Fourth Generation Joins County Durham Family Holiday Park
A family-run holiday park in County Durham – with its roots in a farm established nearly a century ago – is celebrating the arrival of the next generation. Ninety years on, fourth generation Harvey, joins the County Durham Family Holiday Park. Harvey Barkes (26) has joined his parents in helping manage Thorpe Farm Centre Holiday Park, located near Barnard Castle, bringing fresh energy to a business with deep local heritage.
A family story spanning four generations
The County Durham holiday park is part of a wider visitor destination that includes a farm shop, garden centre, café-restaurant and retail outlets offering locally produced food, gifts and homeware.
Originally purchased in 1936 by Harvey’s great-grandfather Percy Barkes, Thorpe Farm has been a working farm for over 90 years. The family business passed through the generations, with Harvey’s parents Paul and Jo Barkes taking over in 1983 and later diversifying from traditional livestock into rural tourism and local produce retail.
From farm to top County Durham family holiday park
In 2006, the family began offering pitches for touring caravans and tents to guests visiting the surrounding County Durham and North Yorkshire countryside. The tranquil, picture-postcard setting quickly attracted repeat visitors, leading Paul and Jo to expand the site into a fully-fledged holiday park with year-round appeal.
Today, Thorpe Farm Centre Holiday Park has a 12-month operating licence and offers:
- Holiday caravans and lodges for ownership
- Touring caravan and motorhome pitches
- Tent camping
- Access to a full on-site visitor centre with retail, café and family-friendly attractions
Next generation joins with a focus on growth and quality
After completing a degree in International Business Management and a year-long placement with a national food producer, Harvey has returned to take an active role in the future of the park and the wider visitor centre.
“There is absolutely no doubt that Thorpe Farm Centre has a very exciting future ahead of it, and I’m delighted to be able to help steer its development,” said Harvey.
“I’m committed to taking forward my father’s ambitious growth plans for the business, and to ensure that we continue putting the emphasis on maintaining the highest quality standards.”
He added:
“We have a large and loyal customer base, and aim to ensure that everyone enjoys the best possible experience every time they visit.”
About Thorpe Farm Centre Holiday Park
Thorpe Farm Centre is a family-owned holiday park in County Durham offering a peaceful rural escape with modern facilities, countryside access, and a unique blend of farming heritage and tourism.
Located just off the A66 near Barnard Castle, the park is a popular destination for families, walkers, cyclists and visitors looking to explore County Durham, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North Pennines AONB.
For more information about the holiday park and visitor centre, visit www.thorpefarm.co.uk.
Thorpe Farm Centre Holiday Park FAQs
What is Thorpe Farm Centre Holiday Park?
Thorpe Farm is a family-run holiday park in County Durham with holiday caravans, lodges, touring pitches, and an on-site visitor centre with retail and food experiences.
Where is Thorpe Farm Centre located?
It is located near Barnard Castle in County Durham, close to the Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Who owns Thorpe Farm Centre?
Thorpe Farm Centre is owned and operated by the Barkes family, now in its fourth generation of ownership.
What facilities are available at Thorpe Farm?
Visitors can enjoy a farm shop, garden centre, café, independent shops, and a variety of accommodation and touring options.
Can you stay at Thorpe Farm year-round?
Yes, the park operates year-round and has a 12-month holiday licence for lodges and static caravans. See a range of static caravans and lodges for sale at Thorpe Farm here.
