The annual Out & About Live Camping Awards has recognized outstanding contributions to the UK camping and outdoor hospitality industry, with accolades spanning campsites, tents, and outdoor brands.
Among the winners, Kelling Heath Holiday Park was named Campsite of the Year, reflecting its strong appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Situated on 300 acres of woodland and heathland in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Kelling Heath Holiday Park offers a range of outdoor experiences that contribute to its strong reputation.
The park features walking and cycling trails, wildlife spotting opportunities, and a well-equipped Village Square with amenities that enhance the guest experience.
Additionally, its participation in a red squirrel breeding program and its status as a stargazing destination set it apart in the market, according to a news release.
Its proximity to the North Norfolk Railway, which allows visitors to access scenic coastal routes via steam train, further adds to its appeal.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, Kelling Heath’s success highlights the growing demand for immersive nature-based experiences and on-site amenities that cater to a wide range of guests.
The park’s blend of conservation efforts, unique guest experiences, and comprehensive facilities underscores a model that other operators may look to replicate or adapt.
In the equipment sector, the Outwell Virginia 5 Air TC secured the Tent of the Year award. Judges praised the tent for its innovative design and high-quality materials, noting that it caters to serious outdoor enthusiasts.
“A tent alone does not assure you a great camping holiday, but the Virginia will give you as close to a guaranteed good time as you’re ever going to get,” the judges stated.
The model’s durability and functionality suggest that premium tent offerings continue to attract dedicated campers willing to invest in long-term quality.
Vango’s Savannah 600XL was awarded Best Family Tent, marking a shift in consumer preferences back toward traditional pole tents over inflatable models.
Offering affordability without sacrificing features, the tent presents an opportunity for retailers and manufacturers to refine product lines that balance cost, ease of use, and durability.
Meanwhile, Outdoor Revolution’s Bell Star 400 earned the Best Glamping Tent title, reflecting the sustained growth of the glamping segment.
With its luxury polycotton material and spacious design, the model speaks to increasing consumer interest in high-comfort outdoor stays.
Olpro was named Best Tent Brand, an achievement made more notable by its relatively recent entrance into the market in 2011.
The company’s direct-to-consumer approach, emphasis on sustainability, and investment in community engagement have helped it cultivate a loyal customer base.
“Winning this award is an incredible honor and motivates us to keep innovating and providing the best gear for your outdoor adventures,” an Olpro spokesperson said.
The company’s commitment to eco-friendly materials and recycled fabric aligns with a broader industry movement toward sustainability.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality and camping industry, these award winners offer insights into emerging trends and evolving consumer expectations.
The recognition of Kelling Heath, alongside shifts in tent design preferences and brand loyalty, suggests that businesses prioritizing sustainability, unique guest experiences, and adaptable product offerings will continue to thrive in a competitive marketplace.
