A caravan and camping site near Bath has been given a new lease of life as a luxury lodge destination.

Bath Mill Lodge Retreat, three miles from Bath, is opening in August following a ten-month redevelopment, reportedly costing £4.5 million, by owners, Darwin Escapes, which has 14 sites across the UK including in Cornwall, Devon, the Lake District and the Isle of Wight. It was previously known as Newton Mill Holiday Park, described by Darwin as a “tenting and touring” site.

The new development has more than 60 lodges, ranging in size from one to four bedrooms, a gastropub restaurant and bar and gym. Darwin Escapes said: “We aim to offer the perfect alternative to traditional city breaks and overnight stays in Bath.”

A supporting statement submitted with the company’s planning application for the scheme highlighted a key reason for the redevelopment as “more UK residents choosing to spend holiday and leisure time in the UK. This has led to an increased demand and wider customer base for caravan parks, with a particular shift from touring caravans to lodge accommodation.”

Caravan and holiday parks looking at new ways to develop their businesses, tap into new markets – including the trend towards UK-based holidays – and sharpen their competitive edge may find it helpful to seek expert advice.

Milsted Langdon is experienced in working with businesses in the sector and can assist with strategic planning and support to put new initiatives designed to move businesses forward, including advice on raising finance and preparation of funding proposals. For more information, please contact us.