Lodge demand “through the roof” as staycations surge

The decades-old dominance of static caravans on Britain’s holiday parks is now at an end, says a leading independent holiday homes specialist.

The traditional caravan has been relegated into second place on by roomier and more luxuriously specified lodges, according to Justin Allitt of Sell My Group.

Holiday Lodge staycations are booming

Justin’s business is the UK’s largest online marketplace for new and pre-owned park properties, and is now seeing lodges represent around 70% of holiday home listings:

“When we first started out seven years ago, holiday caravans represented the vast majority of holiday accommodation sold privately and by parks,” he said.

“Now the surge in staycations has put paid to that as families seek out top-end units which provide a pampering experience for their UK get-aways.

“Bigger living spaces, extra refinement, and architect-inspired designs are all making the case for holiday lodges more compelling than ever.

“And being more roomy, lodges also leave the door open for owners to share their holidays with their extended families or friends.

Sophisticated holiday accommodation

“New models are becoming increasingly sophisticated with, for example, heating systems which can be switched on remotely as you drive to the park.

“Popular too are Scandinavian-style woodburning stoves which are specially designed for lodges. Hot-tubs are a must-have item for many, as are rainforest showers in the bathroom.

“Open-plan layouts and vaulted ceilings are often specified to increase the sense of space, and floor-to-ceiling glazing lets the light flood in is also much sought-after.

“Buyers often also look for a luxury en-suite bathroom to the master bedroom, and request high-ticket kitchen appliances such as Bosch – and a kitchen island.

Bespoke holiday lodges

“In fact, manufacturers will bespoke lodges to as high a standard as they wish, from hotel quality mattresses and hand-crafted furniture to remotely controlled blinds and mood lighting.

“If people really want to enjoy the good life, a lodge on a park is the place to find it,” said Justin.

But, he believes, there need be no fears for the future of the traditional holiday caravan – and they remain popular with first-time buyers and those wishing to sub-let on the park.

Sell My Group currently lists more than 1,300 holiday and residential park homes for sale on its website at www.sellmygroup.co.uk