Hoseasons’ statistics are probably the best indicators of what is going in the domestic holiday park and lodge industry, as they have the largest selection on offer in the UK. They may not own or even manage the properties, but Hoseasons are the travel operator many go to to book their breaks and holidays.
And the good news for Hoseasons is their holiday parks and lodges bookings are up 19% year on year, and over the last week website bookings are up 25%. This may not be good news for those who’ve left it a bit late as it means that accommodation over this much sought after weekend is going to be very thin on the ground.
Managing director Simon Altham has put the increase down to several factors, including worries about Calais leading to many opting for a staycation instead of a break in France. He did note however that despite external influences the figures do support the year on year trend of an increase in domestic holidays. More.
Again, all good news for holiday operators, but not so for families trying to get those last few days away in before they pack the kids back off to school. For those without children however this is a good time as the following weeks will see big price reductions and increased availability (plus a little less noise in the pool!).
We’ve had a look around the usual sites, Park Holidays, Haven, Park Resorts and Hoseasons and we weren’t able to find any availability. But we do know that some operators will have last minute cancellations available by phone, so that’s always worth a try.
And, if you’re not tied to the school break there are some good deals available for midweek breaks starting on the 31st of August. Park Resorts have got some great late availability deals for the period, with four night breaks stating at £99, and it’s still sunny folks.
Summer’s almost gone, but, there’s still plenty opportunity to pack a fews days fun in before the clocks go back, especially if you don’t have children or, if you’ve got a good reliable babysitter who’ll let you escape without the little darlings for the weekend. Go on, you deserve it!
By: Gareth Whieldon
