The UK holiday and leisure park industry is a lucrative business. It is worth around £7.2 billion and generates £12.2 billion in revenue. With staycations on the rise and demand for quality accommodation increasing, starting your own holiday park business can be an excellent investment if done right. Here are some tips on how to build a profitable holiday park business that will keep customers returning year after year.

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Licensing

You’ll need relevant licences for serving alcohol, providing entertainment, operating amusement rides, etc. from local councils.

Planning Permission

Obtain planning permission from local authorities for any new constructions or change of land use. Adhere to any development restrictions.

Health and Safety

Comply with H&S laws on water quality, fire safety, electrical, gas and lift inspections, equipment maintenance etc. Conduct risk assessments.

Accessibility

Provide accessible facilities as per the Equalities Act. Consider those with disabilities.

Insurance

Have valid public liability insurance as well as coverage for property, employees and vehicles.

Fire Safety

Have fire certification for accommodation. Install smoke alarms, evac signs, extinguishers.

Food Safety/Hygiene

Follow regulations if serving food and drinks. Train staff on safe practices. Register with environmental health.

Select the Right Location

One of the most important decisions will be choosing the location for your holiday park. Look for scenic spots near tourist attractions, beaches, national parks, etc. that will appeal to holidaymakers. Ensure there is good road/transport access. Research visitor numbers and footfall in the area. Target popular domestic holiday destinations as well as spots that attract international tourists.

Once you have a location, talk to a leisure and recreation construction about designing the infrastructure you need. A leisure construction company can handle things like water and sewage systems, road construction, and more.

Create Fun Activities and Facilities

Holiday parks need to provide more than just accommodation. Focus on creating a range of on-site activities, facilities and entertainment that will keep guests engaged throughout their stay. This could include kids clubs, outdoor sports areas, swimming pools, restaurants, arcades, live entertainment and more. Staying on-site should be an experience in itself.

Offer Quality Accommodation Options

Provide high-quality, comfortable accommodation catering to all budgets and group sizes. Offer a mix of camping pitches, caravan holiday homes, glamping options, lodges and fully equipped rental units. Decor, amenities and service should aim for at least a 4-star standard.

Invest in Great Staff

Employ friendly, experienced staff to manage reception, housekeeping, maintenance and activities. Well-trained staff can make a huge difference to the smooth running and reputation of your holiday park. Offer competitive wages and training to attract and retain talent.

Create a Unique Brand Identity

Give your holiday park a memorable brand name and logo that reflects your offerings. Build a professional website highlighting your accommodations, facilities, location, etc. Promote across social media and via targeted advertising to establish your reputation. Distinguish yourself from competitors through superior service standards, facilities or niche offerings.

With the right business model, strategic location, and focus on customer experience, your holiday park can become a leading player in this profitable industry. Conduct thorough market research, build up significant capital, and leverage local partnerships to help your new venture succeed.