Blue Dolphin Holiday Park, North Yorkshire
Hotel Information
Hotel Description:
There’s always plenty to do at Blue Dolphin, from all-weather action in the indoor SportsDrome to the SplashZone, roller-disco or mini ten-pin bowling. Kids will adore the soft play area and the superb Adventure Playground. And 2005 has lots of new water attractions, new shows and new places to eat. loading...
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Blue Dolphin Holiday Park Reviews
" I went there with my friends family... "
Submitted By: Miss C L Lythe
I went there with my friends family and I’ve came back today and want to tell everyone what a boring smelly rubbish place it is!
The bar, indoor pool, changing rooms and toilets smelled of urine! Absolutely disgusting. There was loo roll all over the floor don’t know how many times I had to tell my friend to take it off her shoe! Baby nappies all over the place in the loo's. Its beyond a joke. For 580 pounds for a week you don’t expect this.
The place is more interested in making money than keeping the place clean and tidy to hygiene standards.
The prices there were a joke. For a taboo n lemonade it was 3.10! We had to put our alcohol in coke bottles and shove them in our bag! lol Its only 2.30 where I live. A loaf of bread was like 1.80. There’s a burger king there it was 4.50 for a regular meal. Its a joke, complete joke.
The entertainment is good for younger children. There’s plenty to do for the little ones, there’s nothing to do for ages 12+ as there is only 2 bars.
I wouldn’t recommend the Blue Dolphin to my worst enemy.
The bar, indoor pool, changing rooms and toilets smelled of urine! Absolutely disgusting. There was loo roll all over the floor don’t know how many times I had to tell my friend to take it off her shoe! Baby nappies all over the place in the loo's. Its beyond a joke. For 580 pounds for a week you don’t expect this.
The place is more interested in making money than keeping the place clean and tidy to hygiene standards.
The prices there were a joke. For a taboo n lemonade it was 3.10! We had to put our alcohol in coke bottles and shove them in our bag! lol Its only 2.30 where I live. A loaf of bread was like 1.80. There’s a burger king there it was 4.50 for a regular meal. Its a joke, complete joke.
The entertainment is good for younger children. There’s plenty to do for the little ones, there’s nothing to do for ages 12+ as there is only 2 bars.
I wouldn’t recommend the Blue Dolphin to my worst enemy.
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" I have been to many campsites... "
Submitted By: Mr D Thomson
I have been to many campsites including Haven ones and know to expect it wont be as comfortable and clean as my own home as many other people will be sharing the facilities but I still expect a basic standard of cleanliness.
We got a decent tent pitch in the basic tent area so were happy with that (except for the entertainment block for the other campsite being situated 30 metres away, was only noisy for a few hours and not too late). My first visit to the toilet block was in the morning around 6am for a shower. I wish I had flip-flops on as the floor was filthy and smelly, as I raised my eyes to the ceiling the view got no better due to the mould and damp causing the plaster to begin falling away.
In the toilet area it smelled of raw sewage. Around 7pm I visited the toilet block again only to find the cleaner ladies cleaning the toilet area at the same time as men using the urinals behind them. Upon our visit to the club-house we went to change our baby in the baby-changing room only to find it locked, so went to the bar to ask for a key. The floor in the bar was like walking on chewing gum, very sticky! And not cleaned from night before.
My partner asked about the baby changing room and was told we can only use the ladies toilets but when my partner went in she walked straight back out because it was so dirty and smelly. We actually left a day early because we were fearing the morning shower so much! We don’t have overly high standards just basic ones and this site didn’t meet
We got a decent tent pitch in the basic tent area so were happy with that (except for the entertainment block for the other campsite being situated 30 metres away, was only noisy for a few hours and not too late). My first visit to the toilet block was in the morning around 6am for a shower. I wish I had flip-flops on as the floor was filthy and smelly, as I raised my eyes to the ceiling the view got no better due to the mould and damp causing the plaster to begin falling away.
In the toilet area it smelled of raw sewage. Around 7pm I visited the toilet block again only to find the cleaner ladies cleaning the toilet area at the same time as men using the urinals behind them. Upon our visit to the club-house we went to change our baby in the baby-changing room only to find it locked, so went to the bar to ask for a key. The floor in the bar was like walking on chewing gum, very sticky! And not cleaned from night before.
My partner asked about the baby changing room and was told we can only use the ladies toilets but when my partner went in she walked straight back out because it was so dirty and smelly. We actually left a day early because we were fearing the morning shower so much! We don’t have overly high standards just basic ones and this site didn’t meet
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Been going to blue dolphin since my... "
Submitted By: Mr Dl Bailey
Been going to blue dolphin since my daughter was 2 she is now 11. We had the worst time about 89% of staff did not speak much English, clubs were packed and far too expensive for the working man, Haven mates were few and smart attire had gone (no jackets) my wife likes bingo but they are now so unorganised it can go on till 9 pm late starts and they expect children to sit like lambs I will never ever visit this site again they are totally concerned with earning money and that is that in the old days their used to be 5-6 striped jacket mates and a entertainment manager all seam to have gone. The area surrounding camp is fine brid Scarborough Whitby I am so upset please read the good old days haven you may learn some thing.
The Butlins camp at Filey was Sir Billy's pride and joy and much thought had gone into its location, design and facilities. Filey was built on a site of varying rural terrain between the main coast road from Bridlington to Scarborough and the sea. The camp was located just a few miles South of the North Eastern resort of Filey.
Regrettably I did not visit the Filey camp personally but I have written this account from family experiences, research and with the assistance of Paul Wray who provided some interesting facts and detail.
Filey was a very large camp and its capacity was far in excess of some of its contemporaries at that time. Some holidaymakers stated that Filey was the best camp Sir Billy ever built and it certainly holds very happy memories and sentimental thoughts for those who took their holidays here during the camps history. It attracted seasonal staff from overseas in addition to those appointed by local recruitment drives.
The area occupied by buildings was basically flat but there were parts with inclines and slopes. For example, when you walked down by the side of the Beachcomber Building towards the Green Camp chalet area you walked downhill. Most of the entertainment buildings and facilities were located from the centre to the front of the camp whilst the vast areas of accommodation occupied the land to the rear of the camp. A long chairlift ride took campers over the centre from the main entertainment area towards the beach. The beach could be accessed by a beach gate and rough road track.
The front of the Filey camp was spectacular. An enormous boating lake lay inside the perimeter fence and a long stretch of flamboyant flagpoles and decorative lights lined the road between the two entrances. The miniature railway built here was also located at the front of the camp and crossed a major part of the boating lake, a unique feature of Filey. Beyond the lake was the large outdoor swimming pool and water fountains. Some buildings set back could also be seen beyond the trees and shrubs. Those passing Filey could not fail to notice the Butlins camp and its inviting frontage.
There were two entrance gates along the front of Filey and these were known as North and South gates respectively. North gate was used by staff and for deliveries whilst South gate was for the campers and day visitors. There was a large sign at the South gate which read `Welcome to Butlins Filey'. The camp was recognizable from a distance, particularly at night when you could see a bright hue in the sky caused by the camp lights. On the approach from the South the camp came into view as you turned the corner at Reighton. During the day you could see the chalet lines, the funfair and most of the main entertainment buildings. The chairlift could also be spotted with a keen eye and upon careful inspection the chairs/cabins could be seen moving along the line over the pylons. From the North you were able to see the line of flags along the front of the camp usually as you came from the Filey turnoff.
The entertainment buildings were all sited asymmetrically around the outdoor pool and back towards the central area of the camp. The two main dining rooms, York and Kent were positioned at each end of the front area. The Gaiety Building, Beachcomber Bar and Shopping Centre were located towards the central area along with the Funhouse and Amusement Arcade. The Amusement Park was located close to the Green Camp chalet area and the Main Reception Building.
The architecture of the Filey camp was varied with a mixture of single storey and two storey entertainment venues. The chalets were also a mixture of single storey and two storey blocks. Modern Flatlets were added during the 1970's to replace some older accommodation which had become dated. From the chairlift the accommodation at Filey seemed to stretch out as far as the eye could see.
Most of the shows at Filey were staged in the Gaiety Theatre but there was a separate Children's Theatre here similar to the one at Pwllheli. There were two Ballrooms comprising the Princes and Gaiety. The Gaiety was known as the Old Tyme Ballroom. The Empire Theatre also doubled as the Cinema and many campers would rush to the display boards on arrival to see which films were being screened that week. For those wishing to keep pace with television programmes there were TV viewing rooms also. In the old days it was just basic BBC1, BBC2 and ITV and that was your lot, so simple and uncomplicated really.
The Amusement Park at Filey was very good and included a range of funfair rides. Part of the park was covered so the unpredictable British weather did not spoil the enjoyment. Some of the funfair rides included a big wheel, small kiddies roller coaster, mini train, waltzer, helter skelter, roundabouts and the cyclone ride.
In the camps early days the buildings were lit up at night by neon light strips which formed the shape and contour of the entertainment venues. There were floodlights, illuminations and signs which glowed in the dark and provided colourful reflections on their surroundings. The interiors were also elaborately decorated with colourful furnishings including fancy chandeliers and long draped curtains. These features were some of the images which remain in peoples memories today and made Butlins a great place to visit.
The dining halls at Filey were huge and they catered for large numbers of guests. During meal times the whole experience was like that of a precision military operation. Throughout the years Filey was host to many top entertainers and stage acts. The big band sounds and relaxing music of the themed bars gave the camp an atmosphere like nowhere else. Only Butlins seemed to create this escape into another world of excitement, relaxation and freedom. The indoor pool at Filey also featured an Oasis Bar with its famous glazed windows beneath the water level.
The area surrounding the camp was scenic and the beach here was a very popular destination for campers. The beach gate located at the rear of the camp was accessed by either walking the long distance from the main part of the camp (it was quite a trek), by taking the Puffing Billy road train or the chairlift to the East station. Once at the beach gate then you had a long walk down a steep hill. The pathway was a purpose built one i.e. concrete. Walking down was easy but the journey back up was a chore. The landscape was covered by overgrown grass and to the left hand side on the way down there was a large pond. The pond may have been natural and was probably caused by water seeping out of the cliffs. The beach was a nice area with soft sand but there were no amenities at the beach itself.
Despite its popularity with many visitors the general decline in attendance and emergence of the overseas package holiday was to hit the Butlins business empire and cause irreversible damage during the 1980's. As a result, Filey and Clacton were the first UK camps earmarked for closure and this was a bitter blow for staff and holidaymakers alike. The Rank Group decided to concentrate resources on fewer centers in the hope that overall occupancy and profitability could be maintained. Filey was subsequently closed to guests and then sold as a going concern.
The centre later reopened as Amtree Park but the project then failed and it closed again. The site was then sold on to Birmingham Estates who intended to redevelop the centre. Amidst confusion and a failed planning application the centre closed its doors forever. The camp was deserted and left untouched as if waiting for some entrepreneur to come along and start it all up again, but this was not going to happen in reality. Without maintenance and investment the camp fell into a state of disrepair. Later the site was demolished but the wrecked structures and rubble were left abandoned. The remains were left for years as a graveyard to the camps history and only recently has there been an attempt to clear away the ruins from the site and restore it to greenfield status.
Many visitors to this website were outraged at the fate of the Filey camp and the disgraceful manner in which it was decommissioned. Images of the overgrown site, empty buildings and the remains left behind can be viewed in other parts of the Filey section including 'Filey after Closure'. Many thanks to those individuals who took the time and trouble of visiting Filey and recording the camps last moments whilst there was still an opportunity to do so.
Regardless of the sad facts surrounding the camps demise it does still hold fine memories for those who enjoyed happy family holidays here throughout the years. The number of guests who visited Filey over the years was phenomenal. Although the camp did not survive the ultimate test of time and commercial pressure the memories are captured in minds, hearts and the photographic images created throughout those memorable years. There are images of Filey alive, thriving and full of the people who shared in this amazing success story. We can all be grateful that we were around to enjoy those unrepeatable times which are now part of British history.
The Butlins camp at Filey was Sir Billy's pride and joy and much thought had gone into its location, design and facilities. Filey was built on a site of varying rural terrain between the main coast road from Bridlington to Scarborough and the sea. The camp was located just a few miles South of the North Eastern resort of Filey.
Regrettably I did not visit the Filey camp personally but I have written this account from family experiences, research and with the assistance of Paul Wray who provided some interesting facts and detail.
Filey was a very large camp and its capacity was far in excess of some of its contemporaries at that time. Some holidaymakers stated that Filey was the best camp Sir Billy ever built and it certainly holds very happy memories and sentimental thoughts for those who took their holidays here during the camps history. It attracted seasonal staff from overseas in addition to those appointed by local recruitment drives.
The area occupied by buildings was basically flat but there were parts with inclines and slopes. For example, when you walked down by the side of the Beachcomber Building towards the Green Camp chalet area you walked downhill. Most of the entertainment buildings and facilities were located from the centre to the front of the camp whilst the vast areas of accommodation occupied the land to the rear of the camp. A long chairlift ride took campers over the centre from the main entertainment area towards the beach. The beach could be accessed by a beach gate and rough road track.
The front of the Filey camp was spectacular. An enormous boating lake lay inside the perimeter fence and a long stretch of flamboyant flagpoles and decorative lights lined the road between the two entrances. The miniature railway built here was also located at the front of the camp and crossed a major part of the boating lake, a unique feature of Filey. Beyond the lake was the large outdoor swimming pool and water fountains. Some buildings set back could also be seen beyond the trees and shrubs. Those passing Filey could not fail to notice the Butlins camp and its inviting frontage.
There were two entrance gates along the front of Filey and these were known as North and South gates respectively. North gate was used by staff and for deliveries whilst South gate was for the campers and day visitors. There was a large sign at the South gate which read `Welcome to Butlins Filey'. The camp was recognizable from a distance, particularly at night when you could see a bright hue in the sky caused by the camp lights. On the approach from the South the camp came into view as you turned the corner at Reighton. During the day you could see the chalet lines, the funfair and most of the main entertainment buildings. The chairlift could also be spotted with a keen eye and upon careful inspection the chairs/cabins could be seen moving along the line over the pylons. From the North you were able to see the line of flags along the front of the camp usually as you came from the Filey turnoff.
The entertainment buildings were all sited asymmetrically around the outdoor pool and back towards the central area of the camp. The two main dining rooms, York and Kent were positioned at each end of the front area. The Gaiety Building, Beachcomber Bar and Shopping Centre were located towards the central area along with the Funhouse and Amusement Arcade. The Amusement Park was located close to the Green Camp chalet area and the Main Reception Building.
The architecture of the Filey camp was varied with a mixture of single storey and two storey entertainment venues. The chalets were also a mixture of single storey and two storey blocks. Modern Flatlets were added during the 1970's to replace some older accommodation which had become dated. From the chairlift the accommodation at Filey seemed to stretch out as far as the eye could see.
Most of the shows at Filey were staged in the Gaiety Theatre but there was a separate Children's Theatre here similar to the one at Pwllheli. There were two Ballrooms comprising the Princes and Gaiety. The Gaiety was known as the Old Tyme Ballroom. The Empire Theatre also doubled as the Cinema and many campers would rush to the display boards on arrival to see which films were being screened that week. For those wishing to keep pace with television programmes there were TV viewing rooms also. In the old days it was just basic BBC1, BBC2 and ITV and that was your lot, so simple and uncomplicated really.
The Amusement Park at Filey was very good and included a range of funfair rides. Part of the park was covered so the unpredictable British weather did not spoil the enjoyment. Some of the funfair rides included a big wheel, small kiddies roller coaster, mini train, waltzer, helter skelter, roundabouts and the cyclone ride.
In the camps early days the buildings were lit up at night by neon light strips which formed the shape and contour of the entertainment venues. There were floodlights, illuminations and signs which glowed in the dark and provided colourful reflections on their surroundings. The interiors were also elaborately decorated with colourful furnishings including fancy chandeliers and long draped curtains. These features were some of the images which remain in peoples memories today and made Butlins a great place to visit.
The dining halls at Filey were huge and they catered for large numbers of guests. During meal times the whole experience was like that of a precision military operation. Throughout the years Filey was host to many top entertainers and stage acts. The big band sounds and relaxing music of the themed bars gave the camp an atmosphere like nowhere else. Only Butlins seemed to create this escape into another world of excitement, relaxation and freedom. The indoor pool at Filey also featured an Oasis Bar with its famous glazed windows beneath the water level.
The area surrounding the camp was scenic and the beach here was a very popular destination for campers. The beach gate located at the rear of the camp was accessed by either walking the long distance from the main part of the camp (it was quite a trek), by taking the Puffing Billy road train or the chairlift to the East station. Once at the beach gate then you had a long walk down a steep hill. The pathway was a purpose built one i.e. concrete. Walking down was easy but the journey back up was a chore. The landscape was covered by overgrown grass and to the left hand side on the way down there was a large pond. The pond may have been natural and was probably caused by water seeping out of the cliffs. The beach was a nice area with soft sand but there were no amenities at the beach itself.
Despite its popularity with many visitors the general decline in attendance and emergence of the overseas package holiday was to hit the Butlins business empire and cause irreversible damage during the 1980's. As a result, Filey and Clacton were the first UK camps earmarked for closure and this was a bitter blow for staff and holidaymakers alike. The Rank Group decided to concentrate resources on fewer centers in the hope that overall occupancy and profitability could be maintained. Filey was subsequently closed to guests and then sold as a going concern.
The centre later reopened as Amtree Park but the project then failed and it closed again. The site was then sold on to Birmingham Estates who intended to redevelop the centre. Amidst confusion and a failed planning application the centre closed its doors forever. The camp was deserted and left untouched as if waiting for some entrepreneur to come along and start it all up again, but this was not going to happen in reality. Without maintenance and investment the camp fell into a state of disrepair. Later the site was demolished but the wrecked structures and rubble were left abandoned. The remains were left for years as a graveyard to the camps history and only recently has there been an attempt to clear away the ruins from the site and restore it to greenfield status.
Many visitors to this website were outraged at the fate of the Filey camp and the disgraceful manner in which it was decommissioned. Images of the overgrown site, empty buildings and the remains left behind can be viewed in other parts of the Filey section including 'Filey after Closure'. Many thanks to those individuals who took the time and trouble of visiting Filey and recording the camps last moments whilst there was still an opportunity to do so.
Regardless of the sad facts surrounding the camps demise it does still hold fine memories for those who enjoyed happy family holidays here throughout the years. The number of guests who visited Filey over the years was phenomenal. Although the camp did not survive the ultimate test of time and commercial pressure the memories are captured in minds, hearts and the photographic images created throughout those memorable years. There are images of Filey alive, thriving and full of the people who shared in this amazing success story. We can all be grateful that we were around to enjoy those unrepeatable times which are now part of British history.
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" After an enjoyable camping holiday... "
Submitted By: Mrs K Thompson
After an enjoyable camping holiday here in July 2004 my hubby & I thought we would return again with our 2 teenage boys & young daughter.
We had an electric pitch this time, which we were impressed with as there was a lot more space than previously. We found the live entertainment in the evening to still be good too. Unfortunately this time the general maintenance & cleanliness of the place was absolutely disgusting.
The waiting time generally to be served in any outlet was along wait & the prices were high, the litter about the place was appalling and the toilets/shower blocks were cleaned but with very little effort. There were many toilets constantly blocked & the showers were not at a comfortable temperature. The floors & walls were dirty with what looked like phlegm & faeces! The vandalism of the park and facilities was shocking.
We feel that priority has been given to entertainment over cleanliness.
We are never going to haven again!
We had an electric pitch this time, which we were impressed with as there was a lot more space than previously. We found the live entertainment in the evening to still be good too. Unfortunately this time the general maintenance & cleanliness of the place was absolutely disgusting.
The waiting time generally to be served in any outlet was along wait & the prices were high, the litter about the place was appalling and the toilets/shower blocks were cleaned but with very little effort. There were many toilets constantly blocked & the showers were not at a comfortable temperature. The floors & walls were dirty with what looked like phlegm & faeces! The vandalism of the park and facilities was shocking.
We feel that priority has been given to entertainment over cleanliness.
We are never going to haven again!
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" I booked a holiday at Blue Dolphin... "
Submitted By: Mrs C Smith
I booked a holiday at Blue Dolphin for myself, my partner, my two toddlers (aged 2 and 3) and my partner’s 14 year old son.
We required a themed caravan (especially for the little ones) which was of a silver rating.
We booked at a busy time (during Easter), and I swear never again! On arrival, we had to wait over an hour to be checked in, after a long day traveling, and a supposed priority check in time it was ridiculous.
The so called themed caravan was horrendous, what a joke. Nothing like the one advertised on website, it was basically a bog standard static with a few stickers and plaques. The caravan itself was dirty, smelled of damp, and other than the main living area absolutely freezing cold! If you plan to go here please bear this is mind, unless its a blazing hot summer, take extra blankets as the duvets provided in your 'linen pack' are paper thin. The shower didn’t work, so I resorted to bathing the kids in the sink! And the entertainment they provide is of the lowest possible standard.
The club house is very big, the more they can fit in the merrier as far as they are concerned. They are extremely understaffed, and there are no guidelines in the clubhouse whatsoever. Children basically run riot whilst parents sit carefree and get bladdered.
My caravan happened to be situated right by the amenities, which at first I thought was brill. However, I was kept awake every night by loudmouth drunks stumbling back to their caravans with their over-tired hyperactive kids.
And if that wasn’t enough, the pool was disgusting, very basic, and the slide wasn’t working. Out of three showers only one worked, and every morning it was jam packed. They have about 4 family sized cubicles, and 2 life guards on regardless of how busy it is.
The amusements again, are disgustingly filthy, and children (especially teenagers) loiter about in gangs. The amount of 'hoodies' I saw made me believe I was a prison officer in a detention centre. I couldn’t let my little ones out of my sight! There is nothing whatsoever for the older ones to do, and when there is there is an extra charge. For example, coca cola football, 1 hour = £5. I think its ridiculous when you have paid over £200 for a 3 1/2day stay!!!
The food is appalling, overpriced and portions are small! The staff aren't particularly helpful, nor do they appreciate being complained to.
I complained the once, about a nearby caravans teenage boy speeding around camp on a mini motorbike (the ones that are illegal). He was about 16, and took great pleasure in making as much noise revving it as he possibly could, and he drove the little lanes like a lunatic. I complained for that reason and was fobbed off with security were dealing with it. They didn’t and he continued to do it.
We were supposed to vacate our caravan on the final day by 10am, I was up at 6am getting ready to leave. I handed in my 8 page complaint letter and I was on my way, and thankfully arrived home in one peace and recovered the sleep I lost.
It was by far the worst holiday I have ever had, and I shall never return, not even in spirit!
We required a themed caravan (especially for the little ones) which was of a silver rating.
We booked at a busy time (during Easter), and I swear never again! On arrival, we had to wait over an hour to be checked in, after a long day traveling, and a supposed priority check in time it was ridiculous.
The so called themed caravan was horrendous, what a joke. Nothing like the one advertised on website, it was basically a bog standard static with a few stickers and plaques. The caravan itself was dirty, smelled of damp, and other than the main living area absolutely freezing cold! If you plan to go here please bear this is mind, unless its a blazing hot summer, take extra blankets as the duvets provided in your 'linen pack' are paper thin. The shower didn’t work, so I resorted to bathing the kids in the sink! And the entertainment they provide is of the lowest possible standard.
The club house is very big, the more they can fit in the merrier as far as they are concerned. They are extremely understaffed, and there are no guidelines in the clubhouse whatsoever. Children basically run riot whilst parents sit carefree and get bladdered.
My caravan happened to be situated right by the amenities, which at first I thought was brill. However, I was kept awake every night by loudmouth drunks stumbling back to their caravans with their over-tired hyperactive kids.
And if that wasn’t enough, the pool was disgusting, very basic, and the slide wasn’t working. Out of three showers only one worked, and every morning it was jam packed. They have about 4 family sized cubicles, and 2 life guards on regardless of how busy it is.
The amusements again, are disgustingly filthy, and children (especially teenagers) loiter about in gangs. The amount of 'hoodies' I saw made me believe I was a prison officer in a detention centre. I couldn’t let my little ones out of my sight! There is nothing whatsoever for the older ones to do, and when there is there is an extra charge. For example, coca cola football, 1 hour = £5. I think its ridiculous when you have paid over £200 for a 3 1/2day stay!!!
The food is appalling, overpriced and portions are small! The staff aren't particularly helpful, nor do they appreciate being complained to.
I complained the once, about a nearby caravans teenage boy speeding around camp on a mini motorbike (the ones that are illegal). He was about 16, and took great pleasure in making as much noise revving it as he possibly could, and he drove the little lanes like a lunatic. I complained for that reason and was fobbed off with security were dealing with it. They didn’t and he continued to do it.
We were supposed to vacate our caravan on the final day by 10am, I was up at 6am getting ready to leave. I handed in my 8 page complaint letter and I was on my way, and thankfully arrived home in one peace and recovered the sleep I lost.
It was by far the worst holiday I have ever had, and I shall never return, not even in spirit!
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- Date of Holiday:Apr 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" We have been staying at this park... "
Submitted By: Miss K Littlewood
We have been staying at this park since we were young with my parents. Me and my sisters love it we are off back again this year July 06. We always find things to do, we swim in the morning go out during the day, and we go to the club or amusements in the evening.
We have made a lot of friends both visitors and staff. We have a better time each time we go. Keep it up fun stars we see you when we come back in July this year.
We have made a lot of friends both visitors and staff. We have a better time each time we go. Keep it up fun stars we see you when we come back in July this year.
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2005
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independantly
" Blue Dolphin was a great Holiday as I... "
Submitted By: Mrs Sadie Trent
Blue Dolphin was a great Holiday as I went there with my mum. It was easy to get to from where we live. The funstars were very funny especially 3 but i cannot mention names. T-co was really great, If you wanted a photo taken with a funstar you would only have to ask them and they will say yes.
The shows were really fantastic. Especially the one that wasn’t done by the funstars that was really funny. The bloke from little Britain kept saying I wanna go to haven blue dolphin cause of 3 funstars, Selina, Razza and Lucy.
If Any of the funstars at Blue Dolphin read this please contact me at sadietrent121@hotmail.com <br>
The shows were really fantastic. Especially the one that wasn’t done by the funstars that was really funny. The bloke from little Britain kept saying I wanna go to haven blue dolphin cause of 3 funstars, Selina, Razza and Lucy.
If Any of the funstars at Blue Dolphin read this please contact me at sadietrent121@hotmail.com <br>
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- Date of Holiday:Sep 2005
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Haven
" We went to haven to stay in a... "
Submitted By: 1391katie
We went to haven to stay in a caravan, our caravan was situated right by the cliff we had the wind battering on our caravan all night! But to make it worse the wind was coming through our windows (blowing the curtains!! We were freezing so we packed everything to be moved caravans we walked down to customer service had to wait an hour and a half (with a baby!
<br><br>
Got to our new caravan eventually to find we had been given the wrong key!!! We eventually settled in and it was a beautiful caravan our accommodation cost us £600 through haven only to meet a lady a couple of caravans down who owns her own and rents it for £400 and it was much plusher!!! The majority of the staff spoke very little English (excluding the haven reps) where you would be repeating yourself constantly in shops amusements restaurants etc.
And the staff seemed very miserable.
<br>
The food was terrible there were 2 vegetarian options there was 2 restaurants and burger king and a fish and chip shop and very expensive!!
<br>
The security was very good though getting stopped before you go through the doors to amusements etc to show identity card etc but overall I give it a low star rating and would not return very disappointing holiday. <br>
<br><br>
Got to our new caravan eventually to find we had been given the wrong key!!! We eventually settled in and it was a beautiful caravan our accommodation cost us £600 through haven only to meet a lady a couple of caravans down who owns her own and rents it for £400 and it was much plusher!!! The majority of the staff spoke very little English (excluding the haven reps) where you would be repeating yourself constantly in shops amusements restaurants etc.
And the staff seemed very miserable.
<br>
The food was terrible there were 2 vegetarian options there was 2 restaurants and burger king and a fish and chip shop and very expensive!!
<br>
The security was very good though getting stopped before you go through the doors to amusements etc to show identity card etc but overall I give it a low star rating and would not return very disappointing holiday. <br>
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2005
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" The caravan was of reasonable... "
Submitted By: Mrs A Pearce
The caravan was of reasonable standard. When we booked in we were asked how many in party for our bedding and they didn’t supply us with enough bedding but they were prompt at resolving this matter.
<br><br>
Then our toaster, which had been recently electrically tested, kept blowing the trip on the fuse box, we were promptly given a replacement for this. We also were only given one key but when we asked for another one we were given one straightaway.
<br><br>
On arrival we had a meal of burger chips and soft drinks for two kids and burger chips and lager for two adults which cost us just over twenty pound which we found expensive for the amount and quality of the food. We then went to look round the site which took us all of about an hour if that as it was so tiny. We then managed to find a few more activities the site had which were scattered all over the place. The amount of staff there it seemed you could count on one hand.
<br><br>
Also there was a burger king, which had three staff doing everything from cooking to serving, and we had to wait about twenty minutes for our food.
They did not display any opening times and one day we found them shut at lunchtime. Then there was a chip shop, which was manned by one man who did the cooking and serving. This is also was shut a couple of times at lunch time and when asked what the opening hours were we were told by the man that he didn’t know.
<br><br>
The swimming pool was an attraction we never did as it was open from 10am - 5pm which is when we were out looking at the sites of north Yorkshire. When we have holidayed at other places we normally visit places during day and swim early evening before going out at night it was not possible here.
<br><br>
The kids activities with Rory and the haven staff were also held during the day. There really wasn’t enough to do on the site to stay there for a whole day to go and do theses things without wasting a day. The arcade was split into two the one with the change kiosk and prizes was only open till about 6pm and you could play on all the machines in a couple of hours tops.
<br><br>
The entertainment at night was far too loud and there was not enough seating area for everyone so imagine what it would be like at peak time. The bingo was held every night and that was good value and yes I did have two wins but the bar in that room was never open. So when playing bingo you had to purchase your drinks from another bar and walk through.
<br><br>
Bouncers were put on the doors to the main complex in the evening and before you even got near them they were ordering you to display your passes and they took drinks off you or told you to take them to caravan. I got a drink from the chip shop popped outside and tried to go back in with my drink and wasn’t aloud.
<br><br>
There was also a place inside where kids could buy a yard of pop for just under four pound and refills were just under two pound, problem being you weren’t allowed to take your bottle in the next night for refilling. The convenience store on site was like a spar shop so that was fine and the staff in there were very polite. The gift shop was like any other it was expensive.
<br><br>
We will most definitely not be going to blue dolphin again but outside of the camp there was some lovely places to visit and that area I would recommend to people for a nice relaxing picturesque holiday.
<br><br>
Then our toaster, which had been recently electrically tested, kept blowing the trip on the fuse box, we were promptly given a replacement for this. We also were only given one key but when we asked for another one we were given one straightaway.
<br><br>
On arrival we had a meal of burger chips and soft drinks for two kids and burger chips and lager for two adults which cost us just over twenty pound which we found expensive for the amount and quality of the food. We then went to look round the site which took us all of about an hour if that as it was so tiny. We then managed to find a few more activities the site had which were scattered all over the place. The amount of staff there it seemed you could count on one hand.
<br><br>
Also there was a burger king, which had three staff doing everything from cooking to serving, and we had to wait about twenty minutes for our food.
They did not display any opening times and one day we found them shut at lunchtime. Then there was a chip shop, which was manned by one man who did the cooking and serving. This is also was shut a couple of times at lunch time and when asked what the opening hours were we were told by the man that he didn’t know.
<br><br>
The swimming pool was an attraction we never did as it was open from 10am - 5pm which is when we were out looking at the sites of north Yorkshire. When we have holidayed at other places we normally visit places during day and swim early evening before going out at night it was not possible here.
<br><br>
The kids activities with Rory and the haven staff were also held during the day. There really wasn’t enough to do on the site to stay there for a whole day to go and do theses things without wasting a day. The arcade was split into two the one with the change kiosk and prizes was only open till about 6pm and you could play on all the machines in a couple of hours tops.
<br><br>
The entertainment at night was far too loud and there was not enough seating area for everyone so imagine what it would be like at peak time. The bingo was held every night and that was good value and yes I did have two wins but the bar in that room was never open. So when playing bingo you had to purchase your drinks from another bar and walk through.
<br><br>
Bouncers were put on the doors to the main complex in the evening and before you even got near them they were ordering you to display your passes and they took drinks off you or told you to take them to caravan. I got a drink from the chip shop popped outside and tried to go back in with my drink and wasn’t aloud.
<br><br>
There was also a place inside where kids could buy a yard of pop for just under four pound and refills were just under two pound, problem being you weren’t allowed to take your bottle in the next night for refilling. The convenience store on site was like a spar shop so that was fine and the staff in there were very polite. The gift shop was like any other it was expensive.
<br><br>
We will most definitely not be going to blue dolphin again but outside of the camp there was some lovely places to visit and that area I would recommend to people for a nice relaxing picturesque holiday.
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- Date of Holiday:May 2005
- Board Basis:Select
- Tour Operator:Hoseasons
" The site was very crowded and loud.... "
Submitted By: Mrs JP Saunders
The site was very crowded and loud. We used the tourer area. Facilities overall were excellent quality, with the showers and toilets having baby changing facilities and the family bathing area was appreciated.
The waste disposal points were easy to find and not too far a walk. The area was also well lit, so you felt secure walking to the toilets after dark.
The laundrette was well appointed and though more washers and dryers might be a good idea.
When booking, you must ask for electric or none will be provided as it is an optional extra; otherwise you will need to run on battery/solar power.
Our little ones really enjoyed the PAWS club, which is for 1-4 year olds. It provided a nice soft play area and appropriately aged toys. Other clubs were there for older children as well. There was a beach nearby and we saw some people with fishing rods etc and they said there was a pond for fishing onsite 9we do not fish).
it was great if you like this sort of holiday, but we prefer it a bit more quiet.
The waste disposal points were easy to find and not too far a walk. The area was also well lit, so you felt secure walking to the toilets after dark.
The laundrette was well appointed and though more washers and dryers might be a good idea.
When booking, you must ask for electric or none will be provided as it is an optional extra; otherwise you will need to run on battery/solar power.
Our little ones really enjoyed the PAWS club, which is for 1-4 year olds. It provided a nice soft play area and appropriately aged toys. Other clubs were there for older children as well. There was a beach nearby and we saw some people with fishing rods etc and they said there was a pond for fishing onsite 9we do not fish).
it was great if you like this sort of holiday, but we prefer it a bit more quiet.
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2004
- Board Basis:Room Only
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
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We arrived with our trailer tent on the 13 of august for a 5 night stay. We had treated ourselves to a “superpitch”, but the pitch was far from super!
There was mud all along the front of the pitch, the grass was nearly a foot long in places, the water supply was a valve attached to a flexible pipe coming out of the ground, the pitch drain was blocked and stank.
After wading about in the mud we were all in need of a shower and some clean clothes. Due to the overcrowding of the site there was always a queue in the toilet blocks. This was not helped in the ladies, by the fact that at least 6 of the toilets did not have any toilet paper. According to one of the cleaners they did not put any in these toilets because the holders were broken.
In the gents there was one hand drier for the dozen or so sinks, and it wasn’t working.
The showers were another experience, they were push button operated, but as soon as the button was released, the water stopped. I am reliably informed that it is not easy trying to wash long hair with one hand.
Our next trip was to the laundry. Even though the laundry was open till 9pm, everywhere that sold the tokens for the machines, closed at 5pm. When we eventually got some tokens, we had to pay £4 to wash one load.(twice the price of any other campsite we’ve ever been to) The machine then failed to take the washing powder. This was followed by a £2 tumble dry. Again, overpriced.
Our first attempt to go to the swimming pool resulted in us being turned away because the pool was full. On our last day we headed for the pool at 4.30 to be told it was closing at 4.45 despite the literature stating it was open till 6. The pool (the only free activity) is only open 5 ¾ hours a day. The amusement arcades are open from early morning till well after 1 am.
The site entertainment was good quality, but the admission charge on a Sunday night and the fact that the main cabaret did not start till 10.30pm just left the impression that making money was more important than providing family entertainment.
After complaining to the touring warden about some of the above issues he told us that despite his protests people were being booked into the site even though it was full.
All in all, what we hoped would be an enjoyable family holiday turned out to be a huge disappointment. If we had not made arrangements for the end of our trip we would have left after a couple of days. After speaking to other residents the general consensus of opinion was that the main motivation of the site was to get you to part with as much cash as possible during your stay, rather than provide a good holiday.