FAQs
Here we answer your frequently asked questions (FAQs) about stays at Ulwell Holiday Park in Swanage. If you have any questions that are not covered below, please get in touch and our friendly reception team will be more than happy to help.
General questions
When is Ulwell Holiday Park open?
Ulwell Holiday Park is open 1st March – 7th January each year. Online booking is available 24/7 and our bookings team can be contacted by phone or email year-round.
Does Ulwell Holiday Park offer short breaks?
Yes, short breaks are available in our self-catering accommodation, camping and touring pitches. The minimum stay for all of our accommodation/pitches is 2 nights. During medium and high season longer stays may be required.
We advise calling reception for up-to-date information on the minimum stays required.
Do you accept group bookings?
Group bookings are taken at the discretion of the Ulwell management team. Groups must adhere to safety regulations by staying within their park boundaries and not forming ‘camps’.
Groups must be courteous of other guests with regards to noise etc.
How old do I have to be to book a stay at Ulwell Holiday Park?
You must be 18 years old to book a stay at Ulwell Holiday Park.
Are there laundry facilities available on-site?
We offer the convenience of a on-site laundry facility at Ulwell Holiday Park, including coin-operated washing machines and tumble dryers. Additionally, we provide an iron and ironing board for your use. Whether you’re staying at our holiday park in Swanage in a holiday home, tent, caravan, motorhome or glamping pod, our laundrette is ideal for keeping your clothes fresh during your stay.
Are there many restaurants near Ulwell Holiday Park?
Yes, our holiday park in Swanage is ideally located to access a wide selection of restaurant and cafes in the local area. We highly recommend that you visit our on-site bar and restaurant, The Village Inn, for a delicious home-cooked meal that has been freshly prepared by our talented team of chefs.
Can I arrange a supermarket delivery to Ulwell?
No, we do not permit supermarket food deliveries to your caravan or pitch in line with our health and safety commitments. However, 3rd party food deliveries can be made to the lay-by on Ulwell Road opposite the park.
We have a well-stocked shop on site (open daily Easter – October) where you can find a range of essentials, including quality meat, fish, vegetables, cakes and fresh bread.
Can I order takeaway food to the park?
You are more than welcome to order a takeaway during your stay. When placing your order, please ask for it to be delivered to the lay-by opposite the park (on Ulwell Road) as we do not permit delivery drivers onto the site.
The Ulwell Shop does offer a pizza takeaway, please enquire at the shop while here.
Where can I view the park map?
We have a detailed park map available to download or view online. It shows the position of our holiday homes and touring pitches in relation to the facilities.
How do I contact Ulwell Holiday Park?
There are a number of ways to get in touch with our holiday park in Swanage. The best way is to call reception on 01929 422824 or email enq@ulwellholidaypark.co.uk.
One of our friendly and helpful team will be able to assist you with your enquiry and answer any questions you may have. We kindly ask you to have your holiday information to hand, so we can find your information on the system.
We also have Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts, however we prefer not to discuss bookings on social media
Who do I contact for a maintenance issue?
Please contact reception to report a maintenance issue.
Who do I contact in an emergency?
Please see your pre-arrival email / letter for details of who to contact in the event of an emergency.
Do you allow BBQ’s and bonfires at Ulwell Holiday Park?
BBQ’s are permitted as long as they are kept away from tree’s, hedges, tents and any other flammable materials. They must be kept under close control and not left attended at any time.
You should ensure the BBQ is kept off the grass so that no damages is caused. Ashes must be disposed of in the bins provided once they have got cold.
Please make sure all occupants are familiar with the location of the fire points around the park. BBQ’s are not permitted in the recreation area.
Disposable barbecues are forbidden on the decking of our caravan holiday homes.
Bonfires and Fire Pits are not allowed.
Do you have recycling bins on the park?
We take great pride in the natural environment at Ulwell Holiday Park and endeavour to reduce our impact wherever possible. We have a number of recycling and refuge points around the park for guests to use. Please dispose of your waste before leaving the site.
What is the address of the park?
Ulwell Holiday Park, Ulwell Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 3DG.
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Are there many attractions in Swanage and in the wider Dorset area?
There are a fantastic selection of activities, attractions and natural beauty spots in Swanage and the wider Dorset area. Many are accessible by foot while others are situated just a short and scenic drive from our park.
We recommend taking a look at our blogs, which outline some of our favourite things to do in Dorset. We recommend days out for toddlers, children, teenagers, adults as well as things to do during wet weather.
Which beaches are nearby?
Ulwell Holiday Park is situated in an idyllic location in the Isle of Purbeck. Swanage beach is just a short walk from the park and some of the best beaches along the Jurassic Coast are situated within driving distance.
We recommend visiting Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Kimmeridge Bay, Studland and Worbarrow Bay during your stay. Other beaches to check out include Weymouth Beach, Ringstead Bay, Sandbanks and Bournemouth Beach.
What public transport options are there?
We are on a bus route to Bournemouth and Swanage. There are taxi numbers in reception.
Do you have wifi?
Yes, we have free Wi-Fi on site. Please note our Wi-Fi is for general browsing only and is not suitable for steaming videos or games.
Can I charge an electric car on site?
Yes, we have electric car charging points at Ulwell Holiday Park.
Additionally, there are two Open Charge POD electric charging points in nearby Swanage. These are located at Main Beach car park and Mermond Place car park.
Can I smoke or vape on site?
Smoking is not permitted in any of our self-catering accommodation or indoor facilities. Guests wishing to smoke or vape must do so outside and away from any flammable materials.
Cigarette butts must be disposed of responsibly.
Is there a speed limit on site?
There is 20mph speed limit across the site to ensure the safety of our guests. Quad bikes, trail bikes and powered scooters are not permitted on the park.
Can I bring a motorbike?
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring a motorbike to Ulwell Holiday Park and there is parking available next to your accommodation or pitch.
Please note, only one vehicle is permitted per booking. Additional vehicles may incur a charge and may be required to park in the main car park, next to reception.
Can my children use bikes and scooters around the park?
Careful and considerate cyclists are welcome; however, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades are not permitted outside of the recreational area or when unaccompanied by a responsible adult.
Can we play ball games on site?
There is a large recreational field next to our outdoor adventure park, which offers children and families plenty of room for ball games such as tennis, football, cricket and rounders.
We kindly ask that games are kept within this area, so that other guests are not disturbed.
Is the use of drones permitted?
We do not permit the use of drones anywhere on the park to ensure the safety and privacy of our guests and neighbours.
Is there any entertainment at Ulwell Holiday Park?
No, we don’t have any live entertainment on site.
What is your noise policy?
We respectfully remind guests to be courteous to others during a holiday at Ulwell Holiday Park. You should keep noise at an acceptable level throughout the day, but especially between 11pm and 7am.
Individuals or groups causing a nuisance will not be tolerated and may be asked to leave without recourse.
Can we play ball games?
Ball games are permitted within our recreational field during day light hours. No hard balls or golf practise is allowed.
Where can I give feedback about my holiday?
We appreciate guest feedback and always like to hear about your stay. You can leave us a review on Google, TripAdvisor or Facebook.
If there are any matters you would prefer to discuss in more detail, please phone our reception and they will be able to direct your call to the appropriate member of the Ulwell team.
Can friends visit us during our stay at Ulwell?
Yes, you are more than welcome to have friends to visit. We kindly ask that guests leave their cars in the car park by reception
Do we need travel insurance?
We always recommend guests have valid travel insurance in case of cancellation.
Do you offer bike hire?
No, we don’t offer bike hire. You can hire bikes locally from Swanage Bike Hire and Cyclexperience Bike Hire.
Where is the nearest pharmacy?
The closest pharmacy is Day Lewis Pharmacy, located at 40 Station Road, BH19 1AF.
Where is the nearest vets?
If your dog is in need of veterinary attention during your camping or caravan holiday in Swanage contact Lynwood Veterinary Group. They are situated just 2 minutes’ drive from our park.
Do you have accessible accommodation at Ulwell Holiday Park?
Unfortunately, our caravans are not wheelchair-friendly.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes, we do sell gift vouchers. Please contact reception to purchase.
Self-catering accommodation
What time can I check into a caravan holiday home?
You can check into our caravan holiday homes from 3pm on your arrival day. You will need to check in at reception to collect the keys from our friendly reception team.
If you are planning on arriving after 5pm we kindly ask you to let us know in advance.
What time can I check into the camping pod?
Camping pod check in is 12.00pm.
What time must I check out of the camping pod?
Camping pod check out is 11.00am.
What time must I check out of my rental caravan holiday home?
Caravan holiday home check out is 10.30am.
How many people can your caravan holiday homes accommodate?
The caravan birth is clearly displayed during the online booking process. At the time of booking, you will be asked to provide details of the number of people in your party.
You must not exceed this number at any point during your stay.
Are towels included?
Towels are only included in the Oak Caravan range.
Do I have to pay extra for gas and electric?
No, you do not have to pay extra for gas and electric.
Is bed linen included?
Holiday homes
This depends on which of our self-catering accommodation you hire for your holiday in Swanage. Bed linen is included for reservations in our Oak & Hawthorn Ranges. Beds are made up for you in Oak Caravans. Guests staying in Hawthorn Caravans should make the bed on arrival.
Bed Linen for Birch & Willow Caravans is provided free of charge from 1st – 31st March and 1st November – 20th December (excluding easter and school holidays). The beds will not be made up on arrival. Outside of this time you must bring your own bedding and towels.
Bedding and towels are supplied in the Delta Dens.
Camping pod
We do not supply any bed linen in the camping pod. You will need to bring your own duvets, pillows, duvet covers and pillow cases. (Only the mattresses are supplied)
Are the beds made up on arrival?
Beds are made up with linen on arrival in our Oak Caravans.
Can I hire a high chair and travel cot?
High chairs and travel cots are available to hire during your stay, please enquire for prices. There is a limited number available, so please give us notice if you think you will need them. We recommend contacting us at least 10 days before arrival.
Can I park next to my self-catering accommodation?
Yes, parking for one car is available next to your caravan/pitch or pod.
Can I bring additional cars?
Yes but they may have to be parked by the reception.
Can I choose my accommodation?
We try to accommodate requests for specific pitches/rental units wherever possible, depending on availability.
To enquire about reserving a specific pitch you should call reception for assistance.
Please note we reserve the right to transfer a booking from one unit to another in the same category.
Do you offer early check ins or late check outs?
Sometimes it is possible to accommodate early check ins or late check outs. Please enquire while staying on the park.
What days can you arrive?
Arrival days are Monday, Friday and Saturday for caravan holiday homes, except during the school summer holidays when it is Saturday to Saturday.
For touring caravan, tents and motorhome pitches you can arrive any day of the week, except during the school summer holidays when it is Saturday to Saturday arrivals.
What happens if I arrive late?
Caravan keys can be left in The Village Inn for you or if you along with a map showing where the pitch is. If you already know where the pitch is you can go directly there and we will leave the keys in the property for you.
Touring & Camping
What time can I arrive at my camping or touring pitch?
You can arrive any time after 12 midday. We kindly ask all arrivals to report to reception.
If you arrive after 9pm you are permitted to enter the pitch area, however you must refrain from setting up until 9am the next morning.
What time must I vacate my camping or touring pitch?
During peak season you must vacate your camping or touring pitch by 11am at the latest.
Can I park next to my caravan or tent?
Yes, you can park your car next to your caravan or tent. 1 car per booking is permitted. If you are bringing additional cars you will need to let us know in advance. There will be an additional fee and you may be required to park it in the main car park.
Can I bring an awning or gazebo?
Please enquire with the reception.
Touring caravans are allowed 1 extra per pitch e.g. awning, gazebo etc. These must stay within the boundaries of your pitch area (including guyropes).
No gazebos, tents or trailer tents are permitted on pitches TP01-TP21.
Tents are not allowed extra items, unless it is small enough to avoid overcrowding and the risk of fire.
Please speak to a member of our team to see whether your item is permitted.
How many people does each pitch accommodate?
A maximum of 6 people are permitted on each touring pitch.
Do you have pitches with electric hook up?
All of our touring and camping pitches have 16amp electric hook up as standard.
Do you have seasonal pitches?
No, we do not have any seasonal pitches at Ulwell Holiday Park.
Do you have any pitches suitable for RVs?
No, we do not have any pitches suitable for recreational vehicles (RVs).
Do you accept caravan rallies?
We accept caravan rallies out of season
Caravans for Sale
Can I rent my caravan out?
Yes, you are more than welcome to sublet your caravan holiday home. You can do this privately or we will rent it on your behalf.
Can friends and family use my caravan?
Yes, friends and family are welcome to use your caravan. You must let us know when they are going to be here and provide their contact information.
Can finance be arranged for the purchase of caravans?
No, we do not arrange finance for any of our caravan holiday homes for sale.
When can I use my holiday home?
Caravan owners can use caravans from 1st March – 7th January each season.
Facilities
What facilities are there at Ulwell Holiday Park?
There are plenty of facilities to enjoy during a camping or caravan holiday at Ulwell Holiday Park in Dorset. Guests can make use of our clean, modern and well-maintained amenities block with laundrette for washing and drying clothes. There is a bar and restaurant with beer garden and on- site shop for stocking up on essentials during your stay.
Families can make use of our Recreation Field with climbing frames, swings and our iconic big slide. There’s a playing field for ball games and an indoor swimming pool with water slide and toddler pool.
What facilities do you have for children?
Children love holidays at Ulwell Holiday Park. If you don’t believe us, just look at our reviews! We have an extensive outdoor park with a range of play equipment. We also have a recreational field for ball games and an indoor swimming pool.
Is there a shop on site?
Yes, there is a well-stocked shop on-site selling a range of food, drink, baked goods and camping essentials. Quality meat, fish and vegetables from are available from the finest local producers – perfect for cooking up a storm during your Dorset holiday.
Machine made hot drinks, homemade sandwiches and daily newspapers can be purchased every day.
The shop is open daily from Easter to October. Most major cards accepted and cash back is available.
Do I have to pay for showers?
No, there is no fee to use the showers. Plentiful hot water is available all day.
How much does the laundrette cost?
Dryers take 50p for 20 minutes or 20p for 5 minutes.
The washing machines take 3 x £1 coins,
Bar & Restaurant
Does the park have a bar and restaurant?
Yes, we have a bar and restaurant on site serving a wide selection of delicious food and drink. We’re pleased to use local suppliers wherever possible and serve a varied menu, which includes classic dishes as well as daily chef’s specials.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available and we have a dedicated kid’s menu for younger members of the family.
There are indoor and outdoor seating options as well as a fantastic beer garden. Tables can be arranged to accommodate larger groups and we host a number of events throughout the year. The bar area is dog friendly.
Is the Village Inn open all year?
Our on-site bar and restaurant, The Village Inn is open year-round – even when Ulwell Holiday Park is closed. Enjoy a bite to eat on the outdoor patio in the summer sun or choose one of cosy seating areas next to the log burner on a cold winter’s day.
What time does the bar and restaurant open?
The Village Inn is open 7 days a week throughout the year. Opening and serving times are detailed below: Bar opens – 10am – 11pm
Breakfast – 10am – 12am
Lunch – 12pm – 2pm
Tea, Coffee, Cake & Prosecco – 2pm – 6pm
Dinner 6pm – 9pm
Please note the above opening times are subject to change. We advise calling ahead on 01929 427644.
Is The Village Inn open to local residents/non holiday parks guests?
Of course. Local residents are welcome to come and enjoy the delights of The Village Inn year-round. It’s the ideal pit stop when walking in the Purbecks or meeting with friends for a cup of tea and slice of cake.
Our Sunday roast takes some beating and we host a number of events throughout the year. These include Christmas parties, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations and our extremely popular themed events.
Does the Village Inn show sport?
The Village Inn does not Sky Sports.
Can I pre book a table?
Yes, pre-booking is possible and advised during busier times of year. We do permit walk in bookings; however, this is subject to availability.
Is the bar and restaurant family friendly?
The Village Inn prides itself on having a friendly atmosphere. We welcome families to dine in our restaurant and have a dedicated family seating area. Our team of chefs have created a special children’s menu with a host of tasty favourites.
Is the Village Inn dog friendly?
The Village Inn is a dog friendly pub – dogs are welcome in the bar area. Only assistance dogs are permitted in the restaurant.
Swimming Pool
Do you have a swimming pool?
Yes! We have an indoor swimming pool on-site, which is available for holiday park guests as well as local residents to use. The pool is ideal for families and boasts a separate toddler pool and water slide.
We take safety very seriously and there is a lifeguard on duty at all times. There are changing rooms, toilets and showers available as well as a pool side viewing area.
What time is the swimming pool open?
Pool times vary throughout the year and are subject to change. For up to date opening hours, we advise contacting reception ahead of your stay.
Do I need to book a time slot to use the swimming pool?
For the time being swimming sessions should be booked in advance. To use the pool please call or pop into reception to book a slot for your family group.
Are there adults only swim sessions?
Adults only swim sessions take place every week for those wanting to swim lengths or enjoy a quieter environment. These typically take place on Thursday and Sunday mornings 8am- 9am, however times are subject to change.
For up-to-date information and times please contact the reception team.
How much does it cost to use the pool?
Use of the pool is free to guests staying at Ulwell Holiday Park. Each guest specified on the booking will be issued a swimming pool pass on arrival. A charge of £2.50 is applicable to re-issue a pool pass.
There is a small fee for non-residents payable on entry.
Adults – £5 per swim
Children – £4 per swim
4 and under – free
Savings can be made by purchasing a number of swims in advance. We sell books of 10 swimming tickets for £45. Concession’s £36.
(Prices correct as of August 2022)
Can local residents/non park guests use the pool?
Yes. The swimming pool at Ulwell Holiday Park is one of the best swimming pools in Swanage. It is open to local residents throughout the year. Non holiday park guests can use the pool on a pay per swim basis.
Do you offer swimming lessons?
We host children’s swimming lessons throughout the week. For enquiries relating to swimming lessons please contact reception for more information.
Does the pool have lockers?
There are lockers in the changing rooms to secure your clothing etc. while you swim. A £1 coin is required per locker. This is refunded once the key is returned.
Does the pool have changing rooms?
Yes, there are changing rooms next to the pool for your convenience.
Does the pool have toilets?
There are toilets, showers and baby change facilities next to the pool for you to use before and after your swim.
Is there a spectator area for non-swimmers?
There is a pool side viewing area for no swimmers. Here you can enjoy a coffee or snack.
Dog Friendly
Are you dog friendly?
Yes! Ulwell is a dog friendly holiday park and we’re pleased to welcome well behaved dogs to our caravan and camping site in Dorset.
We have a selection of self-catering accommodation available to hire, which provides is dog friendly, providing the ideal base for exploring the Isle of Purbeck. Up to 2 dogs are welcome per camping or touring pitch. We have an enclosed dog exercise area with poo bins for your convenience.
Please note: The Park reserves the right to ask owners of noisy or aggressive dogs to remove them.
Are the caravan holiday homes dog friendly?
Dogs are permitted in a selection of our caravan holiday homes. Please ensure you make our reception team aware of how many dogs you will be bringing with you at the time of booking. Up to 2 dogs per booking are permitted. There is no additional fee.
We respectfully ask you not to let your dogs on the furniture during your stay. Please do not leave your dog unattended in the caravan for long periods of time.
Dog friendly self-catering accommodation: Hawthorn, Birch & Willow.
Dogs are not allowed in: Oak and Delta Den Caravans or the wooden camping pod.
Are the touring and camping pitches dog friendly?
Yes, all of our camping, touring and motorhome pitches are dog friendly. We permit up to 2 dogs per pitch and there is no additional charge. We kindly ask that dogs are kept on leads at all times whilst on the pitch.
Where are dogs allowed on the site?
Dogs are allowed in all outdoor areas of the park and in the bar area of the Village Inn. We kindly ask that dogs are kept on leads at all times on the park and that you pick up after your dog and dispose of waste in the bins provided. We have an enclosed dog exercise area for your convenience.
Only assistance dogs are allowed in the swimming pool building, shop and restaurant.
How many dogs can I bring with me on holiday?
Up to 2 dogs per booking are permitted in our dog friendly holiday homes, camping and touring pitches. There is no additional fee to bring your dogs.
Are there dog friendly beaches nearby?
Dorset is a fantastic destination to holiday with your dog. The scenery is spectacular and perfect for exploring whatever time of year you decided to visit. Your four-legged friend can enjoy a range of scenic walks that can be accessed from our park as well as other natural beauty spots along the Jurassic Coast.
We’re fortunate to have a wide selection of dog friendly beaches nearby. Seasonal dog restrictions apply at some beaches in Dorset, so we advise you to check the signage carefully on arrival.
Do you permit any other pets?
No. No cats or other pets or animals are permitted in our holiday home, camping or touring accommodation.
