Away Resorts run 12 parks across the UK, and they’re genuinely different from each other. We’ve spent time at several of them, and here’s the honest truth: which one works for your family depends entirely on what you’re after.
Some are better for babies, some are proper adventure parks for older kids, and a few are genuinely decent if you just need to sit down with a cup of tea while the children entertain themselves.
This is what you need to know before you book.
## Why Away Resorts?
The big draw: they’re UK-based, you can drive there, and you’re not dealing with airport meltdowns. Plus, they’ve got enough going on that you’re not drowning in one-on-one entertainment duty. There’s usually a mix of outdoor activities, entertainment, and honestly — some of them have decent restaurants so you can eat without chicken nuggets.
## The Parks: What’s Actually Different?
We won’t pretend every park is brilliant — they’re not. But there are definitely standout options depending on your kids’ ages.
**Praa Sands (Cornwall)** — Beach access, younger kids vibe, quieter than the others. Good for families who want sea air without the full seaside faff.
**Perran Sands (Cornwall)** — Similar to Praa but busier. Proper resort atmosphere if you’re after more going on.
**Gwithian (Cornwall)** — Beach resort. Obviously Cornwall gets overbooked in peak season — know what you’re getting into.
**Tregenna Castle (Cornwall)** — Actually beautiful grounds, better for slightly older kids who’ll do their own thing.
**Newperran (Cornwall)** — More of a family entertainment setup. Busy, louder, but the kids will be occupied.
**Bude Holiday Resort (Cornwall)** — Quieter option, better value, less hectic.
**Dawlish Warren (Devon)** — Beach access, nature reserve nearby, good walking.
**Saltern Cove (Devon)** — Smaller, quieter, family-run feel. Sometimes better value.
**Clacton-on-Sea (Essex)** — Closer to London-area families. Seaside experience, busier.
**Heacham Beach (Norfolk)** — Good for East Anglia proximity, quieter season option.
**Broadland Sands (Norfolk)** — Lakeside rather than seaside, different vibe.
**Waterside Holiday Park (Dorset)** — If you want something slightly different to the typical setup.
## What Makes Away Resorts Work (and What Doesn’t)
**The Good:**
– You’re not miles away from home if someone gets ill
– Entertainment included — kids’ clubs, activities, entertainment most nights
– You can actually cook in your accommodation if you want to
– Good value compared to hotels doing the same thing
– Mix of accommodation types (caravans, lodges, cottages) depending on budget
**The Real Talk:**
– Peak school holidays = full-on busy. Book off-peak if you possibly can
– Weather’s unpredictable. You’re in the UK — bring layers and expectations of rain
– Entertainment quality varies by park and season
– Some parks older than others (which is fine, but not luxury)
– Wi-Fi can be dodgy at some (actually handy if you need a proper break)
## Best Time to Go
Easter and summer holidays = rammed. If you can swing Easter holiday in late March, you’ll avoid Easter week chaos. May half-term is usually better. And genuinely, September when kids go back to school is golden — weather’s often decent, prices drop, everything’s quieter.
## Money: What You’re Actually Paying
Away Resorts prices vary wildly depending on accommodation type, time of year, and how far ahead you book. Budget caravans off-peak can be genuinely cheap. Peak season lodges can cost as much as a decent hotel.
Our advice: filter by accommodation type and book off-peak if you can. You’ll save money and have a better experience.
## Honestly?
Away Resorts work best if you want a break without massive logistical effort. You’re not flying anywhere, the kids have stuff to do, and you can actually relax a bit. Is it luxury? No. Is it realistic family time? Absolutely.