One of the UK's leading holiday park operators has announced a massive £50 million investment programme set to dramatically upgrade facilities across its estate, introducing thrilling new attractions including Bear Grylls escape rooms and enhanced adventure ropes courses.
Multi-Million Pound Park Transformations
Parkdean Resorts, which operates 65 holiday parks nationwide and hosted three million visitors last year, confirmed the substantial investment aimed at elevating the guest experience. The company plans to implement the upgrades throughout 2026, with two parks receiving particularly significant attention.
Highfield Grange Holiday Park in Essex and Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth are each set to benefit from £5 million transformations described as 'major' by the company. These two locations will see the introduction of brand new, immersive Bear Grylls escape rooms, challenging families to test their survival skills.
New Facilities and Activities
The investment will fund numerous improvements including pitch expansions, retail developments, and enhanced general facilities. Visitors can look forward to indoor adventure golf and upgraded high and low ropes courses, building on the success of previous installations.
A new sports bar called Hat-Tricks will open across the parks, offering holidaymakers a variety of food and drink options alongside interactive indoor sports games. Younger guests haven't been forgotten either, with Tots Zones expanding both indoors and outdoors.
These improved play areas will cater specifically to toddlers, while children aged four and over will enjoy new off-road driving ranges. The company anticipates introducing a record number of new activities for guests of all ages by next spring.
Economic Impact and Future Vision
Beyond improving visitor experiences, the £50 million injection is expected to provide a significant boost to local economies. The investment will create approximately 100 new jobs ranging from seasonal positions to full-time roles.
Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, commented on the ambitious plans: "In 2026 we will be investing approximately £50m in our holiday parks to improve facilities, elevate guest experience, and keep families coming back to these fantastic locations throughout the UK."
Richards emphasised that ongoing investment in local communities forms a key part of their strategy, stating their commitment to raising standards to remain at the forefront of the UK holiday market. He expressed excitement about guests seeing the transformed parks next year.
This latest investment follows a previous £140 million transformation in 2022 that upgraded 16 parks and introduced the Bear Grylls Survival Academy and initial high ropes courses, demonstrating the company's continued commitment to significant, regular investment in the UK holiday sector.