Holiday park company ‘on its last legs’ named worst in the UK

11 Sep 2026 • 9:23 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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Holiday park company ‘on its last legs’ named worst in the UK

A holiday park that “appears to be on its last legs” has been named the worst in the UK, according to a new Which? survey.

Pontins, a holiday park company with a site in Sand Bay, Somerset, received a customer score of 61 per cent in the ranking of the best UK holiday parks and resorts.

The consumer champion surveyed 2,221 people in February and March 2026 across categories including facilities, value for money and customer service.

Which? said: “Pontins appears to be on its last legs. You’re likely to have a better time anywhere else.”

The company, which used to operate 30 sites, was saved from collapse 15 years ago by Britannia Hotels.

Its only operational park, the adult-only Sand Bay Holiday Village near Weston-super-Mare, features a heated swimming pool, dance sessions and themed quizzes but scored just two stars in all categories, including cleanliness, food and drink.

A spokesperson for Britannia Hotels Group said: “We are naturally disappointed by this ranking and take all guest feedback seriously as it plays an important role in helping us improve the experience we offer. While the report refers to 'Pontins', no Pontins holiday parks are currently open to guests. Our only holiday park currently open to the public is Sand Bay Holiday Village which is an adult-only destination.

“We recognise that some areas of the park’s accommodation reflects the site's heritage and we are already investing in a programme of improvements to upgrade the accommodation and enhance the overall guest offering. We remain committed to providing great value, warm hospitality and enjoyable breaks for our guests.”

At the other end of the scale, Potters Resorts ranked first with an 83 per cent score for its “attentive service and first-class facilities”.

The holiday park in Essex and Norfolk opened its doors in the 1920s with all-inclusive food and drink and entertainment from birdwatching to go-karting.

Hoburne Holidays also ranked well with an 81 per cent score for its relaxing retreats” in “idyllic settings”.

Center Parcs, the most-visited park according to the survey, scored 69 per cent, while Haven Holidays (68 per cent) ranked as the cheapest holiday park in the UK.

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