STAFF AND THE FAMILY OWNERS of a Swanage holiday park are celebrating their success in reaching the finals of the region’s top tourism competition.
Ulwell Holiday Park is now confirmed as a finalist in the Dorset Tourism Awards after judges shortlisted the business in the Holiday Park of the Year category.
The achievement has made the park especially proud as this is the first time Ulwell has entered the competition in its 80-year history.
Now everyone will be keeping their fingers crossed until the overall category winner is announced at a glittering awards ceremony on 22 October in Bournemouth.
If successful, Ulwell Holiday Park will then be fast-tracked into the national finals of the Visit England 2027 Excellence Awards, widely recognised as the “Oscars” of the tourism industry.
The park has been owned by the Orchard and Scadden families for over eight decades, and managing director Kevin Orchard said the news was a proud moment for everyone at the park.
“To reach the finals on our first entry means a great deal to us, and we are delighted to see the team’s hard work recognised,” he said.
“We have put a great deal of care into improving Ulwell, but a memorable holiday is about more than facilities. It is also about the welcome guests receive and the people who help make their stay special.
“This recognition belongs to the whole team whose care and commitment make that possible. We are also grateful to our guests for their continued support and for taking the time to share their experiences.”
The shortlisting follows a programme of improvements across the park, including a new reception building and SPAR shop, The Pantry cafe, and enhancements to The Village Inn and its beer garden.
“These developments sit alongside continued investment in the park’s existing facilities,” added Kevin.
Set beneath the Purbeck Hills, Ulwell offers pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents, plus glamping pods and luxury holiday homes to rent and own.
There is more information about the park, an active member of the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA), on its website at www.ulwellholidaypark.co.uk