Tag Archives: Tourism

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.

Book Releases, News

New Book “Dare to C.A.R.E.” Reveals How Individual Growth and Organisational Transformation Supercharges Customer Experience

Whilst there are many benefits to modern technology’s ability to connect us with new people and information instantly, it can mean work is never far from reach. Consequently, this blurring of boundaries has seen 41% of employees negatively affected by poor work-life balance on a daily or weekly basis. For global hospitality executive and life & personal development coach, Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu, this not only impacts individual well-being but also professional performance, particularly in customer-facing roles where constant positivity is expected. Within her illuminating new book Dare to C.A.R.E., Dr. Vlasceanu provides a much-needed framework that synthesises individual growth with organisational transformation to thrive both personally and professionally, supercharging customer experience.

Dr. Vlasceanu is deeply passionate about the intersection of customer experience and well-being. Whilst businesses are acutely aware of the importance of customer experience, regularly experimenting with new ways to increase loyalty and satisfaction, too often are they neglecting the well-being of their individuals who hold the key to making a profound difference. It’s evident that if leaders want their teams to be delivering their best professionally, employees must also be feeling their best personally.

Using Dr. Vlasceanu’s transformative approach to life, well-being, and customer experience – developed from several decades of practical expertise in global hospitality, business management, and life coaching – individuals and businesses can become the best versions of themselves and leave their customers wanting more.

The book is grounded in Dr. Vlasceanu’s signature C.A.R.E. Model for turning adversity into success – Connection, Authenticity, Re-engineering, and Evolution. Practical throughout, Dare to C.A.R.E. provides tools that can be easily implemented in everyday life. As readers progress through the book, they feel increasingly empowered to tackle personal and professional challenges, exploring topics such as overcoming limiting beliefs, gaining confidence, developing resilience, spiritual connection, and cultivating a positive mindset.

Dare to C.A.R.E. also provides strategies for businesses on how they can support their employees and build more resilient teams that drive sustainable success. From personal development that will enable them to create meaningful connections and improve customer experience, to approaches that will allow them to reduce burnout company-wide and deal with crises efficiently. An accompanying suite of resources and courses are also available to supplement learning on the Global Hospitality & Maritime Leaders website. Dr. Vlasceanu’s anecdotes and life lessons from her time in the cruise and hospitality industry are also weaved throughout the book, increasing the relatability and applicability to real-life scenarios currently faced by employees and organisations alike.

Endorsed by acclaimed industry experts such as Robert Richardson (CEO of the Institute of Hospitality) and Professor Dr. Gabriela Țigu (Dean of the Faculty of Business and Tourism at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies), it’s clear that Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu provides a comprehensive strategy for prospering in a complex and uncertain world. Dare to C.A.R.E. proves it’s possible to simultaneously protect individual well-being, supercharge personal growth, and craft meaningful customer experiences that truly make a difference.

Dare to C.A.R.E. by Dr. Carmen Vlasceanu is available on Amazon and in all good bookshops from the 19th March 2025.

Business News, Marketing, News from Wales, PR and SEO

Oaks Digital and Seren Global Media join forces to meet tourism marketing needs

Oaks Digital, a Cardiff-based digital marketing agency, has partnered with Seren Global Media for its latest Digital Academy webinar, designed specifically to address the unique challenges faced by marketers in the tourism and leisure sector.  

Sponsored by Ogi Pro, the free workshop will help marketing professionals in the leisure and tourism sector navigate industry-specific challenges and improve their digital marketing and communication strategies. Covering key marketing pillars with a focus on the sector’s unique needs, the session will address topics such as SEO, Google Ads, lead conversion, customer retention, media relations, brand identity, and crisis management. 

 The ‘Master Digital Marketing and Communications in Leisure & Tourism’ workshop will be the latest instalment of Oaks Digital’s academy live webinars, which have seen booming attendance and five-star feedback. Kicking off on Wednesday, March 26 – the free academy session will offer business owners and marketers the opportunity to upskill and stay up to date with the latest digital marketing, in an accessible and ‘jargon-free’ way.   

 An innovative start up agency –Oaks Digital was founded early last year, by Director Mark Oakman. After more than a decade in digital marketing, Mark witnessed countless businesses struggle with subpar digital products, poor customer service, and misleading sales tactics. Determined to change this, Mark founded Oaks Digital —a company built on transparency, fairness, and delivering digital solutions that truly serve clients. 

 The agency has thrived since its launch, working with many respected businesses on a local and national scale – such as Wildlife Trusts Wales, Shelter Cymru, World Accessible Holidays, and Westcoast Perimeter Security.

Seren Global Media, a PR and marketing agency based in Swansea, was founded in 2013. It is dedicated to producing high-quality content adaptable across multiple platforms in an ever-evolving media landscape. Since its launch, Seren Global Media has grown strength-to-strength, working alongside businesses with local and national prominence – such as Swansea Building Society and Child of Wales. 

 Mark Oakman, Director of Oaks Digital, said:  

“We are thrilled to be kicking off another instalment of our Digital Academy, after such a positive response from attendees as well as recently securing sponsorship from Wales’ leading broadband provider – Ogi Pro! 

“Collaborating with Seren Global Media on our next academy session allows us to bring a fresh approach and new ideas to digital marketing education. Together, we’re ensuring that businesses in the tourism and leisure sector have the tools they need to thrive in a landscape that is continuously evolving.” 

Wyn Jenkins, Managing Director of Seren Global Media, said:  

“We are delighted to be partnering with Oaks Digital on this exciting collaboration, which will allow us to expand our reach and introduce even more innovative strategies to the table, in a unique sector.  

“By combining our expertise, we will not only be educating businesses but also empowering them with the tools and insights to navigate the digital marketing space with confidence, building stronger, more meaningful connections with their audiences.” 

To register for the academy sessions, people are encouraged to visit Oaks Digital’s website, or the agency’s eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/master-digital-marketing-and-communications-in-leisure-tourism-tickets-1137478281159?aff=oddtdtcreator 

News

Holiday park unveils plans for multi-million pound sustainable ‘treehouse’ accommodation

SF PARKS plans to build luxurious multi-million pound ‘treehouse’ accommodation at one of its most popular holiday resorts.

The proposals for WhiteHouse Leisure Park in Towyn would complement a recently constructed climbing wall, ‘The Jump’ and a high-ropes course at the award-winning site, in addition to a planned upgrade to the existing Jakes family restaurant and pub, an amusement arcade, a cinema room, and soft play, along with the creation of a spa and gym.

This latest development comes after directors Jonathan and Oliver Seldon were given the green light last week for a six-lane bowling alley, rooftop bar, extended amusement arcade and new reception at neighbouring Golden Gate Holiday Centre on Towyn Road.

Both schemes were designed by Conwy-based AK Architects, and Jonathan is confident the new sustainable treehouse accommodation – which, if approved, will feature three landscaped treehouses complete with private swimming pools, fire pits, sauna pods and more – will be unlike anything else in the region.

“The designs are incredible, and we are hopeful – subject to planning permission – this will be a high-quality, unique addition to WhiteHouse Leisure Park,” said Jonathan.

“They are very high-spec and luxurious, amazing sustainable structures suitable for families that along with our ‘Wow Lodge’ – which will soon be launched – will feature a private swimming pool and attract more holiday guests to the resort, giving them something a little different.”

Oliver added: “The last few years have seen us invest significantly in our portfolio as we aim to provide even more for our owners and visitors – this could be the biggest project yet.”

Reflecting on approval of the Golden Gate application, Jonathan said: “That project has been in the pipeline for some time, so we look forward to bringing the vision to reality.

“These attractions could be used by caravan owners and the public throughout the year, so as well as having a positive impact on our customers, there will be a knock-on effect for local businesses, the economy and tourism spend in this area, which is important to us.”

In addition to White House and Golden Gate – which host more than 830 caravans – SF Parks owns Riverside and Sun Valley in Rhuddlan, and Sirior Bach in Moelfre, Abergele.

For more information and to contact SF Parks, email opteam@sfparks.co.uk.

Alternatively, visit www.sfparks.co.uk and follow them 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.