Pontins Brean Sands, Somerset, England
Hotel Information
Hotel Description:
Deep in the heart of Somerset, Brean Sands has everything you could wish for in a family holiday. You're just 300 metres from the golden sands of the coastline and within easy reach of famous attractions like the underground world of Wookey Hole and the caves of Cheddar Gorge. loading...
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Pontins Brean Sands Reviews
" This place needs knocking down.
This place needs knocking down.
We stayed in the 'club' apartments, but they seemed not much better than the 'budget, the only difference is you get vouchers for a newspaper and electric (but you pay for that anyway in the price off the holiday) and also towels.
The bedroom was damp; the bedding was itchy and smelled off damp.
The entertainment was ok I suppose but not a patch on Butlins; stay away from the sofa beds there's nothing more uncomfortable!
The on site Chippy was very poor, but there's a nice one just across the road, as well as a fair further down the road which the kids liked.
Get in the family bar early because otherwise you won't get a seat, which is in serious need off updating, the place is in a time warp considering it's not cheap!
Brean sands itself is quite nice although there's not much there. This short break was a disappointment and we won't be going there again.
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" What can I say, Pontins was... "
Submitted By: Miss K Parker
What can I say, Pontins was excellent! The facilities were brill and entertainment was good.
We ate in the Queen Vic Restaurant and the food was top class. We met the Head Chef (Anthony) who was really nice. We did try the Place over the road and the food was no where near as good as the Queen Vic Restaurant. (Try the carvery on Sundays)!
We had traditional fish and chips from the onsite chip shop and could not fault it, the fast food outlet in the fun factory does a mean chicken wrap, (had one every night).
Cj in Leisure Zone was awesome and his team could not do enough for us.
The bar staff were all friendly and we did not really find the drinks over priced.
The accommodation was clean and fresh when we arrived.
We had a top new years eve although I can’t really remember much.
Overall a top holiday! I really recommend it.
Thank you Brean Sands.
We ate in the Queen Vic Restaurant and the food was top class. We met the Head Chef (Anthony) who was really nice. We did try the Place over the road and the food was no where near as good as the Queen Vic Restaurant. (Try the carvery on Sundays)!
We had traditional fish and chips from the onsite chip shop and could not fault it, the fast food outlet in the fun factory does a mean chicken wrap, (had one every night).
Cj in Leisure Zone was awesome and his team could not do enough for us.
The bar staff were all friendly and we did not really find the drinks over priced.
The accommodation was clean and fresh when we arrived.
We had a top new years eve although I can’t really remember much.
Overall a top holiday! I really recommend it.
Thank you Brean Sands.
- Date of Holiday:Dec 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We as a family, travel down to... "
Submitted By: Mr C Wiper
We as a family, travel down to Pontins Brean Sands for our New Year spectacular break with Captain Croc and the blue coat gang. This year was no disappointment, and probably the best New Year at Brean, in the 6 years our family has been going for.
It has become a family tradition and none of us have a bad word to say about the apartments, staff or bluecoats at Brean sands. All are welcoming and friendly and the bluecoats are the best in the Pontins range.
We have visited other Pontins outlets, and I have to say that Brean Sands is by far the best of their popular holiday sites.
Brean is a relaxing environment and this camp is adjusted to fit in with this feeling. If you choose a budget apartment then you expect to get less for your money.
My family will continue to use the Pontins at Brean Sands and so will many others that I got to know during the 2006 New Year break. All I can say is what an awesome holiday break and the bluecoats are spectacular, keep up the good work guys and don't let any of the people who complain get your spirits down
See you for our 2007 New Year break, applause to the staff who worked over Christmas and New Year and thanks for the great shows, including the final ever performance of "We will rock you". I will always sing my praise for the Pontins Brean Sands holiday site.
It has become a family tradition and none of us have a bad word to say about the apartments, staff or bluecoats at Brean sands. All are welcoming and friendly and the bluecoats are the best in the Pontins range.
We have visited other Pontins outlets, and I have to say that Brean Sands is by far the best of their popular holiday sites.
Brean is a relaxing environment and this camp is adjusted to fit in with this feeling. If you choose a budget apartment then you expect to get less for your money.
My family will continue to use the Pontins at Brean Sands and so will many others that I got to know during the 2006 New Year break. All I can say is what an awesome holiday break and the bluecoats are spectacular, keep up the good work guys and don't let any of the people who complain get your spirits down
See you for our 2007 New Year break, applause to the staff who worked over Christmas and New Year and thanks for the great shows, including the final ever performance of "We will rock you". I will always sing my praise for the Pontins Brean Sands holiday site.
- Date of Holiday:Dec 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" After a really difficult year we were... "
Submitted By: Mrs C M Kujawiak
After a really difficult year we were really looking forward to our holiday at Brean Sands.
Like many others I have heard of, our dreams were totally shattered when we got there. The accommodation was dirty. The catering facilities were appalling too.
We booked via Thomson’s at a weeks cost of £318! In all honesty, I would not have even paid £18 for it had I have known how bad it was.
The staff were not the most helpful of people either, they seemed not care.
So this message is for anyone thinking of going to Brean Sands. Save your money and go elsewhere.
Like many others I have heard of, our dreams were totally shattered when we got there. The accommodation was dirty. The catering facilities were appalling too.
We booked via Thomson’s at a weeks cost of £318! In all honesty, I would not have even paid £18 for it had I have known how bad it was.
The staff were not the most helpful of people either, they seemed not care.
So this message is for anyone thinking of going to Brean Sands. Save your money and go elsewhere.
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" This was the second time we've been... "
Submitted By: Ms T Calford
This was the second time we've been to this park and loved every minute. Last year we went out of the park a lot on days out to places like Wookey Hole and Longleat, but this time we opted to stay mainly in the park and enjoy everything that was available.
The rooms are not brill, but who goes on holiday to spend the whole time in your room watching telly? Get out and enjoy your life! The chalets meet your basic needs well enough, and if you thought they were a little grubby, go get some cleaning products from the shop!
We really looked forward to the evenings which we spent in the fun factory. It was good to be able to enjoy time relaxing (with a drink) and know that the kids were having a great time.
The food was reasonably priced and the drinks offers were brill.
The pool is great and the changing facilities were roomy and great if you have a few kids with you.
The blue coats, as always, were friendly and worked very hard to entertain all. And I have to mention my admiration for the staff that you don't always get to see, like the cleaners, who have one hell of a task, who do their job without any praise or thanks.
We will return next year, and we cant wait. We were all so down when it was time to go home.
The rooms are not brill, but who goes on holiday to spend the whole time in your room watching telly? Get out and enjoy your life! The chalets meet your basic needs well enough, and if you thought they were a little grubby, go get some cleaning products from the shop!
We really looked forward to the evenings which we spent in the fun factory. It was good to be able to enjoy time relaxing (with a drink) and know that the kids were having a great time.
The food was reasonably priced and the drinks offers were brill.
The pool is great and the changing facilities were roomy and great if you have a few kids with you.
The blue coats, as always, were friendly and worked very hard to entertain all. And I have to mention my admiration for the staff that you don't always get to see, like the cleaners, who have one hell of a task, who do their job without any praise or thanks.
We will return next year, and we cant wait. We were all so down when it was time to go home.
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Sun Holiday
" We arrived at Pontins Brean Sands on... "
Submitted By: Miss G Kathy
We arrived at Pontins Brean Sands on Friday 20th October having booked a classic apartment. With regards to check in all reception staff were very helpful and polite even though people were not paying attention to correct check in procedure. We booked a classic apartment and after receiving our keys went straight there. The bluecoat that checked me in explained where to go and showed me on a map of the centre which was on the envelope that the keys were given in. We also received £75 pounds worth of discount vouchers which immediately put a smile on our faces.
When we arrived at our chalet we were pleasantly surprised after reading other comments on this page. Yeah, the chalet was small but it was clean and we weren't planning on spending much time in there anyway.
The leisure zone - the activities were mainly based for the under 17 but me and my friends had a laugh on the crazy golf and the go karts. The leisure staff are extremely friendly and if I had children I know they would have been looked after by CJ and the gang.
Service in the restaurant was ok but I’d like to mention that Jan should be made restaurant manageress because she always has a smile on her face and a wiggle in her walk.
At night time the entertainments was well catered for a family audience. The only complaint I have about bingo is that I didn't win. Ha! The entertainment was really good, during bingo the kids were taken away to a different area so us adults could have our gambling fun. We enjoyed croc show time even though we are all over 18 its a shame croc and his pals look so tatty. The first act was normally a magician or something for the kids and the second act was always singers or something for the adults. The Madhatters were amazing! The bluecoats proved how talented they are during there two shows Saturday night fever and we will rock you! I enjoyed the weakest link because it gave the adults a chance to win some cash. At the night time I really liked that the queen vic was an adult only venue. They had one bluecoat in there providing lots of fun. The best night in the vic for us was when Rachel was in there as she was always happy to help us. It was nice to see the staff out having a laugh after their shift had finished. Most of them are very polite and chatty.
I sometimes found that the bar staff were quite rude and arrogant. Especially when slating other departments to paying customers. I know I certainly don't want to hear which bluecoats are gay or alcoholics. (Apart form Michael and Rodrigo who were really cute and Rodrigo looks like a pro footballer. Neither had a bad word to say)
I would also like to mention that Bluecoat Jo, Bluecoat Sam, Bluecoat Bryony and Bluecoat Sarah-Lou weren't afraid to make fools of themselves for our entertainment and I think I fell in love with little Emma who is constantly entertaining.
We enjoyed our holiday so much we paid for another four nights. On our last night all the bluecoats made a special effort to dress up with everything from clowns to cats, witches to vampires. I know for a fact I will book again for next year and will take my niece and nephew.
When we arrived at our chalet we were pleasantly surprised after reading other comments on this page. Yeah, the chalet was small but it was clean and we weren't planning on spending much time in there anyway.
The leisure zone - the activities were mainly based for the under 17 but me and my friends had a laugh on the crazy golf and the go karts. The leisure staff are extremely friendly and if I had children I know they would have been looked after by CJ and the gang.
Service in the restaurant was ok but I’d like to mention that Jan should be made restaurant manageress because she always has a smile on her face and a wiggle in her walk.
At night time the entertainments was well catered for a family audience. The only complaint I have about bingo is that I didn't win. Ha! The entertainment was really good, during bingo the kids were taken away to a different area so us adults could have our gambling fun. We enjoyed croc show time even though we are all over 18 its a shame croc and his pals look so tatty. The first act was normally a magician or something for the kids and the second act was always singers or something for the adults. The Madhatters were amazing! The bluecoats proved how talented they are during there two shows Saturday night fever and we will rock you! I enjoyed the weakest link because it gave the adults a chance to win some cash. At the night time I really liked that the queen vic was an adult only venue. They had one bluecoat in there providing lots of fun. The best night in the vic for us was when Rachel was in there as she was always happy to help us. It was nice to see the staff out having a laugh after their shift had finished. Most of them are very polite and chatty.
I sometimes found that the bar staff were quite rude and arrogant. Especially when slating other departments to paying customers. I know I certainly don't want to hear which bluecoats are gay or alcoholics. (Apart form Michael and Rodrigo who were really cute and Rodrigo looks like a pro footballer. Neither had a bad word to say)
I would also like to mention that Bluecoat Jo, Bluecoat Sam, Bluecoat Bryony and Bluecoat Sarah-Lou weren't afraid to make fools of themselves for our entertainment and I think I fell in love with little Emma who is constantly entertaining.
We enjoyed our holiday so much we paid for another four nights. On our last night all the bluecoats made a special effort to dress up with everything from clowns to cats, witches to vampires. I know for a fact I will book again for next year and will take my niece and nephew.
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Arrived early so went to check out... "
Submitted By: Mrs L Denning
Arrived early so went to check out facilities, what a disappointment! The Queen Vic pub was very smoky with sticky tables, the eating area also had sticky tables. Check in was like a stampede with 1000+ people trying to be first in the queue. We found our chalet and the smell of damp overpowered us as soon as we opened the door.
Very small chalets (we had budget), bathroom was full of mould, the shower was ok but you had to keep pressing the button otherwise it would stop running automatically! Could not open the oven door on the cooker, not that we attempted to cook as not clean at all. The double bed settee, once opened out, left no room in the living area and the mattress was sunk in the middle!
On our first night we decided to try the fish and chip takeaway, however when we tried to order we were told they had no fish left and it would take a while to defrost! I cannot understand this as the bluecoats informed us on check in that they were expecting 1600 guests that day! This takeaway was also closed on the Saturday night!
The fun factory left a lot to the imagination, bingo from 7-8pm, which is for over 18's only, have you tried to keep kids quiet and entertained? We didn’t even try Lunars bar as we were so disappointed with the rest of the facilities. The on site shop was well stocked and the prices appeared fair. We had to pay for electric and was unsure how much we would use over the weekend, in all we put £5 in and hardly spent any time in the chalet!
Didn't see much of the bluecoats, my daughter who is 8 wasn't interested in any of the activities offered as they appeared to be aimed at older boys.
Brean itself has not got much in the way of entertainment, just a few bars and restaurants, however the fair was pretty good and The Place bar and restaurant right opposite was very good. Peters takeaway below the Place was also of good quality.
All in all we would not return here, even on a sun holiday. We usually go to Butlins in Minehead and this place doesn't even come close to Butlins. It needs a complete revamp and probably would benefit from being torn down!
Very small chalets (we had budget), bathroom was full of mould, the shower was ok but you had to keep pressing the button otherwise it would stop running automatically! Could not open the oven door on the cooker, not that we attempted to cook as not clean at all. The double bed settee, once opened out, left no room in the living area and the mattress was sunk in the middle!
On our first night we decided to try the fish and chip takeaway, however when we tried to order we were told they had no fish left and it would take a while to defrost! I cannot understand this as the bluecoats informed us on check in that they were expecting 1600 guests that day! This takeaway was also closed on the Saturday night!
The fun factory left a lot to the imagination, bingo from 7-8pm, which is for over 18's only, have you tried to keep kids quiet and entertained? We didn’t even try Lunars bar as we were so disappointed with the rest of the facilities. The on site shop was well stocked and the prices appeared fair. We had to pay for electric and was unsure how much we would use over the weekend, in all we put £5 in and hardly spent any time in the chalet!
Didn't see much of the bluecoats, my daughter who is 8 wasn't interested in any of the activities offered as they appeared to be aimed at older boys.
Brean itself has not got much in the way of entertainment, just a few bars and restaurants, however the fair was pretty good and The Place bar and restaurant right opposite was very good. Peters takeaway below the Place was also of good quality.
All in all we would not return here, even on a sun holiday. We usually go to Butlins in Minehead and this place doesn't even come close to Butlins. It needs a complete revamp and probably would benefit from being torn down!
- Date of Holiday:Oct 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Having read other peoples comments I... "
Submitted By: Mrs BA Williams
Having read other peoples comments I wish I had read them before I booked my holiday, I certainly would not have gone to Brean Sands. I can find nothing good to say about it and I agree with all the other bad comments written in by other unhappy holiday makers. I have written to complain to the customer care manager Ellie Hindle and her reply was as I expected they were very sorry and my comments were noted and passed to the services manager. They say they strive to attain a high standard of care, but how many complaints to they have to receive before action is taken. It is obvious that no action has been taken despite previous letters of complaint, I certainly would never return to Brean Sands and would never recommend the place to my friends or even my worst enemies. I did stay the five days I booked so as not to disappoint the grandkids, but I too wanted to leave almost as soon as I arrived, I felt that uncomfortable, the place was dirty and it was obvious that our chalet had not been cleaned, I suggest they employ better cleaners that is if they employ any at all. I really feel that health and safety personnel should be called in to thoroughly check out all aspect of Brean Sands holiday camp, from the chalets to food and the safety and security.
If after reading my letter you still wish to stay at Brean Sands then go prepared with plenty of cleaning materials and diarrhoea tablets and your own linen.
If after reading my letter you still wish to stay at Brean Sands then go prepared with plenty of cleaning materials and diarrhoea tablets and your own linen.
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" This was absolutely disgusting. When... "
Submitted By: Mrs U Quigley
This was absolutely disgusting. When we arrived and got to our chalet I went to the shop on site, and brought bleach and disinfectant. This room was meant to be cleaned before we arrived but it wasn’t a very good job if it had been cleaned.
The smell when you opened the door to enter the chalet was horrible smell of damp and mildew we stayed in a club chalet which was meant to be a upgrade, I would hate to see the other ones if this was the better end.
If you do go I strongly recommended you take your own pillows cases and bed sheets. They felt damp when you lay in bed.
Entertainment in the day was ok bingo, and quizzes and the pub queen Vic where this took place was ok. I needed a drink to get through the pain of staying here
I couldn’t wait to leave and never again will I go this place or any Pontins.
The worse place I have ever stayed. You expect full cleanliness and hygiene when you.
Stay at places this was not the case. I have given this one out ten and that is been generous.
The smell when you opened the door to enter the chalet was horrible smell of damp and mildew we stayed in a club chalet which was meant to be a upgrade, I would hate to see the other ones if this was the better end.
If you do go I strongly recommended you take your own pillows cases and bed sheets. They felt damp when you lay in bed.
Entertainment in the day was ok bingo, and quizzes and the pub queen Vic where this took place was ok. I needed a drink to get through the pain of staying here
I couldn’t wait to leave and never again will I go this place or any Pontins.
The worse place I have ever stayed. You expect full cleanliness and hygiene when you.
Stay at places this was not the case. I have given this one out ten and that is been generous.
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2006
- Board Basis:Room Only
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" On arrival there was no direction on... "
Submitted By: Mrs S Foulds
On arrival there was no direction on how to get to the apartment so everyone went it opposite directions only to meet up at the bottom of the park being unable to pass each other due to the narrow road, so people couldn't pass and were honking their hooters, swearing and shouting at each other.
The booking in process - what a joke. You are told to meet in the main function room (the fun house) at 4pm check in. I thought it would be like going to a desk and get given your key and on your way - ohh no. When I went in the room there were about 400 people. The then got so many chairs out at the front labeled a - c, e- h etc and you had to queue in the relevant bit dependant on your surname. People shoved and pushed past not caring that my small baby was getting her legs caught between them.
I cried - I was so looking forward to having a week away and when I saw the state of the apartment that is all I could do. Okay I realise it was budget accommodation, but surely this shouldn't compromise cleanliness and safety. With a 12 month old baby crawling It was wholly unsuitable. The fabric on the base of the beds were all ripped and hanging on the broken tiled floor showing the insides. The floor tiles were broken and collected dirt in the gaps. The carpets were ripped and frayed. The bathroom - let's not go there.
After seeing the apartment I went to see the reception desk chap who I admit was very helping and sympathetic, although I was amongst say 20 people. He also said that about 300 had already gone home. I got the duty manager who upgraded us to a club apartment without question. The dealt with the matter wonderfully but that was all.
The upgraded apartment was great. But by The next morning everything was closed and there was nothing to do. We went swimming (which facilities were good). All the things that were suppose to be on weren't - no bouncy castle etc. The playgroup meant for kids had a soft play area which consisted of a bucket with a few bits of Lego in, a play tent which was ripped and was supposed to be a ball pit but had no balls. It was all very dirty with the falls having debris on them which obviously is unsuitable for crawling babies.
It was a complete sham. We should have been there from the Monday afternoon til Friday. We left at 6am on the Wednesday as we could take it no more.
The booking in process - what a joke. You are told to meet in the main function room (the fun house) at 4pm check in. I thought it would be like going to a desk and get given your key and on your way - ohh no. When I went in the room there were about 400 people. The then got so many chairs out at the front labeled a - c, e- h etc and you had to queue in the relevant bit dependant on your surname. People shoved and pushed past not caring that my small baby was getting her legs caught between them.
I cried - I was so looking forward to having a week away and when I saw the state of the apartment that is all I could do. Okay I realise it was budget accommodation, but surely this shouldn't compromise cleanliness and safety. With a 12 month old baby crawling It was wholly unsuitable. The fabric on the base of the beds were all ripped and hanging on the broken tiled floor showing the insides. The floor tiles were broken and collected dirt in the gaps. The carpets were ripped and frayed. The bathroom - let's not go there.
After seeing the apartment I went to see the reception desk chap who I admit was very helping and sympathetic, although I was amongst say 20 people. He also said that about 300 had already gone home. I got the duty manager who upgraded us to a club apartment without question. The dealt with the matter wonderfully but that was all.
The upgraded apartment was great. But by The next morning everything was closed and there was nothing to do. We went swimming (which facilities were good). All the things that were suppose to be on weren't - no bouncy castle etc. The playgroup meant for kids had a soft play area which consisted of a bucket with a few bits of Lego in, a play tent which was ripped and was supposed to be a ball pit but had no balls. It was all very dirty with the falls having debris on them which obviously is unsuitable for crawling babies.
It was a complete sham. We should have been there from the Monday afternoon til Friday. We left at 6am on the Wednesday as we could take it no more.
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Wasn't sure what to expect because of... "
Submitted By: Mr K Newey
Wasn't sure what to expect because of the range of reviews on this website. For the first time, I took part in The SUN's £9.50 holiday deals. As I have 2 small children, I telephoned and upgraded my accommodation from budget to club.
The club apartments were located in a nicer part of the park and were very basic. The lure of 'digital TV' doesn't amount to much: Cartoon Network, ITV 2 and Sky Sports News. The handy thing with club accommodation is that your electricity is free and you get a free newspaper each day.
Anyway, back to the apartment, the bedroom was small. A single bed at each end with just enough room for us to put our travel cot. We didn't want to open up the fold away double bed in the lounge as it did look a bit 'manky'. The pillows and duvet we were provided with were coated in DNA from all previous users. The towels and other bedding was nice and clean. The bedroom did seem to get quite damp each night. WARNING - The hot water in the bath room is SCOLDING - do not leave youngsters alone in there.
The facilities were very good for kids: abseiling, crazy golf, go-karts, quads for the older kids and shows with Barney and Postman Pat for the younger ones. There is a chip shop on site which sells good chips (if you don't mind waiting) and a good range of other take away food. The Queen Vic restaurant menu is very good and again we found the quality of food very good. The londis on site sells over priced groceries so best to take as much as you can with you.
The amusement arcade is open for most of the day. Don't bother with the 'grabber machines' as I didn't see anyone win on them all week; surely there should be some legislation they have to follow. Our little'un preferred the amusements opposite the Pontins entrance and he went away with a Homer and Lisa Simpson from the 'grabber machine'.
We didn't leave the site very much, but we did visit the animal farm which is in the next town (Berrow) and had a great time.
On our final day, we went across the restaurant opposite, on the second floor, and had a great meal.
Due to the accommodation we came home the day before we were supposed to. We won't be visiting again but our 2 year old had a great time with Barney, Postman Pat and Chuckles so I give it 5 out of 10.
The club apartments were located in a nicer part of the park and were very basic. The lure of 'digital TV' doesn't amount to much: Cartoon Network, ITV 2 and Sky Sports News. The handy thing with club accommodation is that your electricity is free and you get a free newspaper each day.
Anyway, back to the apartment, the bedroom was small. A single bed at each end with just enough room for us to put our travel cot. We didn't want to open up the fold away double bed in the lounge as it did look a bit 'manky'. The pillows and duvet we were provided with were coated in DNA from all previous users. The towels and other bedding was nice and clean. The bedroom did seem to get quite damp each night. WARNING - The hot water in the bath room is SCOLDING - do not leave youngsters alone in there.
The facilities were very good for kids: abseiling, crazy golf, go-karts, quads for the older kids and shows with Barney and Postman Pat for the younger ones. There is a chip shop on site which sells good chips (if you don't mind waiting) and a good range of other take away food. The Queen Vic restaurant menu is very good and again we found the quality of food very good. The londis on site sells over priced groceries so best to take as much as you can with you.
The amusement arcade is open for most of the day. Don't bother with the 'grabber machines' as I didn't see anyone win on them all week; surely there should be some legislation they have to follow. Our little'un preferred the amusements opposite the Pontins entrance and he went away with a Homer and Lisa Simpson from the 'grabber machine'.
We didn't leave the site very much, but we did visit the animal farm which is in the next town (Berrow) and had a great time.
On our final day, we went across the restaurant opposite, on the second floor, and had a great meal.
Due to the accommodation we came home the day before we were supposed to. We won't be visiting again but our 2 year old had a great time with Barney, Postman Pat and Chuckles so I give it 5 out of 10.
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:SUN £9.50 Holiday
" Pontins of Brean is a misnomer it... "
Submitted By: Mrs J Bartlett
Pontins of Brean is a misnomer it should be called PONGtins. The accommodation was appalling. The mattresses and pillows were mouldy and dirty also very smelly.
The carpet was smelling of vomit and other indescribable substances. The kitchen area was superficially clean but my sympathy goes out to the cleaners who are having to work with inferior accommodation and poor quality bedding. The general atmosphere was shabby cheap and dirty.
There is a lovely swimming pool but the water was so cold the parents would not allow the children to stay in for long. The only redeeming feature of the place is the staff. They were very helpful and cheerful working in such poor conditions.
I am surprised ABTA lends its name to such a poor quality establishment. We are one couple who definitely will not be staying at Pontins again.
The carpet was smelling of vomit and other indescribable substances. The kitchen area was superficially clean but my sympathy goes out to the cleaners who are having to work with inferior accommodation and poor quality bedding. The general atmosphere was shabby cheap and dirty.
There is a lovely swimming pool but the water was so cold the parents would not allow the children to stay in for long. The only redeeming feature of the place is the staff. They were very helpful and cheerful working in such poor conditions.
I am surprised ABTA lends its name to such a poor quality establishment. We are one couple who definitely will not be staying at Pontins again.
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:self booking
" We went to Pontins Brean Sands in the... "
Submitted By: Mrs A Bridges
We went to Pontins Brean Sands in the school summer holidays with our 2 boys aged
11 and 15. We booked a top of the range club chalet. It was very clean and well
looked after. The only problem was the bed settee which was very uncomfortable and
saggy, perhaps Pontins should buy some new ones.
We chose Brean Sands because our 15 year old wanted to visit Brean Leisure Park, just a short stroll along the road. It’s well worth a visit. Our boys loved the activities run by PGL like climbing, zip wire and archery. They also loved the karting. We went to other local attractions as well.
The reception has a range of leaflets to help you choose. We last went to Brean Sands 10 years ago and I don't remember the arcade being in the reception area. It should have a room all to itself as you have to pass through it to get to the fun factory.
We went to the fun factory every night, although if you want to get a decent seat especially in the no smoking area you have to arrive early. The bluecoat shows were
much better than the brought in cabarets ( we had jugglers 2 nights in a row).
I would recommend Brean Sands as there is plenty to do on site and off. But go for
the top of the range chalet if you can.
11 and 15. We booked a top of the range club chalet. It was very clean and well
looked after. The only problem was the bed settee which was very uncomfortable and
saggy, perhaps Pontins should buy some new ones.
We chose Brean Sands because our 15 year old wanted to visit Brean Leisure Park, just a short stroll along the road. It’s well worth a visit. Our boys loved the activities run by PGL like climbing, zip wire and archery. They also loved the karting. We went to other local attractions as well.
The reception has a range of leaflets to help you choose. We last went to Brean Sands 10 years ago and I don't remember the arcade being in the reception area. It should have a room all to itself as you have to pass through it to get to the fun factory.
We went to the fun factory every night, although if you want to get a decent seat especially in the no smoking area you have to arrive early. The bluecoat shows were
much better than the brought in cabarets ( we had jugglers 2 nights in a row).
I would recommend Brean Sands as there is plenty to do on site and off. But go for
the top of the range chalet if you can.
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:Pontins
" Pontins brean sands is fantastic. I'm... "
Submitted By: Miss K Parker
Pontins brean sands is fantastic. I'm sorry but those people that write bad reviews really can't be going to the same holiday centre that I go to. I have gone every year (usually twice) since I was 3 (I’m 18 now) and have never been given one reason to not want to go back.
The chalets are always fine. Ok so they aren’t massive but you haven't booked the penthouse suite at the Marriot have you? Any problems that I have encountered with the chalet (such as the oven door sticking on this holiday) are easily sorted by a quick trip to reception were they will send someone over to fix said problem ASAP.
Don't spend too long in the chalet though because Brean offers so much to do. The activities offered by the leisure zone and plg are fantastic as are the staff that run them. They are pretty much 99% free during school holidays so there’s loads to keep kids happy all day. There are also activities for younger ones in croc's adventure land as well as the fun factory.
If you aren’t going with kids don't fear (no-one in our party was under 15) then don’t worry. The queen vic pub offers pub quizzes, games and competitions all through-out the day so you have plenty to do.
Evening entertainment at Brean is always good. Some shows may have you yawning but for the most part everything is fun and a good laugh. There are two main evening venues-the Fun Factory (gets v.busy, get there early if there’s a show you really want to see) and Lunars. The Queen Vic also offers more adult entertainment-this summer they had a Bavarian night which was fantastic. The Bluecoat shows are always top quality and shouldn't be missed.
The staff at Brean are fantastic. From the Bluecoats who really make the place and are so often underestimated or treated as babysitters to all the other staff leisure zone workers-life guards everyone-they all take them time to get to know people and ensure they have a great time.
Food on site is generally nice but there can be large queues which can be annoying. I personally tend to cook back at the chalet but if the idea of cooking on holiday doesn't appeal there are plenty of places to eat on site and a great selection of pubs other places to eat in the local area
If you need to get off-site for a while Brean and the local area offers loads to do. There’s a fun-park down the road which is good for an afternoon but could work out expensive if you have a large family. The best thing to do here is find out which rides you want to go on first-Each ride costs a certain amount of tokens. You just buy the amount of tokens you need which avoids over spending. Weston-super-mare and Burnham-on-sea are also easy to get to by bus or car and are great for a day out
I could actually go on forever about how good Pontin's brean sands is but I won't. All I can say is please don't be put off by poor reviews. Your holiday is always going to be what you make it but Pontin's is by far one of the best bases for a totally fantastic family holiday! I really would give it 100+ out of 10!!
The chalets are always fine. Ok so they aren’t massive but you haven't booked the penthouse suite at the Marriot have you? Any problems that I have encountered with the chalet (such as the oven door sticking on this holiday) are easily sorted by a quick trip to reception were they will send someone over to fix said problem ASAP.
Don't spend too long in the chalet though because Brean offers so much to do. The activities offered by the leisure zone and plg are fantastic as are the staff that run them. They are pretty much 99% free during school holidays so there’s loads to keep kids happy all day. There are also activities for younger ones in croc's adventure land as well as the fun factory.
If you aren’t going with kids don't fear (no-one in our party was under 15) then don’t worry. The queen vic pub offers pub quizzes, games and competitions all through-out the day so you have plenty to do.
Evening entertainment at Brean is always good. Some shows may have you yawning but for the most part everything is fun and a good laugh. There are two main evening venues-the Fun Factory (gets v.busy, get there early if there’s a show you really want to see) and Lunars. The Queen Vic also offers more adult entertainment-this summer they had a Bavarian night which was fantastic. The Bluecoat shows are always top quality and shouldn't be missed.
The staff at Brean are fantastic. From the Bluecoats who really make the place and are so often underestimated or treated as babysitters to all the other staff leisure zone workers-life guards everyone-they all take them time to get to know people and ensure they have a great time.
Food on site is generally nice but there can be large queues which can be annoying. I personally tend to cook back at the chalet but if the idea of cooking on holiday doesn't appeal there are plenty of places to eat on site and a great selection of pubs other places to eat in the local area
If you need to get off-site for a while Brean and the local area offers loads to do. There’s a fun-park down the road which is good for an afternoon but could work out expensive if you have a large family. The best thing to do here is find out which rides you want to go on first-Each ride costs a certain amount of tokens. You just buy the amount of tokens you need which avoids over spending. Weston-super-mare and Burnham-on-sea are also easy to get to by bus or car and are great for a day out
I could actually go on forever about how good Pontin's brean sands is but I won't. All I can say is please don't be put off by poor reviews. Your holiday is always going to be what you make it but Pontin's is by far one of the best bases for a totally fantastic family holiday! I really would give it 100+ out of 10!!
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:Self Catering
- Tour Operator:First Choice
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I was pleased, until my father reported that a friend of his left within an hour of being there due to the standards.
I immediately upgraded to a club apartment which cost another £50 approx. I went trying to be open minded about the whole Pontins experience.
My son is 3 and therefore I would not stay in a damp or dirty apartment, but when I arrived I checked in with no problems and settled in to the spacious apartment.
It has three bedrooms, one double, one twin and a room with a bunk bed. It was a little tatty in places (a couple of stains on the floor etc.) and had a whole mix of furniture with nothing matching, but overall clean and not at all damp.
For children the adventure playground and facilities were exceptionally good and well supervised, with things going on all day. Much better than other sites I have visited. My son thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and was sad to be going home.
The shop and bar was reasonably priced but I personally didn’t think much of the food in the restaurant, however lots of eateries nearby.
I really enjoyed my stay at Brean Sands and hope to return again in the summer.