.ukcaravans4hire.com

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App set to enhance guest experiences for holiday parks

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or holidaymakers, being able to access relevant information while on a park is highly useful. On parks, this is something park-owners recognise.

BENEFITS TO PARKS •

Over the last 12 months Key Digital have been developing an exciting new digital platform for holiday parks which does this, and it’s now rolling out across many UK holiday parks.

David Lakins MD said, “We think this is going to be a game changer for holiday park owners and their marketing teams.

Being totally unique to the caravan and holiday park sector, Holidaymaker uses smart technology to deliver a better experience for holiday guests across a number of guest-facing devices including a sophisticated mobile app.”

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“We’re able to deliver significant benefits for both guests, park owners and marketing teams. This is done primarily by leveraging smart phone technology that almost every guest carries in their pocket and other digital devices already used on holiday parks.”

As an innovative platform, Holidaymaker integrates with existing booking systems and websites to give personal messaging and notifications. This ensures park guests get the very latest news, updates, offers and park information. What’s more park owners can manage the content for their website, app, tablets, digital signage and more all in one place!

A bespoke park app – Whilst other digital channels are designed to encourage new bookings, Holidaymaker allows you to encourage more spend whilst your guests are on your park.

Push notifications – You’re in control to send personalised messages to inform holiday guests of upcoming events, promotions throughout their stay. Welcome your guests as they arrive on your park or simply thank them for staying with you.

Intelligent FAQs – Address all of your guest’s common questions with our intelligent FAQ tool. Categorise your FAQs and include text, images, and videos. Cleverly these can also feed into a smart speaker skill which can be installed in your accommodation units.

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Smart Phone real estate – Have a presence on the phone screens of your customers

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WordPress controlled – Uniquely, Holidaymaker can be installed and controlled from your WordPress website so there is not a separate CMS required for you to log in to and manage the content.

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Re-bookings – Encourage guests to book again direct and save on OTA commission.

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Show your latest holiday homes for sale along with virtual tours and more – engage with potential home owners whilst they are still on your park.

BENEFITS TO THE HOLIDAY MAKER •

Pre-Arrival Information – Let your guests see all of your latest park health and safety information and know what to expect when they arrive.

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Welcome Packs – Create your welcome packs directly within your app – enhance them with easy to watch help videos and checklists.

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Interactive Maps – Let your guests orientate themselves with your park map and check where the all-important facilities are. Add opening times and additional information.

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Push notifications – Get notified of exclusive offers and deals.

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Booking engine integrations – Enter booking details and view holiday countdown and any balance outstanding on bookings. Integrations available with most booking systems.

We recently deployed the app component of the platform for Beverley Holidays in Devon. “We are delighted with how well this has been received and the great reviews it is attracting. We believe it is unique in the holiday park sector.

90% of guests at Beverley Holidays are arriving on their park with the app already installed – which means there is already a relationship made with their guests – before they have even arrived.”

“Launching our first ever app was a bit of a leap into the unknown for us. However, the two thousand plus downloads and 5-star reviews we’ve seen just in the first few weeks has shown that this is a great new tool for us to connect with our guests and a worthy addition to our suite of digital channels”. Claire Flower – Director, Beverley Holidays

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE Check out the app Apple App Store Google Play Store

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INSPIRING ECO-STRUCTURES OFFER MORE CHOICE THAN EVER FOR UK ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERS

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ith the burgeoning UK Staycation market to capitalise on for 2021, accommodation providers may well be seeking a way of meeting demand quickly according to the changing complexities of the Covid-19 situation, rapidly shifting market forces and in anticipation of a massive surge in demand.

Eco Structures are environmentally friendly, fully customisable units which will help you meet increasing demand quickly, with an average two-day installation time.

Think bath pods, en-suites, decking and glass front doors – these are not only competitively priced, but they are also seriously tempting places for discerning staycationers to stay in, so once you’ve installed them, your guests will be sure to follow.

Sustainable, environment-friendly Eco Tents capitalise on the modern staycation hunger for one-of-a-kind tourism experiences. These aren’t just fancy tents – they’re gateways to unique experiences where guests can escape life, pause, unhook and reconnect with nature without giving up creature comforts.

Everything is designed with your guest in mind to ensure the experiences created are 100% authentic, shaped by the environment and driven by demand. The two-day installation time is designed to

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deliver a fast return on investment, and Eco Structures can be custom-built to give you the freedom to hand-select various components that match your vision.

These are high-standard structures designed to stay put, with doubly insulated canvas, high tensile stretch PVC roof and a unique, galvanised structural steel system with 15 years warranty.

Sutton Hospitality Consultants are UK agents for Eco Structures, which means they are also on hand if needed to help those thinking of installing them. Their expertise is in establishing parks and

glamping destinations from scratch around the UK from brownfield or greenfield sites, although they can also supply existing parks looking simply to extend their offering. Managing Director Andy Sutton says; “We are thrilled to be able to offer Eco Structures in the UK, and from the first point of enquiry we are on hand to help park owners thinking of installing them, so they benefit not only from a great product, but our expertise and support during the process. They offer great flexibility to parks, helping them to fashion their own unique offering.

These aren’t just fancy tents – they’re gateways to unique experiences ...

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To find out more go to suttonhospitalityconsultants.co.uk

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WHAT LIES BENEATH YOUR HOLIDAY HOME FIRM FOUNDATIONS WITH GATEWAY CHASSIS!

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ateway Chassis Solutions are increasingly becoming known as the go-to chassis suppliers to the park and holiday home industry.

With recent investment in plant and equipment and in tandem with research and development centre WheelLab, it’s no surprise to hear that they’ve been working closely with several leading manufacturers to develop cutting-edge chassis for holiday homes, ensuring they are well and truly set on firm foundations.

THE PARK HOME I-BEAM Their Park Home I-Beam chassis was developed in response to demand from these manufacturers for a more costeffective option, either painted or fully

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galvanised, with the strength to support park homes and luxury lodges as they become bigger and heavier.

The Park Home I-Beam is engineered to exceed residential standard BS3632, using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and 3D CAD modelling to ensure each chassis meets the structural requirements of the home that is built on it, allowing for variations in load distribution for areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, which have heavier components.

Changes in the way the Park Home I-Beam has been engineered, and that investment in new plant and equipment in-house to help make the process more costeffective, have ensured that each chassis

produced by Gateway Chassis Solutions is at the optimum price, strength and longevity for the requirement and potential location.

Greg Taylor who leads WheelLab explains; “Value-added, value-engineered technology isn’t just about throwing more steel at the chassis – we look at chassis requirements from several perspectives from one end of the engineering, production and supply process to the other.”

He continued; “We believe the I-Beam is structurally the strongest available in the market in terms of load-bearing capacity, and what’s also notable is that the way this version is designed and assembled

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means that the fully-galvanised option is now more accessible than ever, offering high-corrosion resistance. That makes it the ultimate option for longevity and strength for today’s increasingly advanced park homes and lodges, giving peace of mind to those in coastal locations where corrosion could be an issue.” New construction methods have also allowed the Park Home I-Beam to be transported in quantity, helping to reduce costs with a win-win outcome for both Gateway Chassis Solutions and the manufacturers they supply.

A KEY SELLING POINT AND PEACE OF MIND FOR THE CUSTOMER Managing Director Chris Ramsden commented; “Unsurprisingly the uptake for the Park Home I-Beam has been strong, as by nature it is designed to deliver the strength and durability ideally

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needed for the intended location without adding unnecessary cost to the price of the home or lodge.

He continued; “Our painted Park Home I-Beam offers a cost-effective solution to this weightier segment of the market. In the case of the fully galvanised Park Home I-Beam option, as manufacturers will be able to offer that at a more accessible price than ever, that could add a key selling point for the home or lodge in coastal locations. For the home buyer, it gives peace of mind knowing that the unseen element of their home is built to the same high standards as the home or lodge itself; that’ it’s more than capable in terms of strength, and will last longer without needing attention.”

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The I-Beam is just one of many solutions on offer from Gateway Chassis. Now, more than ever, manufacturers and parks are innovating to bring new accommodation concepts to market. For Gateway Chassis Solutions this is where they offer stand-out support to these innovating manufacturers and parks on projects to help optimise space and opportunity. While ‘what lies beneath’ may be invisible to the holiday home owner, there’s a science behind the scenes which will help ensure that whatever or wherever your holiday home is, with a Gateway chassis it’ll be on sound footing.

Gateway Chassis is also working with manufacturers and suppliers of alternative accommodation including modular builds, smaller units and glamping units, maximising land use for parks.

If you are ordering a holiday home in a coastal location, it’s worth asking for a fully-galvanised chassis

To find out more about Gateway Chassis Solutions

Gateway Chassis Solutions is one of the leading chassis suppliers to the lodge and holiday home industry

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Email: info@gateway-chassis.co.uk Call: 01482 485170 or visit www.gateway-chassis.co.uk.

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YOUR HOME ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS VALUE ENGINEERED.

Gateway Chassis Solutions Ltd 22 West Carr Lane, Sutton Fields Industrial Estate Hull, East Yorkshire HU7 0BW t: 01482 485170 e: info@gateway-chassis.co.uk www.gateway-chassis.co.uk

360° Solutions

From field to park - we ask the transformation experts how!

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ave you ever wondered how holiday parks and tourist destinations emerge from nothing more than promising fields of land? Well, there’s quite a lot behind it, as Sutton Hospitality Consultants explain. With their team of industry experts, Sutton Hospitality Consultants provide 360° solutions to the holiday park, leisure and theme park sector. That often means starting from the ground up, helping to develop greenfield and brownfield sites into profit-making hot-spots.

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT Founder Andy Sutton has been in the industry for 25 years and lives and breathes hospitality and leisure. He says; “Planning and developing a hospitality project can be both exciting and daunting.

With Sutton Hospitality Consultants and our large network of planners, surveyors and developers by your side, we are able to offer advice, support and all the hands-on-help you need to bring projects to fruition. We have a proven track record for delivering from planning to approval, coming in on-budget and bringing you a maximum yield and return on your investment.”

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ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION

360° TOTALLY MANAGED SOLUTIONS

There’s no doubt that Staycations are now big business, and with consumers demanding quirkier and more original accommodation, glamping holidays have also soared in popularity.

Well immersed in the hospitality industry and especially in working on glamping and lodge projects, Sutton Hospitality have a great eye for recognising potential in unusual and obscure projects, helping parks come up with something a little different to help businesses stand out from the crowd.

Sutton Hospitality Consultants offer a 360° managed service for holiday, leisure and theme parks. They can totally manage your park or leisure facility to help you focus on your existing core business if you need to – this way you can be as involved or ‘hands-off’ as you need to be.

From site planning management through to branding, CGI’s and marketing, to elements of the day-to-day running of the parks such as booking processes, training, recruitment and sales development – this 360 ° solution will see them sharing the same determination as you have in

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delivering and growing your business successfully. They’ll be there with you every step of the way, taking the strain.

Summing up the potential ahead, Andy said; “If the offering is well thoughtthrough at outset, delivered on time and offers what the market-place is looking for, it’ll be in the best position to benefit from potential increase in demand, and in turn, future repeat visits. The time to take action to get the ball rolling is now.”

Why not give them a call now for an informal chat to find out how they can help you turn your project idea, starter hospitality business or expansion hopes into a reality?

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Sutton Hospitality Consultants; Tel: 0191 519 7477 Email: hello@suttonhospitalityconsultants.co.uk W: www.suttonhospitalityconsultants.co.uk.

CASE STUDY Keld Springs is an exciting mixedaccommodation retreat in South Yorkshire, offering short stays in innovative glamping units and luxury lodges in addition to lodge ownership opportunities. From viewing an empty field with potential through to planning the concept for this lovely retreat, carrying out detailed market analysis and managing the building control and planning process, they’re

taking it from that empty field into a fully-functioning holiday destination.

Their fast-tracked 360° process will ensure it takes advantage of all the opportunities the burgeoning 2021 staycation market has to offer, so if you think you’ve missed the boat for 2021 you may well be wrong – with their experience they know how to get things right first time to Wdeliver quickly and efficiently on your project.

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“Build it and they will come…”

Greenfi eld Develo Proj e pm en ct t

Connecting with nature, quirky locations and glamping are now at the top of everyone’s

holiday wishlists and Sutton Hospitality Consultants are ahead of the curve when it comes to developing alternative accommodation.

With their ‘Totally Managed’ option, Sutton Hospitality Consultants can remove all the hassle involved in the day-to-day running of your site, allowing you to relax and watch the £s come rolling in!

Call or email today for a feasibility chat and a site visit.

T 0191 5197477 E hello@suttonhospitalityconsultants.co.uk W www.suttonhospitalityconsultants.co.uk leading & promoting the industry

360o Solutions u s s lt a n Pl cy an & nin g

l ta To nag Ma

ly ed

ns C o ine s Bu

With exclusive access to planners, surveyors, lodge and glamping manufacturers all the way through to marketing and staffing your site, Sutton Hospitality Consultants are with you every step of the way, ensuring maximum yield from your land.

S a l e s nt e D e ve l o p m

With the UK staycation here to stay, there is no better time to speak to us at Sutton Hospitality Consultants about our unique 360° Solutions and how, together we CAN transform your green or brownfield site into your very own “Field of Dreams”.

g& nin ent m an Pl lop e ev D

Tra in Rec ing a rui tm nd en t

ject Pro ific ec Sp

A A c l t e r n a t i ve co m m o d atio n

Capitalise on the Staycation Boom to develop your land into a glamping or holiday park with our expert help

B ra n d in g & Marketing