Latest news with #Pitchup
Daily Record
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
The Scottish seaside holiday park with its own private beach and restaurant
The popular park has earned rave reviews from visitors and was named the best in the UK last year. If you are stuck for ideas on where to head for a holiday this summer, a holiday park is a great idea. All over Scotland, there are countless family parks that will delight visitors both young and old. One spot that has received numerous awards and is popular amongst guests too is Auchenlarie Holiday Park. The park, which is situated along the stunning coastline of Dumfries and Galloway, was named the best in the UK last year by experts at GO Outdoors. Auchenlarie Holiday Park offers a range of different accommodation options, including cottages that sleep between four and nine guests, lodges, and holiday homes—both of which sleep up to six. There are also a variety of hardstanding and grass pitches available. Among the highlights of Auchenlarie, especially as we enter the peak of summer, is its direct access to a secluded beach. Overlooking the gorgeous Wigtown Bay, the private cove is compact but perfect to soak up some sun and for little ones to run around in. Meanwhile, if you don't get lucky with the weather, there is also a Leisure Suite with a heated indoor swimming pool —including a shallow area for younger visitors to splash around in. The leisure facilities also include a fully equipped gymnasium. As well as the beach and pool, there is The Zone amusement arcade and games room that features a range of coin-operated amusements. There are also kids' clubs and family entertainment available for little ones. Elsewhere, there are a number of other activities specifically catered towards children. These include face painting and jewellery-making classes. Another top feature of Auchenlarie Holiday Park is its Tide and Table restaurant. The eatery serves up a broad variety dishes including classic fish and chips, burgers, steaks, and pasta. Tide and Table also includes the Tides Takeaway, where visitors can order food to enjoy back in their accommodation. Pizza, burgers, fish and chips, and even a dedicated children's menu are available. For adults, there is a sports bar that features four screens showing most sporting events. In addition to beer, the bar also offers a new gin and wine menu. Guests have the opportunity to pick up essentials and non-essentials at Auchenlarie Holiday Park's own convenience store. The shop stocks everything from milk and bread to sandwiches, sweets, and ice cream. On camping, glamping, caravan, and holiday park website Pitchup, Auchenlarie Holiday Park has received very positive reviews from past visitors. The park has an overall rating of 8.8 out of 10 based on 234 reviews. One recent guest shared: "Caravan was spotless. Nice and big. Did a few crafts, the kids liked that. Everything is kept clean." A second wrote: "Good value for money. Ideal for couples and families.
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Daily Mirror
UK's 'best place for camping holidays' has sandy beaches and huge nature reserve
The UK's best camping holiday spot has been revealed (Image: Getty Images) Brits planning camping holidays this summer have just been given a dose of staycation inspiration, as the UK's best camping and caravanning hotspot has been revealed. The campsite experts at scoured the UK and compared thousands of sites, based on reviews by holidaymakers in 2024. Topping the list was Lincolnshire, which had more 'gold status' campsites than any other UK county in the study. (Gold status is achieved when you have 10/10 reviews from guests). The Pitchup team explained: "Encompassing fens, marshes, wolds and coast, it's primarily known for agriculture, and great sausages. Located between Yorkshire to the north, East Anglia to the south and the Midlands to the west, it's an easy destination to reach from across large parts of the UK - and its eastern location means it enjoys more sunshine and drier weather than many counties." Lincolnshire has topped the rankings (Image: Pitchup) READ MORE: Little-known UK attraction named 'one of UK's best theme parks' despite no rides In fact, of the 26 sites that have 'gold status', four were in Lincolnshire. These were: It's not surprising to see that Lincolnshire is so popular, considering it boasts both spectacular countryside, and some of that gorgeous coast which the UK is renowned for. The Lincolnshire Wolds are particularly popular with families thanks to the plethora of beautiful towns, valleys and fun days out on offer. Home to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there are countless cycling and hiking trails on offer whether you're after a challenging route or just want a scenic stroll with the family; routes such as The Lindsey Trail offer a variety of different options. As for days out? There's plenty to do whether you're on a romantic couple's holiday, want to do some exploring, or are looking for fun things to do with the kids. Highlights in the region include the Lincolnshire Wolds Railway, Gunby Hall, Bolingbroke Castle and gorgeous areas such as the Red Hill Nature Reserve and Snipe Dales Country Park. READ MORE: Beautiful UK village is home to 'best hidden gem' with a Caribbean-worthy beach READ MORE: Europe's 'best value city' is stag and hen do hotspot with £22 Ryanair flights In the summer, if the British weather is being kind, then sun-seekers will have plenty of choice of sandy Blue Flag beaches (although be warned, during peak holiday seasons they can get busy as everyone flocks to the picturesque shores!). Skegness is arguably its most famous, with the nearby Butlin's resort, and its sandy beach with swim-friendly waters and plenty to see and do in the area for all ages. Meanwhile, Mablethorpe is also popular with holidaymakers for its soft sands, nearby fairground and amenities such as fish and chip shops. Sutton-on-Sea is another firm favourite with locals and visitors thanks to its golden sands, and classic British seaside offerings such as ice cream parlours and chippies. Meanwhile Cleethorpes beach usually impresses thanks to its long stretch of sand, paddle-friendly waters and variety of watersports on offer. There are also nearby shops and arcades, not to mention the beach itself boasts amenities such as a cafe. Have you got a travel story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@
The Sun
24-05-2025
- The Sun
Tiny campsite on the edge of a National Park named the best value in the UK
THE UK's best value campsite sits on the edge of a National Park and even has a river running through it. Caldbeck Camping on the outskirts of the Lake District National Park, scored full marks as the best campsite in the UK. 6 6 looked at individual reviews, judging the value largely on the quality and cleanliness of on-site facilities, as well as location. The site has simple facilities including a hot water supply to showers, clean toilets and a sink area. Guests have previously commended the site for the picturesque river that runs next to it and its proximity to a small village with shops and a welcoming pub. The campsite costs £9 per night per adult or £5 per night per child while an electric hookup is an additional £6 per night. The pitches are quite spacious and each benefit from their own picnic table. Some of the pitches are also large enough to accommodate bigger groups and there are quiet zones for those seeking some peace and quiet. Alternatively, there is also a bell tent available to stay in, for two people, from £65 per night. The tent has parking next to it and inside there is a double bed, private toilet and a secluded garden with a cooking area. The campsite is near the quaint village of Caldbeck which lies on the edge of the Lake District and is named after the river Cold Beck which runs through the village. The village has a strong industrial past and it has become well-known due to being the home of John Peel, the famous huntsman. Most beautiful British campsites Campers can head to the village or beyond and explore all that the Lake District National Park has to offer. One scenic part of the National Park nearby, is High Pike. High Pike is one of the most northerly of all the lakeland fells and is surrounded by wilderness. There are some paths to the top of the fell and evidence of mining in years gone by, is evident. 6 6 At the summit, rather unusually, there is a stone bench. On the way back from a hike up to High Pike, there is another small village near Caldbeck that people can visit. Hesket Newmarket, which is only 1.5 miles to the west of Caldbeck, also has a pub and a village store. The most popular campsites in the UK have also been named. Plus, the little-known tiny campsites that cost from just £2.50 a night. 6
Daily Record
24-04-2025
- Daily Record
Scottish wildlife centre crowned 'most child friendly' campsite this summer
Scotland's most child-friendly campsite has been named. The top prize went to a Perthshire wildlife cente. On April 23, shared its 20 top-rated campsites and glampsites for families across the UK and beyond. Pitchup is the biggest search and booking platform for outdoor accommodation around the world. According to the experts, the sites featured on the list are "tried, tested and confirmed as topping the ratings specifically for child-friendliness". The only Scotland site to feature in the top 20 is Auchingarrich Wildlife Park in Perthshire . Coming in at number 10 on the overall list, Auchingarrich Wildlife Park received a child-friendliness rating of 9.7 out of 10. The campsite is surrounded by habitats for meerkats, lemurs, goats, pigs, donkeys, and more. There is a wild- camping -style paddock set aside for guests, with views over the ponds and the surrounding Perthshire countryside. Visitors are able to buy tickets, giving them unlimited access to the main wildlife park during the day. In terms of things to, guests can pop in and meet the animals whenever they wish. There is also a soft play barn, an outdoor play area, mini golf, and ride-on tractors. The campsite features a café that is open throughout the day for mains, snacks, hot drinks, and sweet treats. There is a kids' menu on offer, as well and ice creams. Guests are also welcome to use the campsite's barbecue area for outdoor meals. Meanwhile, Comrie and Crieff are both about 10 minutes' drive away for supplies for self catering. Auchingarrich Wildlife Park has received very positive reviews from visitors. It has an overall rating of 9.6 out of 10 on One guest shared: "Camping was great, felt like was sleeping in with the animals because the campsite was close to the wildlife park! Loved hearing all the animal noises at night and in the morning. "Was different from camping in a proper campsite! Staff were great and helpful! "The wildlife park was great, loved seeing all the animals and some I hadn't seen before. Will defo be back camping or just for a visit to the park." A second posted: "We really enjoyed our stay here! The owners were incredibly kind and accommodating, and the park itself was lovely! "Animals to see and interact with at the organised times, and a lovely shop and cafe on site. We imagined it would be an incredible place to visit with children as there is lots to keep them entertained." Another wrote: "Amazing location with plenty outdoor activities for children. Great interactions with domestic and wild animals. "Beautiful surrounding with mountains and forest, much to explore." Elsewhere, topping overall list is Hill Farm Camping in Essex. Situated a mile from the village of Great Bardfield, the 18-acre site scored a perfect 10 for child-friendliness. See below for the full list of the top 20 child-friendly campsites. Further details can be found on the website .
Forbes
21-04-2025
- Forbes
What You Need To Know About Solo Camping, According To A Wilderness Expert
Woman resting laying on hammock at camping site Solo traveling has taken off in recent years, with more Americans than ever before considering taking a trip by themselves, according to Skyscanner statistics. While most people conjure up images of having a solo glass of wine in Paris or taking a singles cruise in the Caribbean, camping can be an even more transformative experience for solo travelers. 'The best part of solo camping is that you are fully in control of your itinerary,' explained Tom Pool, solo camping expert at Pitchup. 'Want to climb that hill in the distance? Want to cook a meal your usual campmates would turn their noses up at? Want to do absolutely nothing and sleep all day? Everything you do is completely up to you.' 'One memorable experience from a solo camping trip was waking up at the foot of Tryfan in Wales very early in the morning when I made a split-second decision to just get up & 'seize the day'. Moments later, I was hiking up the mountain, leading to a full day of adventuring and amazing sunrise views,' he added. 'Had I been with others, we would have had to make a group decision, and the adventure may have been different.' If you've been considering taking a solo trip this summer, it might be worth looking into a solo camping experience. Here's what you need to know in order to make the most of your solo camping trip: Having a restful solo camping trip doesn't just happen. You have to be in the right mindset and make proper plans in order to ensure you make the most of your time. Here's what Pool recommended: Plan ahead 'Practice setting up your tent by yourself ahead of time,' Pool suggested. 'It can be tricky without an extra set of hands, so make sure you're confident in your ability to build your shelter.' You're in charge of your own enjoyment Pool also pointed out that you are in charge of your own enjoyment. 'Bring a creative outlet, like a book, journal or musical instrument, for downtime after a day of exploring,' he suggested. 'Inspiration can strike anywhere!' Be social… if you want to be Don't be afraid to say hello to other campers or feel free to keep to yourself. 'Solo camping can be a great way to meet new people from all walks of life, but it's equally rewarding to embrace the peace and quiet,' he said. 'Ultimately, you define your own type of adventure.' Learn to read a physical map 'Learn to read a map in advance, especially if you're planning to go hiking, in case there is limited cell service,' Pool suggested. 'You are 100% responsible for your own safety, so it's crucial to be able to navigate in all situations.' Pool really urged would-be solo campers to understand that the most important rule of solo camping is preparation. 'You can't rely on anyone else to remember the essentials, from a flashlight to a lighter to make a campfire,' he said. If you've been thinking of planning your own solo camping trip, here are a few things that Pool urges potential solo campers to keep in mind: Not bringing a spare battery pack You might think you have enough juice to get you through—but you never know what can happen. Pool strongly suggested solo travelers bring an extra fully-charged battery pack, so at least two in total. Not creating a packing list in advance 'Don't leave packing until the night before (especially for your first solo trip),' he said. 'I'd recommend taking more than you need—it's always better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.' Not considering the season 'For packing, think about the season and what you actually need,' said Pool. 'For example, you probably won't need full waterproofs and jackets for a couple of days in France in high summer! The more experience you get, the more you'll be able to refine this list, and the quicker you'll be able to pack and have it down to a tee.' Relying only on credit card You might think you'll be fine with the gear you pack or with your credit card—but Pool suggested bringing extra cash and carrying it with you at all times. 'You never know when you may need cash for an emergency snack or a couple of coins for parking in case there is no phone signal,' he said.
