We didn’t go on caravan or holiday park holidays as a child, well we did once, but it rained the entire time so my Mum vowed we’d never do it again. I felt like I’d missed out to be honest because I thoroughly enjoyed it, I met other children, made friends, played outside and found it to be quite pleasant! However, I only did it that one time, which is why I think I’ll take any opportunity to go camping as well, as my Mum didn’t particularly enjoy that either! We just didn’t do it, but because now I can, I do! Which is why I was super excited after Holgates Silverdale Caravanpark invited Nick, Winnie and I to go for a long weekend near Morecambe Bay in Lancashire.

About Holgates

Holgates is a family run business that has been going for over 60 years and it was clear when we arrived it was a popular choice. They are situated next to Morecambe Bay, have a whole host of popular walks close by and it’s in a gorgeous tranquil area. Holgates had purchased the land in the 60’s and now have camping spots for tents, eco-pods, caravans and of course, their holiday homes. The rest of the park is made up of holiday homes that are owned by external people who come away for the weekends, but they do have 19 rentable holiday homes.

Getting checked in

Holgates Silverdale is laid out like a little village with road names taking you to different holiday homes, and it is easy to spot where motorhomes, caravans, and tents are to go. Our Sat Nav took us on a very scenic route down a tiny one-way country road, not sure if that is correct but the build-up was glorious! We had just come from such a busy week to this beautiful countryside area. The drive is large with the main reception being immediately in front of you. We pulled up and got checked in. The staff was great explaining the amenities available and how to find our holiday home for the next 3 days. This is the place you need to register your car as they have a secure license plate entry into the main accommodation area, so it was a good reassurance this was a safe spot to holiday.

Our Home at Holgates Silverdale

Regardless of having a map I somehow managed to get myself and Nick mildly lost, it did, however, give us the opportunity to be nosy and see what else was around! Once we found our home, I started to feel like we were on holiday. Both Nick and I tend to do so much all the time, we never really ever relax when we travel, and this was our time as a little family to chill out… obviously, until I did my 14k trail run on Sunday! This was the first holiday we had with Winnie too, and I was excited about the opportunity for her to experience a new setting and to allow us to indulge in some nice long walks.

Inside I was a little taken aback, and a good way! Having only had one caravan holiday as a child, so we’re talking 1990’s, this was like a palace! It was modern, stylish, and looked like what I’d imagine an actual home or hotel room would be like. The decor was very practical with lots of storage options, the kitchen was kitted out with everything you could possibly need and it was open plan, allowing continual interaction between everyone who stayed there. I could 100% see why this was a popular choice for a family break. Outside you also had a table and chairs with a large patio area, perfect for warm summer evenings, or even days sat in the sunshine. It is also picket-fenced off meaning children and animals can’t escape. I spent a few occasions out here on my laptop getting on with writing. I must highlight that there is no wifi and you’re in a signal black hole, and for someone who lives and breathes the internet, it was a minor shock to the system, but I actually really loved the downtime and lack of communication!

Perfect for families

We were in what I assume to be a family home, as there were two twin rooms and one double bedroom. I’d say the twins are for children, as they were quite compact, so it is the perfect place for the family. There were a shower and toilet, but great that the main bedroom had an ensuite, super if you had a family holiday or you were away with friends.

You had towels and bed linen, soap and shower amenities, toilet roll and we even had a welcome pack of food-related goodies. There was also cleaning products too, so we were all set for a lovely family stay.

Holgates Silverdale Food

Even though we could easily cook ourselves, Holgates invited Nick and me to try out their in-house dining facilities. All extremely reasonable with a vast menu, and if the menu wasn’t enough, there is an onsite ice cream parlour and bar. We both found the food to be great, and just what we needed after our long drive. You have the choice to sit indoors or out, we decided whilst the weather was behaving for once to sit out, plus just an important note, no dogs are allowed indoors.

Holgates Silverdale Facilities

You have indoor swimming, complete with jacuzzi. This got very very busy, so I’d suggest going early if you love a swim like me, because as we all know children love a swimming pool, and it can get a tad overwhelming with the swim noddles everywhere. There is a soft play area for the little ones, and more importantly an arcade and bowling alley! You really couldn’t get bored.

One of the main things that attracted Nick and me to the area was the walks for Winnie around Morecambe Bay. On the first day, we took a leisurely stroll to a coffee shop for some coffee and cake, but there are more intense walks should you wish to venture off. I had my Lakeland Trail 14k the next day so I didn’t want to overdo it, but my point is, you don’t need to stay on-site to enjoy your holiday, there is so much out there.

The conclusion to our Holgates Silverdale stay

We were delighted by how much we appreciated this break. I was mildly concerned my husband would have itchy feet to go out and be active, but for once we had the perfect balance to our trip. We were the active first thing, explored the area, used the facilities and then just simply lavished in relaxation in our beautiful accommodation. I personally loved the fact that if you did want a wander you could head to the main reception area to enjoy their facilities. We ate at Holgates Silverdale on the first night, then cooked in our home on the second night. It was just so relaxing and the perfect UK getaway.

A huge thank you to Holgates Silverdale for inviting us to stay, we thoroughly enjoyed our trip away.

*This was a gifted stay from Holgates Silverdale