There’s something magical about arriving at a holiday park that whisks me straight back to childhood—a swirl of excitement, the distant scent of the sea, and the jangling hopefulness of checking in. For our three-night stay in Brean, we chose a Platinum Exclusive caravan at Sandy Glade Holiday Park, part of the John Fowler Holidays group. From the moment we walked in, we knew this was going to be special.
Our family of four—me, my partner, and our two energetic boys aged one and three—knows all too well that holidays with toddlers are less about rest and more about controlled chaos. Yet our spacious, modern caravan, over 12 feet wide, gave us the rare luxury of room to breathe. The boys tumbled freely, played with toy cars, and drifted to sleep with chocolate-smeared cheeks, while we enjoyed a plush sofa, a large TV for much-needed downtime, and a deck with patio furniture—a perfect spot for the kids to release energy while we sipped tea and planned the day.
Pre-ordering a breakfast pack proved a stroke of genius. With milk, sausages, cereal, juice, and bread waiting, we escaped the 6.30am grocery dash and superhero toddler demands. Beyond just a place to stay, Sandy Glade buzzes with family-friendly amenities. David Harper, the energetic general and sales manager, embodies the park’s all-encompassing spirit, shifting seamlessly between picking litter, sales, and mingling at the bar or shop.
READ MORE: New Wetherspoons Set to Open in Historic Bath Building Following Planning Approval
READ MORE: Somerset’s Prior Park Garden Centre: A Farm Shop and Café Brimming with Local Delights
The entertainment venue is the heart of the park, offering morning and evening shows, kids’ discos, and live acts that energized our boys. The familiar chaos of Baby Shark and the Hokey Cokey had both children and parents dancing with infectious joy. Entertainer Charlie Viret, or one of the “Stripeys,” revealed their secret: a constantly evolving lineup of musical shows blending Motown, 80s hits, rock, and soul, keeping spirits high regardless of audience age or enthusiasm levels.
Outside, two large play areas let the boys climb, slide, and burn off energy until only hot, hearty chips from the café could calm them. As day one closed, the blend of comfort, convenience, and community left us feeling utterly at ease. David’s words rang true: Sandy Glade welcomes all budgets, from value chalets to hot tub lodges, fostering an inclusive, unpretentious, and wonderfully British holiday spirit.
Day Two saw us walking to Brean Leisure Park, a Somerset institution just twenty minutes away. Free to enter, it offers a pay-as-you-go or full-day wristband system—our all-in wristbands were worth every penny. Owner Phil Booth boasts over 40 rides and attractions, blending thrilling coasters with toddler-friendly options. Our boys adored Fantasia’s colourful ride circuit, while the adults laughed over waltzers and dodgems—with memorable family moments like my mum’s terrified grip and my sister’s pale-faced surrender on the Orbiter.
Brean Leisure Park is charmingly old-school, featuring the UK’s “best” Ghost Train, a soaking log flume, and dog-friendly bulldog coaster. Beyond rides, the sugary doughnuts were a highlight—hot, fresh, and dangerously addictive. With plenty left to explore, including go-karts and Congo Adventure Golf, we left sun-kissed, sticky, and filled with laughter, appreciating how perfectly the park captures the loud, chaotic charm of British seaside culture.
Our final day brought a gentler pace at Animal Farm Adventure Park, a 23-acre haven of animals and fresh air. Early morning calm was soon replaced by toddler excitement, from watching laid-back wallabies to exploring indoor soft play—a twisty maze of slides and tunnels where grown-ups join in the fun. Staff member Tia Saunders shared the park’s passion: it’s a unique Somerset spot offering immersive animal handling, rescue stories, and genuine care with just a dozen dedicated staff.
The heartfelt ethos of second chances shone through every interaction—rescue animals like foxes, raccoons, and rare breeds found love here. The boys found unbridled joy petting rabbits, meeting Pudding the alpaca, and watching a performing raccoon dance. With all activities included in one ticket—play areas, mini-golf, and animal talks—Animal Farm Adventure Park proved a heartwarming finale to our trip.
In just three days, we’d experienced rollercoasters and discos, pet wallabies, slid through soft play, devoured doughnuts, and shared laughs with the passionate locals who make Brean a true community. It’s a seaside retreat where the messiest moments and wildest adventures come together in perfect harmony—simple, joyful, and utterly British. For us, Brean was just what the family needed: room to relax, space for the kids to roam, and memories made to last. Will we return? Absolutely—just with an extra hat this time.