Traditional UK Seaside Caravan Holidays Still Popular into 2012 Say Haven

Seaside fun with Haven Holidays

Haven Holidays recognise that more and more families want to embrace all the simple pleasures of a seaside break just like the ones we all loved as kids.
Our guests are leaving the TV and computer games behind them and re-discovering all that’s great about the great British holiday’ says Britain’s favourite seaside holiday operator. ‘With so many families opting to stay in the UK in preference to overseas travel we’ve noticed a real nostalgia for seaside breaks. Building sandcastles on the beach, skimming stones in the sea, fish and chips, crab-fishing, games of beach cricket and jumping over waves with your trousers rolled up. Timeless family fun within easy reach on Haven’s 35 UK holiday parks.’

The holiday company, who have parks in some of Britain’s favourite locations around the British coast added ‘Feedback from our customers suggests that top priority for Mums and Dads is a holiday where the family can spend time together away from the stresses of everyday life. This means more family activities, plenty of new experiences for kids, lots to do whatever the weather and most of all, easy access to the beach.’

Haven caravan holidays offer the freedom for families to choose how to spend this precious time together. If exploring rock pools is top of your agenda there’s no compulsion to join in with the action-packed agenda of entertainment and activities – but if your kids are looking to try something new, want to make new friends in the kids’ clubs, love the buzz of the entertainment or can’t resist the lure of the swimming pool then it’s all available. And better still, there’s loads included in the cost.

Plans for Haven family holidays 2012 include an action packed indoor Sports Complex at Craig Tara complete with a climbing wall, indoor multi-sports, golf simulator, a jungle themed soft play area and a café where parents can relax and kids can refuel. There’s a new golf course opening at Primrose Valley and several parks have responded to the increased popularity of camping and caravanning by making their touring facilities even more attractive and user-friendly.

Splashing in the water always keeps the kids happy, in fact it’s hard to get them out of the pool. Every Haven park has indoor heated leisure pools and next season there will be new and super-enhanced water-based attractions at several parks, including a lazy river at Reighton Sands, a lovely new outdoor pool at Wild Duck and plenty of family splash-fun at Kiln Park with slides and an outdoor dancing water play area.

Eating, drinking and evenings out are always a big part of the holiday experience and a number of parks are enhancing their restaurants, bars and cafes. Caister (Britain’s first ever holiday park) will have a brand new contemporary ShowBar whilst customers at Devon Cliffs and Riviere Sands can enjoy a yummy cream tea in their new beach cafés and at Devon Cliffs have the added joy of breathtaking views over Sandy Bay. But what about the weather?

‘Whilst we like to think the sun always shines on a Haven Holiday, the truth is, from time to time we do get some rain!’ said Haven. ‘Our advice is to pack your favourite wellies and waterproofs as well as buckets and spades and let the kids enjoy a bit of puddle jumping”

Kids Clubs are free of charge and cover all ages with Haven’s perpetually cheerful FunStars encouraging youngsters to have a go with messy mornings, arts and crafts, music and movement sessions, B Fit with Rory the Tiger, Circus School, Wildlife Detectives and of course beach activities including volleyball, rounders, shoreline treasure hunts and rockpool scrambles. Older kids can find their way with Orienteering and learn how to spin plates and juggle – whilst old-fashioned fun, with skipping and twirling hoops is back on the agenda.

Hard to please teenagers will learn graffiti arts and urban skipping to the pulsing beat of hip hop as well as being set challenges using mobile phones and digital cameras.

Other activities include Coke FC football (free of charge); archery; fencing and tennis (with mini versions for tinies at no cost); golf; fishing; Learn2Bike; Learn2Swim (it’s free!); climbing walls and roller-blading. Facilities vary from park to park so visit the Haven website for further details. Some activities can be pre-booked and paid for with an Activity Pass.

Many Haven customers own up that the sea air and comfy holiday homes tempt them to spend cosy evenings in their caravans prepare a meal together and sit down as a family with a nice bottle of wine followed by a game of cards or a bit of star gazing… a great way to wrap up the day! But the entertainment venues are great fun! Families can look forward to early evening shows that will have the kids spell-bound – or up and dancing; there are family discos and party time; stageshows and the Ultimate Star Performer; Rock ‘n Roll Bingo (bingo with attitude!); star names (including several X Factor contestants); stand up comedy and the ever popular pantos, circus and wrestling.

And in recognition of the economic climate, prices have been kept at a level that people will love too. Next year thousands of prices have been reduce to encourage early booking with Spring breaks available from as little as £149 for three or four nights – and seven night summer holiday breaks from under £500 for a family of up to six.

Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900 for info.

Touring boost for Haven Holidays

Camping and touring with Haven Holidays

Investment by UK holiday experts Haven into improving facilities for its touring holidaymakers would appear to be paying off according to the results of the 2011 AA Quality Awards for Caravan Camping.

The company’s 23 parks which cater for touring caravans and campers recorded an average 6% increase on the ratings given in 2010, meaning the average score for Haven rose to 81%.

Over the past year, Haven’s investment into its touring facilities has led to a number of improvements being rolled out across its parks, such as a new heated shower block at Marton Mere, near Blackpool; a brand new shower block at Craig Tara on the Ayrshire coast and an improved pitch development at Lakeland Holiday Park in the Lake District.

And with even more new developments currently planned for more parks over the coming months, don’t be surprised if the popular holiday company experiences another ratings spike at next year’s awards.

Hafan y Mor, in North Wales has become increasingly popular with touring holidaymakers and will benefit from an enhanced touring area with thoughtfully landscaped pitches and an attractive new amenities block. And in keeping with their strong eco-ethics the new touring block at Perran Sands in Cornwall will be planted with a ‘living roof’ amongst other features to minimise its impact on the environment.

Campers and caravanners will also be able to enjoy a whole raft of new facilities on the Parks including new and improved swimming pools and water play areas, venues, bars and cafés as well as the lively programme of entertainments and activities available to all guests.

Visit www.haventouring.com or call 0871 230 1933.

Brits prefer to be by the seaside!

It’s official – a recent survey carried out by ABTA (the Association of British Travel Agents) uncovered that 37% of us prefer to holiday by the seaside and 42% of us prefer to take a holiday with our families.

‘Not that surprising’ say leading family holiday experts Haven Holidays, ‘that’s what our customers have been telling us for years!’

Haven have 35 family holiday parks around the UK – most of which are on the coast with direct access to some of Britain’s most beautiful beaches and close to a choice of popular holiday resorts.

Nab a last minute seaside break from as little as £89 for a family of up to six in a ‘Superior’ self-catering holiday home. Price based on four nights from 17th October and available at Church Farm (just a hop skip and a jump to the beach at Pagham near Chichester); Riviere Sands (direct access to Hayle Sands in Cornwall); Presthaven Sands in North Wales (miles of dunes) and Hopton Holiday Village in Norfolk (close to Great Yarmouth and right on the beach).

Or book four nights over half term from just £159 for a family of up to six. Golden Sands on the Lincolnshire coast is offering four nights from Monday 24th October from £159; Thorpe Park near Cleethorpes is offering a similar break from £179.

Whatever the weather, all Haven Holidays include excellent facilities with heated indoor pools; kids’ clubs, organised sports and activities and a varied programme of daytime and evening entertainment.

Make the most of the last school break before Christmas for some fresh sea air, stunning coastal walks, poking in rock pools and a seaside bargain!
Call 0871 230 1900 or visit www.haven.com for bookings and details of other special offers.

10th October 2011

Autumn colours

The record breaking sunshine in October has done more than extend that holiday feeling and give us an added boost of much needed Vitamin D. It also helps boost carotene levels in plant life so predictions are that we’ll enjoy an extra colourful Autumn with wonderful displays of red and orange leaves.

Haven Holidays have some very attractive last minute deals available at a number of parks where you can enjoy the Autumn colours with prices for a family of up to six from less than a £100.

Take your walking boots or hire a bike and de-stress with a back to nature experience at one of Haven’s conservation award winning parks.

Children are encouraged to enjoy all that nature has to offer as well - Haven’s free ‘Wildlife Detectives’ programme includes a colourful activity book that highlights seasonal changes and focuses on flora, fauna and fungi.

Where to go?

Wild Duck, near the Norfolk Broads has holiday homes and a touring caravan area set amongst mature trees. Lots of lovely gentle Autumn walks and leisurely cycling for those of us who prefer to avoid hills as well as scenic boat trips on the Broads. Get away soon for a four day £99 break arriving on October 10th – for up to six people.

Haggerston Castle in Northumberland is set in the landscaped gardens that surrounded the original castle buildings, lots of trees, lovely lakes and fabulous Autumn walks along the beach and nearby Northumbria National Park. Three nights from October 14th for £199.

The wooded valleys of Exmoor National Park are renowned for their wonderful Autumn displays. Book four nights over October half term at Haven’s Doniford Bay on the Somerset coast from £179.
All prices based on two bedroom self-catering Superior holiday home sleeping up to six people.

Call 0871 230 1900 or www.haven.com for immediate bookings and other last minute Autumn offers.

4th October 2011

Half Price Half Term

Not booked yet for half term? Haven are offering half term breaks at half price – and if you book before Monday 3rd October you’ll save an additional £5 per night – that’s an extra £35 on a seven night holiday!

Prices start at just £149 for a three night break in a ‘Superior’ self-catering holiday home for a family of up to six people arriving on October 21st - with deals from £238 for seven nights in similar accommodation.

Haven say, ‘There’s always a great atmosphere on our parks at half term. Expect lots of spooky fun with Halloween Fancy Dress, a Party in the Dark, spooky face painting and Halloween Arts and Crafts in kids club where youngsters will be encouraged to make snakes, bats and pumpkins.’

Daytime and evening entertainment, kids clubs and lots of activities are included in the cost of your holiday – with heated indoor leisure pools, sports courts, football coaching and mini-archery and fencing all available at no extra charge.
Call Haven Holidays on 0871 230 1900 or www.haven.com

Where to go?

The half price deal with three nights from £149 is available at a wide choice of Haven parks including Church Farm near Chichester which has its own 9-hole golf course ; Haggerston Castle - close to Alnwick Castle in Northumberland where scenes from Harry Potter were filmed; Quay West – good for dolphin spotting at Cardigan Bay; Burnham on Sea, ideal for fishing with well-stocked lakes or sea-fishing and Riviere Sands, which is directly on the South West Coast path for lovely Autumn coastal walking and easy access to St Ives and the Eden Project.

Fancy a week?

Try Wild Duck on the Norfolk Broads – ideal for boating or hire a bike and enjoy lovely gentle cycling. Seven nights will cost from £238 – or £209 if you book before October 3rd.

0871 230 1900 or www.haven.com

Half Term Breaks from £5 a Night

Touring caravan owners hoping to keep the kids happy over October half-term without breaking the bank should check out Haven Holidays’ ‘£20 a break’ half term offer.

Caravan owners can pitch up for a four night stay at selected Haven parks around the UK from as little as £20 per break and enjoy all of the many top-class amenities on offer for less than it would cost one adult to buy a single day ticket at some of the UK’s most popular theme parks!

Haven Holidays, the UK’s largest family park operator, is offering a four-night stay from 24th October to touring caravan owners – as well as those hardy souls prepared to pitch up a tent and camp in late October – from just £20. That’s only £5 per night for up to eight people!

The price includes access to a whole range of facilities and activities including heated indoor leisure pools, sports, kids’ clubs and a full programme of daytime and evening entertainment. Touring facilities are designed for a comfortable stay with shower blocks, covered dishwashing areas and pitches with electric hook up – some parks even offer the option to upgrade to ‘Euro’ or Super pitches with water and drainage as well.

So rather than spending a fortune to be stuck in all-day queues this half-term attempting to keep the kids busy, pitch up at Haven and not only will your children thank you, your wallet will too.

Visit www.haventouring.com or call 0871 230 1933.

Where to go?

Haggerston Castle is a former Country Estate set in landscaped parkland around seven lakes. Located near Berwick-Upon-Tweed in Northumberland, the park boasts extensive 5-star facilities including two heated indoor swimming pools, a 9-hole golf course, a boating lake and boat hire, and, for when you really need to take it easy, spa treatment rooms.

Blue Dolphin, has a stunning cliff top location near Scarborough in Yorkshire – ideal for fresh sea air and panoramic views. Kids will love the park’s heated indoor pool complete with multi-lane slide or the chance for some free football coaching. The Mash and Barrel lounge-bar-cafe, Papa John’s Pizza and Burger King on park ensures you won’t be stuck when it comes to dining treats.

Lakeland, is within easy reach of the Lake District, near Grange-Over-Sands in Cumbria. Great for cycling this is a lovely tranquil, easy going park with a 9-hole golf course, pitch ‘n putt and crazy golf.

Seaview is situated in a relaxed and rural setting close to Weymouth on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast – home to some of the UK’s most attractive coastlines. Not only do visitors to Seaview get to take advantage of the park’s numerous amenities – including heated indoor fun pool and Funworks Amusement Centre – but they also get full use of the attractions at Haven’s nearby Weymouth Bay Park. It’s like getting two parks for the price of one!

For bookings, details of other special touring offers and more information about park facilities click on www.haventouring .com or call 0871 230 1933. For details of four night half term breaks in static holiday homes over half term from £179 for up to six people call 0871 230 1900 or visit www.haven.com

Its warm inside! Cosy Autumn breaks with Haven

Haven Holidays Prestige caravans are proving popular this Autumn with guests looking for a cosy coastal break.

Prices start at as little as £139 for a four night holiday for up to six people in a fully heated two-bedroom Prestige holiday home at a choice of holiday parks this October.

There are plenty of indoor activities to keep everyone happy – at no extra cost! Expect heated indoor pools, FunZones with the latest hi-tech games, indoor bowls and soft play areas for little ones. Kids clubs with lots of activities are included in the price as well as an extensive programme of daytime and evening entertainment.

Weekend breaks during October start at £159 for three nights. Parks participating in the special Autumn deal include Golden Sands near Mablethorpe; Thorpe Park near Cleethorpes; Combe Haven on the Sussex Coast and The Orchards near Clacton on Sea.

For bookings, details of other special offers and more information about park facilities click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

Half Term Breaks at Haven

Holiday experts Haven say ‘If you’re hoping to pick up a bargain for October half term it’s advisable to book before the end of September’.

Haven Holidays, the UK’s largest family holiday park operator with 35 locations around Britain say the changeable weather hasn’t put people off booking ahead for half term – and have reported a rise in families opting for the top of the range, centrally heated Prestige Holiday Homes.

Currently seven night half term holidays cost from just £429 in a Prestige Holiday Home – which also offer more space, TV with DVD player, beds made up for arrival and an earlier check-in as well as heated bedrooms and bathroom and a cosy gas fire in the lounge.

Where to go?

Golden Sands near Mablethorpe is perfect for long walks on the beach, kite flying and a Seal Sanctuary nearby. On the Park kids will love the heated indoor pool; crazy golf and a fun fair with dodgems and mini roller coaster. Seven nights arriving on October 21st cost from £429 in Prestige accommodation for up to six.

Reighton Sands overlooking Filey Bay on the North Yorkshire coast has direct access to the beach – it’s also great for fossil hunting! On the Park there’s a nine hole golf course, heated indoor pool and tempting menus in the new Mash & Barrel lounge bar. Seven nights arriving on October 21st cost from £429 in two bedroom Prestige accommodation for a family of six.

Church Farm at Pagham, near Chichester has its own nature reserve teeming with birds and wild-fowl. Chichester is nearby and Arundel within easy reach. On the Park there’s a heated indoor pool with flumes; crazy golf; a nine hole golf course and all weather bowling green. Three nights arriving 21st October start at £299 for a family of up to six in a Prestige holiday home.

For bookings, details of other special offers and more information about park facilities click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

Haven Solves Doggy Dilemma

You’ve worked hard all year, saved up some hard-earned cash and fancy treating yourself to a well deserved break. But just as you sit down to start planning your hols you hear a melancholy woof in the background.

Then it hits you – you can’t possibly go on holiday, it simply wouldn’t be fair on Fido.

If this sounds like an all too familiar scenario, then you’re not alone. According to statistics released earlier this year* one in four pet owners have taken fewer holidays since getting a pet. What’s more, 30% of those surveyed who stated that they take less holidays admit that the main reason is they simply can’t bear to leave their furry friend behind.

Moreover, it seems that even those who do go away spend much of holiday struggling with the guilt of leaving their pet. A separate survey** found that 17% of men and 11% of women worry about their pets getting ill or going missing whilst they’re away. So much for enjoying your break!

The good news for dog owners is that there is an easy solution to this dilemma. Take your canine friend with you when you go on holiday!

And, thanks to Haven Holidays, you can do this right now for less than the cost of a tin of dog food.

Between 5th September and 17th October no fewer than seven popular Haven sites up and down the UK will be offering you the chance to take your pooch on holiday at the cost of just £1 per dog.

And prices for the rest of the family start from a very modest £79 for up to six people for four nights in Standard accommodation, although prices vary depending on dates and locations.

So instead of putting off that well deserved break for fear of ending up in the doghouse with Fido take advantage of this fantastic offer and your family – including your furry friend – will soon be enjoying one of Britain’s favourite seaside holidays.

Visit www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900 for bookings.

Pack your trunk and join Anxious the Elephant for her birthday party!

Anxious the Elephant (bright pink, spotty dress and much loved on Haven parks throughout the UK!) will be celebrating her birthday during the week of Sept 19-23rd.

Kids are invited to come and join her for party games, music, dancing and lots of fun on Haven’s 35 family holiday parks. It’s a four day break when little ones can have a ball!

And it’s not just about the birthday party – there’s loads on offer for little ones at no extra cost.

Check out heated indoor swimming pools with splash areas for younger children; Annabel’s Creative Kitchen sessions where youngsters can don their aprons and make their own sandwiches for lunch; kids clubs with arts and crafts, messy play and treasure hunts; mini-fencing, mini-archery and lots of early evening fun with party dances and character shows featuring Anxious the Elephant and her friends Rory the Tiger, Bradley Bear and Polly.

The good news for Mums and Dads is a price tag that starts at just £99 for a four night break for the whole family (up to six) staying in a Superior self-catering holiday at a choice of parks including Caister on the Norfolk coast and Hafan y Mor in North Wales.

Fancy seeing the Blackpool lights as well?

Marton Mere (within sight of Blackpool Tower) and Cala Gran (a tram ride away at nearby Fleetwood) both have limited availability for four nights from Sept 19th from just £119 for a family of six in ‘Superior’ accommodation.

Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900 for bookings, more information and details about all the parks where you can join Anxious the Elephant for her birthday!

30th August 2011

For media information contact About Words on 01444 235 154 or email office@aboutwords.co.uk

The kids are back at school!

With the summer holidays almost over it’s time for couples and families with pre-school tots to take advantage of September sunshine, empty beaches and some excellent price deals.

Haven Holidays have three night weekend breaks available at a choice of Norfolk parks throughout September from just £149 for a family of four - or just £75 each and plenty of space if there’s just the two of you!

Based on ‘Superior’ self-catering holiday home accommodation with two bedrooms, comfortably furnished living space and a well equipped kitchen the deal includes access to Haven’s renowned facilities, heated indoor pools, full entertainment programme and a choice of organised activities.

Call 0871 230 1900 for more details and immediate bookings or click on www.haven.com.

The £149 breaks are available at Wild Duck (beautiful woodland park with easy access to the Norfolk Broads); Caister (with direct access to the Norfolk coast it’s Britain’s most historic holiday park); Seashore (right on the beach and all the attractions of Great Yarmouth) and Hopton Holiday Village (an attractively landscaped park with tennis, bowling and golf - close to Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth.

September activities in the local area include the Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival on Sept 10th; the ‘Out There’ festival with international street arts at St George’s Park in Great Yarmouth on Sept 17th, 18th and Stock Car Racing at Yarmouth Stadium on 25th Sept.

For media information and images contact About Words on 01444 235 154 or email office@aboutwords.co.uk

Last of the summer sun

There’s still time to snatch a few days away before the kids go back to school – especially as the forecast is for a final weekend of blue skies and sunshine. Haven Holidays have last minute Bank Holiday deals that won’t break the bank. Check your school calendar – if your kids start the term with an inset day you might even be able to make it a week!

Where?

Haven’s Blue Dolphin on the North Yorkshire coast, Golden Sands in Lincolnshire and Reighton Sands overlooking Filey Bay are amongst Haven Holiday parks offering three night breaks from £199 in Superior accommodation arriving on August 26th.

Haggerston Castle in Northumberland, Craig Tara on the Ayrshire coast and Lakeland Holiday Village near the Lake District all have seven night deals, arriving on August 26th, from £399.

Prices are for a family of up to six people – that’s a weekend break from around £34 per person or less than £70 per person for a whole week’s holiday!

What’s included?

Comfortable self-catering accommodation and access to Haven’s extensive facilities. Look forward to a full programme of sports and activities plus a lively programme of daytime and evening entertainment. There are loads of free activities including swimming, kids’ clubs, football coaching, Annabel’s Kitchen, Wildlife Detectives and mini-fencing lessons.

What else is available?

Check out the huge indoor heated leisure pool at Craig Tara; a new 9-hole golf course at Lakeland; horse-riding at Haggerston Castle and the gorgeous beach at Golden Sands. Evening entertainment is great fun, free of charge and the kids are welcome too.

Fabulous locations make Haven parks a good base for local sightseeing and attractions - Blue Dolphin is directly on the Cleveland Way if you fancy a walk and Haggerston Castle is just a few miles from Alnwick Castle where some of the scenes from the Harry Potter movies were filmed. Craig Tara is in the heart of ‘Rabbie Burns’ country or use Seton Sands as a base for visiting Edinburgh.

Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com for immediate bookings and details of other special offers.

16th August 2011

For media information, hi-res images and destination length features call About Words on 01444 235 154 or email office@aboutwords.co.uk

Haven-ly Free Family Fun

Let the kids enjoy lots of extra fun on holiday – without any extra cost! Haven Holidays have included even more ‘free of charge’ activities on all their 35 family holiday parks this summer and the good news is that they still have some availability before the kids go back to school.

There’s no charge to use the huge heated indoor and outdoor leisure pools – or the flumes, slides and water features. Kids’ clubs – with lots of fun activities - are included in the price. Daytime and evening entertainment, summer-time pantos, circus performances, wrestling and evening stage-shows for all the family are part of the package.

There’s free Fun in the Sun, with lots of traditional beach games and competitions organised by Haven’s FunStars and free ‘Character Olympics’ with Sporty Rory to get you in the mood for 2012. Still not worn out? Football coaching, mini-tennis and mini-archery are included in the price and so are the ‘B Fit’ sessions.

This year Wildlife Detectives ‘Live’ is available at selected parks offering kids close up encounters with all sorts of creepy crawlies and cuddly critters. Youngsters love it ….and guess what? It’s free of charge too!

Kids can learn how to make their own sandwiches in Annabel’s Creative Kitchen (who said there’s no such thing as a free lunch?) and, if you arrive on the weekend of August 19th or 20th you’ll be given a pack of free children’s books as well!

Prices start at just £249 for a weekend break arriving on 19th August for a family of up to six people. And if there’s just the four of you, bring along a friend each for the children – the accommodation will cost the same (Think of it as a free friend!). The offer is available at selected Haven parks including Reighton Sands overlooking Filey Bay, Golden Sands near Mablethorpe, Haggerston Castle in Northumberland and Wild Duck near the Norfolk Broads.

Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com

9th August 2011

Note to Editors:
Haven’s free fun
 Free kids clubs for all ages from tots to teens
 Free live shows in the evenings with music, dancing and top bands
 Free summer-time pantos (oh yes they’re free!)
 Free Wrestling
 Free character shows, party dance sessions and kids evening fun
 Free swimming in heated indoor and outdoor pools
 Free football coaching
 Free ‘B Fit’ sessions
 Free Wildlife Detectives (including Wildlife Detective Live at selected parks)
 Free mini tennis – mini fencing and mini archery
 Free ‘Character Olympics’
 Free cooking fun in Annabel’s Creative Kitchen

Free fuel from Haven!

Haven Holidays are giving away petrol vouchers to help Brits ‘stay UK’ this summer. And with the current forecast for sunshine there’s every good reason to take advantage of the added incentive to holiday at home and enjoy the best of Britain.

Haven say, ‘most families choose a holiday park little more than two hours driving distance from their home – which means you can be unpacked and starting your holiday in less time than it takes to check-in for an international flight’.

And there’s so much to do once you arrive you’ll be tempted to park up the car, hang up the keys and forget about driving for the rest of your break.
All 35 Haven Parks have heated leisure pools – with lots of exciting water features including slides, flumes and splash areas for little ones. And there are plenty of other activities to enjoy including outdoor multi-sports courts, tennis, bike and kart hire, go kart tracks and golf courses. You’ll even find Laser Combat zones, an ice rink, climbing walls and high-ropes courses available at selected parks.

Combine all the facilities with kids’ clubs, organised sports and activities, a full programme of daytime and evening family entertainment and miles of gorgeous sandy beaches right next to so many Haven parks who wants to travel any further?

When prices for a four night break in the summer holidays start from as little as £249 for a family of up to six people it’s not surprising that more people are staying closer to home.

The petrol voucher applies to all arrivals between 19th- 29th August. To claim your free petrol you’ll need to book by 7th August to receive a voucher worth £50 for seven night (or longer) stays and £25 for three or four night breaks. Subject to availability and terms and conditions.
Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com to book.

2nd August 2011

For media information, full length features and hi-res images contact About Words on 01444 235 154 or email office@aboutwords.co.uk

Fun whatever the weather!

Haven Holidays who have 35 family holiday parks around the UK say, ‘This summer our holidays are more affordable than ever and there’s such a wide choice of things to do – whatever the weather!’

There’ s no extra cost for splashtastic fun in the heated indoor swimming pools – and some parks even have flumes, rapids and space bowls for real thrills. And for a modest extra charge treat the kids to extra watery fun such as Aqua Jets, Water Walkerz and Turbo Paddlers.

Kids clubs are free of charge and you’ll find the Haven FunStars are just brilliant at encouraging little ones to get creative making arts and crafts; following treasure hunts or teaching bigger kids how to juggle and spin plates.

Come to the circus, watch the wrestling, and enjoy summer-time pantos, breakfast with Rory the Tiger and traditional sports in Character Olympics with Sporty Rory and all his friends. There’s fancy dress, character shows in the evening and when the sun shines there’s Fun in the Sun on the beach!

Drama school for the kids? It’s FREE at Haven’s Craig Tara in Scotland during the summer holidays! Book your kids into the Razzamataz Theatre School with trained drama, dance and singing instruction and a stage production at the end of the week.

Encourage your kids to cook!
Haven are encouraging children to put on their aprons – in a scheme devised in conjunction with Annabel Karmel the renowned children’s cooking guru, author and presenter of her own CITV show.

The special sessions are free of charge and will encourage even the littlest children to make their own sandwiches for lunch! Annabel’s Creative Kitchen takes place on mid-week breaks at all Haven parks.
Fancy meeting Annabel Karmel in person?

Annabel - and Jimmy the Penguin - will be at Devon Cliffs, near Exmouth on 2nd August; Combe Haven, near Hastings on 9th August and Caister, near Great Yarmouth on 16th August.

Free books!
Arrive on 20th August at any Haven Holidays park and you’ll be given a selection of four books for your children to read – absolutely FREE!
Haven parks are crammed full of all sorts of first class facilities so there’s never a dull moment, rain or shine. Check out parks with climbing walls, laser combat zones, crazy golf, multi-sports courts, golf courses, fishing lakes and even spas, horse-riding or an ice-rink!

Facilities vary from park to park so click on www.haven.com to find out what’s available where.

Prices for a three night break at Haven Holidays start at just £249 for a family of up to six people based on arriving on August 5th at selected parks including Reighton Sands, Cala Gran and Quay West.

To book click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

25th July 2011

For media information, hi-res images or feature length articles please contact About Words on 01444 235 154 or email office@aboutwords.co.uk

Haven to give away nearly 50,000 books!

Haven Holidays have teamed up with Words for Life, a campaign by the National Literacy Trust, to give away nearly 50,000 books - to children on their 35 family holiday parks.

Every family arriving on a Haven park on the weekend of August 19th will receive a goody bag containing four books for children – including titles such as ‘Amber the Orange Fairy’, ‘How to train your Dragon’ and a choice of popular ‘Where’s Wally’ titles as well as the ‘Rangers Apprentice’ which is aimed at 9-11year olds.

The initiative is designed to encourage a love of reading amongst children and follows a similar successful giveaway in 2009.

A spokesperson for Haven Holidays said, ‘There is always so much to do on our parks with a wide choice of facilities, activities and entertainment – but we know that children need some quiet time and we’re hoping that the free books will tempt children to spend some time reading – maybe when they’re relaxing around the pool or in their holiday home.

Jack Sallabank from the National Literacy Trust said “Schools and parents often report a noticeable dip in a child’s literacy level when they return from the summer break so it’s important to keep their minds active and give them the opportunity to read during the summer break. We are therefore very excited to be working with Haven Holiday again and having the opportunity to deliver another fantastic campaign.”

Children who develop a love of reading at an early age get a head start with language skills which are invaluable for their future. Holidays provide the environment and quality time with parents and carers that will allow kids the space and freedom to discover the enjoyment of reading.

The free books are an added bonus – but the fun-filled goody bag is not the only free activity that Haven offer this summer.

Kids can look forward to free heated indoor and outdoor pools, kids’ clubs for all ages, mini tennis, mini archery and mini fencing, football coaching and ‘B Fit’, Annabel’ Creative Kitchen sessions, Wildlife Detectives and a full programme of daytime and evening entertainment including summer-time pantos, wrestling, circus performances, character shows, music and stage-shows.

A seven night holiday with Haven, arriving on August 19th starts at just £529 for up to six people based on Standard accommodation at a choice of parks including Golden Sands, Craig Tara and Carla Gran. Call 0871 230 1900 or click on www.haven.com to book.

The giveaway has been supported by publishers Hachette, Walker Books, Random House and Spar.

Haven applauds Trip Advisor beach choice saying it’s time to ‘fall back in love with Britain’

Haven Holidays, Britain’s favourite family holiday park operator, has parks at or close to all five top beaches recently voted ‘Best in Britain’ by travel website TripAdvisor who gave the thumbs up to St Ives, Newquay, Bournemouth, Weymouth and Tenby.

With stunning locations around the UK, easy access to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and summer prices from as little as £249 for a school holiday weekend break for up to six people, Haven are saying ‘make this the summer when you fall back in love with Britain!’

And it’s not just Trip Advisor who is applauding British beaches; the gorgeous coastline of Pembrokeshire (where you’ll find Haven’s popular Kiln Park Holiday Park) was voted number two in the world by the National Geographic Society beating places like the Seychelles, Bermuda and Coast Rica.

With 70 Blue Flag award winning beaches and 108 Quality Coast Awards around the UK it’s not hard to find a beautiful beach that’s just perfect for you and your family. Haven are quick to point out that almost all their parks have direct access to miles of gorgeous beaches.

Book a break at Perran Sands in Cornwall and you’re right on the North Cornish coast – perfect for surfing, sandcastles or miles of walking on the South West coast path.

Caister, Hopton Holiday Village and Seashore are a stroll from the long sandy beaches of Norfolk.

Primrose Valley and Reighton Sands both overlook gorgeous Blue Flag award winning Filey Bay; Devon Cliffs is the most westerly point on the World Heritage Jurassic coastline.

Haven offer a range of good value for money self-catering options with a wide range of activities and facilities included free of charge. Book a weekend break from just £249 for a family of up to six, based on three nights in a Standard self-catering holiday home arriving on 22nd July at selected parks. Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900 for immediate bookings and details of school holiday offers.

11th July 2011

For media information, full length features and images contact AboutWords on 01444 235 154 or email office @aboutwords.co.uk

Half price weekends in the school summer holidays!

Haven Holidays are offering half price weekend breaks during the school summer holidays. To celebrate the start of the summer holidays Haven have cut prices so families can enjoy a three night peak season break from as little as £249 for up to six people.

Golden Sands, Presthaven and Craig Tara are just some of the Parks where this fantastic offer is available, but hurry, it’s for a limited time only!

And the holidays might be small in price but they are big on free fun for the whole family! With a huge range of free daytime activities including kids’ clubs for all ages from tots to teens, swimming in heated indoor and outdoor pools, football coaching, ‘B Fit’ sessions, mini- coaching to introduce under-5’s to archery, tennis and fencing, ‘Character Olympics’ Wildlife Detectives, and even cooking fun in Annabel’s Creative Kitchen.

Every holiday not only includes day time activities but also fantastic free evening entertainment too. Live shows with music and bands, summer-time pantos (oh yes they’re free!) wrestling, character shows and party dance sessions. There are even guest appearances at selected Parks through the summer with Beautiful World celebrating the music of Take That, X-factor stars Same Difference and many more.

Touring is half price too! Haven have 23 parks with touring facilities -bring your own tent, caravan or motorhome and book a pitch with electric hook up from only £22 a night through the school holidays – for up to eight people! The price includes access to all the free family fun activities including swimming pools, kids’ clubs and evening entertainment.

Facilities and special offer deals vary from park so check the website or phone for details. Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

6th July 2011

For media information contact Alexandra McCabe on 01444 235 154 or email alexandra@aboutwords.co.uk

‘Tuna favoured by Northern kids whilst Southern children love cream cheese and cucumber’ say Haven

Youngsters on Haven’s 35 family holiday parks are relishing the new sandwich making activity that takes place in Annabel’s Creative Kitchen – fun sessions devised in conjunction with children’s cooking guru and TV presenter Annabel Karmel.

But feedback from the activity shows a distinct North/South divide when it comes to preferred sandwich fillings.

‘We’re having to buy in extra tuna for our Northern parks,’ say Haven, ‘whilst our Southern parks have seen a run on cream cheese and cucumber!’

The free midweek sessions are available on all Haven parks and are especially popular with under-5’s who are encouraged to roll up their sleeves, don a chef’s hat and make their own lunch. Children also take part in foodie games and are encouraged to think more about healthy eating.
Other sandwich fillings on offer include marmite and grated carrot but tuna and cream cheese are definitely the favourites, with children shunning jam in favour of savoury options.

Haven added, ‘Kids get really creative with their sandwich making and we’re delighted that children are choosing the healthy options. Some are trying grated carrot for the first time and it makes great hair on a funny face sandwich! We also offer a choice of wholemeal or white bread and have been pleased to see lots of youngsters making checker board sandwiches using healthy wholemeal bread!’

Haven have a wide choice of free sessions for under-5’s include mini-fencing, mini-archery, ‘B Fit’ sessions, Water Confidence and Little Cubs club – plus a full programme of family friendly daytime and evening entertainment featuring children’s favourite Rory the Tiger and Anxious the Elephant.

Annabel Karmel will be appearing in person at a number of Haven parks during the summer– along with Jimmy the Penguin – who stars with her on the new CITV show ‘Annabel’s Kitchen’. Guests at Haven will enjoy a stage version of the TV show with an interactive cooking demonstration that Mums and Dads will enjoy, fun foodie games to play, free recipe cards to take home and a question and answer session with Annabel herself!

Annabel and Jimmy will be at Primrose Valley on the North Yorkshire coast on 26th July; Devon Cliffs, near Exmouth on 2nd August; Combe Haven, near Hastings on 9th August and Caister, near Great Yarmouth on 16th August.
Prices for early summer toddler friendly breaks start at just £149 based on four nights at Golden Sands near Mablethorpe or Cala Gran near Blackpool for a family of up to six in two bedroom ‘Superior’ accommodation on selected dates.

For bookings and more information visit www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.

Why Travel Further?

Haven Holidays have re-introduced their half price holiday offer up to the end of June – so families can enjoy a four night break at Seton Sands on the Firth of Forth from as little as £99 in June for up to six! School holiday breaks start at just £199 for three nights arriving on July 1st or £499 for seven nights.

There’s loads for all ages and plenty that’s included in the cost. And if you pick one of Haven’s Scottish parks you can be on holiday and enjoying yourself in less time than it takes to check in at the airport!

Little ones will enjoy pint-sized fun with Little Cubs Club for 0-4 year olds, splash-teeny fun in and around the heated indoor pool, water confidence sessions, indoor and outdoor play areas and free mini-archery and mini-fencing sessions.

Children’s favourite Polly celebrates her birthday between Mon 11th – Fri 15th July. Highlight of the week will be Polly’s Party, when everyone’s invited to join in with party games and dances, cupcake decorating and a special birthday show.

Other activities available at no extra cost include the Wildlife Detectives with mini-beast hunts and a nature trail around the Park, character Olympics with Haven’s own Rory the Tiger, Annabel’s Creative Kitchen – fun cooking sessions created in conjunction with TV presenter and children’s cooking guru Annabel Karmel and family entertainment in the evenings.

And it’s not just about little ones. When schools break up there’s loads for bigger kids and grown ups too with organised sports and activities, kids’ clubs, daytime and evening entertainment.

Check out parks with golf courses, climbing walls, Laser Combat Zones, Adventure Golf, indoor and outdoor sports zones and even Spas!

Facilities and special offer deals vary from park so check the website or phone for details. Click on www.haven.com or call 0871 230 1900.
6th June 2011