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.

Children’s fitness and weight a concern for teachers

A nationwide survey conducted by the Haven Fun & Fitness campaign has shown that 87% of early years professionals are concerned that under- fives are not getting enough physical activity. And 84% of respondents believe that more children are becoming overweight, highlighting concerns that many of the toddlers in their care are becoming ‘couch potatoes’.

NHS Change4Life recommends raising children’s heartbeats to ‘faster than normal’ for a minimum of 60 minutes a day to prevent storing fat, which can lead to later life health problems resulting from obesity including diabetes and cancer. Making physical activity enjoyable from a young age encourages children that it’s fun to be fit and helps them to meet these guidelines naturally.

Little girl using Fun & Fitness equipment

Naomi Woodstock, Haven Fun & Fitness campaign manager comments: “early years professionals are in a unique position to help children to be more active. Pre-school or nursery can often be the only place where a child can run around freely and we want to support those who are making a difference to young children’s physical development.”

Now in its fourth year, the Haven Fun & Fitness Sports Equipment Giveaway campaign was set up to help make fitness fun for young children and to help early years setting provide exciting physical activities. The indoor and outdoor sports equipment given away through the campaign is specifically designed for under-fives to provide the stimulation and variety young children need to stay interested and engaged.

“We were shocked to see how many early years professionals are concerned about the rising numbers of inactive and overweight children. The Fun & Fitness Campaign makes a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of young children - we really hope as many pre-schools and nurseries as possible will register and benefit from the scheme,” said Ms Woodstock.

The 2011/12 Haven Fun & Fitness campaign is now open and pre-schools and nurseries can register for the free sports equipment. Just visit www.havenfunfitess.com and follow the instructions on the website. Registrations close on 31st January but places are limited!

The search for the UK's sportiest tots has begun!

Lilly May, Sports Tot 2011 winner

The Haven Fun & Fitness campaign Sports Tot of the Year Award is looking for the UK’s sportiest pre-schoolers. The campaign which provides free sports equipment to help encourage under-fives to have fun getting fit is looking for youngsters who show promising sporting talent.

Naomi Woodstock, Haven Fun & Fitness campaign manager explains; “we’re passionate about promoting physical activities for all under-fives. The Sports Tot of the Year Award allows us to seek out exceptional youngsters and provide them with the opportunity to improve their potential.”

The Sports Tot of the Year Award is looking for youngsters who will be an inspiration to other children, parents and early year’s practitioners. These children will demonstrate the benefits of getting involved in sports from a young age; the confidence it can bring; the co-ordination which develops as well as the enjoyment of being physically active.

In recognition of their sporting potential, the winners will receive a year’s professional coaching in the sport of their choice. And to help inspire other children to get active their pre-school will receive a big box of fun, age appropriate sports equipment for everyone to use!

Parents, relatives and early years practitioners can nominate any child (with parental consent) under the age of five who shows signs of special sporting talent and who would benefit from additional coaching or lessons. From skills on the pitch to gymnastics the winner can be involved in any physical activity; they just need to demonstrate exceptional sporting potential!

Registration is easy, just log on to www.havenfunfitness.com, click on the Sports Tot Award link and fill in the entry form. Last date for entries is 27th April. The 2012 UK Sports Tots of the Year, (one girl, one boy) will be announced in May.

“Many of the UK’s sporting heroes, from Rory McIlroy to Andy Murray, demonstrated their exceptional talent before they had even started school. We hope to recognise and reward those children who could be the UK’s next sporting inspiration and support them to reach their full potential” says Naomi Woodstock.

BBC South Today weather girl becomes a Fun Star!

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

Haven Fun & Fitness choose Dragon’s Den endorsed Kiddimoto

The fourth Haven Fun & Fitness campaign is delighted to be offering Kiddimoto Kurve bikes as a bonus item on this year’s sports equipment giveaway.

The bikes which featured on Dragons Den on 12th September were a hit with even the UK’s most critical judges and are set to be a popular choice with children nationwide through the Haven Fun & Fitness campaign.

“The Fun & Fitness campaign was set up to encourage children to have fun getting fit by providing them with the equipment to inspire them. We’re really excited to be including the Kiddimoto bikes this year. They are the perfect item to help pre-schools motivate under-fives to get active and learn new skills” comments Haven Fun & Fitness campaign manager Naomi Woodstock.

Designed as a first bike for pre-schoolers, Kiddimoto helps children to learn balance as the first step towards two wheeled skills. They are not only fun for children but help develop motor skills, balance and co-ordination.

“All the sports equipment available on this year’s Fun & Fitness campaign has been specially chosen to help encourage children to be more active. The sports packs are designed for the needs of pre-school children and will assist with their development as well inspire physical play. For pre-schools lucky enough to receive a Kiddimoto bike it really will be the ultimate bonus” comments Naomi Woodstock.

For pre-schools and nursery’s to have a chance of receiving a sports kit and a Kiddimoto bike they need to register at www.havenfunfitness.com and follow the instructions on the site. Pre-schools have until 31st January to register, but places are limited.

Bonus items are awarded to the first 1000 pre-schools to achieve 100% support on the scheme from parents and carers.

Under Fives at Risk as 88% of Pre-schools Struggle to Fund Sports

A nationwide survey of pre-schools and nursery’s conducted by the Haven Fun & Fitness campaign has found 88% of settings are struggling to fund sports at their early years settings.

These concerning results come following a recent NHS report which found nearly a quarter of four years old are overweight or obese. NHS experts have highlighted the need for a culture of turning off the TV and getting more active, recommending a minimum of three hours of physical activity everyday to prevent current predictions of a ‘health crisis time bomb’.

Haven Fun & Fitness campaign manager Naomi Woodstock comments: “Despite often being the only place a child can be active and run around with no restrictions many pre-schools receive little or no funding for sports equipment.”

To help make it easier to provide exciting and engaging physical activity for under-fives the Haven Fun & Fitness campaign was set up in 2009 to support early years settings in keeping children active. By providing free equipment to inspire kids to have fun getting fit, the campaign helps to encourage youngsters to get the fitness habit early.

“We have helped thousands of pre-schools all over the country to improve the sports and physical activities available to the children. Early years’ leaders are in a unique position to help develop children’s natural enjoyment of being active and we want to support them as they support our children” comments Naomi Woodstock.

The equipment available though the campaign is bright, colourful and designed specifically for under fives. The sports kits help children to get the exercise habit early and also helps pre-school leaders to meet their Ofsted guidelines for early year’s developments.

“Over 40% of pre-school leaders struggle to meet the early year’s development guidelines for physical activity. The Fun & Fitness campaign provides equipment to help meet these targets. By helping to make physical activity fun and exciting for the children we hope to provide additional support for teachers to encourage children to develop and meet their full potential.”

The 2011/12 Haven Fun & Fitness campaign is now open and pre-schools and nursery’s can register for the free sports equipment. Just visit www.havenfunfitess.com and follow the instructions on the site.

Registrations close on 31st January but places are limited!

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

Peace of Mind with Approved by Haven

Haven have taken steps to alleviate any concerns about buying a ‘pre-loved’ holiday home on one of their 34 UK parks with their new ‘Approved by Haven’ scheme.

Not only are they offering an extensive ‘100 point’ check to make sure absolutely everything works properly and looks good they are also giving new holiday home owners the benefit of a 30 day money back guarantee if they’re not happy.

A spokesperson for Haven said, ‘ Buying a pre-owned caravan can be a fantastic introduction to the holiday home lifestyle but we appreciate that some people might be anxious that everything should look good and work properly – in much the same way that they would be reassured that a car has been thoroughly serviced before purchase.’

The 100 point check includes everything from taps to light switches, crockery to door handles – and if something doesn’t work it’s either fixed or replaced. Even the upholstery is either approved or renewed and the pitch checked and cleaned before your new home is sited.

An Approved caravan comes with a comprehensive one year free of charge warranty that covers all the important elements of the holiday home such as the boiler, the gas fire and the plumbing.

Buying a pre-owned caravan can be a cost effective way to discover whether this is a lifestyle option that you’ll enjoy with starter homes from less than £12,000 at selected parks. But Haven say that it’s not just the less expensive holiday homes that are guaranteed under the ‘Approved’ scheme – they have an extensive choice available at all prices levels right through to more luxurious models that come complete with free standing furniture, double-glazing, central heating and en-suite bathrooms.

Prices vary depending on model and location. Typically a 2007 ABI Sunrise, sleeping a family of four at Marton Mere near Blackpool will cost around £15,000 whilst a three bedroom 2008 Willerby Vacation at Perran Sands in Cornwall is currently available for sale at £25,296. A top of the range Atlas Ovation Super at Far Grange in North Yorkshire offers luxury and comfort for around £50,000.

Purchasing a new holiday home is no more complicated than buying a car, with no mortgage, legal fees or stamp duty to worry about. Haven offer flexible finance options and generally include the first years site fees and insurance in the cost of the holiday home.

For more information about buying a holiday home with Haven click on www.ukholidayhomesales.co.uk or call 0871 230 1299.

Notes to Editor:
The ‘Approved by Haven’ accreditation ensures that all pre-owned Holiday Homes come with the following guarantee:
• 100 point check
• Finance for everyone
• Comprehensive 1 Year Warranty
• 30 Day Money back guarantee
• Interior Refurbishment
• Pitch Condition

8th August 2011

For media information, interviews, hi-res images and press visit requests please contact About Words on 01444 235 154 or email office@aboutwords.co.uk

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