Small design tweaks, big returns: How bespoke lodge design can maximise booking potential
As UK staycation demand continues to grow year-on-year, holiday park operators are under increasing pressure to ensure their accommodation works harder, appeals to wider audiences and delivers stronger long-term returns. Today’s guests expect more than simply somewhere to sleep, says leading UK luxury lodge manufacturer Pinelog. Accommodation today needs to be flexible and appeal to a wide variety of holidaymakers, including multi-generational groups, pet-owners, outdoor enthusiasts and guests requiring improved accessibility. And it all has to be achieved without compromising on comfort or style. For park operators, it’s not just booking potential, it’s also ease of maintenance and quick turnaround times between stays that is equally important. This is all possible with bespoke lodge design. Derbyshire-based Pinelog says that customised lodges are becoming one of the most important factors in helping parks maximise occupancy levels and futureproof accommodation investment. Judy Barwell, Sales Account Manager at Pinelog, explained: “Bespoke design doesn’t have to mean a complete start-from-scratch approach. Often small tweaks to designs within our standard lodge range can deliver exactly what a customer needs, whether it’s an additional bedroom or widened doorways and a wet room for increased accessibility.” Pinelog has been designing and manufacturing bespoke timber lodges for holiday parks across the UK mainland, including five-star destinations such as Kelling Heath in Norfolk and Darwin Forest in Derbyshire for the last 40 years. Over four decades Pinelog has seen how guest expectations have evolved and how relatively small layout adjustments and consideration of fixtures and fittings at thedesign stage, can significantly improve guest satisfaction, operational efficiency and booking potential. Today, when it comes to holiday accommodation, intelligent layouts, thoughtful practical features and carefully considered spaces often matter more to guests than overall size. This is where bespoke design can deliver real long-term value. Here, Pinelog shares six key design considerations that can help maximise appeal, bookings, income potential and the longevity of a lodge. 1. En suite bedrooms En suite bedrooms are increasingly expected by guests, particularly among families, friendship groups and multi-generational bookings. Providing multiple bathrooms gives guests additional privacy and comfort and can make a significant difference to guest satisfaction, particularly in larger lodges. En suites also help position lodges within the premium accommodation market, improving perceived value and supporting higher nightly rates. Importantly, they help lodges appeal to a broader demographic without significantly increasing overall footprint. 2. Utility rooms with separate external access Utility rooms are one of the most practical additions a lodge can include, particularly for parks targeting the outdoor and pet-friendly holiday markets. Pinelog’s Coppice lodge design incorporates a utility room as standard and is a popular choice with holiday park operators. A dedicated utility space with separate external access provides somewhere for guests to store muddy boots, wet coats, and outdoor equipment without bringing dirt directly into the living space. For dog-friendly accommodation, utility rooms can become a major selling point. They provide practical space for dog crates, bedding, food storage and drying muddy dogs. Some park operators are even incorporating warm water dog showers within the utility area. These practical additions not only improve guest experience but also reduce wear and tear on the accommodation itself. 3. Covered outdoor spaces extend year-round appeal Outdoor living remains one of the strongest drivers of lodge appeal, but in the UK climate, exposed decking areas can often be underused for much of the year. Covered verandas and sheltered outdoor spaces can dramatically increase usability during colder months and mixed weather conditions. Pinelog’s new Orryn lodge has been specifically designed with this in mind. Its distinctive extended roofline creates a large, covered veranda area capable of accommodating outdoor dining furniture, seating areas and even hot tubs and saunas while remaining protected from the elements. This allows guests to enjoy outdoor living throughout the year, helping operators maximise seasonal occupancy and enhance perceived luxury. 4. Wet rooms improve accessibility Wet rooms and level-access bathrooms can significantly improve usability for guests with mobility challenges. Importantly, accessible design no longer needs to feel clinical. Modern wet rooms can be highly stylish while still being functional. Features such as widened doorways, level thresholds and accessible shower layouts can make lodges suitable for a much broader audience while futureproofing accommodation for changing guest demographics. 5. Open plan living maximises space Open plan layouts continue to be one of the most effective ways to maximise both functionality and perceived space within a lodge. Pinelog recommends designing kitchen, dining and living areas so they flow naturally together, creating a sociable central hub for guests while helping the lodge feel larger, brighter and more connected. For guests, open plan living creates a more inclusive holiday environment where families and groups can cook, dine and relax together comfortably. For operators, open layouts also simplify cleaning and maintenance, helping reduce turnaround times between guest stays. 6. Integrated storage keeps lodges functional Holidaymakers do not want to feel they are constantly tidying around suitcases, coats and outdoor equipment during their stay. Intelligent integrated storage helps maintain uncluttered, relaxing living spaces. Built-in wardrobes maximise bedroom space while creating a clean, streamlined appearance. In bathrooms, recessed wall niches and alcoves provide practical storage without reducing floor space. Allowing additional room within boiler or utility cupboards for cleaning materials keeps essential items hidden but easily accessible for housekeeping teams. Dedicated cloaks cupboards near entrances improve organisation while creating a more welcoming arrival experience for guests. Designed around the guest experience Judy added: “Our lodges are not ‘off-the-shelf’. Every aspect can be tailored specifically to the holiday park, its target market and the type of guest experience the operator wants to create. “From the layout of kitchens and bathrooms to the finish on internal walls, storage solutions, accessibility features and even the positioning of sockets and lighting, every detail can be considered at the design stage. Unless specifically requested, no two Pinelog lodges are ever exactly the same. “Sometimes it’s relatively small design tweaks that make the biggest difference commercially, whether that’s creating a more sociable layout for families, incorporating practical spaces for dog owners or improving accessibility for multi-generational stays. Making those decisions early in the design process is always far more cost effective than retrofitting later.” For park operators, those early design decisions can
Park Holidays UK to be sold in £768m deal
Park Holidays UK, a major holiday parks provider with 56 parks across the UK, is to be acquired by Aermont, one of Europe’s largest asset management companies. Sun Communities, the US based real estate investment trust which currently owns Park Holidays UK, said it had reached a definitive agreement with Aermont on the sale of all the group’s UK assets. This is subject to the completion of regulatory and governance approvals, and is anticipated to complete in the second half of 2026. It said the move was designed to better enable Park Holidays UK to enter its next phase of growth. Since 2022, under the stewardship of Sun Communities, Park Holidays UK has grown its core business from 42 parks to 56. With a focus on delivering the highest standards for its holiday home owners and guests they have become a multi-award winning business. Park Holidays UK, which also manages its sister brand Park Leisure, plans to expand its footprint further, meeting strategic growth objectives whilst maintaining its focus on quality. Jeff Sills, Chief Executive Officer of Park Holidays, commented: “We are grateful for Sun’s partnership and support over the past several years. “Together, we have continued to build and strengthen Park Holidays, and I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished. “We look forward to the next chapter for the business under Aermont’s ownership and remain excited about the opportunities ahead.” Giovanni Manfredi, Managing Director at Aermont added: “We are delighted to be part of the extraordinary business that the team at Park Holidays UK has created, and we look forward to supporting the company as it embarks on its next phase of the growth.”
Echo Financial Services – proud to support the caravan and holiday park sector
Echo Financial Services, one of the UK’s most experienced specialist financial advisory firms, has reaffirmed its commitment to the caravan and holiday park sector with an expanded suite of services designed to address the industry’s unique tax, regulatory, and operational challenges. With over five decades of hands-on experience, Echo continues to be a trusted partner to park owners navigating everything from HMRC disputes to succession planning and capital investment. Echo’s reputation is built on deep sector immersion, having worked with park operators across England, Wales, and Scotland on matters ranging from income declarations and VAT treatment to park acquisitions and refinancing. The firm’s relationship with the British Holiday Home and Park Home Association (BH&HPA) has underscored the assurance facing independent and family-run parks. Tailored Services for Park Operators: Echo’s park advisory services include: Echo provides bespoke advice to park operators of all sizes, helping them achieve financial stability and growth in a complex regulatory environment. Contact Christopher Perry at Echo Financial Services Telephone – 01666 846791/ 07879 496474 Email – cp@echofinancialservices.co.uk
Registration Opens for the Land Leisure & Tourism Show 2026
Registration is now officially open for the Land Leisure & Tourism Show 2026, as the UK’s leading event for visitor attractions, holiday parks, experience providers and rural businesses returns to the NEC Birmingham on 4-5 November 2026. Proudly hosted by Agriconnect, the show marks its fourteenth edition, bringing together thousands of industry professionals who are focused on creating unforgettable visitor experiences and driving business growth. Co-located with the Farm Business Innovation Show, the Land Leisure & Tourism Show offers an even broader platform for growth, reflecting the increasing crossover between rural enterprise, tourism and leisure. Designed for both established operators and new entrants, the Land Leisure & Tourism Show provides a powerful platform to explore innovative suppliers, gain expert insight, and discover the trends shaping the sector in 2026 and beyond. From increasing profitability to diversifying revenue streams, the event delivers practical, real-world solutions to help businesses build resilient, future-ready operations. A showcase of innovation and industry insight As the UK visitor economy continues to grow, with VisitBritain reporting 43.6 million overseas visitors in 2025, standing out in a competitive market has never been more important. The Land Leisure & Tourism Show plays a vital role in supporting businesses to meet this demand, offering access to the latest products, services and innovations shaping the future of leisure, tourism and hospitality. Some exhibiting companies you can expect to see at the show include, Walter Geering, ParcVu powered by Booking Experts, Creative Play, Beyonk, World of Rides and much more. A key highlight of the event is its extensive seminar programme, designed and produced by Cheryl Waterman. Known for its relevance and impact, the programme combines strategic thought leadership with practical guidance, ensuring visitors leave with actionable insights they can implement immediately. New features for 2026 The 2026 edition will introduce four brand-new features, designed to enhance the visitor experience and provide even more opportunities for discovery, networking and inspiration: The Speakeasy Lounge: An intimate, immersive environment where content, conversation and networking come together. Designed with a nod to experiential trends, this space will host thought-provoking sessions and foster meaningful connections in a more personal setting. The Holiday Park Village: A fully immersive, experience-led feature bringing a real-world holiday park environment to the show floor. Visitors can explore solutions in context, interact with suppliers, and gain practical ideas to implement in their own businesses. The New Product Trail: A curated journey through the exhibition, highlighting the latest innovations and trailblazing businesses. This feature ensures visitors can easily discover cutting-edge products shaping the future of the sector. The Start Up Hub: A dedicated space for emerging businesses operating for two years or less, offering fresh ideas, new technologies and the next generation of industry solutions. A must-attend event for the sector Purpose-built for the UK visitor economy, the event delivers step-by-step guidance grounded in real case studies, highly targeted networking opportunities, and access to innovations that can drive measurable commercial impact. Whether you’re looking to source new suppliers, gain expert advice, or stay ahead of industry trends, the Land Leisure & Tourism Show 2026 is the place to be. Register now to secure your place and be part of the future of the UK visitor economy. Claim your free pass here – lltshow.com
What Good Record Keeping Looks Like for Park Operators
Good record keeping is one of the most important — and most overlooked — responsibilities of a UK caravan or holiday park operator. Accurate, accessible records support compliance, protect the business during inspections, and provide evidence in the event of disputes or incidents. Whether you manage a small independent park or a large multi‑site operation, strong documentation practices reduce risk, improve operational efficiency, and demonstrate professionalism to regulators, insurers, and residents. This guide outlines what “good” looks like, the records every operator should maintain, and practical steps to build a reliable, compliant documentation system. Why Record Keeping Matters Essential Records Every Park Should Maintain How to Organise Records Effectively Compliance Considerations Practical Next Steps for Operators
Managing Customer Complaints in Holiday & Residential Parks
Managing Customer Complaints in Holiday & Residential Parks Customer complaints are an unavoidable part of running a caravan or holiday park, whether you operate a small family site or a large multi‑park group. What matters is not the volume of complaints, but how effectively they are handled. A well‑managed complaint can turn a dissatisfied guest into a loyal advocate, while a poorly handled one can escalate into reputational damage, regulatory scrutiny, or even legal action. For UK park operators, complaint handling is also tied to compliance expectations from local authorities, the Housing Ombudsman (for residential parks), and industry bodies. This guide sets out a practical, structured approach to managing complaints professionally, consistently, and in a way that protects both guests and the business. Understanding Complaints in Caravan & Holiday Parks Complaints typically fall into a small number of categories: Understanding the root cause helps operators prioritise, investigate, and respond appropriately. Quick Wins to Improve Complaint Handling Longer‑Term Improvements Compliance Considerations Practical Next Steps for Operators
Caravan Park & Camping Site Outdoor Care: A Practical UK Operator Guide
In today’s competitive caravan and camping industry, first impressions matter more than ever. Guests expect more than just a place to pitch – they’re looking for clean, well-maintained surroundings, durable grass areas and safe, accessible facilities. For site owners and franchise operators, delivering this consistently across the season can be a challenge. This guide, created by the experts at ProGreen, outlines the key outdoor areas to focus on, and how to manage them effectively year-round. 1. Start with Strong, Durable Grass Pitches Grass pitches take the greatest strain on any site. Between vehicle movement, foot traffic and the unpredictable UK weather, it doesn’t take long for pitches to become worn, patchy or muddy. Best practice: • Use a high-wear, fast-recovering seed mix designed specifically for caravan sites • Overseed regularly to prevent thinning • Repair worn areas early to avoid pitch downtime ProGreen’s specialist caravan grass seed is formulated to thrive in UK conditions, delivering reliable growth and strong recovery able to withstand heavy use. For operators, this means faster turnaround between bookings, less time spent on repairs and consistent quality throughout the season. For guests, it creates a much better experience, thanks to firmer ground, less mud and a cleaner finish. 2. Keep Hard Surfaces Clean, Safe & Presentable Hard surfaces such as pathways, patios, decking and access roads are just as important as the pitches themselves. If they aren’t maintained, not only do they quickly become unsightly, but they can also create safety hazards, with slippery surfaces posing a risk to guests and staff alike. Best practice: • Treat problem areas regularly, not reactively • Focus on shaded and high-moisture zones • Build surface cleaning into routine maintenance schedules Products like AlgoClear Pro hard surface cleaner are designed to tackle algae and organic growth quickly and effectively, helping restore surfaces with minimal disruption. 3. Implement a Proactive Weed Control Plan Weeds don’t just affect appearance – they signal poor maintenance to guests and can quickly spread across both grassy and hard surfaces. Common problem areas include edges of pitches, fence lines and boundaries, and gaps in paving and access routes. Best practice: • Move from reactive to planned weed control • Treat early to prevent escalation • Ensure you are using selective and total weed control depending on your requirements A structured weed control programme helps maintain a clean, consistent look across the entire site, while reducing labour time spent on repeated fixes. ProGreen has a wide range of weed control options, from total weed control, ideal for hard surfaces, and selective weed control for use in grassy areas. 4. Ensure Staff Are Trained & Compliant Using professional-grade outdoor treatments correctly is essential, not just for results, but for safety and compliance. Best practice: • Ensure operators hold relevant certifications (e.g. such as PA6 spraying) • Follow correct application procedures • Prioritise health & safety at all times Training gives your team the confidence to apply products safely and effectively, avoiding costly mistakes or misuse, which maintains standards across the site. ProGreen’s highly-skilled in house trainer can deliver a range of in-person training courses, which can be held at your facilities or their dedicated training facility. Online courses are also available for a number of training needs. 5. Take a Joined-Up Approach to Site Maintenance One of the biggest challenges for site managers is juggling multiple suppliers and solutions.A more effective approach is to treat outdoor maintenance as a joined-up system, where: • Grass, hard surfaces, weed and pest control are managed together • Advice and support on best products and application schedules come from one trusted partner This improves your site’s efficiency, consistency and budgeting, ultimately raising your overall site standards to give your guests the best experience possible. Ready to Raise Your Site Standards? Whether you need advice on the right products, support building a maintenance plan or a tailored quote for your site requirements, ProGreen can help. As a holiday park owner or operator, you can enjoy an exclusive 10% off your first order with ProGreen using code CIPO10 at checkout, or you can quote this code via telephone if you’d prefer to speak to someone. Visit progreen.co.uk to explore the full product range or call the team on 0330 912 8837, who will be able to offer a bespoke quote and maintenance plan tailored to your site.
Caravan Guard shortlisted for Customer Experience Award
Caravan and motorhome insurance specialists, Caravan Guard, is celebrating after being shortlisted for the Customer Experience Award at the 2026 British Insurance Awards. The West Yorkshire based firm will go head-to-head with five other UK companies at the prestigious national awards ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall in London this July. The British Insurance Awards are the insurance market’s biggest celebration of excellence and innovation, recognising companies that are setting new standards for customers across the industry. And the Customer Experience Award celebrates organisations that put customers at the heart of everything they do. Caravan Guard’s shortlisting reflects a sustained programme of improvements to make it easier than ever for motorhome and campervan owners to get quotes, take out cover and makes claims. The insurance specialists impressed judges with their passion for delivering brilliant customer experiences, their work to support new motorhome and campervan owners, and a simple, intuitive quote and buy journey. Their entry also highlighted excellent customer feedback scores, high levels of customer loyalty and sustained growth in the motorhome and campervan sector. Caravan Guard’s Managing Director, Ryan Wilby, said he was delighted for the family business to be recognised on a national stage. “Being shortlisted at the British Insurance Awards is a fantastic accolade for the whole team,” he said. “To be recognised alongside some of the biggest names in the insurance industry at such an iconic venue, is something we’re incredibly proud of. The competition is strong, but having made the finals before, we’re keeping everything crossed that we can bring the trophy home for continuing to put our customers first.” For more information about Caravan Guard’s specialist insurance cover for motorhomes, campervans, caravans and trailer tents visit www.caravanguard.co.uk.
Oil crisis fuels holiday parks bookings boom for families…and Fido
Park Holidays says a surge in summer holiday bookings – currently up by 17% on last April’s figures – will bring a much-needed boost to local economies across Britain. And, says the group, it’s also good news for the nation’s dogs as families shun overseas destinations in favour of a UK stay on which they can take their pets. Park Holidays reports that the rise in holiday caravan and lodge bookings is evident across all its 55 holiday parks in England, Wales and Scotland. The demand, it believes, is being fuelled by fears of flight cancellations by airlines – and possible steep hikes in ticket prices – during the continuing oil crisis. “People are reacting to reports of possible jet fuel shortages, and acting now to secure their summer holidays,” said Brad May, chief marketing officer for Park Holidays UK. “For many families there is just too much uncertainty about going abroad this year, and they are opting for a stay in Britain which will give them more control over their plans. “Our 17% increase in bookings represents thousands of holidays, and this will provide a massive income boost to the rural and coastal communities where our parks operate. “That’s a very real positive for local businesses and people they employ – but let’s not forget the upside this will also bring for our four-legged friends. “Families staying on our parks can share the fun with their dogs and not have to think of them pining away and missing their owners,” said Brad. Facilities on many parks include dog-washing stations, dedicated dog walking areas, and park cafes and restaurants which don’t insist that pooches park themselves outside. “This latest rise in holiday bookings continues the trend we saw last year when people chose a UK stay to avoid the searing temperatures and wildfires in mainland Europe,” said Brad. “We’re proud to be a major player in an industry generating around £12.2 billion of visitor spending each year, and delighted that this summer is set to break new records,” he added. More information about 2026 holidays at Park Holidays, including dog-friendly holidays from £129.00 for a three-day break, is available at www.ParkHolidays.com
