Ulwell Holiday Park Named Finalist in Dorset Tourism Awards 2026
Staff and family owners at Ulwell Holiday Park in Swanage are celebrating after reaching the finals of the prestigious Dorset Tourism Awards 2026. The park has been shortlisted in the Holiday Park of the Year category, marking a significant achievement for the family-run business.
First Dorset Tourism Awards Entry Brings Finalist Recognition
The achievement is particularly special as this is the first time Ulwell Holiday Park has entered the competition in its 80-year history.
The team will now be keeping their fingers crossed until the overall category winner is announced at an awards ceremony in Bournemouth on 22nd October.
If successful, Ulwell Holiday Park will then be fast-tracked into the national finals of the VisitEngland 2027 Excellence Awards, widely recognised as the “Oscars” of the tourism industry.
A proud Moment for Ulwell Holiday Park’s Family Owners
The park has been owned by the Orchard and Scadden families for over eight decades, and Managing Director Kevin Orchard said the news was a proud moment for everyone involved.
“To reach the finals on our first entry means a great deal to us, and we are delighted to see the team’s hard work recognised,” he said.
“We have put a great deal of care into improving Ulwell, but a memorable holiday is about more than facilities. It is also about the welcome guests receive and the people who help make their stay special.
“This recognition belongs to the whole team whose care and commitment make that possible. We are also grateful to our guests for their continued support and for taking the time to share their experiences.”
Continued Investment in the Swanage Holiday Park
The shortlisting follows a programme of improvements across Ulwell Holiday Park, including a new reception building and SPAR shop, The Pantry café and enhancements to The Village Inn and its beer garden.
“These developments sit alongside continued investment in the park’s existing facilities,” added Kevin.
The improvements reflect the family’s ongoing commitment to developing the park while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere and guest experience that have helped shape its success.
Discover Ulwell Holiday Park in Swanage
Set beneath the Purbeck Hills, Ulwell Holiday Park offers pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents, alongside glamping pods and luxury holiday homes to rent and own.
Find out more about the park and its accommodation at https://www.ulwellholidaypark.co.uk/
Highlights
- Ulwell Holiday Park has reached the Dorset Tourism Awards finals for the first time.
- The recognition follows a programme of investment and improvements across the park.
- Recent developments include a new reception building, SPAR shop and The Pantry café.
- The Village Inn and its beer garden have also benefited from improvements.
- The award recognises the efforts of the park’s team and its commitment to the guest experience.
FAQs
Is Ulwell Holiday Park a finalist in the Dorset Tourism Awards 2026?
Yes. Ulwell Holiday Park has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Holiday Park of the Year category at the Dorset Tourism Awards 2026.
Has Ulwell Holiday Park entered the Dorset Tourism Awards before?
No. This is the first time Ulwell Holiday Park has entered the competition in its 80-year history.
When will the Dorset Tourism Awards 2026 winners be announced?
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Bournemouth on 22nd October 2026.
What improvements have been made at Ulwell Holiday Park?
Recent improvements include a new reception building and SPAR shop, The Pantry café and enhancements to The Village Inn and its beer garden.
Where is Ulwell Holiday Park?
Ulwell Holiday Park is located in Swanage, Dorset, beneath the Purbeck Hills.
What accommodation is available at Ulwell Holiday Park?
The park offers pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents, as well as glamping pods and luxury holiday homes available to rent and own.