A holiday park on a farm in Devon complete with a private beach is celebrating its 80th year – and its ownership by the same family for all eight decades.
Ladram Bay Holiday Park in Otterton, Budleigh Salterton, which started as a small campsite in 1943, is now a five star holiday destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. Some present-day guests are the children and grandchildren of those who stayed at Ladram Bay Holiday Park in the early days.
It all started back in June 1943 when a group of Scouts who were walking the coastal path approached the tenant farmer, Frank Carter, to ask if they could pitch their tent on his field. This inspired him and his wife Margaret to set up a campsite, which grew to include static caravans and a shop.
The spectacular views of the bay and access to the farm's private beach soon won an enthusiastic following, which quickly grew as word got around.
Mr Carter continued leading the business until 2006 when his son Robin and daughter Zoe took over. It is now run by Zoe House, Robin Carter, and Rowan Carter, who are planning a big party on June 9 this year to mark the official 80th anniversary.
There will also be other themed events throughout the year, and a competition to find the earliest memory of the park. In addition, every guest aged 80 or over who pre-books their holiday in 2023 will be offered a cream tea.
Zoe said: "Our parents were always keen that Ladram Bay should be remembered by guests not just for its wonderful setting, but also its friendly and welcoming character.
"With the help of our superb park team, I believe we are continuing to achieve that aim – and many of our guest reviews mention how incredibly well they felt looked after by our team.
"What's really satisfying for us is being able to welcome back second and third generations of the same families who started staying with as youngsters many years ago.
"Now they want the same experience for their children, and it's amazing to know that we are creating happy experiences that span literally decades.”
Ladram Bay Holiday Park has won a top five-star grade for excellence from Visit England, and past accolades from the Devon Tourism Awards, South West Tourism Awards and Tripadvisor.
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