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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

Last minute trip to haven

59 replies

bubbabub · 05/08/2026 01:29

For various reasons we are unable to go abroad so been thinking of booking a haven holiday but I am a bit unsure due to all the negative reviews I’ve been reading, first of all the hygiene and apparently ants everywhere and bed bugs?! Then nothing being available as you have to book 12 weeks in advance so people saying they were unable to use the pools as they were booked 12 weeks in advance, so AIBU to wonder if there is any point booking a last minute visit to haven? (Posting for traffic really) we usually just stay in PI.

OP posts:
Yellowsubmarine55 · 05/08/2026 07:31

Look at ukcaravans4hire - these are privately owned caravans on sites, including haven that imo are far better than the standard you get on haven - cheaper as well.

Hate haven really as we've moved to cottages now but the private ones aren't bad really.

Holidaytips · 05/08/2026 05:40

Ignore the reviews! Honestly, we've done loads of haven holidays and yes they're not 5* luxury but they're simple, comfortable and great for kids. Booking swimming is a pita, but the site we tend to stay in has an outdoor pool which you don't need to book, so worth looking at that as others might as well.

And as PP said, other companies are available.

Sirzy · 05/08/2026 05:24

But also worth providing there is a whole world of caravan holidays beyond haven sites! Widen your search if you’re not finding what’s right.

Sirzy · 05/08/2026 05:23

I have been to many haven sites over the years and have never had any issues with cleanliness (and I am the type who has been known to pack up and go home or move elsewhere if accommodation isn’t good enough!)

I don’t get the entertainment passes but my sister does and has never had an issue getting them booked for swimming and the booking stops it being overcrowded

Nelly44 · 05/08/2026 05:05

We’ve been to lots of haven holidays over the years, never had signs of bedbugs. Always clean. Some sites cleaner than others. Booking swimming was an issue, you still have to book in advance but often you can get in if you turn up.

Just choose a different park if you don’t like the idea of a Haven now.

Original poster
bubbabub · 05/08/2026 01:47

Im referring to the reviews online not my opinion just to clarify

OP posts:
SeaAndSangria · 05/08/2026 01:37

I've voted YABU only because I think you're being unreasonable by thinking they're "all bug ridden" etc!
I grew up going on Haven holidays, loved going there as a kid and we've been nearly every year when our children were little as well and we've all loved it. Never had a bad experience.
The accommodation has always been basic but clean and comfy. (Go for a bronze
category of accommodation, those are what we've always gone for and been fine with. Never done basic so not sure what that's like, think bronze is the next one up)
Still reasonably priced.
There's plenty to do on site, like swimming pools and entertainment on a night. Most are right next to a beach too.
Have fun 🙂

Original poster
bubbabub · 05/08/2026 01:36

Lots of them say the same that nothing to book as it’s all booked already, all hallows is an example but most of them said the same thing

OP posts:
pizzaandchips2078 · 05/08/2026 01:35

During covid I would say that was the case but not now. What haven are you thinking about?

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