Arriving at a holiday park instantly transports me to childhood—the excitement, the distant sea air, and the jingle of keys at check-in set the perfect tone. For our three-night getaway in Brean, we stayed in a Platinum Exclusive caravan at Sandy Glade Holiday Park, part of John Fowler Holidays. From the moment we stepped inside, it was clear we’d chosen well.
Our family of four—my partner, our two boys aged one and three, and myself—knows that holidays with toddlers aren’t always restful; they’re more a change of scenery where we still chase little ones nonstop. Yet, in our spacious, modern 12-foot-wide caravan, space to breathe was a rare treat. The kids roamed freely, playing with toy cars and retreating to bed with chocolate-smudged smiles, while we enjoyed a comfy sofa, a large TV (perfect for CBeebies marathons), and a front deck with patio furniture—the latter a sanctuary where toddlers could burn off energy while we sipped tea and planned ahead.
We pre-ordered a breakfast pack stocking essentials like milk, sausages, bread, cereal, and juice. That simple choice saved a first-morning panic and dash to the shop when the toddler demanded Shreddies at 6:30 am.
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Beyond our caravan, Sandy Glade buzzed with family-friendly amenities. David Harper, the general and sales manager, juggled roles from litter picking to sales meetings to bar duty. The site’s entertainment hub stole the spotlight with morning and evening shows, kids’ discos, and live acts. Our boys were captivated by the mini-disco’s infectious energy; parents joined in the chaotic fun of the Baby Shark and Hokey Cokey dances. Charlie Viret, one of the “Stripeys” entertainers, describes their lively and varied performances—from Motown to rock—that keep spirits high and routines fresh regardless of audience age.
Outside, large play areas invited climbing and sliding, followed by hot, generous portions of chips from the on-site café (with relentless ketchup battles among toddlers). The mix of comfort, convenience, and community felt inclusive yet unpretentious, appealing to all budgets and ages alike.
On day two, we ventured to Brean Leisure Park—a beloved Somerset institution just a 20-minute walk away. Its free entry meant no upfront commitment, and purchasing full-day wristbands was a clear winner. Phil Booth, the owner, explained the synergy between the park and local accommodation, creating a complete family package. With over 40 attractions ranging from thrilling coasters to gentle rides for toddlers, our boys adored Fantasia’s colorful vehicles, insisting on endless laps.
Meanwhile, we adults relished nostalgic thrills: dodgems, waltzers, and the Orbiter, though the latter left some pale-faced and laid out for the day. I even lost my hat on the Bulldog Coaster, though it was miraculously recovered. The park’s old-school charm, including the UK’s “best” Ghost Train (Terror Castle), kept everyone entertained. And then there were the doughnuts—hot, sugary, and utterly addictive—the kind you promise to savor but inevitably finish too quickly. Brean Leisure Park delivers a classic, chaotic seaside atmosphere that’s pure family fun.
Day three slowed the pace at Animal Farm Adventure Park, a 23-acre rescue and rehoming center emphasizing interactive experiences. Early morning calm allowed our youngest to observe the serene wallabies up close—unbothered by curious toddlers. Tia Saunders, a passionate staff member, shared that the park uniquely offers hands-on animal handling sessions, embracing its role as a sanctuary for rescued creatures from raccoons to blue-tongued lizards.
The indoor soft play soon transformed calm into joyful chaos, with multi-level slides and nets dragging adults into the fun as much as the kids. Outside, playful goats, llamas, and an ever-comedic dancing raccoon kept spirits high. The park runs on a dedicated 12-person team who manage everything from feeding animals to maintaining play equipment. A single ticket grants access to all attractions and experiences, blending education with entertainment seamlessly.
Our three days combined rollercoaster thrills, disco dancing, animal encounters, and endless laughter—a warm-hearted, unpolished slice of classic British seaside life. Brean’s charm lies in its genuine community spirit, where everyone from managers to entertainers shares a passion for creating joyful escapes.
For our young family, it was the perfect mix of space to roam, distractions for children, and moments of quiet togetherness. We left with sticky fingers, tired legs, and memories sure to be retold on many rainy days to come.
Would we return? Absolutely. Though next time, I’ll bring a spare hat.