Croft Farm was bought by the Newell family back in the 1960’s and was an intensive vegetable holding growing a range of summer and winter crops. In the 1970’s a minerals company got planning permission to extract sand and gravel, eventually leaving the site in the mid 1990’s. Part of the restoration programme was to leave a lake that might possibly be used for recreation. Alan Newell completed a 5 day windsurf instructor course and bought half a dozen windsurfing boards. Further investment was made in a couple of small portable buildings, a camping stove to make cups of tea for the customers and Croft Farm Water Park was in business!
Since the early days the business has developed with improvements made most years.
A small toilet and shower block was built and then a larger investment in the gym building. After that came the log cabin club house and more recently the new and much improved water sports centre. Tom used to be employed as the water sports manager but now runs the business as his own. From the original one person as an instructor there can be as many as 30 employed and over 200 children receiving instruction at the same time. During term time we have numerous primary schools visiting for an activity holiday where we provide the activities, accommodation and all catering.
Luxury Lodge Village
The latest development is the luxury lodge holiday village.
The first lodges were sited in June 2017 and it was decided to partner with Hoseasons to market the lodges for rent. This has been a great success even throughout the quieter winter months. Most of the bases are now occupied with more lodges arriving this year. Eventually the village will have 30 lodges in total with a mix of privately owned and rental units.
Martin and his wife Alex manage the business now that Alan has retired.
VisitEngland 4 star site and David Bellamy Gold Award.
They are keen to take the business forward and enjoy meeting all the visitors and guests that now visit Croft Farm. With the enthusiasm of our park wardens, Becky & Andy, Keith & Carol, not only have we been recognised as a 4 star site by VisitEngland but we have received the David Bellamy Gold Award for conservation and the environment.
The whole team is committed to ensuring you enjoy your stay at Croft Farm.
Winner of Channel 4’s ‘Four In The Bed’.
Two previous employees, Michelle and Jason, were featured on Channel 4’s ‘Four In The Bed’ and went on to win the show. The episode that focuses on Croft Farm can be seen on this link.
