Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK – which owns a number of holiday and residential parks in the South-East and London – has (9 July) concluded the purchase of Stonham Barns Park in Stonham Aspal, the much-loved holiday park renowned for its vibrant retail spaces and diverse activity offerings.
This acquisition marks the beginning of an exciting new era for the park, promising enhanced experiences for guests and visitors.
Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK has purchased multi-million-pound parks from both corporate groups – including Park Holiday and Park Dean Resorts – and family owners and in each case have improved the standard of the parks and elevated standards and enhanced service levels, delivering improved experiences for holiday accommodation owners and the staff employed by the parks.
The parks in the group’s portfolio include Sheerness Holiday Park, Thames Retreat, Wayside Leisure Park, Central Beach Holiday Park, Ashcroft Coast Holiday Park and Seasalter Holiday Park.
Patrick Cosgrove, managing director of Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK, said: “We have enjoyed much success growing the Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK business over recent years and we are delighted to confirm that, as new owners of Stonham Barns Park, we are looking to introduce fresh ideas and improvements.
“Planned upgrades include modernising accommodation, expanding activity programmes, and enhancing the retail experience. The vision is to build on the park’s existing strengths and create even more unforgettable moments for visitors.
“Stonham Barns Park is a heritage venue with so much to offer guests and visitors. Originally a mid-Suffolk agricultural farm complex and birds of prey sanctuary, it has grown into a vibrant venue which has a place in the hearts of so many people.
“Guests can expect seamless continuity in service during the transition, with new enhancements gradually being introduced. The community will benefit from increased employment opportunities and a boost in tourism, as the reputation of this Suffolk gem continues to grow under new leadership.”
David Hudson and David Hinrichsen, partners at FRP Advisory, had been appointed as Joint Administrators of Stonham Barns Park in February this year, maintaining trading operations before arranging the sale to Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK.
David Hinrichsen, partner at FRP Advisory, said: “Stonham Barns Park is a well-established site with a strong history, and that underlying quality was reflected in the level of interest we received once it was brought to market.
“Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK is an experienced, family-run operator with a track record of investing in the parks it acquires, and it is well placed to take Stonham Barns Park forward. We’re pleased to have completed a sale that keeps the site trading and secures its future.”
Located in Suffolk, Stonham Barns Park has established itself as a premier destination for families, couples, and groups seeking a memorable getaway. The park boasts a wide range of amenities, including retail shops, eateries, and a variety of recreational activities catering to all ages. It also hosts around 30 events ranging from car shows to country music festivals during the year at its Mid-Suffolk Showground.
The new owners have expressed their commitment to developing the park and upholding the traditional family values held by the park. There are three generations of the Cosgrove family involved in the business today Paddy Seagrove, his son Patrick and grandsons Paddy Jnr and Mick supported by Cosgrove Leisure Park’s Operations Manager Andy Johnstone.
Stonham Barns Park’s retail village features an array of over 40 shops offering everything from local artisan crafts and interior design to antiques, trading cards, marine corals, garden plants, hot tubs and garden buildings. It also has three beauty businesses and provides essentials for holidaymakers staying at the park. In addition to shopping, guests can enjoy a host of activities such as golf, adventure golf, fishing, visits to the award-winning Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, playgrounds and walks. The park also hosts seasonal events such as Halloween activities, Christmas markets and entertainment hosted by Legends Bar and eatery Café 24, making it a lively hub throughout the year.
Concludes Patrick: “With the purchase of Stonham Barns Park by Cosgrove Leisure Parks, both regular guests and first-time visitors can look forward to an invigorated experience. The park is set to reach new heights, offering exceptional holidays, lodge and static ownership, retail therapy, and a wealth of activities for all.”
