Butlins, CP, haven, pontins, park Dean, other?

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Hi all,

Would be grateful for some advice.

We are trying to plan our summer and want to try one of the places in the title.

I went to Butlins when I was younger and remember it was great fun- I don’t know much about the others (other than CP being middle class and expensive) .

Obviously - keen to avoid overspending - but definitely want somewhere habitable (ie clean, safe) and with at least a few activities for the little ones. We could stretch to CP off-peak prices if worth it.

Any info appreciated.

thanks so much

We had a good time at butlins and kids love it. Upgrade to the best accommodation you can afford there. There is endless amounts of stuff to do. Center parks pleasant but nothing is included in the price other than swimming and the lodges are a bit bleak.

How old are your little ones? Are you tied to school holidays?

If they are under 5, Butlins do good value 'just for tots' breaks. I've been to the Minehead one 4 times when mine were younger and there's a lot of entertainment and activities laid on. If they are school age, go for the less popular school holidays such as the spring or autumn breaks when the resorts are less busy. The staff do their best with cleanliness but at summer peak there can be over 4000 people on-site and the swimming pool is solid with bodies.

Centre parcs is extortionate. If you want a cabin in the woods, Forest Holidays is better value, or Bluehaven if you can travel to Wales.

Haven sites vary massively - some are good, some are dire. Read up the reviews before you go.

A final option if you are near the south east of England are Eurocamps. There are some great ones approximately 2 hours away from Dover, plus Netherlands and Spain.

In terms of cabins or caravans, expect basic cleanliness, take antibacterial spray, your own bedding and a decent kitchen knife. I love these sort of holidays and I ensure my own peace of mind by taking it with me.

I've been to butlins skegness a few times. The DC love it. We go in term time though, proces are madness in the holidays and tbh it's too busy. We don't spend much extra once there, a couple of extra activities. The pool isn't fully functional atm.

Haven - again can be great, I just really struggle to justify the holiday prices (currently £49 for a 4 night break in term time, £800 or so in summer hols...)

Thanks so much. Kids are 1 and 4.

Then I don't think you can beat Haven. Seashore bear Gt Yarmouth is nice. Great pool with toddler pool and splash zone. Crafty things most days, little land train to Gt Yarmouth where there is Joyland, with kiddie rides. Kids discos and entertainment.