Nestled in the idyllic countryside near Bude, Cornwall, Wooda Farm Holiday Park stands as a testament to tradition, family values, and a deep commitment to the environment. Established in 1975 and owned by the Colwill family for generations, Wooda cultivates a unique holiday experience that blends a welcoming atmosphere with luxurious amenities and a dedication to sustainability.

I sat down with Charlotte Veale, the latest member of the Colwills to undertake the running of Wooda for a chat about what makes this superb holiday park one of the hidden gems of Cornwall. 

The story of Wooda Farm stretches all the way back to 1928 when Bessie and Jim Colwill first acquired the land. Their son, Ken, and his wife Elizabeth later expanded the farm’s offerings and introduced a bed-and-breakfast service. In 1975, Ken’s foresight led to the creation of a small caravan site, a move that laid the foundation for what would later become a thriving holiday park.

Today, Ken’s granddaughter, Charlotte, proudly carries the torch alongside her parents, Graeme and Kerry. And the family’s dedication to upholding the same traditional values is still clearly evident in their approach to business. “We want our guests to share our home, discover what we love about the site, and become part of the Wooda family,” shares Charlotte. A philosophy that fosters a sense of community and warmth, attracting guests who return year after year and generation after generation.

“We are very proud of our family heritage and that we have grown the business into what it is today. Wooda is unique in being one of the few independently owned holiday parks left – so many of the parks are being acquired by bigger corporate companies and customers miss out on that personal touch and the feeling of belonging”.

“We are family run, for families, and could not be further away from corporate if we tried!”

Charlotte Veale

And it is truly a family affair! Alongside her parent’s involvement, Charlotte expounded to me about the extent of the Colwill’s involvement today, “My dad has two sisters, Helen Larwood, who runs the Courtyard Bar, Lodge Takeaway, Loft Cocktail Bar and Coffee House, and Sue Read, who has an art studio on site. All three of them were born in the Wooda farmhouse, and I myself now live on site with my husband and three little girls”.

One thing that is clear to see and is a change from the traditional values, is Wooda’s modern approach to sustainability and this really shines through in its latest development, Gwelva Hills. These exquisite lodges were meticulously designed with minimal environmental impact in mind. Constructed with locally sourced materials like cedar cladding and featuring living roofs, Gwelva Hills showcases a seamless integration of sustainability with the surrounding landscape.

Beyond aesthetics, the lodges boast impressive energy efficiency. Utilizing air-source heat pumps powered by solar panels, alongside passive heat recovery systems, Gwelva Hills adheres to stringent energy standards. “We are incredibly lucky to have amazing views from Wooda, and we feel a need to look after the environment in which our customers enjoy their holidays,” affirms Charlotte. “With living roofs and cedar cladding, it fits into the environment here, but in a modern way. Each also has an air-source heat pump powered by a ground-mounted solar panel system, as well as a passive heal recovery system. This means that their U values come very close to Passivhaus specification, which not only offers environmental benefits, but also has positive financial benefits, reducing our reliance on increasingly expensive and environmentally damaging fossil fuels”.

This dedication also extends beyond Gwelva Hills. Electric car charging points and a newly installed solar panel system demonstrate Wooda’s ongoing commitment to fostering a sustainable future.

At Wooda Farm Holiday Park, there’s something for every guest. The former milk parlour has been transformed into a charming bar and restaurant, offering delectable cuisine and a charming atmosphere. A coffee lounge, a cocktail bar, and a plethora of sports facilities provide ample opportunities for entertainment and luxurious leisure time. For those seeking respite, the Wellness Barn offers a haven of tranquillity with a range of pampering treatments, including massages, beauty therapies, and yoga sessions.

Families can revel in the abundance of activities designed for youngsters. Free-roaming exploration through the woodlands, encounters with friendly farm animals, and exhilarating tractor rides create lasting memories. Additionally, a wide variety of creative activities and sports options ensure a fun-filled break for children of all ages.

Beyond the grounds of Wooda Farm lies the breathtaking North Cornish coastline, easily accessible for those seeking coastal walks, adrenaline-fuelled ocean adventures and explorations of some of the most charming seaside towns in the country. The Colwills could not have found a much better place in the UK to host holidaymakers. North Cornwall truly has to be seen to be believed. 

Wooda Farm Holiday Park embodies a unique fusion of traditional family values with a modern approach to sustainability. It’s a testament to the power of a family-run business that prioritises both exceptional hospitality and environmental responsibility.

“Wooda will take a piece of your heart”.

Charlotte Eloquantly States

It’s a place where time slows down, friendships blossom, and memories are etched into the heart and mind. For those seeking an authentic Cornish escape away from the normality of large-scale holiday parks, where luxury harmonises with nature, Wooda Farm Holiday Park extends a warm and inviting embrace.

From exploring the unspoiled beauty of the Cornish countryside to indulging in luxurious comforts, Wooda Farm Holiday Park offers a comprehensive experience unlike any other. Here, amidst a symphony of birds and rustling leaves, stunning vistas and unparalleled hospitality, one can truly reconnect with nature, discover the heart of the family, and create treasured memories that will last a lifetime.