The anticipation of planning a family holiday by the coast is exciting. At Waterside, we’ve made sure every detail is designed to give you the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure and unforgettable memories. From stunning coastal locations in Cornwall and Dorset to the top-notch amenities at our parks, we guarantee you’ll have the trip of a lifetime. Here’s a guide to planning the ultimate family getaway at Waterside.

1. Choose the Perfect Location: Cornwall or Dorset?

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged charm of Cornwall or the breathtaking Jurassic Coast of Dorset, Waterside has four unique parks to choose from. Bowleaze Cove and Chesil Beach offer the quintessential Dorset holiday experience with easy beach access, water sports and historical landmarks nearby. Osmington Mills offers a secluded, luxurious experience, blending coastal beauty with woodland surroundings. If the allure of Cornwall beckons, Tregoad Holiday Park provides panoramic coastal views and a more relaxed pace, perfect for quality family time.

• Bowleaze Cove: Perfect for families, this park offers easy beach access, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, plenty of activities for all the family, on-park food and drink outlets and close proximity to Weymouth’s family-friendly attractions.
• Chesil Beach: This park provides access to the natural beauty of Chesil Beach and the Isle of Portland, ideal for watersports, hikers and nature-loving families. 
• Osmington Mills: For those looking for a peaceful, luxurious experience, Osmington Mills is a hidden gem with lodges nestled within woodland, offering a serene retreat along Dorset’s coast.
• Tregoad: Nestled in the countryside with views over Cornwall’s coast, Tregoad has dog-friendly amenities and tranquil settings, perfect for relaxation.

 

2. Secure Your Accommodation Early

At Waterside, we offer a variety of accommodation types to cater to everyone’s style and budget. From cosy Classics to spacious Luxury Lodges, our accommodations provide all the essentials you’ll need for a relaxing stay. If you’re bringing the family dog, check out our dog friendly options, which include a welcoming Manor House, perfect for a memorable stay. Many of our accommodations also offer the options of having a decking, some even with a hot tub!

Accommodation Types:

• Classic, Superior and Deluxe: Comfortable and practical, these caravans are ideal for families looking for a classic holiday experience with all the essentials.

• Signature and Luxury Lodges: These upgraded options offer more space and higher-end finishes for families seeking extra style and comfort.

• Cottages: Perfect for large family groups wanting a home-away-from-home feel with plenty of space and all the amenities.

• Manor House at Tregoad: A large, welcoming manor house ideal for big families or groups and recently refurbished so you can holiday in luxury.

• Apartments at Chesil: Great for small families who prefer a simpler, stripped back base from which to explore.

• Safari Lodges at Bowleaze: For an adventurous twist, these glamping-style lodges offer a unique experience with a touch of luxury.

 

3. Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities

There’s never a dull moment and always something to do with our variety of family-friendly activities. From adrenaline-pumping water sports to leisurely walks, there’s something for every interest. 

• Watersports: Dive into exciting options like aqua zorbing, aqua jets, sea scooters, and swimming lessons. 

• Outdoor Adventures: Join our forest ranger-led nature walks, forestry sessions or explore the outdoors with bat walks.

• Sports & Games: Try out football, archery, disc golf, and even segways for a fun family challenge.

• Southside Studio Crafts: From painting to DIY projects, kids can unleash their creativity 

• Live Entertainment: With a full schedule of live entertainment including our very own Southside Crew, local & nationwide live acts, bingo, kids clubs and more, there’s plenty to keep everyone engaged. 

 

4. On-Park Dining

Save yourself the hassle of planning meals by exploring our onsite dining options, which range from casual bites to a delicious sit-down meal at one of our bar & grills. Each restaurant offers family-friendly menus and is dog friendly!

Bowleaze Cove

• Southside Bar and Grill: Enjoy family-friendly meals with diverse menu options. 

• The Shack: A relaxed, outdoor, beach style bar for refreshing drinks and snacks.

• The Doghouse: Perfect for a quick bite to eat with options like chips, gyros and hot dogs.

• The Frostbite: Treat yourself to ice creams, crepes, waffles and more!

Chesil Beach

• Breeze Bar and Grill: A go-to for a casual evening meal, with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients.

Osmington Mills

• The Country Club: Offering a refined, classy pub-style experience with a weekly rotating menu, ideal for a more sophisticated meal.

Tregoad

• Stargazy Bar and Grill: A staple whilst on your trip to Tregoad with a wide variety of options for children and adults alike. Set in a classy setting with indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for those memorable evenings round the fire.

 

5. Nearby Attractions

Waterside’s parks are ideally located for exploring some of the best attractions Dorset and Cornwall have to offer. In Dorset, explore the iconic Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, or the bustling seaside town of Weymouth. In Cornwall, enjoy the Eden Project, take a trip to the historic Tintagel Castle, or discover the hidden beaches along the coast. 

Top Nearby Attractions:

• Dorset: Monkey World, SEA LIFE Centre, Jurassic Coastline walks

• Cornwall: Eden Project, Bodmin Jail, picturesque seaside towns like Polperro

 

6. Exclusive Events

Each season brings exciting new events across our parks. From live music and family quiz nights to dog shows at Tregoad, keep an eye on our app to make sure you’re booking at the best time to experience all the best events that add that little bit of extra magic to your family holiday. 

Start Planning Your 2025 Family Adventure Today

With four beautiful parks, a wealth of activities and the chance to create lasting memories, Waterside is the ultimate family holiday destination for 2025. Book early, plan for your favourite activities and get ready for a memorable coastal escape. 

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