New beach custodians as holiday firm completes landmark park deal

ONE of the UK’s most famous coastal holiday parks has changed hands in a major deal that sees Ruda Holiday Park in Croyde, North Devon, taken over by John Fowler Holidays.

- by LEWIS CLARKE

The multimillion-pound acquisition sees the family-run business, based in Barnstaple, assume control of the 300-acre Ruda site from Parkdean Resorts. The park includes 817 pitches for static lodges and caravans, touring, tenting and glamping, and boasts a new Cascades tropical pool and flume, multiple bars, catering outlets and a supermarket.

The transaction was completed ahead of the summer season, with both staff and guests assured of a smooth transition.

Martyn Fowler, managing director at John Fowler Holidays, said: “This is a landmark day for our business. To acquire one of the most iconic holiday parks in the country is a real achievement. Holidays are all about location, and it doesn’t get much better than this.