Thorpe Park Holiday Park, Lincolnshire
Hotel Information
Hotel Description:
Thorpe Park Holiday Centre just buzzes with things to see and do! From a relaxed round or two of golf or a few hours of fishing, to scuba diving lessons, the choice of holiday activities at Thorpe Park is truly astounding - plus non-stop holiday fun in our superb entertainment complex! Beyond the centre, you can explore the lively holiday town of Cleethorpes, or the unspoilt scenery of the Lincolnshire Wolds. loading...
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Thorpe Park Holiday Park Reviews
" Thorpe Park "
Submitted By: jill123
Been here about six times now. The night time entertainment sorry wasnt much good. Acts trying sing or should i say screeching over the loud music. I use to enjoy the entertainment but with acts like that i rather be walking along the seafront in a gale. The entertainment use to be good. The funstars are trying to sell cheap glow stuff that you can pick up for about a pound.
The caravan we stayed was okay clean and tidy. The only thing it was miles from the complex but near the shops. Which didnt help my mum who cant walk that far now. The only thing was the bus stop was quite near to go to Cleethorpes. That is where we went most of the time. The sun was out basking in the heat apart from Wednesday as it was cold and windy. We took a bus into Grimsby town centre. Then I found out the buses stop going into the holiday complex about 6 or 7 as the gates are shut. The gates could been kept open till about 10 or 11pm. Just for people fancied going to town. The night time Entertainment needs sorting seriously you cant have live bands with air guitars and drum kit in a hall that isnt big enough for that especially when speakers are directly over your head no matter where you sat.
The caravan we stayed was okay clean and tidy. The only thing it was miles from the complex but near the shops. Which didnt help my mum who cant walk that far now. The only thing was the bus stop was quite near to go to Cleethorpes. That is where we went most of the time. The sun was out basking in the heat apart from Wednesday as it was cold and windy. We took a bus into Grimsby town centre. Then I found out the buses stop going into the holiday complex about 6 or 7 as the gates are shut. The gates could been kept open till about 10 or 11pm. Just for people fancied going to town. The night time Entertainment needs sorting seriously you cant have live bands with air guitars and drum kit in a hall that isnt big enough for that especially when speakers are directly over your head no matter where you sat.
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2009
- Board Basis:self catering static caravan
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Good Place "
Submitted By: acquiesce1979
Now I dont go to these places that often and dont expect much but my family do go alot I went here in March and have returned to the area lots since. The price of beer in the pub is much the same as any other pub and the bar was ok for how busy the place must get. the pool is ok.
I would say as you get to the main funworks area head to the carpark (behind you as you look at the funworks) and hit the beach there it is brilliant, clean and a fantastic day, I have been to this part about 6 times since. I wouldn't recommend the Haven aspect itself but if you head out of the park to McCormacks I think it is called then the night life in that Family bar is so much better.
My caravan was a 2 bedroom Superior and was very nice and warm, my mum stayed in a standard which didnt have as many heaters but just take a fan heater with you you will be fine, it is a caravan after all. Have just booked a holiday to Haven Golden Sands and have read bad reviews but then come on here and read similar ones about a park I found to be good. Kids enjoyed themselves outside of the weak shows and poor planning of the nightlife. I RECOMMEND a few things, the chip shop next to the beachcomber site, the trawlerman pub and if you drive head up the road away from the beach to the Grovesner FANTASTIC steaks.
Forget the reviews and try it for yourself.
I would say as you get to the main funworks area head to the carpark (behind you as you look at the funworks) and hit the beach there it is brilliant, clean and a fantastic day, I have been to this part about 6 times since. I wouldn't recommend the Haven aspect itself but if you head out of the park to McCormacks I think it is called then the night life in that Family bar is so much better.
My caravan was a 2 bedroom Superior and was very nice and warm, my mum stayed in a standard which didnt have as many heaters but just take a fan heater with you you will be fine, it is a caravan after all. Have just booked a holiday to Haven Golden Sands and have read bad reviews but then come on here and read similar ones about a park I found to be good. Kids enjoyed themselves outside of the weak shows and poor planning of the nightlife. I RECOMMEND a few things, the chip shop next to the beachcomber site, the trawlerman pub and if you drive head up the road away from the beach to the Grovesner FANTASTIC steaks.
Forget the reviews and try it for yourself.
5 out of
5 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Read Please ! "
Submitted By: Travers Family
we are just back from Thorpe Park,with sickness&cold the caravan was very very damp :(
tbh we never complain about our holidays but this holiday just wasnt right !
if you dont have a car thenn.......i would be worried
your holidays full of non stop walking
honestly! they made a 60 year old women with 5 children walk at 30 minute walk to their caravan ?
theres one thing i can say the park was lovely!
but we came all the way from Scotland a 7 hour journey
&all this happens
we definetly wouldnt go back !
we would advise everyone to go to haven craig tara in scotland
!
tbh we never complain about our holidays but this holiday just wasnt right !
if you dont have a car thenn.......i would be worried
your holidays full of non stop walking
honestly! they made a 60 year old women with 5 children walk at 30 minute walk to their caravan ?
theres one thing i can say the park was lovely!
but we came all the way from Scotland a 7 hour journey
&all this happens
we definetly wouldnt go back !
we would advise everyone to go to haven craig tara in scotland
!
Advice: Gambellers Paradie,bingo :(
Activities: none !
Good for: Beach
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Brilliant family break away "
Submitted By: vickivicvic
We got back a few days ago and we absolutely loved it.The caravan was a little to be desired and the reception were not very helpful.There was lots to do and we went at the end of September.The aqua bar was the best, we had our breakfast in there every morning whilst the kids played in the soft play area and it was lovely, although the menu's were a bit grubby.The swimming pool is brilliant.They have a family changing area which was just big enough for 1 adult and 3 children.We had lots of fun in the arcade aswell which we had toi pass to go into the aqua bar.The showbar is where you checkin and it is okay.It smells a bit near the bar.The character show is brilliant for the kids.And the pizza at Papa Johns was amazing and they also deliver pizza to your caravan.We will definatley go back but we will go platinum next time and in the summer so we can go to the theme park next door.
3 out of
4 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Please read. "
Submitted By: D.Relton
As a honeymoon getaway after an expensive wedding we were given and half paid for a break to this park. It was booked through the Sun holiday breaks. We have a son who is 11 months old and me and my wife and son drove 232 miles to Cleethorpes and to Thorpe Park. After parking in the temp car park we ventured into the club bar by first walking through an arcade, the carpet stunk of sick. NOT a good first impression. We then had to wait for 40 minutes to get out key (why not get this at reception??) after spending 10 minutes finding our caravan we parked up and entered.
49 Cherry Tree - If you go and get this key, ask for another.
We were greeted with a smell of dog, no attempt had been made to clean this caravan at all. The lino floor was filthy and not seen a mop for several years. The carpet was even worse. The upholstery on the seating had stains all over it and the once yellow/orange fabric had turned black and looked disgusting.
After further inspection there was no toilet roll? Now I understand we went self catering but surely toilet roll would be provided? Premier Inn hotels have toilet roll!
No microwave, we had to hire these along with a heater. We didn't do this.
Reluctantly we had to let out son play on the floor as it was nearing tea time and after the 2:30hr journey we didn't have the energy to find reception.
Over night the caravan was freezing, we only had a gas fire in the front of the caravan and we slept in the back. The next morning our son refused his food and this continued until we returned home. We complained at reception bout the smell and stains on the upholstery and the response we got from the stuck up cow at reception was that we had only booked a standard caravan. Apparently Haven don't pride themselves on cleaness and if you book a standard van (from the sun from what I’ve read on here) you end up with filth. he receptionist advised she could send a cleaner out to the van (prob for the first time ever) and when they got there they couldn't see the issue we had, we had to point out the smell and stains and I got the impression the cleaner thought this was the norm. She made more of an issue with the tea stains in the sink.
After they half cleaned the seating areas the caravan smelt worse, wet dog. It stunk. After asking for a different caravan and being told they were full we'd had enough. We were supposed to stay in a damp caravan, we had to use bed linen to let the baby play on the floor. The baby was not settling or eating so we decided to go home 3 days early.
After handing the key to reception they were surprised we were leaving early and asked if we had spoke to someone. Unbelievable.
We're not snobs and understand caravans are not homes but cleanness is a must for me, I'm sorry if that's out of order. A bit of dirt is understandable, caravans become tired and used, but maybe replace carpets and upholstery once in a while eh!?
Okay good points:
The baby liked the geese that roam about freely. Watch out for the goose poo everywhere.
He seemed to enjoy the pool (which was cold but the only way to bath him and make him happy).
Apart from that there was very little for us to do with him.
We went to the zoo up the road - closed. The Tesco's up the road was fairly good.
Prices: There's a chip shop on site, very expensive. £12.50 for fish and chips twice. There's a couple of supermarkets (where we bought our cleaning products from) on site.
All we wanted was a nice stress free break away from home after the stress of the wedding and this is what we got. We came home after 2 days. The baby developed a cough from the damp after they cleaned the carpets, he's getting better now and he's started eating again.
I have the address for the customer service director which i am writing to to complain about the unacceptable conditions we were made to put up with. They receptionist claimed there were no free vans available however we were constantly seeing empty ones, everyone I looked into through the window and seen how clean it was compared to ours.
As described by other people on this site the other holiday makers on site were on reflection 'chav families' well the majority were.
This has been an honest review and I thank you for reading.
49 Cherry Tree - If you go and get this key, ask for another.
We were greeted with a smell of dog, no attempt had been made to clean this caravan at all. The lino floor was filthy and not seen a mop for several years. The carpet was even worse. The upholstery on the seating had stains all over it and the once yellow/orange fabric had turned black and looked disgusting.
After further inspection there was no toilet roll? Now I understand we went self catering but surely toilet roll would be provided? Premier Inn hotels have toilet roll!
No microwave, we had to hire these along with a heater. We didn't do this.
Reluctantly we had to let out son play on the floor as it was nearing tea time and after the 2:30hr journey we didn't have the energy to find reception.
Over night the caravan was freezing, we only had a gas fire in the front of the caravan and we slept in the back. The next morning our son refused his food and this continued until we returned home. We complained at reception bout the smell and stains on the upholstery and the response we got from the stuck up cow at reception was that we had only booked a standard caravan. Apparently Haven don't pride themselves on cleaness and if you book a standard van (from the sun from what I’ve read on here) you end up with filth. he receptionist advised she could send a cleaner out to the van (prob for the first time ever) and when they got there they couldn't see the issue we had, we had to point out the smell and stains and I got the impression the cleaner thought this was the norm. She made more of an issue with the tea stains in the sink.
After they half cleaned the seating areas the caravan smelt worse, wet dog. It stunk. After asking for a different caravan and being told they were full we'd had enough. We were supposed to stay in a damp caravan, we had to use bed linen to let the baby play on the floor. The baby was not settling or eating so we decided to go home 3 days early.
After handing the key to reception they were surprised we were leaving early and asked if we had spoke to someone. Unbelievable.
We're not snobs and understand caravans are not homes but cleanness is a must for me, I'm sorry if that's out of order. A bit of dirt is understandable, caravans become tired and used, but maybe replace carpets and upholstery once in a while eh!?
Okay good points:
The baby liked the geese that roam about freely. Watch out for the goose poo everywhere.
He seemed to enjoy the pool (which was cold but the only way to bath him and make him happy).
Apart from that there was very little for us to do with him.
We went to the zoo up the road - closed. The Tesco's up the road was fairly good.
Prices: There's a chip shop on site, very expensive. £12.50 for fish and chips twice. There's a couple of supermarkets (where we bought our cleaning products from) on site.
All we wanted was a nice stress free break away from home after the stress of the wedding and this is what we got. We came home after 2 days. The baby developed a cough from the damp after they cleaned the carpets, he's getting better now and he's started eating again.
I have the address for the customer service director which i am writing to to complain about the unacceptable conditions we were made to put up with. They receptionist claimed there were no free vans available however we were constantly seeing empty ones, everyone I looked into through the window and seen how clean it was compared to ours.
As described by other people on this site the other holiday makers on site were on reflection 'chav families' well the majority were.
This has been an honest review and I thank you for reading.
Advice: Okay I suppose.
Activities: Tesco's was good.
3 out of
7 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" fantastic Holiday!!!!! :o) "
Submitted By: cwillo5515
We went to Thorpe Park in August for our annual holiday.
We had never been here before, and after booking i looked on some review sights to which i was horrifed to see all the negative feedback. I have to say i was expecting the worse!!
When we got there i was surprised how big the park was. We had booked a caravan through a private website, and it was faultless!.
The park it's self was very clean and tidy, there's a beach, a small fair and the pool which was enjoyed by my children!
There are also alot of things to do close by, Pleasure Island...next door, a Jungle Zoo, a little steam train....and many others.
I have to say we would definately go back, it's the best Haven park we've been to, and we've been to a few!!!
We had never been here before, and after booking i looked on some review sights to which i was horrifed to see all the negative feedback. I have to say i was expecting the worse!!
When we got there i was surprised how big the park was. We had booked a caravan through a private website, and it was faultless!.
The park it's self was very clean and tidy, there's a beach, a small fair and the pool which was enjoyed by my children!
There are also alot of things to do close by, Pleasure Island...next door, a Jungle Zoo, a little steam train....and many others.
I have to say we would definately go back, it's the best Haven park we've been to, and we've been to a few!!!
Advice: lovely place
Activities: everything
Good for: Beach
8 out of
9 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Not Good "
Submitted By: kakala
Overcrowded overpriced site thats as tacky as it gets. But what concerned me more were the Rats running in between the touring caravans, especially the dividing hedging.
Would not go there again if you paid me.
Would not go there again if you paid me.
2 out of
4 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Prestige grade not prestigious enough "
Submitted By: stpierre106
Having been a Haven-phile for a few years, I kind of know what to expect but have yet to experience the really bad things some other reviewers have mentioned.
I rang ahead as we were going to arrive after 6pm which wasn't a problem and when we arrived check in was speedy and efficient.
The site is very large, on a par with Presthaven Sands and there is a land train to help you get around the park (note, it's FREE of charge!) and the grounds were clean and well maintained. We were sited next to a loud bunch of young people (which I thought wasn't allowed) but they were okay at night (mainly because one of them brought their kid!)
The food at the Aqua bar was nice but I do recommend venturing outside. There is a Taverner's pub a few hundred yards from the camp where they serve carvery meals for less than £4 each. The meals on site are nice but a bit too pricey.
My only complaint was the fact that the caravan itself did not meet my expectations. We booked a Prestige grade caravan which boasts DVD player and heating in the bedrooms. We got this but the brochure also states that there are extra fixtures and fittings to give it that bit more luxurious touch; also the appliances and crockery were supposed to be a better grade too. Now the brochure does state that the photos are representative of a Prestige type grade but to be honest the photo of a Superior Plus caravan was identical to the caravan we had. Yes, we had the heating which was a plus, as was the DVD, but there were no extra things like table lamps for example. The crockery was mismatched and sported a British Holidays logo which gives an idea of how old it was.
I did mention this to the reception but was given the soundbite apology and a response form to complete. I have done so and will await a response. I am also going to write to head office as I feel the extra premium I paid for a Prestige grade wasn't worth it.
However, this did not spoil overall the enjoyable time we had.
I rang ahead as we were going to arrive after 6pm which wasn't a problem and when we arrived check in was speedy and efficient.
The site is very large, on a par with Presthaven Sands and there is a land train to help you get around the park (note, it's FREE of charge!) and the grounds were clean and well maintained. We were sited next to a loud bunch of young people (which I thought wasn't allowed) but they were okay at night (mainly because one of them brought their kid!)
The food at the Aqua bar was nice but I do recommend venturing outside. There is a Taverner's pub a few hundred yards from the camp where they serve carvery meals for less than £4 each. The meals on site are nice but a bit too pricey.
My only complaint was the fact that the caravan itself did not meet my expectations. We booked a Prestige grade caravan which boasts DVD player and heating in the bedrooms. We got this but the brochure also states that there are extra fixtures and fittings to give it that bit more luxurious touch; also the appliances and crockery were supposed to be a better grade too. Now the brochure does state that the photos are representative of a Prestige type grade but to be honest the photo of a Superior Plus caravan was identical to the caravan we had. Yes, we had the heating which was a plus, as was the DVD, but there were no extra things like table lamps for example. The crockery was mismatched and sported a British Holidays logo which gives an idea of how old it was.
I did mention this to the reception but was given the soundbite apology and a response form to complete. I have done so and will await a response. I am also going to write to head office as I feel the extra premium I paid for a Prestige grade wasn't worth it.
However, this did not spoil overall the enjoyable time we had.
Good for: Beach
5 out of
6 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Would defo return !! "
Submitted By: KKN2003
Some of the reviews on here are way wide of the mark ...
Were just back from TP and we had a great time. There was a group of 12 of us and there is something for everyone to do everyday. The park is "very" big and it took us about 10-15 mins to walk from our caravan to the complex.
The complex itself is st out well with the amusements, the restaurant, kids play area and swimming all under the one roof. The evening entertainment is set in another building under the same complex. There is a small shop, tennis, all weather courts,bike hire and a chippy and other stuff to do too?
As mentioned earlier the kids play area can get a bit boisterous with kids that are too big for it but if you get a seat next to it then you can keep a watchful eye on them. The swimming is good too ... there is a baby slide in the heated pool indoors, and then theres 2 outside flumes .. tho its all open planned so it is cold !! the purple flume is well good tho !!
The evening entertainment is well ... interesting !! as with all other Haven resorts its all about the Funstars and the Zoo Troop. The kids love it .. but it can be very pricey keeping up with everything that they try to sell .. and well kids being kids want everything they see !! There is adult only bingo for an hour at half 5, then they do the kids disco, afterwards there is family bingo (and this is where all the mums and those who dont get out much go a bit mad !!) .. we didnt play this as it was £5 for tickets and all you won was a silly wee toy or a teddy ?? there is a singer(s)on for an hour after the bingo and then its back to the funstars. it is enjoyable but a little repetative !!
There is a great Chinese Buffet about 5 mins along the road £8 for an adult and child and theres KFC McD's in a retail park across the road from that. We also went to the Pleasure island Theme park which was a great day out .. though £15.50 each for an adult and a child was a little pricey. Saying that we bought a family ticket £58 for any 4 paying people. Theres a 24 hr Tesco too about 10 mins away.. though it isnt 24 hours on a Sunday !!!!!! This must be an English thing as the Scottish ones are open all day every day !!! There is also a restaurant just before Tesco called the Pear Tree. This was brilliant with 2 4 1 meals. I had the steak pie and it was one of the best i had tasted. There is also a all day carvery for £3.50.
All in all i would definetly return back in the future !!
Were just back from TP and we had a great time. There was a group of 12 of us and there is something for everyone to do everyday. The park is "very" big and it took us about 10-15 mins to walk from our caravan to the complex.
The complex itself is st out well with the amusements, the restaurant, kids play area and swimming all under the one roof. The evening entertainment is set in another building under the same complex. There is a small shop, tennis, all weather courts,bike hire and a chippy and other stuff to do too?
As mentioned earlier the kids play area can get a bit boisterous with kids that are too big for it but if you get a seat next to it then you can keep a watchful eye on them. The swimming is good too ... there is a baby slide in the heated pool indoors, and then theres 2 outside flumes .. tho its all open planned so it is cold !! the purple flume is well good tho !!
The evening entertainment is well ... interesting !! as with all other Haven resorts its all about the Funstars and the Zoo Troop. The kids love it .. but it can be very pricey keeping up with everything that they try to sell .. and well kids being kids want everything they see !! There is adult only bingo for an hour at half 5, then they do the kids disco, afterwards there is family bingo (and this is where all the mums and those who dont get out much go a bit mad !!) .. we didnt play this as it was £5 for tickets and all you won was a silly wee toy or a teddy ?? there is a singer(s)on for an hour after the bingo and then its back to the funstars. it is enjoyable but a little repetative !!
There is a great Chinese Buffet about 5 mins along the road £8 for an adult and child and theres KFC McD's in a retail park across the road from that. We also went to the Pleasure island Theme park which was a great day out .. though £15.50 each for an adult and a child was a little pricey. Saying that we bought a family ticket £58 for any 4 paying people. Theres a 24 hr Tesco too about 10 mins away.. though it isnt 24 hours on a Sunday !!!!!! This must be an English thing as the Scottish ones are open all day every day !!! There is also a restaurant just before Tesco called the Pear Tree. This was brilliant with 2 4 1 meals. I had the steak pie and it was one of the best i had tasted. There is also a all day carvery for £3.50.
All in all i would definetly return back in the future !!
Advice: Looks like Emmerdale !!
Activities: The Pear Tree.
Good for: Beach
5 out of
7 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Jun 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Easter break 2009 superior plus "
Submitted By: mikeman
Just come back from a Easter break at Thorpe Park, Cleethorpe and can report following:-
Arrived at Cleethorpe, Thorpe Park from Northern Ireland approx 6 hrs drive from Stranraer fast ferry ( would recommend Stena plus ferry service upgrade) Drive through M6 A66 A1 M180 finding Cleethorpe close to Grimsby easy enough and followed signs for the Parks, arrived fairly wet afternoon and with some trepidation having read some of the reviews.
Arrival/reception:- A member of staff directed us to the entertainment complex where we were given a queue number and lined up at side of stage where you were ushered foreward to collect your key, felt a little like a sheep and slightly vexed at this but 2 trains of thought a) efficient way of dealing with large numbers decending on the camp (I was 165 in queue) or b)its a chance to get you pinting away and playing the machines on reflection I would choose the former.
Caravan- Place is really big and takes some navigating - caravan Hawthorne Court- Initial impression was ok looked fairly new 3 bedrooms tightish sqeeze but doable providing you are not too long or obese! Good cooker/gas hob hot shower. and living room fire which I found difficulty lighting eventually using a lighter. Fire is adequate once it warms up, bedding reasonable. brought our own towells. Early in morning young man with bag and litter tongs doing early morning litter patrol.
Complex- fine everything a 4 year old boy could ever want which is why we came , yes you do pay for most things but if you are prudent its not too bad ie £4 gets you 25 laps around a track with a lawnmower powered kart which is fine by me and exciting for the little people. £2 each for crazy golf I paid for his lordship and supervised him swimming pool a little packed but fine - well supervised. good range of arcade machines and meals I would say were reasonable value and quality bars had sky etc. Groups on a night very good although we arrived late both nights along with friends and family scrounged together to obtain seats /tables. Funstars good also. Security adequate and approachable.
Shop- essential shop lovely staff and prices reasonable always met with cheery hello.
Seal Sanctuary Mablethorpe- well worth a visit lots of other rescued animals as well- wildcats lynx foxes badgers and ecological history of area all in nicely maintained Gardens.
Cleethorpes first night ate out at a chippy really friendly staff and good craic also the front quite nice in a cool breezy kind of British resort way.
Criticisms- Would have liked to have see a couple of toilet rolls and at least a tea towel in the caravan- not sure what happened there and didnt persue it.
IN SUMMARY Have read some of the critical reviews on here and I am sorry some people didnt have a good experience but for my part our family had a great time it was based mainly around my son, my wife had no major criticisms. The caravan is perhaps slightly cooler than at home you do have to compromise a little ie toast under the grill etc few minutes for caravan to warm up. Staff, fellow campers and locals all very friendly and I was quite suprised have been known to suffer grumpy old man sydrome myself So cant really knock it it is what it is a good place for the kids and adults and the way the euros going I dont see any great bargains in our euro cousins lands so chill out take a fleece try to smile and hopefully you will have a good time to. Bottom line is as a kid you will remember the caravan holiday in years to come it raining , swimming pool slides the go karts and donkeys and Dad blowing himself up on the fire aaah British Holidays!!!
Arrived at Cleethorpe, Thorpe Park from Northern Ireland approx 6 hrs drive from Stranraer fast ferry ( would recommend Stena plus ferry service upgrade) Drive through M6 A66 A1 M180 finding Cleethorpe close to Grimsby easy enough and followed signs for the Parks, arrived fairly wet afternoon and with some trepidation having read some of the reviews.
Arrival/reception:- A member of staff directed us to the entertainment complex where we were given a queue number and lined up at side of stage where you were ushered foreward to collect your key, felt a little like a sheep and slightly vexed at this but 2 trains of thought a) efficient way of dealing with large numbers decending on the camp (I was 165 in queue) or b)its a chance to get you pinting away and playing the machines on reflection I would choose the former.
Caravan- Place is really big and takes some navigating - caravan Hawthorne Court- Initial impression was ok looked fairly new 3 bedrooms tightish sqeeze but doable providing you are not too long or obese! Good cooker/gas hob hot shower. and living room fire which I found difficulty lighting eventually using a lighter. Fire is adequate once it warms up, bedding reasonable. brought our own towells. Early in morning young man with bag and litter tongs doing early morning litter patrol.
Complex- fine everything a 4 year old boy could ever want which is why we came , yes you do pay for most things but if you are prudent its not too bad ie £4 gets you 25 laps around a track with a lawnmower powered kart which is fine by me and exciting for the little people. £2 each for crazy golf I paid for his lordship and supervised him swimming pool a little packed but fine - well supervised. good range of arcade machines and meals I would say were reasonable value and quality bars had sky etc. Groups on a night very good although we arrived late both nights along with friends and family scrounged together to obtain seats /tables. Funstars good also. Security adequate and approachable.
Shop- essential shop lovely staff and prices reasonable always met with cheery hello.
Seal Sanctuary Mablethorpe- well worth a visit lots of other rescued animals as well- wildcats lynx foxes badgers and ecological history of area all in nicely maintained Gardens.
Cleethorpes first night ate out at a chippy really friendly staff and good craic also the front quite nice in a cool breezy kind of British resort way.
Criticisms- Would have liked to have see a couple of toilet rolls and at least a tea towel in the caravan- not sure what happened there and didnt persue it.
IN SUMMARY Have read some of the critical reviews on here and I am sorry some people didnt have a good experience but for my part our family had a great time it was based mainly around my son, my wife had no major criticisms. The caravan is perhaps slightly cooler than at home you do have to compromise a little ie toast under the grill etc few minutes for caravan to warm up. Staff, fellow campers and locals all very friendly and I was quite suprised have been known to suffer grumpy old man sydrome myself So cant really knock it it is what it is a good place for the kids and adults and the way the euros going I dont see any great bargains in our euro cousins lands so chill out take a fleece try to smile and hopefully you will have a good time to. Bottom line is as a kid you will remember the caravan holiday in years to come it raining , swimming pool slides the go karts and donkeys and Dad blowing himself up on the fire aaah British Holidays!!!
5 out of
5 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" chav tastic "
Submitted By: rickj
OMG just returned from the haven site thorpe park cleethorpes,what a shock ,firstly the site is huge ,you can be sited a long way from the entertainment site although this is probably a good thing,i have never seen so many knuckle dragging skinheaded bodypainted chavs in my life and thats just the women!holiday in britain you must be joking never again all the council estates on east coast must of been desearted this bank hol weekend,the language spoken by these people to their children and visversa is unbelivable,the caravan was dirty despite the season just starting ,basically they just hoover the floor ,please note the prices only inc free swim everything else is chargable ,crazy golf £2 each trampoline 2£,go carts 4£ each thet even charge you for the lockers in the swimming area,the arcades are full of machines which pay out in tokens you then cash tokens in for toys ,its the biggest ripp off i have seen and trading standards should be informed eg 3000 tokens gets you a toy worth about 8 pound and costs around 50 in the machines .i would rather stick pins in my eyes than visit again YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Advice: Avoid like the clap
Activities: The M180 on the way home
1 out of
2 readers found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:haven
" Haven was not quite heaven "
Submitted By: browrich
We booked our 3 night self catering break for 27th March as it was only £116. When it was booked I started my research on the site and as nearly every one complained about it I wasn't looking forward to it at all.
We booked a Superior plus caravan with 3 bedrooms (couch pulls out into another double)It was ample for 4 adults, 2 kids and a baby. Not room in the bedrooms for a travel cot despite what they tell you. We asked to be situated near amenities which we got. Caravan smelt a bit of stale smoke but hey its not the ritz!
The caravan only had a gas fire in the lounge and was cold at night and I mean COLD but hey it was March. If i'd known I would have taken my sleeping bag. You can hire fan heaters at the hire shop which I would suggest a good idea. Tkae your own pillows too as they looked a little.....used.
The site had a shop that seemed to sell everything (if a little pricy) launderette and chip shop.
We were given funworks passes which meant the pool was free. It was open from 10-1 and 2-5. It was really nice.
The sites restaurant was overlooking the pool and the food was alright. Nothing special but alright food! Roughly a tenner a meal. Large glass of wine about £4. It was a clean place with a bar and amusements and outdoor activities for the family. The showbar was close by but we didn't venture in at night. We decided to explore Cleethorpes which too was alright. Typical seaside town. Train rides, slots, fish and chips that sort of thing.
I wouldn't recommend it to anyone but I wouldn't tell people not to go either.
If you don't like noisy holidays with parents drinking and not watching their kids then peak season would not be a good time to go. Out of season was bearable.
We found it difficult to find a good place to eat that didn't serve chips with everything! I am sure there were places but we didn't come across them.
Pleasure island (next door to Haven) looked good but didn't open til Easter.
I gave it a 7 because its better than average place to stay (its not their fault about the weather)I wouldn't want any accomodation less than superior plus.
We booked a Superior plus caravan with 3 bedrooms (couch pulls out into another double)It was ample for 4 adults, 2 kids and a baby. Not room in the bedrooms for a travel cot despite what they tell you. We asked to be situated near amenities which we got. Caravan smelt a bit of stale smoke but hey its not the ritz!
The caravan only had a gas fire in the lounge and was cold at night and I mean COLD but hey it was March. If i'd known I would have taken my sleeping bag. You can hire fan heaters at the hire shop which I would suggest a good idea. Tkae your own pillows too as they looked a little.....used.
The site had a shop that seemed to sell everything (if a little pricy) launderette and chip shop.
We were given funworks passes which meant the pool was free. It was open from 10-1 and 2-5. It was really nice.
The sites restaurant was overlooking the pool and the food was alright. Nothing special but alright food! Roughly a tenner a meal. Large glass of wine about £4. It was a clean place with a bar and amusements and outdoor activities for the family. The showbar was close by but we didn't venture in at night. We decided to explore Cleethorpes which too was alright. Typical seaside town. Train rides, slots, fish and chips that sort of thing.
I wouldn't recommend it to anyone but I wouldn't tell people not to go either.
If you don't like noisy holidays with parents drinking and not watching their kids then peak season would not be a good time to go. Out of season was bearable.
We found it difficult to find a good place to eat that didn't serve chips with everything! I am sure there were places but we didn't come across them.
Pleasure island (next door to Haven) looked good but didn't open til Easter.
I gave it a 7 because its better than average place to stay (its not their fault about the weather)I wouldn't want any accomodation less than superior plus.
Advice: slots, beaches, fish and chips, train rides,pleasure island.
Activities:
Good for: Beach
- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" not bad "
Submitted By: bryo
After booking this long weekend I then decided to look at the reviews and was horrified at the tales of dirty caravans and broken items. I really wouldnt have booked if id read the reviews first, but i would like to say we enjoyed our holiday very much. The day before we went we received a letter saying we could enter the caravan from 10am instead or 4pm because we was one of the first to go that season. This really made a difference to our holiday, having that extra day in the caravan was very nice. The caravan was in a nice area, not too far from the reception. On entering the caravan we noticed there was a beeping noice every 10second coming from the carbonmonoxide machine which worried us abit but we rang reception and informed them at 11am and they said someone would come to fix it, saying it was probably the battery. we explored the site and by 1.30pm we went back and nothing had been done. I was not very happy at trusting the word of the receptionist that it was only the battery so we rang again and was told someone would be round straigh away. Once again we went out, after being told we didnt have to stay in and to enjoy the site. This time we waited till 3.30pm and again went to check and once again nothing had been done so i rang again and was not as friendly with the manager after taking his name i informed him i was not willing to stay in the caravan and would expect to be moved if it was not looked at. Within 5mins we had the repair man who did infact change the battery and everything was fine. This was the only incident that spoiled our weekend so i would go back again but i think id stick to the less busy period as i can imagine they get very busy in peak season.
Advice: lovely area, so close to the beach which goes out for miles. Plenty of shops ie tesco, asda
Activities: There is a very good fish n chip shop just off the site which does fantastic fish, highly recommend
Good for: Beach
- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" i got a caravan holiday through the... "
Submitted By: Mr G Ferguson
i got a caravan holiday through the 9.50 holidays in the sun when we got there we got a caravan that was stinking of smoke and hadnt been cleand then we got another that was dirty then another that had no bedding microwave door handle missing and the seating was was all stained just because we got our holiday cheap dint mean we are cheap we had upgraded before we got there to staff blamed the cleaning company i thot ok but there was quite a few my freinds went to caister on sea and theyve had the same problem i think sumthing should be done
1 out of
1 reader found this review helpful
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:sun holidays
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when we eventual ventured out of the caravan i noticted that it was a 20 min walk to the complex by this time we were all very tired so we found that driving round to the complex was a lot easier and quicker.
the pool was to small and always seemed very busy with only 3-4 life guards on at a time. the outside pool was filthy and there was no one watching the water slides there wasnt enough changin rooms and the showers didnt work.
the evening entertainment was rubbish there was never nothing on and the place was filthy. there was always food on the floor and most nites glasses from the previous nite. the toilets were always flooded and there was never any toilet roll we took in our own and the baby chang was always out of order.
onsite food is appalin staff are rude and arragunt and if you have a complaint dont bother making it they dont want to listen. we did the teddys bear picnic for our 3 children and i was appaled the mascot was there 10 mins out of the 1 and a half ours and for what you pay for it i was appaled they got a sandwich,juice and a moldy piece of fruit.
on site facatiltys were non to least there was nothing there the fair was shut mon-thur it open fri-sun and the only day we went it cost us a fortune crazy golf was shut and the go karts werent open. the kids in door play area was appaling and the arcades were filthy.
overall the worst haven holiday i have ever had and we use to go 4 times a year. i did complian and got a part refund but only because we didnt stay in the caravan we paid for. we havent been since and been to butlins instead which was great.
we went to haven as part of a group and they were all as disgusted as we were and all ahd as many problems with different aspects of the park. if i had to overall rate this park it would be crap hole that i would never go back to ever ever again not if it was the last place left on this earth.
Advice: crap hole
Activities: