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News

Holiday park unveils new wellbeing hub and family facilities in landmark year

A newly launched craft lodge, café, and wellbeing hub is drawing even more families to one of the UK’s top holiday parks.

Talacre Beach Resort by Darwin Escapes—celebrating its 60th anniversary—has unveiled the family-focused facility in response to growing demand from both guests and owners.

Located on the resort’s 44-acre site, the all-weather venue is already proving popular. Entertainment Supervisor Rychard Martinez said it has become a hub for guests of all ages.

Activities range from pottery painting, yoga, and mindfulness sessions to jewellery and fabric crafts, food-making experiences, and the much-loved ‘Stuffed with Fluff’ teddy factory workshops.

“The lodge is brand new but doing fantastically well, so we are already looking to introduce a wider variety of sessions,” said Rychard.

“It’s not just a craft centre it’s a place to make memories, which is why we have activities which involve creating and making items like jewellery, beach bags and pottery, so visitors can take them home as a reminder of their time with us.”

“The teddy factory in particular has been very popular as, like all our activities, it is more accessible and affordable than what you might see elsewhere, the experience is very hands-on and interactive.”

He continued: “We serve food and drink and there are areas for parents to relax while their children enjoy themselves, or they can of course join in the fun!”

“The facility is open to the public and available all-year round for parties and functions, which provides local families with a place to visit when the weather is not so nice.”

“And there are health and wellbeing events at the end of each day as a way for people – and our amazing team – to wind down after hours of playtime!”

“As a base it brings everyone together, to make new friends and acts as another community centre-point here at Talacre, so we are delighted with how well it’s been received.”

The Craft Lodge adds to the park’s wide range of family attractions, including the Go Active programme, which features archery, Panna Soccer, Sea Scooters, NERF Bunkr Battles, and disc golf.

Part of a recent £1 million redevelopment, the resort has also upgraded its clubhouse, accommodation, pool access, and added a games zone and children’s playground, helping Talacre Beach continue to draw thousands of holidaymakers from the UK and beyond.

For more details or to book a tour of Talacre Beach Resort, visit the website: Static caravan holidays at Talacre Beach, North Wales | Darwin Escapes, and follow @darwinescapes on social media.

To learn more about The Craft Lodge, visit: The Craft Lodge | Talacre Beach Resort | Darwin Escapes.

News

Award-Winning Piran Meadows Celebrates 10 Years of Holiday Magic

One of the UK’s leading holiday parks is marking a major milestone this year, as Darwin Escapes’ Piran Meadows retreat in Newquay celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Nestled in the scenic south of England, the 33-acre resort has welcomed guests from across the UK over the past decade. It recently earned top honours at the prestigious Hoseasons Awards, taking home the Diamond Awards for Best in Britain Holiday Park and Relax and Explore Cornwall Large Park.

The success of Piran Meadows is overseen by General Manager Paul Wilcox, who also manages another award-winning site nearby – Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat, recognised in the Cornwall Lodge Escapes category.

Paul described the region as a “jewel in the crown” of the Talacre-based holiday company and revealed there are exciting plans in place to attract even more holidaymakers and lodge owners this summer and beyond.

The Easter holidays saw the launch of a host of new events and activities at the 181-lodge resort, all of which were met with an enthusiastic response. Employing 50 local staff and injecting significant investment into the surrounding economy, Piran Meadows is preparing for what could be its busiest season yet.

“It’s easy to see why this was named Best in Britain, the spectacular location and scenery alone are a major USP for us,” said Paul.Set featured image

“But with this latest programme of events we are aiming to also encourage more locals to use the amazing facilities following investment, notably the bar and restaurant, five-star gym, sauna, and steam room.

“There was also an upgrade of the indoor heated swimming pool, coffee shop, bowling alley and sports complex, so we are aiming to increase our membership beyond the 300 mark this year.”

The resort’s GoActive programme is back with even more family-friendly options, including bunker battles, ‘wizard workshops’, axe-throwing, rookie lifeguard lessons, and pool parties.

“We have introduced more entertainment to meet demand, which was really popular when trialled last year, especially the discos, cabaret, and live music, and our New Year’s Eve celebrations are legendary in this area,” said Paul.

“What people love more than anything is the friendliness of the team, they go above and beyond every day and foster a real community spirit, which leaves people wanting to return year after year.

“That has been the case for the last decade, so long may that continue.”

To learn more about Piran Meadows, visit the website: Lodge Breaks & Caravan Holidays in Newquay | Piran Meadows (darwinescapes.co.uk).

Follow Darwin Escapes on social media at @darwinescapes.

News

Two decades at the top for luxury seaside lodge retreat

A PICTURESQUE lodge retreat with some of the best views in the country has been attracting owners to North Wales for more than two decades.

Seaview Holiday Home Park in Gwespyr is one of the most tranquil and scenic locations in the Darwin Escapes portfolio.

A stone’s throw from the company’s flagship Talacre resort in Flintshire – which has just celebrated its 60th anniversary – the two sites share leisure and hospitality facilities, including a tropical pool and newly-renovated games area, clubhouse and children’s playground.

However, nestled on the side of a mountain with an unrivalled landscape taking in the Dee Estuary and Irish Sea, it is the natural beauty of the park which has brought people from all over the UK to its “stunning setting”.

Group Head of Sales Shaun Roberts said: “At Seaview it is not the facilities, investment or entertainment which makes people want to become owners, it is the surroundings.

“For 22 years it has remained almost untouched, and is an absolutely stunning setting for that reason, an environment of calm, quiet and nature.

“We have found that has attracted people here year after year, with many couples and retirees in particular loving the solitude and tranquillity, coupled with its proximity to Talacre, which in comparison is a vibrant, bustling seaside caravan community more popular with families and younger owners.”

Supporting local businesses, the economy, and encouraging tourism spend, the resort’s “understated quality” has been mirrored by others in the region since the turn of the century.

“Seaview has set the benchmark, there is a market for the simple, peaceful caravan or lodge park and Darwin Escapes remains the standard bearer,” added Shaun.

“That and the ability to mix it up by utilising the resources and activities at Talacre are why this remains one of our most prominent resorts.

“There is currently some availability so if anyone wants to pay us a visit to find out more, we would love to welcome you.”

For more information, visit Holiday Park In North Wales | Seaview Holiday Home Park | Darwin Escapes and follow @darwinescapes on social media.

News

Luxury lodge park celebrates 10th anniversary with major revamp of leisure facilities

A LEADING holiday park operator marked 10 years ownership of a luxury coastal retreat with a major revamp of its sports and leisure facilities.

Aberconwy Resort and Spa is one of the jewels in the crown of the Darwin Escapes portfolio.

The Talacre-based company acquired the Conwy site from Ken and Linda Houghton in 2015 and has invested heavily over the last decade.

The award-winning, Michelin-recommended Signatures Restaurant, Mali’s Hair Salon and Escape Spa and Beauty are among the businesses attracting thousands of customers to the resort each year.

And now a major overhaul of the popular Langley’s Country Club and Gym – including state-of-the-art exercise equipment and fitness technology – will raise the bar even higher for owners at one of the most picturesque lodge parks in the country.

Sales Manager Rick Spencer – who also celebrating 10 years at Aberconwy – says the rebrand and redevelopment have been welcomed by owners.

“The site is first-class and high quality, but we do have a rolling programme of improvements and upgrades to ensure the very best facilities, the latest being a suite of new health and fitness equipment and machinery in the gym to complement the indoor heated pool, jacuzzi and sauna,” said Rick.

“We have owners who have been on the park for more than 25 years, it’s the blend of their natural surroundings and our commitment to quality that have kept them here and attracted new people from all over the UK.”

He added: “When Darwin Escapes acquired the site it was quite run down, there were more than 70 empty plots, and it was in need of some TLC.

“Having worked here for 10 years I’ve been on the journey since the start, and the change has been quite incredible, the park really has gone from strength to strength.

“Taking into account the businesses here in addition to our own team there are more than 40 people employed on site, so as well as boosting tourism there is a knock-on effect for the local economy.”

With 283 plots in total, the five-star park is nestled between Mynydd y Dref (known as Conwy Mountain) and Conwy Bay – there is even a path direct to the beach, less than a minute’s walk away.

“This is a resort like no other, perfectly located off the A55 and just a stone’s throw from the sea on one side and mountains on the other, near the marina, a World Heritage Site and less than 30 minutes from the heart of Snowdonia,” said Rick.

“We are almost at maximum capacity but there is some space available so anyone interested in joining the community here should get in touch before the busy summer season begins.”

For more information on Aberconwy Resort and Spa, visit the website Lodges & Static Caravans for Sale in Conwy | Aberconwy Resort & Spa and follow @darwinescapes on social media.

News

Seaside retreat unveils new-look facilities following significant investment

A POPULAR seaside holiday retreat has undergone major redevelopment following a period of significant investment.

Darwin Escapes’ New Pines Holiday Home Park, on the outskirts of Dyserth and Rhyl, unveiled a raft of improvements ahead of the summer.

External and internal redecoration and construction of an outdoor seating area with landscaping followed a revamp of the indoor swimming pool, complete with new tiled floor.

The bar restaurant has been extended, the entertainment complex and Cabaret Lounge stage area upgraded, and a snooker table installed to complement a games room – featuring table football, pool tables and air hockey machines – and Kiddies Zone.

Employing 40 staff and with more than 300 caravans and lodges on site – the family-friendly resort is renowned for its “community feel”, attracting owners from across Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire, the Midlands and beyond.

Group Head of Sales Shaun Roberts says the investment demonstrates their continued commitment to caravan and holiday homeowners.

“The upgrades we have made over the winter months have been significant,” he said.

“The feedback from owners has already been incredible and I’m sure the facilities will prove very popular, especially over the summer as the weather improves.”

Shaun added: “New Pines is one of our most well-established parks and particularly popular with families from the North West, Staffordshire and Midlands areas, many of whom have been with us for decades.

“The park was already looking good following improvements in past years but looks even better now, and in addition to a revamp of our dining, entertainment, outdoor and games areas we have also upgraded the gym equipment and technology.

“A completely new pool floor is another huge investment, which will enhance the indoor environment for swimmers – that is a major USP for us.”

In addition to an elevated experience for owners there will be special offers and discounts for the public in the future.

“Given the demand, we are looking at ways to open up these exclusive facilities for visitors,” said Shaun.

“Everyone at New Pines receives a warm welcome, it is an incredibly friendly family environment.”

He added: “This is a park like no other, the feeling of community is unparalleled, and we have watched several generations of different families grow up here.

“They love the location, just a stone’s throw from the beach on one side and countryside on the other.

“We have seen an increase in sales recently, and with the raft of improvements and the significant investment in past months I’m sure more people will be joining us ahead of what looks like being a very busy season once again.”

For more information on New Pines Holiday Home Park, visit the website Static caravans for sale in Rhyl | New Pines | Darwin Escapes and follow @darwinescapes on social media.

News

Holiday park operator sparkles with seven Diamond awards at major national prizegiving

A LEADING holiday park operator sparkled at a prestigious national prizegiving.

Darwin Escapes won a staggering seven Diamond Awards at the illustrious Hoseasons Awards, held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel.

Hosted by TV presenter and broadcaster Dermot O’Leary, the ceremony was attended by companies from across the industry UK-wide.

Among the accolades received by Darwin Escapes, based in Talacre, Flintshire, was the Best in Britain Holiday Park title for its stunning Piran Meadows Retreat in Newquay.

The resort also won a Diamond Award for Relax and Explore Cornwall Large Park, while Beach Cove Coastal Retreat in Ilfracombe received the prize for Devon, Somerset and Dorset Small Park.

Norfolk Woods Resort and Spa in Kings Lynn picked up the title for East of England Large Park, Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat in Ryde, Isle of Wight, for South of England Large Park, and Heart of England Large Park went to Rivendale Lodge Retreat in Ashbourne, Peak District.

Finally, Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat in Cornwall emerged victorious in the Cornwall Lodge Escapes category.

Group Operations Director Drew Campbell thanked staff for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

“We are so grateful to our amazing teams across the country, and of course our loyal visitors and owners as they too play an important role in us winning these incredible Diamond Awards,” said Drew.

“We are privileged to be in the running every year due to the high standards of Darwin Escapes, but to win seven titles is just incredible, especially given these accolades are based on customer reviews and experience.”

He added: “For Piran Meadows to be named Best in Britain is especially heartening it is one of the jewels in the crown and has been attracting holidaymakers to the north coast of Cornwall for more than a decade.

“It is a first-class site in a unique location so congratulations to the team there and thank you again to everyone who had a hand in this success.”

Employing more than 30 staff, Piran Meadows unveiled high-quality facilities following an initial £8m acquisition, including a complete overhaul and extension of the 33-acre park.

Sales manager Gavin Hewitt revealed activities including axe-throwing and rock climbing – as part of their popular GoActive programme – created a buzz locally and nationwide.

“This is a resort like no other,” said Gavin.

“While we have owners from as far away as Wales, the North West and all over the country, our presence in Cornwall continues to grow.

“There is a real community feel and many of the owners have been here for years – we have all grown together and are excited for the next chapter.”

For more information and to register your interest in holiday home ownership, visit Holiday Park Resorts UK | Ownership & Short Breaks Resorts – Darwin Escapes.

You can follow Darwin Escapes on social media at @darwinescapes. 

News

Holiday park celebrates 60th birthday following major redevelopment

A JEWEL in the crown of a national holiday operator is celebrating its diamond anniversary.

Darwin Escapes’ Talacre Beach Resort is 60 years old and showing no signs of slowing down!

The popular 44-acre site, on the North Wales coast in Flintshire, is one of the busiest in the region with more than 450 caravans and lodges.

Following a £1million redevelopment – including investment in the clubhouse and accommodation facilities, access to the pool and a new games area and children’s playground – the family-friendly park has continued to attract thousands of holidaymakers and owners from across the UK and beyond to the coastal village, which has a population of less than 500 people.

One man who has seen many changes in recent times is Sales Manager Chris Williams, who joined the resort – previously Morfa Camp – as a nightwatchman in 2004.

“Talacre Beach Resort opened in the 1960s and has always been hugely popular, notably with people from the Midlands and the north of England,” said Chris.

“Most of our owners live within a two-hour radius as they have children or are retirees, but we have had several generations of the same family here which shows you how much they love it.

“I’ve worked at the park under two different ownerships and there has always been a real community feeling, and since the transformation under Darwin Escapes there has been even more for people to enjoy.”

That was reflected in a strong start to the autumn, with an influx of new owners joining the five-star tourist board award-winning park, bucking post-pandemic trends.

Chris believes redevelopment of the wider location and neighbouring activities and attractions such as the historic Point of Ayr lighthouse and RSPB nature reserve, amusement arcades, cafes and bars and traditional ice cream parlour, are additional USPs which draw people to the area.

“Despite the many people who visit us every year, this part of the coast is still something of a hidden gem,” he said.

“Talacre is a fantastic place and there is so much to do, especially here on the park where we also have a tropical swimming pool, state-of-the-art gym suite, bar and restaurant, play areas and more, as well as a busy calendar packed with live events and activities.

“But for many the biggest selling point is the beautiful beach, taking in the sea air and being away from the hustle and bustle of the built-up towns and cities and urban areas they travel from, it gives them a much-needed escape from the day to day.”

Chris added: “I think one of the biggest factors in our success and longevity is trust; we have owners who have been with us for decades, they appreciate the transparency and tend to be aspirational.

“Many began with a lower range caravan and have upgraded over the years to high-end lodges or their dream holiday home, which is lovely to see – as we grow, they grow with us and vice versa.

“I’ve seen so many things change over the last 20 years but there has been one constant and that’s the smiles on people’s faces when they open the doors to their caravan for the very first time – long may that continue, and here’s to another 60 years in Talacre for Darwin Escapes.”

For more information and to book a tour of Talacre Beach Resort, visit the website Static caravan holidays at Talacre Beach, North Wales | Darwin Escapes and follow @darwinescapes on social media.

News

Thousands to descend on luxury lodge retreat for fireworks spectacular and winter event series

THOUSANDS of visitors will descend on a luxury lodge retreat which plans to end the year on a high with a series of epic events.

Darwin Escapes’ Kilnwick Percy Resort and Golf Club in Pocklington, East Yorkshire, has a raft of activities and attractions for all the family to enjoy in the months ahead, including its popular Fireworks Spectacular on Sunday November 3.

Employing 80 staff, the 180-acre site – acquired by the award-winning company in 2017 – is one of the region’s hidden gems, with incredible views, woodland trails, 34 two-storey lodges, a state-of-the-art gymnasium and The Box Health and Fitness suite.

The pet-friendly park also has two restaurants and has become a popular venue for weddings and corporate functions, attracting people from all over the UK and beyond.

With a thousand revellers set to attend their bonfire celebrations, Deputy General Manager Terri Cooper is confident the event will tee things up perfectly in the run up to the busy festive period.

“The Fireworks Spectacular is one of the jewels in the crown locally, when families from all over East Yorkshire and wider areas join us for an amazing afternoon of music-led displays from the incredible Fireworkers – who successfully competed at the British Firework Championships – fairground rides, live entertainment, food and drink and more,” said Terri.

“The lodges, 18-hole championship golf club and restaurants are very popular – notably, we have seen a rise in the number of people getting married here, given our picturesque location and the exclusivity we offer – but I think we are also becoming well known for our programme of activities all year-round.

“All of this has made a huge contribution to the regional economy and placed us in the forefront of people’s minds when it comes to family functions, corporate gatherings, and larger celebrations, as well as our growing reputation as a destination for tourists, businesses, and local residents.”

She added: “We were something of a hidden gem but that has changed in recent years given the investments in our facilities and the growing number of people visiting the park. We are also now the largest wedding venue in the area.

“There is even more in the pipeline for 2025, in addition to the Halloween, Christmas and New Year programme of activities we have in store, so watch this space.”

Kilnwick Percy Resort and Golf Club also features a relaxing Tranquility Spa and Nordic Relaxation Spa Area, unique hotel pods, and nature lovers can enjoy the endless walking trails, woodland paths, wildlife and countryside around Pocklington, and the 120-acres of forest which surrounds the site.

Other upcoming events include Gin Tasting with Big Willy Distillery, a 1940s and 1950s night, painting workshops and afternoon tea, a Winter Wonderland Wedding Fayre, Mediumship and Clairvoyance with special guest Wendy Shelton, and a drag cabaret night.

For the latest news and information, visit Kilnwick Percy Resort & Golf Club | Darwin Escapes and follow Darwin Escapes on social media at @darwinescapes.

News

Luxury lodge retreat unveils ancient woodland attraction following significant investment

A LUXURY holiday retreat celebrating five years on the east coast will take a walk on the wild side this summer.

Darwin Escapes’ Norfolk Woods Resort and Spa in Pentney, King’s Lynn, has unveiled a series of forest trails to open-up access to a unique and biodiverse woodland habitat which visitors can enjoy.

Employing 30 staff and attracting hundreds of visitors and owners from across the UK, the popular, pet-friendly park – which has up to 120 spaces for rental and ownership – has been described as one of Norfolk’s “hidden gems” by Sales Manager Ellen Vardy.

Following a period of significant investment and modernisation, facilities including a high-quality spa, sauna and steam room, gym, sports pitch, The Bistro bar restaurant and heated indoor swimming pool – with activities such as mini jet skis, body zorbs and water walkers, via the GoActive programme – have been a big hit with families, as have the incentives to buy a holiday home; such as free site fees and energy bills, and 50% off site fees for 2025.

But Ellen says a newly built series of forest trails through ancient woodland area have opened-up the 30-acre site – a previous winner of Hoseasons’ award for the Best Relax and Explore destination in the East of England – and capitalised on their ability to bring visitors closer to nature, guided by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT).

“The woodland was completely untouched, so we have sensitively incorporated picnic spots, seating areas, bridges and pathways to enable guests to take in some amazing sights, sounds and smells. It’s a great place to sit and relax, walk the dog, and enjoy the fresh air,” she said.

“You see something different every time because it is so biodiverse, from rare plants, bees and butterflies to MuntJac deer, squirrels, woodpeckers, buzzards and owls, and we are trying to encourage even more wildlife to make Norfolk Woods their home.

“This is a beautiful part of the world, people come here to escape suburbia, for peace and tranquillity – the stunning environment is without doubt our greatest asset and a major USP for owners.”

At the heart of the community, the resort hosts regular music jam sessions in the bar, and supports local businesses supplying Norfolk produce, notably organic honey, freshly baked cakes, and award-winning gin.

Ellen said: “This is such a friendly and welcoming holiday park. We’re one big happy family, and that in turn has led to a steady rise in both visitor numbers and holiday home ownership since 2019.

“It’s a special place, the interaction we have with our owners and guests is amazing, and to be a part of their lives is heartwarming.

“Whether they’re having a good day or a bad day, there is a real community feel here, which makes us stand out from some other holiday parks.”

She added: “While we have owners from across the country, there is a strong connection with King’s Lynn and neighbouring towns and villages, and we are close to some of the country’s most wonderful landmarks, from Sandringham Estate and 15th century Oxburgh Hall to Norfolk Lavender and the beautiful North Norfolk beaches and coastal villages.

“Norfolk Woods is all about making memories, and while we have developed and modernised facilities it is the people here that make the difference, and some of them have been with us since day one.

“For anyone looking to buy a holiday home in this amazing part of the world, now is the time to join us as we have a wide range of deals and discounted offers, as well as first-class leisure facilities that will appeal to all.”

For more information and to register your interest in holiday home ownership at Norfolk Woods, call 0800 717 707 or visit the website Holiday Breaks & Lodge Ownership in Norfolk | Norfolk Woods (darwinescapes.co.uk). You can follow Darwin Escapes on social media at @darwinescapes. 

News

Slice of luxury at leading holiday parks following major investment and redevelopment

LUXURY lodge owners and visitors can enjoy a slice of comfort and leisure at picturesque holiday resorts following multi-million pound investment in the South West.

Darwin Escapes’ five-star parks at Cheddar Woods Resort and Spa, Somerset, and Hawkchurch Resort and Spa in Axminster, Devon, have attracted thousands of people to the region over the last decade.

Employing up to 100 staff across the two sites, the company has pumped hundreds of thousands of pounds into the local economy and both are thriving as destinations popular with residents and tourists, according to Senior Sales Consultant Stacey Dabinett.

At Cheddar Woods in particular, which was sensitively built on the grounds of a much-loved former campsite and BMX track in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), there has been a major transformation since day one.

“Darwin Escapes enhanced the location with an emphasis on greenery and landscaping, so we can welcome many holiday-home owners every year without imposing on the natural surroundings,” said Stacey.

“There has been significant investment on-site, but our number one USP has to be this incredible setting, which is why so many families have bought lodges here, notably for the views across the Somerset Levels to Glastonbury Tor.

“We are surrounded by nature and one of our most beloved features is a series of woodland walks which take in the amazing wildlife right on our doorstep, from deer and birds of prey to rare plants and more.”

A range of holiday homes are spread across the park, complemented by facilities including a heated indoor swimming pool with mini jet ski, ‘water walkerz’ and sea scooter sessions, which are available at a discounted rate for owners.

There is also the bar and bistro, the Eden Spa, sauna and steam room and activities via the popular GoActive programme, including climbing, bowling and archery, also enjoyed by the local community.

Meanwhile, at Hawkchurch on the south coast – which has a population of less than 600 people – the scenes are equally idyllic.

At the core of the local community, Darwin Escapes has redeveloped its footprint to include 120 lodges – 40 for ownership – and high-quality features, notably the exclusive Ezina Spa, with its hydrotherapy suite and pool complete with water cannons, waterfall, loungers and soothing treatments.

“The Spa has been a major transformation in the last 12 months and proven to be a hit with owners, who are here for peace and tranquillity, to get away from it all,” said Stacey.

“Both parks are surrounded by beautiful countryside, and I think reflect the ethos of Darwin Escapes, embracing and enhancing the surroundings, providing employment, supporting regional economies while creating environments which appeal to different demographics.

“Whether you’re a family with young children or a couple looking for a perfect home from home, there is something for everyone, especially here in the South West, and both Cheddar Woods and Hawkchurch are testament to that.”

For more on Darwin Escapes Cheddar Woods, visit Holiday Breaks in Cheddar – Cheddar Woods (darwinescapes.co.uk).

Visit Holidays in Axminster & Devon – Hawkchurch Resort & Spa (darwinescapes.co.uk) for the latest on Darwin Escapes Hawkchurch.