Candyfloss & Dreams

Category: Travel

Gilsland Hall Hotel Family Room Review
Ad – Press Trip. We were very kindly offered a complimentary stay for two nights including dinner, bed and breakfast at Gilsland Hall Hotel in exchange for this feature.

Gilsland Hall Hotel is just outside of Brampton in the North of England

If you’re looking for a summer staycation in North England then I have a reccomendation for you. Despite having our summer holiday already I couldn’t resist the opportunity for a little mini break during the summer of staycation to Gilsland Hall Hotel, just outside Brampton, right on the border of Cumbria and Northumberland. The Summer Holidays can be a stressful time for parents but this hotel has made it easy for families to have a two night stay with dinner included on both nights and breakfast included on both mornings. Gilsland Hall Hotel is perfectly situated in the very north for walking, cycling and breathing in the fresh country air. The current 3* hotel which has recently been taken over by new management, is currently taking bookings up until October when it will close for refurbishment. Families with dogs can bring them along too as Gilsland Hall Hotel is a pet friendly place. I’ve put together a little video tour of the hotel below and our stay in a Family room which you can see below.

About Gilsland Hall Hotel, Near Brampton

Gilsland Hall Hotel is now open and has recently is being managed by Monday Hospitality Group and will be part of their new country homes brand, Black Book Hotels. The current offer of dinner, bed and breakfast is priced from £80pp (based on two sharing) and this makes it a perfect British staycation spot for guests wanting to adventure around Cumbria and Northumberland. It will, however, be closing for the season in October to continue with renovation works. Currently, the hotel in its existing incarnation is available for affordable staycations for couples, friends, families and single travellers (and their dogs), this summer, looking for a base from which to explore the region. If you’re looking for family hotels in Cumbria then Gilsland Hall Hotel offers a great option for you. Alternatively, Gilsland Hall hotel is an ideal location for walking holidays for solo travellers. Renovations are ongoing at the hotel but this ndoes not take away from the friendly, welcoming staff, excellent food and rolling landscape views. The beds provide a comfortable sleep after a full day exploring, the showers are hot and powerful and there is plenty of tea and coffee facilities available too.

Gilsland Hall Hotel has 60 ensuite bedrooms and is due for a complate renovation with some really exciting things planned to fully upgrate this to a luxury hotel. The building has so much potential and a beautiful setting.

Where is Gilsland Hall Hotel?

Close to Brampton, Cumbria the hotel is situated amongst 140 acres of countryside. The postcode for Gilsland Hall Hotel is CA8 7AR. It was a long round trip for us but considering we want to relocate North I figure it’s a good idea to investigate as many areas as we can to see what exactly there is for us and hopefully find somewhere we absolutely love. As you can see the hotel is in gorgeous grounds. I’m really excited to see what the refurbishment does to transform this beautiful location from a 3* to a 5*, planned for reopening in Spring 2022. Having visited the hotel I will say that the grounds and scenery give the hotel so much potential to be the place to travel to for couples, families and groups of friends alike. The backdrop of rolling hills, farmland and the walking trails into gorge’s, valleys and ancient ruins make this a truly special place.

Staying in a Family Room at Gilsland Hall Hotel

There is currently an offer on site for dinner, bed and breakfast which is what we were offered during our stay at the hotel. The family room included all expected amenties including tea and coffee, an ensuite bathrooom with toiletries included and all bed linen and towels. Some rooms have deep soak bath tubs and garden views are available on request. Our room also included a dressing table, hairdryer, plenty of space for putting away clothes and a big sleigh bed which I found very comfortable. Rooms are still being opened up throughout the hotel as they’re in the process of renovating so the hotel is becoming more equipped for more guests. Our room was very spacious for a family of three or four. I loved having the bath and shower to use and the bathroom was plenty big enough for all the extra’s we need to bring when travelling with a toddler. Gilsland Hall Hotel is happy to welcome families and we found our stay to be really accomodating.

There is currently no set reception space however you can walk around to the patio area or through to the lounge to check in. We were greeted by Lyndsey who checked us in via an iPad and then kindly gave us directions to our room. We were on the first floor in room 116 which is an excellent family room close with the dining room just below.

Our room had a sleigh style double and two single beds

As you can see there was plenty of floor space in the ensuite family room at Gilsland Hall Hotel

The dressing table had a hairdryer in the drawer

What You Need to Know

Food – There are several options for food at Gilsland Hall hotel. Breakfast is served from 7.30am each morning and there is a continental, cooked and a la carte option. Toddlers may be happy with a range of fruit, cereal and toast however cooked options are also available to them. We tried the Eggs Benedict on the first morning which was delicious and rich with plenty of hollandaise sauce and tried to Full English Breakfast before our departure. Both were incredibly satisfying portions and really set us up for the day. Afternoon Tea is available for those that wish to sample it and the evening menu is available from 6pm. Booking a table is preferred and we decided to go down for 6pm each evening where we met Jermaine who gave us lots of information about the hotel and surrounding areas. I have to say the staff at Gilsland Hall Hotel were all very helpful, friendly and accomodating which really makes for such a pleasent stay.

Back to the evening meals and the food at Gilsland Hall is spectacular. I was told that the chef is local as are all the ingredients. The menu offered veggie, vegan and gluten free options and is available in two or three course’s each evening. Below are some images of the meals we had during our stay. Meals were made fresh to order and whilst there is no set child’s menu, the portions can be altered to child sizes – although they are still incredibly generous. There is also a pie of the week option which we didn’t sample.
- Steak and French Fries
- Gnocci with Greens and Parmesan
- Lemon Posset and Shortbread
- Smoked Salmon Roulade
- Eggs Benedict – Breakfast
Parking – Private parking is available at the hotel to the side of the entrace and there is additional parking to the back of the hotel.

Room types available – The hotel has a selection of rooms available including Pet Friendly, Single, Double and Family bedrooms.

How Family Friendly is Gilsland Hall Hotel

We found the hotel to be really family friendly with spacious bedrooms, bathrooms and smaller portions being altered and accomodated for smaller mouths. For example, the prawn cocktail was changed into a sandwich for Felix which was incredibly kind of the chef. There is an anteroom off to the side of the conservatory which has a selection of toys plus the grounds are stunning and a great way for children to run about getting some fresh air. We did see other, older children, staying at the hotel too. All the staff at the hotel were kind and always happy with a hello for Felix and had little chats with him which was really lovely. Everyone had a smile for him.
- The Dining Room at Gilsland Hall Hotel
- There is a portable outside bar on the patio
- The Conservatory
- Path to the Patio along the side of Gilsland Hall Hotel
- Surrounding countryside of the hotel
Gilsland Hall Hotel Final Thoughts

The hotel provides an excellent summer staycation base particularly for outdoorsy families and currently offers a comfortable, welcoming stay for families, couples and friends alike. However, the place is absolutely oozing with potential and I can not wait to see the transformation to 5 star luxury hotel in the future. If you’re looking to book then do so soon as the hotel will be closing in October to continue with renovation works. If you want a last minute break close to the Scottish borders, with a beautiful backdrop and comfortable accomodation then I really recommend Gilsland Hall Hotel as a place to consider staying. We were close to Hadrian’s Wall, Gretna in Scotland and in between Carlise on the West and Newcastle to the East. There are plenty of smaller towns and villages inbetween with pubs and tea rooms. There are many walking trails and routes offering gentler paths for families with spectacular views as well as more advanced trails. The food is absolutely spectacular, tasty, filling and exactly the sort of fare you need after a long day exploring. The plans for renovation are incredibly exciting becoming a potential wedding venue, spa and having luxury suites for guests.
August 4, 2021
Isle of Wight Holiday & Vlog July 2021

We recently visited the Isle of Wight for our summer holiday. It was a trip for three adults and two children, one almost 11 and one almost 3. We stayed in July 2021 at Nodes Point Holiday Park and this is what we got up to. If you’d rather watch than read you can take a look at my vlog below.

What We Did on Isle of Wight Summer 2021

As you can see from the video we had a fun filled and busy week with lovely sunny, warm weather. Well apart from our first day where there were flash floods all around. The trip was a great way to get out of the home and honestly I have come home feeling inspired and ready to properly get back into writing again. I’ve really missed blogging but it’s been so hard to keep up with it recently. I have a lot of content ideas and I really want to get back to filming regularly for YouTube and tip my toe in the water when it comes to Reels and making better photos. Anyway, back to our trip! We really did have a fantastic time. Our base was a Freshwater Lodge situated at Nodes Point Holiday Park. Our holiday was for three adults and two children; Evangeline is (almost) 11 and Felix will be 3 in October.

Planning days out to keep everyone happy can be a challenge but I think we managed to accomplish it for everyone. Our first day was spent, mostly, travelling with a ferry trip from Southamptom over to East Cowes and then on to our holiday park. We booked early check in from 1pm so we could make the most of our break. I decided to book and take the kids swimming whilst Adam and his mum went to Tesco for a food shop. After a check of the lodge me and the kids got our swim stuff on and walked over to the pool. We managed to go three times in total for 45 minutes each session which was really good. Adam arrived with the shopping shortly after we got back so we had some much needed chill time before ordering a takeout from a local Mediterranean inspired restuarant. I always find on the first night I don’t want to cook so a click and collect option worked well for us. We got a few bits and all kind of dug in with a medley of Greek and Italian food. When Felix was fast asleep we had our first dip in the hot tub which was a really nice way to unwind.

Visiting the Isle of Wight steam train

On the Tuesday we headed over to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and had a ride on the train before a look around the museum and a play in the park. It was a lovely sunny morning and as we were a little late arriving we ended up with a carriage upgrade and were placed in First Class which felt very fancy. We booked in for the pool again in the evening before coming back for some dinner. I think on the first night we had mushroom stroganoff which is a nice and easy meal to cook for the family. Then we went to grab a drink in the show lounge and catch some of the entertainment before an evening stroll down to the beach to look at the rock pools.

Midweek seems to be our busiest day, and it was also the hottest. We had tickets booked for the Zoo but little Felix I think was feeling a bit overwhelmed. After a year and a half of doing very little we were suddenly in a new place and very busy doing all kinds of things. I think he was tired, hot and really could have done with a chill day. I’ll take my lesson from that and remember when planning our next break. We had some down time playing in the park after looking at the animals with an ice cream before walking over the road to Sandown beach which is really nice. Then we went into Dinosaur Isle which is a museum back across the road. Both kids really liked the displays inside and as it was later in the afternoon it was really quiet. When we got back we were all pretty hungry so we went over to the onsite restaraunt. I wrote a review of our experience at Nodes Point holiday park if you want to hear more about the facilities there.

Evie and Felix at Isle of Wight Zoo enjoying an ice cream

On our last full day we had a late morning swim before heading into Shanklin which is a little seaside village around 40 minutes away from Nodes Point. It’s really beautiful. We’ve stayed in Shanklin a couple of times and had a really lovely holiday. Unfortunately I was struck down with a migraine so we only really made it to lunch as I wasn’t feeling up to a walk through Shanklin Chine. We did, however, visit the Old Thatch Teashop which is a beautiful pink cottage complete with fairy garden and a must visit. You can call up to book a table to avoid missing out. The food is delicious. A firm favourite is the afternoon teas and fresh crab sandwiches. Dogs are welcome too and the place is just beautifully quirky. I would absolutely love to own a pink cottage like that; it’s just a little bit of me.

A little snapshot of The Old Thatch Cottage in Shanklin – I love this shade of pink

With the end of our holiday in sight we came home and cooked a big pasta bake using up the last of the food in the lodge and our final evening hot tub dip. It was a really lovely break and I can not wait for our next trip!

July 20, 2021
Parkdean Resorts Nodes Point Holiday Park Review 2021

Review of Nodes Point Holiday Park – a Parkdean Resorts caravan, pitching and touring site on Isle of Wight. We had a four night stay in July 2021. Please note this post has to be marked as AD (advertisement) because it contains affiliate links where I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase – this is at no additional cost to you. I paid in full for my stay at Nodes Point Holiday park and all opinions are my own.

Nodes Point Holiday Park is situated just outside of Ryde, in St Helens, on the North East side of the Isle of Wight. It’s a Parkdean Resorts holiday park, a company we are fully accustomed to staying with now since our first holiday with them back in 2014. We recently stayed in a Freshwater Lodge which was, for the most part, a really positive experience. This is our second time holidaying during Covid times too so the park did have some guidelines and restrictions in place during our stay. With restrictions set to lift today, July 19th, I’m not really sure what the park will be doing differently but they do have an FAQ on their site to explain and reception is still available. I can however, share my experience of a staycation (and by that I mean a UK based holiday rather than staying in my home for a holiday) in a pandemic that really isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

The view from our lodge on Culver View shows the sports court at Nodes Point holiday park and the bay in the distance

Nodes Point Holiday Park – What is there?

Plenty of lodges with hot tubs – we loved ours, as well as space for touring, pitching, caravans, safari glamping tents and a plethora of different sized holiday homes (caravans) to stay in depending on budget and family size. There’s a good sized indoor swimming pool, play park, beach access and arcade. There is a restaurant on site with indoor and outdoor seating, bar, as well as an evening entertainment lounge. There is also a sports court which was very close to our Lodge on Culver View.

Eating at Nodes Point Holiday Park

We had one meal in the on site resturant and it was okay. There is an order to table app which you can download in advance – much like the Wetherspoons one – you select your park, table number and place your order. This can be paid for using apple pay or other credit and debit cards. You can order drinks and food seperately, you can order just dessert or snacks if you like too. The app is simple and easy to use. In terms of choice it’s currently a limited menu and very, very limited on what is available for vegitarians which was really disappointing. It seemed to be either a salad, burger or a wrap. Off the top of my head I can’t remember what else was suitable. We saw some people taking food away in the evening but there is no seperate on site takeaway which was a real shame as some fish and chips would have gone down a treat. It’s very standard pub food at slightly elevated prices but the portions are fairly decent. I wouldn’t say it’s anything special.

If you do fancy something different we did a click and collect order from Ada’s Meditarianean Kitchen in Ryde which had a variety of Italian, Greek and Turkish food on the menu. You can eat in but as we had the kids we thought eating in our lodge would be easier. If you fancy eating out or doing click and collect I really recommend.

On Site Shop and Arcade

The on site shop is a Nisa store which has all of your basics although it is very expensive so I do not recommend filling your kitchen up there. It’s great for the odd loaf of bread, drinks and breakfast food as well as plenty of sweets for the kids pocket money. The daily opening hours are 8am – 7pm at the Nodes Point holiday park shop. The arcade is located just before you get into the show bar and restaurant. It has plenty of games to play. Felix particularly loved the win every time claw machine although at £2 a go you could probably get a better quality toy elsewhere. We also loved the 2p machines and won a few goodies from there including some magic sand – a favourite for Felix.

Felix loved the claw game in the arcade at Nodes Point Holiday Park

Swimming Pool at Nodes Point Holiday Park

The swimming pool is located towards the back of the park, just around the corner from reception. It’s an indoor pool and at the time of writing changing facilities are not currently in place. You can book up to two slots online one week before your arrival, and, if you check in at the swimming pool reception you can check availablity for any extra sessions. They do not encourage spectators and you get a 45 minute swim session allocated to you. The pool is cold and the room doesn’t feel particularly warm so I would advice having small ones in full swim suits. We took Felix in his Konfidence swim jacket which enabled him to float in the water rather than arm bands as they look so restrictive. He really loved wearing it and it was much easier to get around the pool with him. There are two pools in the swimming pool complex at Nodes Point which include a small, shallow 0.5m pool and a larger lagoon style pool with slides. You need to be over 1m tall to ride down the water slides at Nodes Point Holiday Park. If you want to purchase a Konfidence Swim vest for your toddler I have an affiliate link below.

Getting down to the Beach

The beach was about a ten minute walk for us and in the evening the tide goes right out leaving behind loads of rock pools for curious little explorers. We had a walk down there one evening and found lots of crabs, shells and pebbles – a favourite for Felix. There’s a dog friendly area and there are plenty of dog friendly accomodations at Nodes Point holiday park so if you’re taking your pets Nodes Point seems like an ideal location for them. The beach has a mix of sand and stones so I would recommend taking something to wear on your feet. In July the tide seemed to start heading out around 6pm so when we went for our stroll it was still quite wet but lovely to walk around.

The beach at nodes point caravan park

Overall Nodes Point holiday park is a good family friendly destination with plenty of accomodation to choose from. We didn’t see much of the evening entertainment but they had a movie on one night and there was a chance to get your photo taken with a member of the Star Land crew. The night we happened to be in the show lounge we saw Lizzy the Lizard.

July 19, 2021
Freshwater Lodge with Hot Tub at Nodes Point Holiday Park
Reviewing the Freshwater Lodge at Parkdean Resorts Nodes Point Holiday park on the Isle of Wight. We stayed on a Monday-Friday break in July 2021.

The Isle of Wight is a holiday happy place for me and we have just returned from a four night break on the island. We purposely booked early check in so we could make the most of our time and get into our lodge straight away. We decided to book a lodge with a hot tub because we wanted something a little bit fancy and, in my experience, it was worth the money. We did, however, book this break last summer and it cost us just under £600 in the Freshwater Lodge situated in Culver View. Splitting the cost over the year made it an affordable family break.

Freshwater Lodge at Nodes Point

Staying in the Freshwater Lodge as a family of 5 we had plenty of space. It was the four of us and Adam’s mum in a 3 bed, two bathroom lodge with an open plan living space which included a fully stocked kitchen and dining area. There was outside seating for six people as well as a large private hot tub on the decking. Inside there was a dining table for six as well as two bar stools. The open plan living space in the freshwater lodge makes it really easy to socialise. There are two bathrooms – one with a full bath and overhead shower, another; an ensuite to the master bedroom – which includes a shower cubicle. Having two spaces to wash really suited our situation.

Our Lodge Tour Video of Culver View 5 is on YouTube

What does the Freshwater Lodge include
- One Double bedroom with ensuite, wardrobe, dressing table, TV with freeview and USB charging point
- Two twin rooms with dressing table, wardrobe and TV with freeview
- Bathroom with bath, shower, toilet and large cabinet for toiletries
- Open plan living space with sofa and two arm chairs, TV with freeview and sliding doors opening up to the veranda and Hot Tub with outside seating
- To the right of the entrance is a large cupboard with boiler, water heater, radiator control (including heated towel rail control) and a washing machine, air drier and ironing board.
- The dining space has a large table and cabinet with plenty of storage
- The kitchen has fridge, freezer, kettle, microwave, gas oven, dishwasher and toaster. There was an issue with our fridge (Culver View 5) which lead to a leak one morning and our food not staying particularly cold. A temporary fridge was put in the corner of the dining area in the interim and a new fridge has apparently been ordered. There is a large pantry space as well as plenty of cupboards. We did find cutlery to be a little sparse but there were plenty of wine glasses (for us none drinkers). There are no plastic or small bowls, plates or cutlery for children so its worth taking your own if you have very young children.
- The seating area was comfortable for us. The TV seems a little tempremental and slow but worked fine for the times we used it.
Review of Freshwater Lodge at Nodes Point, Isle of Wight

I’ll start with the frustrations first because out stay was mostly positive. There was a smell of sewage for a lot of our stay which was really offputting. We found we could minimise it by keeping the entrance door closed and the sliding doors opened but it was frequent in the large bathroom. It was a bit off putting really but we only cooked twice. The other frustrating thing was the issue with the fridge which is hopefully being replaced. It is quite clearly lacking some sort of seal to keep the water in and the ice forming at the back of the fridge suggests its trying to over compensate to keep cool but with no seal around the door. We were told it didn’t need a seal so I do worry they are just avoiding fixing a problem. The solution was to put a temporary mini fridge in the corner which was acceptable but didn’t store a lot of food. We did have to throw a few things out like yoghurts because they just felt like they’d been left out at room temperature and I didn’t feel good about eating them. Some plastic or smaller, less fragile dishes and beakers for kids would have been fantastic too but this was lacking so we bought our own.
The rest of the lodge, though, was really nice. Having a washing machine was really handy especially after a day at the beach. Having two bathrooms between the five of us meant we getting washed and ready was really easy. Having TV’s in each room meant when the kids needed some much needed downtime we weren’t stuck watching an endless loop of cbeebies. I loved the size of the pantry in the kitchen and having the open plan living space was really great for preparing meals and continuing to socialise. The dining table was comfortable and the bench was an ideal place for my son to sit at – the first year we didn’t request a high chair for him! It absolutely felt like a premium holiday accomodation at a holiday park because we had so much space.

We have been to many caravan parks in the past and I think if I saw a lodge coming up for a similar price I wouldn’t hesitate to book again. I believe you can get some of the lodges included in the Sun holiday and I think they are absolutely worth it if you’re going in a larger group with friends or family – even better if you can split some of the cost down. I know a hot tub lodge won’t suit every budget and I’m not saying we will now only ever go for a lodge – because I’m not really prepared to pay more than £800 for a four night break and they do whack the price up – but if you can afford it, and you can comfortably fit the payment into your monthly budget (if booking in advance) then I would recommend it for the extra space. As a family of larger adults, myself on the chunky side and Adam being 6’5 having a bigger shower and shower over bath honestly made this experience so much more comfortable. I really struggle with the normal caravan showers so this was a huge plus for us.

Using the Hot Tub in your hot tub lodge at Nodes Point

The hot tub is in it’s own little gated off area and was much bigger than I thought it would be. It was a lovely addition and we used it every day – sometimes out of obligation really but it was a novelty that didn’t wear off on our break. It was a great way to warm up after the very cold swimming pool. You can use the hot tub after 7pm on your day of arrival, I think this is to give the cleaning chemicals a chance to get working, and between 10am-10pm every other day. Maintenance come around every morning to check the chemical levels and adjust as needed and on changeover days they refill the water and do a clean. The hot tub is kept lidded and locked whilst not in use. The tub was regularly between 37-39 degrees but we couldn’t seem to adjust the temperature. It was hotter during the day when the sun was out and cooler in the evening during the night so I expect this had something to do with it. The jets would go on for 15 minutes at a time which is an indication for how long one should be in a hot tub but I don’t think anyone ever pays attention to that.
July 18, 2021
Lockdown Staycation at Ruda Holiday Park, Croyde Bay – Review
Are you planning on a family holiday with parkdean resorts at Ruda holiday park? Here is everything you need to know before you go.A pardean holiday review of our recent staycation to Ruda, Croyde Bay during the Coronavirus pandemic. Reviewing the caravan and park facilities currently open with Covid-19 secure regulations.
Ruda Holiday Park Review

We paid £560 for a four night break in a 2 bed Mortehoe caravan at Ruda, (you can find a caravan tour below), in Croyde Bay, Devon, for 2 adults and 2 children. This included hiring a high chair and swimming pool tickets. I am hoping to get a refund for as the swimming pool was closed during our visit. This was booked for early July 2020; a week after holiday parks were allowed to open during the coronavirus pandemic. Below you will find a review of our experience at Ruda as frequent ParkDean Resorts holiday goers. I have also detailed how we found the covid regulations in place during our stay.

Ruda Holiday park is owned by Park Dean Resorts and has a mix of static caravans, lodges and a huge pitching for toring and camping with communal washing facilities, electrical hook up points and entertainment passes. The site is pet friendly, including having dog friendly caravans on site so you can bring your four legged friends too. Ruda holiday park has free on site wifi, with the option to pay for an upgrade on when in your caravan should there be a rainy day or you fancy watching Netflix in the evening – providing you bring a laptop or tablet with you!

Staying at Ruda Holiday Park, Croyde Bay, North Devon

We originally booked our trip to Devon last August before COVID-19 even entered our thoughts and loved the look of Ruda Caravan Park after searching for campsites in North Devon. We have stayed with ParkDean resorts many times with our last holiday with them being on the Isle of Wight at Thorness Bay campsite. Obviously, because of Coronavirus we were umming and ahhing about going but as holiday parks opened up the week before we were due to travel we were unable to cancel. This meant no refund. We also wanted to get out of our flat for a bit as not having access to a garden was starting to get tough.

The early morning mist coming down from the hills on Ruda caravan park in North Devon

We selected Ruda holiday park because it looked great. I loved the look of the water park and it was close to a beach. It also has other facilities such as soft play and plenty of choices for food onsite. I can’t say it wasn’t disappointing that the swimming pool and soft play areas were closed during our break. I understand why and we did not let that stop us having a great time. With swimming pools set to open in the coming weeks hopefully, Ruda holiday park soft play area will open again soon too. In the meantime though there are two play parks at each end of Ruda Holiday Park and a gorgeous local sandy surfing beach.

Ruda Holiday Park children’s playground with Croyde Bay in the background at the other side of the caravan park.

Ruda Holiday Park Accomodation

For our ParkDean holiday 2020 we booked an extra long, extra wide two bedroom Mortehoe Caravan which sleeps up to six people. Everything you need is included in the accomodation at Ruda including bed linen. Although we did have to request that these were changed when we arrived due to them smelling of vomit. Sadly, changing the sheets did not really do anything and it may be a cleaning product they are using. We sprayed our sheets with our own perfume and bought some fabreeze from a tesco in Barnstaple to freshen it up. Opening the windows really helps too.

Our living space during our time at ruda holiday park

The Mortehoe caravan is a great size for a family of four and there is plenty of room in the master bedroom, which included an ensuite, for a travel cot. You can lay down the second single bed mattress on the floor in the master bedroom room for a toddler to sleep on. Our toddler is little so a travel cot is ideal but we do not have one. You can hire these when booking. We did hire a high chair for him but didn’t order in a travel cot as we weren’t sure on the size of the main bedroom. The kitchen is fully equipped including a full size fridge and freezer. Seating is comfortable and we found it easy to cook our meals.

Ruda Holiday Park Coronavirus Regulations

Here are what’s changed at Ruda Holiday Park during the Coronavirus pandemic
- You will Check in online. The day before you arrive you will get your caravan number and location alongside a park map so you can familiarise yourself with how to get to your accomodation. When you arrive at Ruda Holiday Park someone will ask your name and accomodation number, give you directions and inform you if there is a red sign you can not enter and need to go to the overflow carpark to wait, if there is a green sign you are free to enter the caravan.
- One way systems in the main venue and limited people in shops and takeaways.
- Spacing out tables and chairs in resturaunts.
- A call and collect menu from the Coast resturaunt. The menu has starters, mains, desserts, snacks, alcoholic and soft drinks for you to call through, collect in around thirty minutes and eat back in your accomodation. The food is packed in takeaway boxes. It’s an excellent option and one we used on our first night. There is also a fish and chips takeaway and pizzas available to take away too.
- Keys and information inside the caravan when you arrive
- Virtual entertainment only – no disco, tabletop entertainment packs etc and various kids clubs which you must book in advance. Some are paid for.
Ruda Holiday Park Site Map

Ruda Holiday Park map

Restaurants at Ruda, Croyde Bay

Onsite at Ruda Holiday Park you will find the Coast resturant adjacent to the showbar and lounge as well as a fish and chips takeaway and an Italian which closes at 9pm. The food provided is varied and there are kids meals options available which is really handy. We tried the fish and chips takeaway one evening which was really nice and affordable. We also used the call and collect from the Coast restaurant which had loads of choices including alcohol. We tried the premixed cocktails alongside our baguettes and loaded chips as well as two delicious puddings. It was a great option for our first night onsite as we didn’t go food shopping until the next day.

There is a small Nisa shop on site too for essentials and sweets although it’s quite expensive but has lots of options should you forget anything or fancy cooking when you arrive. It’s also got some great sausages for breakfast if you fancy something hot before you start exploring the local area.

Our Holiday in North Devon

I’ve put together a little holiday vlog sharing some of the times we did on our trip to Ruda Holiday Park and other activities we did including visiting The Big Sheep & Exmoor Zoo which are both around 40 minutes away. We also did our food shopping at the Tesco Extra in Barnstaple but there is a smaller Tesco at Brauton around five miles or so away.

Spending a few hours down at the beach was really nice on the Thursday. From our caravan it was about a five or ten minute walk down to the beach which has lifeguards, a surf school, an ice cream shop and open toilets. Croyde Bay is a really beautiful beach and we saw some pretty awesome waves whilst there.

Felix enjoying a sandy ice cream at Croyde Bay, the beach closed to Ruda holiday park

I was surprised with Evie who has never really swam in the sea but she dove in and had loads of fun playing and building sandcastles. It was so nice just to let her play after so many weeks of being stuck inside. The beach alongside the park allowed her to play properly. It was nice and quiet and the park equipment was really spread out too so there was lots of space for families.

Evie after jumping through the waves at Croyde Bay at Ruda Holiday Park in North Devon

Should You Have A Staycation During Pandemic?

Ultimately, this is up to you. My advice would be to take masks, hand soap and hand gel. Practise good hygiene and stick to big open spaces. A staycation holiday during the coronavirus pandemic will not be the same as the holiday you are used to having. It will have more structure and regulations which you might find hard to deal with if you want to relax.

We feel we had a positive experience at Ruda holiday park and the staff worked really hard to keep everyone safe. I regularly saw cleaning and they had a track and trace system in place for everyone entering the main entertainment complex alongside the one way systems. Everyone was polite and friendly, helpful and whilst we didn’t get to use all of the facilities we came home feeling good.

A staycation is a great way to have a holiday as if you do feel unwell you can easily get tested locally and you can come home. Having self contained accomoation made me feel better too. Most importantly my kids still got their summer holiday. A chance to play at the beach, in the park and just let off a bit of steam. If you’re cautious and responsible, I don’t see why you wouldn’t have a nice holiday at Ruda holiday park.

If yuo found this helpful wh not check out our other ParkDean Resorts reviews.
Thorness Bay, Isle of Wight
Mullion, Cornwall
Landguard, Isle of Wight
July 18, 2020