Awards spotlight for Norfolk holiday park declared Britain’s best

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 Hunstanton holiday park took the overall title in the AA Caravan and Camping Awards which was celebrated at a glittering ceremony at Warwickshire’s Manor Hotel.

AA Holiday Centre of the Year

Stepping forward to receive the trophy was Paul Searle and his wife Vicky whose family first began welcoming campers over 60 years ago onto what was then a farm.

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

It provides more than 800 holiday home and touring pitches, including luxury lodges 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.

Truly memorable and high quality holiday experience

The citation from the AA’s judges noted that Searles “never stands still, and every year offers something new to delight visitors 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