Awards spotlight for Norfolk park declared Britain’s best

Vicky and Paul Searle (centre) receive the shield and congratulations from senior AA officials at the ceremony
Vicky and Paul Searle (centre) receive the shield and congratulations from senior AA officials at the ceremony

TOURISM CHIEFS from across the UK gathered recently to see Norfolk’s family-owned Searles Leisure Resort officially crowned as Britain’s Holiday Centre of the Year by the AA.

The Hunstantook the overall title in the AA Caravan and Camping Awards which was celebrated at a glittering ceremony at Warwickshire’s Manor Hotel.

Stepping forward to what was then a farm.

Searles has since grown to become one of Eastern England’s largest and best-loved holiday centres.

Paul Searle says staff played a big part in securing the win
Paul Searle says staff played a big part in securing the win

It provides more than 800 holiday home and to buy and rent, plus a raft of family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities.

Awards given by the AA – based on guest reviews and a “secret shopper” visit by inspectors – are regarded as the Oscars of the holiday parks industry.

The citation from the AA’s judges noted that Searles “never stands still, and every year offers something new tors seeking a truly memorable and high quality experience”.

Speaking on behalf of the family, managing director Paul Searle said that the AA award celebrates not just the park, but also the entire workforce:

“Standards of customer service are an important criteria for these awards, so our team at Searles can take a major share of the credit for this achievement,” he said.

“So many of the reviews we receive from customers mention the great atmosphere here, and delivering this is very much in the hands of our park team.

“We hope the publicity from this AA award will also benefit other local tourism businesses by putting the spotlight on north Norfolk as an amazing holiday destination,” added Paul.

There is more information about Searles Leisure Resort at www.searles.co.uk