Craig Tara Holiday Park, Ayrshire, Scotland
Hotel Information
Hotel Description:
There's non-stop holiday Park action from dawn to dusk at Craig Tara! The beach is great and the whole family will love the multi-level leisure pool with flumes, slides and fabulous NEW features. Craig Tara also has a massive outdoor fun area with Go-Karts and Adventure Playground. loading...
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Craig Tara Holiday Park Reviews
" craig tara "
Submitted By: loumic1
well just came back from a 4 day stay at this caravan site and we loved it , some people forget it is a caravan your going to be living in not a 5 star hotel !!!!! the staff dont get enough credit itheir they work bloody hard and are very nice guys thank you . they were the ones that made our holiday the entertainment was fab my 3 kids went to bradleys teddy bear picnic it cost 3.50 each but what they got for that was well worth the money and theyget there food in a little baskett that is to keep too, so people that has booked a holiday and then came on to this site dont dred it honestly its fab!!!!!1 and it is only what you make it !!!!!!!!!!!
Advice: decent freindly place
Activities: make sure you have enough time for the animal farm park its fab 3 mile away from the camp site
Good for: Beach
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Do Not Go Here!!!! "
Submitted By: sebjones1999
I feel that a score of 1 is too high for this place.
We booked an apartment for the week and arrived at 4pm on the Monday. We lasted 2 & 1/2 hours - 10 mins was all I could stomach in the 'apartment'. The smell of booze and urine before I could even open the front door was overwhelming, the key didn't work in the door and when the maintenance chap let us in, I walked straight back out and told him to just lock the door again. Handles hanging off doors, stale and filthy, dishes on sink, dirty fridge and microwave and can not even guess what the stains where that were over the sofa.
They refused to give refund and offered a tiny caravan for 2 adults and 4 kids - 2 of which are babies. Told them in no uncertain terms that I would be having a FULL refund and only after over an hour of arguing - at which point another 3 families where in complaining about the state of their accomodation that I think they gave in and gave a note to say refund to be given - this takes 7 - 10 WORKING DAYS!!!!!
The place is a JOKE. The customer service is non-existent and quite frankly the accommodation would be turned down by a dog as its so disgusting. I only wish I had found this site before booking.
We booked an apartment for the week and arrived at 4pm on the Monday. We lasted 2 & 1/2 hours - 10 mins was all I could stomach in the 'apartment'. The smell of booze and urine before I could even open the front door was overwhelming, the key didn't work in the door and when the maintenance chap let us in, I walked straight back out and told him to just lock the door again. Handles hanging off doors, stale and filthy, dishes on sink, dirty fridge and microwave and can not even guess what the stains where that were over the sofa.
They refused to give refund and offered a tiny caravan for 2 adults and 4 kids - 2 of which are babies. Told them in no uncertain terms that I would be having a FULL refund and only after over an hour of arguing - at which point another 3 families where in complaining about the state of their accomodation that I think they gave in and gave a note to say refund to be given - this takes 7 - 10 WORKING DAYS!!!!!
The place is a JOKE. The customer service is non-existent and quite frankly the accommodation would be turned down by a dog as its so disgusting. I only wish I had found this site before booking.
Advice: Keep on driving.....
Activities: Favourite site was the sign saying....
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:Half Board
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Cold, cold, cold! "
Submitted By: towny
Our review is a mixed bag. From the outset I should say our two older children (he's 6, she's 3) had a whale of a time and if it were up to them our overall rating would probably be 10/10. However behind that was an awful lot of hard work and make-do on the part of myself, my wife and even our youngest (she's 11 months) that made the whole thing a bit of a trial for the rest of us.
Our expectations of Craig Tara were not sky high. We booked the most basic caravan, bought the 'diners choice' half board package, and were pleased it was so reasonably priced considering it was the first week of Easter. However we were aware that Craig Tara used to be a Butlins site so we went in hope that there would be no shortage of things to do even though it's no longer sold as such.
First, the 'fun' pool. Considering it's the showpiece attraction, I can't get my head round why it doesn't open until 10am (or whenever the staff can be bothered to unlock the door, whichever is the later), why it closes at 6pm, and why on earth it closes for an hour at lunchtime - especially when, at all other times, it's so busy there's a queue out the door. One day midweek, my wife and a number of other mums and young children were booted out by an extremely rude lifeguard after they - understandably, I think - failed to grasp that the pool really was going to shut for lunch. I mean, why would you?
The pool is also not much fun for babies or very young children, as unlike most pools of this type the temperature is very low, more like what you would expect in a regular 25 metre pool designed for swimming lengths than a place to splash about. Our youngest was very unhappy and had to be taken out after about 10 minutes, and she wasn't the only baby we saw who was shivering and unhappy. Our older children were blue-lipped but rushing about too quick to notice. It was the parents that were doing the worrying.
The thing we all agreed was fantastic was the Turnberry Gardens Restaurant, where we had breakfast and dinner each day. It was efficient, the staff were extremely helpful, friendly and conscientious, and the grub was good, tasty, basic, solid stuff. Just what we needed to stoke us up against the rotten weather.
Ah, the weather - we're no strangers to holidays in Ayrshire so we knew what to expect. However we had never stayed in a caravan in Ayrshire, so it was a rude awakening to just how cold things can get at night. Strangely the 'welcome' pack forbids you to bring additional heating, then when you get there the hire centre will rent you a fan heater for £5 a week.
Apart from being cold, the caravan stank of stale cigarette smoke, something we were reminded of when we got home and unpacked our bedlinen, which stank. Judging by the gas inspection report the unit was about 5 years old and has been well used, however there was evidence that maintenance is carried out (walls patched, lounge carpet replaced). The gas fire inspection was up to date but I was unhappy with the way it was burning.
Now, the entertainment, if that's what it was. Frankly I have seen people in the early stages of Britain's Got Talent with more sparkle. It was downright awful in every possible way, from the lacklustre dance routines to the shoddy, lackadaisical scripting. We honestly weren't expecting Shakespeare, but some effort to put together an enjoyable family show would have been nice. We were embarrassed on behalf of the poor 'Funstars' on stage when they plodded their way to the end of a particularly awful number in the middle of "Professor Schloops and the Sherbet Blast Machine" only to get a resounding silence from the audience, followed by a few sympathy claps from somewhere near the back of the room.
Other people have commented about the state of the soft play area in main reception. Happily, I think they've put a new carpet down as it, as well as all the play equipment, was absolutely spotless. I spent an hour on the floor in there with my two daughters on the final morning while our son had his swimming lesson so I'd have noticed any dirt. Trust me, there wasn't. If there had been, I'd have been constantly removing it from our 11-month-old's mouth. She loves finding bits and pieces on the ground and is extremely good at picking it up!
I think I've said enough. Make what you want of the above, assuming you're still reading. Our overall impression was that the staff and management (with the notable exception of the Turnberry Gardens Restaurant) are running the place with the bare minimum of effort. Everything is arranged for the convenience of the staff rather than the guests. I think in all honesty we will never go back to Craig Tara, not because the kids didn't enjoy it - they did - but because there are other places they will enjoy just as much, if not more so, that are also relaxing for the parents.
Our expectations of Craig Tara were not sky high. We booked the most basic caravan, bought the 'diners choice' half board package, and were pleased it was so reasonably priced considering it was the first week of Easter. However we were aware that Craig Tara used to be a Butlins site so we went in hope that there would be no shortage of things to do even though it's no longer sold as such.
First, the 'fun' pool. Considering it's the showpiece attraction, I can't get my head round why it doesn't open until 10am (or whenever the staff can be bothered to unlock the door, whichever is the later), why it closes at 6pm, and why on earth it closes for an hour at lunchtime - especially when, at all other times, it's so busy there's a queue out the door. One day midweek, my wife and a number of other mums and young children were booted out by an extremely rude lifeguard after they - understandably, I think - failed to grasp that the pool really was going to shut for lunch. I mean, why would you?
The pool is also not much fun for babies or very young children, as unlike most pools of this type the temperature is very low, more like what you would expect in a regular 25 metre pool designed for swimming lengths than a place to splash about. Our youngest was very unhappy and had to be taken out after about 10 minutes, and she wasn't the only baby we saw who was shivering and unhappy. Our older children were blue-lipped but rushing about too quick to notice. It was the parents that were doing the worrying.
The thing we all agreed was fantastic was the Turnberry Gardens Restaurant, where we had breakfast and dinner each day. It was efficient, the staff were extremely helpful, friendly and conscientious, and the grub was good, tasty, basic, solid stuff. Just what we needed to stoke us up against the rotten weather.
Ah, the weather - we're no strangers to holidays in Ayrshire so we knew what to expect. However we had never stayed in a caravan in Ayrshire, so it was a rude awakening to just how cold things can get at night. Strangely the 'welcome' pack forbids you to bring additional heating, then when you get there the hire centre will rent you a fan heater for £5 a week.
Apart from being cold, the caravan stank of stale cigarette smoke, something we were reminded of when we got home and unpacked our bedlinen, which stank. Judging by the gas inspection report the unit was about 5 years old and has been well used, however there was evidence that maintenance is carried out (walls patched, lounge carpet replaced). The gas fire inspection was up to date but I was unhappy with the way it was burning.
Now, the entertainment, if that's what it was. Frankly I have seen people in the early stages of Britain's Got Talent with more sparkle. It was downright awful in every possible way, from the lacklustre dance routines to the shoddy, lackadaisical scripting. We honestly weren't expecting Shakespeare, but some effort to put together an enjoyable family show would have been nice. We were embarrassed on behalf of the poor 'Funstars' on stage when they plodded their way to the end of a particularly awful number in the middle of "Professor Schloops and the Sherbet Blast Machine" only to get a resounding silence from the audience, followed by a few sympathy claps from somewhere near the back of the room.
Other people have commented about the state of the soft play area in main reception. Happily, I think they've put a new carpet down as it, as well as all the play equipment, was absolutely spotless. I spent an hour on the floor in there with my two daughters on the final morning while our son had his swimming lesson so I'd have noticed any dirt. Trust me, there wasn't. If there had been, I'd have been constantly removing it from our 11-month-old's mouth. She loves finding bits and pieces on the ground and is extremely good at picking it up!
I think I've said enough. Make what you want of the above, assuming you're still reading. Our overall impression was that the staff and management (with the notable exception of the Turnberry Gardens Restaurant) are running the place with the bare minimum of effort. Everything is arranged for the convenience of the staff rather than the guests. I think in all honesty we will never go back to Craig Tara, not because the kids didn't enjoy it - they did - but because there are other places they will enjoy just as much, if not more so, that are also relaxing for the parents.
Advice: Ayrshire is a great place to visit, just choose your accommodation carefully!
Activities: Loudoun Castle Theme Park, Kelburn Castle Outdoor Centre
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:Half Board
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" C Metcalfe "
Submitted By: CharlesM123
I dont usually write reviews but i felt that Craig Tara has far to many negative comments for the great holiday that we had.
Our family (range of different ages, 5 adults 3 teenagers and 3 children) arrived 9th August , we left our bags in an area which the reception provided until our caravan was ready and in the mean time went and had a nosey around , when we arrived back at the time allocated for check in by the staff (this time was allocated initially when we booked our holiday so there were no delays we were simply early)
Our Caravans was excellent for a standard caravan, we had a TV and Dvd player which we weren't expecting to be there.. there was enough heat inside even though if was freezing outside. beds were comfortable for everyone...
Entertainment... was amazing.. my daughter fell madly in love with ginger phil the entertainer who she still never shuts up about haha Entertainers were all really pleasent , they made our holiday! Bingo .. well what can i say we won over 800 pound in it (with my daughter winning the majority of it...drinks were on her haha)
Swimming pool was great all the kids went enjoyed it and i must say i went myself and had a great time with them!!
Burger king and chip shop were great however mash and barrells food took far too long too arrive and was freezn when it eventully arrived but again staff were good and replaced the food and gave us all free drinks.
Overall we really enjoyed our stay and will def be back ...
Our family (range of different ages, 5 adults 3 teenagers and 3 children) arrived 9th August , we left our bags in an area which the reception provided until our caravan was ready and in the mean time went and had a nosey around , when we arrived back at the time allocated for check in by the staff (this time was allocated initially when we booked our holiday so there were no delays we were simply early)
Our Caravans was excellent for a standard caravan, we had a TV and Dvd player which we weren't expecting to be there.. there was enough heat inside even though if was freezing outside. beds were comfortable for everyone...
Entertainment... was amazing.. my daughter fell madly in love with ginger phil the entertainer who she still never shuts up about haha Entertainers were all really pleasent , they made our holiday! Bingo .. well what can i say we won over 800 pound in it (with my daughter winning the majority of it...drinks were on her haha)
Swimming pool was great all the kids went enjoyed it and i must say i went myself and had a great time with them!!
Burger king and chip shop were great however mash and barrells food took far too long too arrive and was freezn when it eventully arrived but again staff were good and replaced the food and gave us all free drinks.
Overall we really enjoyed our stay and will def be back ...
Advice: ...Bring a coat! is freezing
Activities: Burger king haha
Good for: Beach City Breaks
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Room Only
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Avoid Chalets !! "
Submitted By: debi-robo
I have booked short breaks at Craig Tara several times over the years and obviously been satisfied enough to go back, however this year we booked a chalet because they we cheap and heated and we had a baby with us so wanted to avoid a cold caravan.
However, the heating was rubbish electric heaters that barely worked, chalet was very basic and bare looking, and there was a lot of noise from drunks in other chalets every night!
The softplay area was very dirty and is obviously in need of a revamp, and during the course of the break we became aware of several hooligans roaming around causing trouble and shouting abuse at staff, there never seemed to be anything done about this when quite clearly they should have been made to leave te park by security!
Craig Tara has definately gone down hill recently !!!
However, the heating was rubbish electric heaters that barely worked, chalet was very basic and bare looking, and there was a lot of noise from drunks in other chalets every night!
The softplay area was very dirty and is obviously in need of a revamp, and during the course of the break we became aware of several hooligans roaming around causing trouble and shouting abuse at staff, there never seemed to be anything done about this when quite clearly they should have been made to leave te park by security!
Craig Tara has definately gone down hill recently !!!
Advice: Surrounding area has plenty to see and do
Activities: The moon bar in city centre is great from familys as has outdoor patio with great play area for kids
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Haven or Hell Holiday? "
Submitted By: Macclads
This is the brief summary of the letter of complaint I sent to the Craig Tara Haven camp which my faimly spent a holiday with in August.
All we received back was a brief letter of apology (which skirted around most issues raised) and no offer at all of compensation.
Upon arriving at the Craig Tara Park we checked in at 2:30pm and went immediately to our accommodation situated on Islay Village. Shortly after entering the caravan it became apparent that the accommodation had not been vacuumed prior to our arrival and we also found a bundle of dirty laundry in one of the kitchen cupboards.
Outside the caravan we then discovered that a pool of water had converged and it appeared to be coming from a dripping pipe directly under the bathroom.
We immediately reported all of the above matters to the reception desk and shortly afterwards a cleaner and maintenance team arrived at the caravan. They both informed us when they had finished their duties and we went about our holiday.
Early the following morning I took a bath but it soon became obvious that water was seeping from underneath the bath panel. I put my own towels down to stem the flow and hoped that it was a minor fault as reception was closed at that time. However the problem quickly escalated and soon the bathroom floor was completely covered in water. I immediately called the 24hr security number and was advised that the maintenance department were not available until 8am and that I would have to wait until then.
Within minutes the water had begun to seep into the hall, kitchen and to the boiler, the lights in the caravan flickered and we turned all electrics off and evacuated our young children as they were becoming upset and we were concerned for their safety. I called the security number again and stressed the urgency of the matter and was advised that somebody would be with us immediately.
Whilst waiting for assistance we removed all personal possessions from ground level as were concerned that they become damaged from the growing flood. We also attempted to locate the stopcock but to no avail.
A gentleman from security arrived promptly but he too could not locate the stopcock and by this point the water had now reached several inches in depth in the bathroom, was spreading rapidly into the centre of the lounge and was cascading from the underneath of the caravan. The security man advised us to travel to reception where our children could wait indoors and we could arrange alternative accommodation for the rest of our holiday.
Shortly after arriving at reception we explained the situation to Andy Raye who was extremely helpful and understanding in the matter and advised us to take our breakfast in the restaurant while he arranged for a new caravan. During this time the maintenance men had arrived at the accommodation and finally located the stopcock.
After our breakfast we packed our belongings and moved to our new accommodation and then proceeded to unpack them, this obviously took a considerable amount of time.
During the day we also spoke with Pete Whitehouse who assured us that he would be looking into the matter and into the possibility of compensating us for our upset, inconvenience and wasted time.
Disappointingly he never contacted us for the remainder of the holiday nor have we had any contact since our return home.
If the maintenance department had correctly identified the problem upon our first reporting the leak on our arrival none of this would have occurred.
This is our 3rd holiday with Haven, our children have a wonderful time with all the characters, the funstars are all great entertainers especially Carl, Phil & Tara and the staff in the restaurant also deserve a mention for their enthusiasm and dedication to their role but we feel deeply disappointed in the level of service provided and false promises made by individuals.
Other areas that I feel of concern to inform you about.
We went to the swimming pool on three separate occasions, not once did the staff check our passes, they also kept several slides unavailable while there was obviously enough staff available to monitor them. Our nephew booked into the fencing lessons, the room provided had no external windows and the temperature was far too extreme for a 10 year old wearing protective clothing.
We ate once at the Mash & Barrel, the food there was very poor and the time taken for it to arrive was far too long for the small number of patrons in the establishment.
At the fairground the staff showed no enthusiasm in their duties at all, several of the trampolines were not properly attached and were quite obviously dangerous.
The softplay area nearby to reception is badly maintained by staff, extremely dirty and obviously is in need of a revamp.
In the bars the seating was insufficient for the numbers and if you sat anywhere in the side aisles your view is blocked by the unnecessary decoration to the pillars.
The centre that has remote controlled cars and ten pin bowling was appalling, again very dirty, lack of enthusiasm from staff, only one of the hydrocars worked, none of the remote controlled ones, probably the area of the camp is most need of a overhaul.
All we received back was a brief letter of apology (which skirted around most issues raised) and no offer at all of compensation.
Upon arriving at the Craig Tara Park we checked in at 2:30pm and went immediately to our accommodation situated on Islay Village. Shortly after entering the caravan it became apparent that the accommodation had not been vacuumed prior to our arrival and we also found a bundle of dirty laundry in one of the kitchen cupboards.
Outside the caravan we then discovered that a pool of water had converged and it appeared to be coming from a dripping pipe directly under the bathroom.
We immediately reported all of the above matters to the reception desk and shortly afterwards a cleaner and maintenance team arrived at the caravan. They both informed us when they had finished their duties and we went about our holiday.
Early the following morning I took a bath but it soon became obvious that water was seeping from underneath the bath panel. I put my own towels down to stem the flow and hoped that it was a minor fault as reception was closed at that time. However the problem quickly escalated and soon the bathroom floor was completely covered in water. I immediately called the 24hr security number and was advised that the maintenance department were not available until 8am and that I would have to wait until then.
Within minutes the water had begun to seep into the hall, kitchen and to the boiler, the lights in the caravan flickered and we turned all electrics off and evacuated our young children as they were becoming upset and we were concerned for their safety. I called the security number again and stressed the urgency of the matter and was advised that somebody would be with us immediately.
Whilst waiting for assistance we removed all personal possessions from ground level as were concerned that they become damaged from the growing flood. We also attempted to locate the stopcock but to no avail.
A gentleman from security arrived promptly but he too could not locate the stopcock and by this point the water had now reached several inches in depth in the bathroom, was spreading rapidly into the centre of the lounge and was cascading from the underneath of the caravan. The security man advised us to travel to reception where our children could wait indoors and we could arrange alternative accommodation for the rest of our holiday.
Shortly after arriving at reception we explained the situation to Andy Raye who was extremely helpful and understanding in the matter and advised us to take our breakfast in the restaurant while he arranged for a new caravan. During this time the maintenance men had arrived at the accommodation and finally located the stopcock.
After our breakfast we packed our belongings and moved to our new accommodation and then proceeded to unpack them, this obviously took a considerable amount of time.
During the day we also spoke with Pete Whitehouse who assured us that he would be looking into the matter and into the possibility of compensating us for our upset, inconvenience and wasted time.
Disappointingly he never contacted us for the remainder of the holiday nor have we had any contact since our return home.
If the maintenance department had correctly identified the problem upon our first reporting the leak on our arrival none of this would have occurred.
This is our 3rd holiday with Haven, our children have a wonderful time with all the characters, the funstars are all great entertainers especially Carl, Phil & Tara and the staff in the restaurant also deserve a mention for their enthusiasm and dedication to their role but we feel deeply disappointed in the level of service provided and false promises made by individuals.
Other areas that I feel of concern to inform you about.
We went to the swimming pool on three separate occasions, not once did the staff check our passes, they also kept several slides unavailable while there was obviously enough staff available to monitor them. Our nephew booked into the fencing lessons, the room provided had no external windows and the temperature was far too extreme for a 10 year old wearing protective clothing.
We ate once at the Mash & Barrel, the food there was very poor and the time taken for it to arrive was far too long for the small number of patrons in the establishment.
At the fairground the staff showed no enthusiasm in their duties at all, several of the trampolines were not properly attached and were quite obviously dangerous.
The softplay area nearby to reception is badly maintained by staff, extremely dirty and obviously is in need of a revamp.
In the bars the seating was insufficient for the numbers and if you sat anywhere in the side aisles your view is blocked by the unnecessary decoration to the pillars.
The centre that has remote controlled cars and ten pin bowling was appalling, again very dirty, lack of enthusiasm from staff, only one of the hydrocars worked, none of the remote controlled ones, probably the area of the camp is most need of a overhaul.
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Full Board
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" bad holiday at craig tara "
Submitted By: markstan56
we stayed for four nights at craig tara during october 2008. On arrival the staff were not polite and when they eventually relrased the accomodation it looked as if it hadn't been cleaned in weeks. We were a party of 3 adults and three kids. The first problem was a leaking toilet then we discovered there were only enough plates for four people. The next problem was a broken fold out bed with not enough bed linen to cover the amount of people. We did inform customer services the next morning who asured us the faults would be rectified the same day. The following day they were informed again but acted like it was us being fussy. We felt the need to not complain again as we did not wish to spoil the rest of our break. when we left we filled in a satisfaction form stating that nothing had been done to rectify the problems but all we got was a text message when we arrived back home that said "well stay in [--] England next time [--]".
MAKE UP YOUR'RE OWN MIND BUT WE WILL NOT BE GOING BACK TO A HAVEN SITE. This was our first time in scotland and i must say i only spoke to 2 plesent people all week.
MAKE UP YOUR'RE OWN MIND BUT WE WILL NOT BE GOING BACK TO A HAVEN SITE. This was our first time in scotland and i must say i only spoke to 2 plesent people all week.
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:sun tours
" i must say i didnt have a good... "
Submitted By: Miss S L Scottish Lady
i must say i didnt have a good experience with my holiday to haven in march, so i complained and was offered a free holiday.
the holiday was amazing, my 2 year old loved it as did i. the entertainment was excellent. the food was delicious. the staff were very accomodating. most of the staff recognised us. most staff were very friendly and extremely helpful as i am a single mum. the accomdation was clean and the bed was ever so comfy.
we met lots of friendly people, i have kept intouch with 3 families.
i honestly was sad to leave, as we had such an amazing time.
i would definately reccomend it to anyone, particularly families wih small children and people with special needs. there were lots of people with downs syndrome, also children with autism and cerebyl palsy there and the staff were very attentive, everyone is treated as an individual.
theres lots to see and do, there is also heads of ayr farm next door, great day out.
its also only as dear as u make it, there are toys and souvineers to buy etc, though u really dont have to spend a penny, other than soft drinks in the evening.
since march and its now oct my little one still goes on about roary and bradley.
id say 10 /10 il be going back with the little one soon.
the holiday was amazing, my 2 year old loved it as did i. the entertainment was excellent. the food was delicious. the staff were very accomodating. most of the staff recognised us. most staff were very friendly and extremely helpful as i am a single mum. the accomdation was clean and the bed was ever so comfy.
we met lots of friendly people, i have kept intouch with 3 families.
i honestly was sad to leave, as we had such an amazing time.
i would definately reccomend it to anyone, particularly families wih small children and people with special needs. there were lots of people with downs syndrome, also children with autism and cerebyl palsy there and the staff were very attentive, everyone is treated as an individual.
theres lots to see and do, there is also heads of ayr farm next door, great day out.
its also only as dear as u make it, there are toys and souvineers to buy etc, though u really dont have to spend a penny, other than soft drinks in the evening.
since march and its now oct my little one still goes on about roary and bradley.
id say 10 /10 il be going back with the little one soon.
- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:Half Board
- Tour Operator:complimentary holiday
" our chalet was not even cleaned on... "
Submitted By: Mrs K Buchanan
our chalet was not even cleaned on arrival and was not what we have believed it to be when we booked also a staff member shouted at my little boy and nothing was done about it my wee boy is only 4 and was scared the rest of the holiday x
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:Half Board
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" We visited this site at the end of... "
Submitted By: niceday
We visited this site at the end of August 3 adults and 2 children (myself,my mother, her friend, 1 teenager and 1 six yr old). Quite a difficult party to please I would say. But congratulations Craig Tara you managed to entertain us all for the 3 nights we stayed.
We arrived early and although we could not book in we were advised and encouraged to use all the facilites. The outside park area was a hit with the 6 year old and the "Mash" Bar a great hit with Mother and her friend ! After the park myself and my gilrs explored the beach which was clean only problem was a few dogs running about wild which frightened the little one. I have no objections to dogs on the beach providing the owners are responsible and clear up any "mess". Sorry to have to say that we did see a bit of "poo" on the grass beside some of the caravans. This is not Havens fault but personally I would like to see a holiday park with no animals. Obviously Craig Tara pushes for owner occupier holiday homes and banning dogs would not be in their best interest. For goodness sake dog owners clean up your pets mess!!
Turning now to the accomadation we were in comfort chalet and although it was not the best we have stayed in it was basic and clean. One gripe is we had no towels and DVD which were promised.
However we got into our glad rags and headed off to the restuarant. Food was not processed crap but tasted like good home cooking with lots of choice. Happily fed we headed off to the entertainment area. Big hit with the children !! Teenage daughter fell madly in love with "Barnaby" and little one fell in love with all the characters. All throughout the stay the funstars kept my gilrs happy all day and all night. This was the point of my holiday. We go aboard for the weather for 2 weeks and I thought this little break would just cheer us up a little. well Craig Tara certainly cheered us up so much so that the girls have persuaded me to book again for the end of September. So anyone going dont listen to all the negitive reviews. We are not Chav's, did not fight and do not have bling dropping off and yes we still had a brill time. Well done funstars for keeping my girls entertained (which makes for a very happy Mammy). Finally the Pool is brill as previously mentioned and the soft play area very clean and FREE.
Had my towels and DVD been in the Chalet I would have given this break a 10.
We arrived early and although we could not book in we were advised and encouraged to use all the facilites. The outside park area was a hit with the 6 year old and the "Mash" Bar a great hit with Mother and her friend ! After the park myself and my gilrs explored the beach which was clean only problem was a few dogs running about wild which frightened the little one. I have no objections to dogs on the beach providing the owners are responsible and clear up any "mess". Sorry to have to say that we did see a bit of "poo" on the grass beside some of the caravans. This is not Havens fault but personally I would like to see a holiday park with no animals. Obviously Craig Tara pushes for owner occupier holiday homes and banning dogs would not be in their best interest. For goodness sake dog owners clean up your pets mess!!
Turning now to the accomadation we were in comfort chalet and although it was not the best we have stayed in it was basic and clean. One gripe is we had no towels and DVD which were promised.
However we got into our glad rags and headed off to the restuarant. Food was not processed crap but tasted like good home cooking with lots of choice. Happily fed we headed off to the entertainment area. Big hit with the children !! Teenage daughter fell madly in love with "Barnaby" and little one fell in love with all the characters. All throughout the stay the funstars kept my gilrs happy all day and all night. This was the point of my holiday. We go aboard for the weather for 2 weeks and I thought this little break would just cheer us up a little. well Craig Tara certainly cheered us up so much so that the girls have persuaded me to book again for the end of September. So anyone going dont listen to all the negitive reviews. We are not Chav's, did not fight and do not have bling dropping off and yes we still had a brill time. Well done funstars for keeping my girls entertained (which makes for a very happy Mammy). Finally the Pool is brill as previously mentioned and the soft play area very clean and FREE.
Had my towels and DVD been in the Chalet I would have given this break a 10.
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Half Board
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" I don't usually leave reviews,... "
Submitted By: Mrs N McClean
I don't usually leave reviews, however felt I had to after reading the mostly negative comments about this holiday site. I was really nervous about going to Craig Tara after reading the reviews on offer, but I have to say that we had a great time. This is an ideal location for a holiday if you have young children. Our two year old absolutely loved everything that was on offer, the pool and changing rooms were fab, with lovely hot showers, and soft play areas were super. We were staying in a superior plus caravan and it was really clean and in great shape, yes the carpet was a little worn in places but that did not annoy us, as the caravan was very clean. There is lots to do both on site and close by in Ayr. If you want a cheap holiday, with lots of entertainment for kids, then I would highly recommend it.
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Haven
" We booked this 3 night break online,... "
Submitted By: Mr Grady
We booked this 3 night break online, (3 adults, 2 children aged 9 & 8) then read reviews and we were devastated with what we were reading (all the bad reviews). We decided that we would make the best of it and just try to enjoy it. On arrival to the site, it looked quite nice, beautiful seaview from the carpark. We had a little explore as we were there early, some of the people looked a bit rough and ready, but otherwise it looked ok. Went to the swimming baths before check in and had a great time, pools are nice, flumes are good and plenty enjoying water feature, room for swim or for mucking about. Plenty of room for everyone, a little bit cold in some pools but you soon got used to it, staff were all polite and friendly. Many of the showers in the family room did not work, but plenty of space to get changed.
Went to book in and got served really quick, we were in brig o doon the dumfries (comfort plus chalet). Staff were once again really polite and efficient. Drove to the carpark nearby (as there is no parking at chalet). There was staff everywhere, not in uniforms and really looking disorganised rushing to try and clean all the chalets. Ours had not been cleaned (but we were a little earlier than 4pm check in) so we got bags and patiently waited as the staff cleaned it Approx 4:15pm we got in, but staff actually helped us with our bags into the chalet. The carpet had big iron burn marks all over it, yes mattresses had seen better days windows old and handles broken and we had one big hole and few small holes in the wall (they could definately do with a huge renovation) shower bit dirty, cups mucky, walls paperthin (can hear everything) and it had a quite bad musty smell. Thought we would make the most of it, went for tea at turnberry restaurant, staff nice, plenty of tables, queues were not too bad, went down quick, plenty of choice and you could get as much as you like, food ok, breakfasts were nice (no reason at all to complain). Site itself is a little untidy (pillow laying on the grass from day we came, til day we left, still there) Nighttime entertainment was good, funstars good, seats most of the time, prices ok. First night had to intervene to prevent night, which was a bit concerning, however no more signs of trouble. Toilets in club a bit old, grubby and dirty (not as clean as other sites visited). , kids enjoyed rollercoaster and crazy golf, beach little bit dirty, sea was lovely and clear.
The site is not the cleanest haven visited, accomodation is the worst we have stayed in, but we still had a really good time and if you are willing to put up with a little rough you can still have a really nice holiday (just be prepared if you are in a chalet).
Went to book in and got served really quick, we were in brig o doon the dumfries (comfort plus chalet). Staff were once again really polite and efficient. Drove to the carpark nearby (as there is no parking at chalet). There was staff everywhere, not in uniforms and really looking disorganised rushing to try and clean all the chalets. Ours had not been cleaned (but we were a little earlier than 4pm check in) so we got bags and patiently waited as the staff cleaned it Approx 4:15pm we got in, but staff actually helped us with our bags into the chalet. The carpet had big iron burn marks all over it, yes mattresses had seen better days windows old and handles broken and we had one big hole and few small holes in the wall (they could definately do with a huge renovation) shower bit dirty, cups mucky, walls paperthin (can hear everything) and it had a quite bad musty smell. Thought we would make the most of it, went for tea at turnberry restaurant, staff nice, plenty of tables, queues were not too bad, went down quick, plenty of choice and you could get as much as you like, food ok, breakfasts were nice (no reason at all to complain). Site itself is a little untidy (pillow laying on the grass from day we came, til day we left, still there) Nighttime entertainment was good, funstars good, seats most of the time, prices ok. First night had to intervene to prevent night, which was a bit concerning, however no more signs of trouble. Toilets in club a bit old, grubby and dirty (not as clean as other sites visited). , kids enjoyed rollercoaster and crazy golf, beach little bit dirty, sea was lovely and clear.
The site is not the cleanest haven visited, accomodation is the worst we have stayed in, but we still had a really good time and if you are willing to put up with a little rough you can still have a really nice holiday (just be prepared if you are in a chalet).
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Half Board
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Like most of your correspondents I... "
Submitted By: Mr J M Molyneux
Like most of your correspondents I viewed recent reviews with a little concern.We have been to Craig Tara for the last 6 years but in the last 2 have noticed a decline in certain areas.Many of the reviews cite the untidiness of the park.Yes,litter is in evidence but surely this is down to the people who drop it in the first place...Also why do people deposit litter bags at the side of the skips for the gulls to rip apart...thats plain lazy and adds to the problem.There were planty of people going round picking it up.What did disappoint us was the entertainment on offer in The Atlantic Showbar...for the first 2 hours each evening we were mostly left to entertain ourselves with the quiz and game shows-in the past there was a good house band and cabaret at 9.00-Yes it is adult based clubroom but to start at 10.15 some evenings is a bit late.Overall the room was tidy enough,plentiful seating and good bar service-Indeed the drinks were cheaper than my local so that was a big plus !!
Our "Silver" caravan was clean and tidy although the carpets showed signs of wear and tear..but..they will get some hammer throughout the season.When we reported only one pan in the cupboards replacements were on hand within the hour...great service.
Staff were friendly and helpful throughout and security was noticeably more in evidence
All in all we enjoyed our stay and the new Mash and Barrell is a good addition to the site-A good place to sit and watch the world go by . We shall probably return but will go elsewhere next year for a change
Our "Silver" caravan was clean and tidy although the carpets showed signs of wear and tear..but..they will get some hammer throughout the season.When we reported only one pan in the cupboards replacements were on hand within the hour...great service.
Staff were friendly and helpful throughout and security was noticeably more in evidence
All in all we enjoyed our stay and the new Mash and Barrell is a good addition to the site-A good place to sit and watch the world go by . We shall probably return but will go elsewhere next year for a change
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Haven Holidays
" Well what a big disappointment this... "
Submitted By: Miss G Smith
Well what a big disappointment this place was. We paid for the passes, £25 per person and were never asked to see them by any member of security or in the swimming pool. What a waste of money! Spoke to a lot of people while we were there and not one of them had anything good to say about the park was all complaints. Swimming pool was not very well organised, we went swimming every day and out af the five only got hot showers 2 days, and one of the other days the showers were not even working in the family changing area. You have to pay for everything in this place and it is not very cheap at all. So overall would not recommend this park at all!
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked IndependentlyPrivately
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I would however like to mention a guy called Titch(security guy).He was extremly helpful and decent to us,and although he couldnt solve our issues,he did the best he could do.Hes a great guy.
I will not be returning to Craigtara again.