John Fowler Holidays buys Ruda at Croyde

John Fowler Holidays has bought the Ruda Holiday Park at Croyde from Parkdean Resorts in a multi-million pound deal, it has been announced today (Wednesday, June 25).

Whispers of the transaction have been circulating for some days and it is understood the formal sale between the holiday park giants was to be concluded today and also includes ownership of Croyde beach.

The John Fowler group, a long-standing North Devon-based business that now has 13 holiday parks across the South West and South Wales, has taken on Ruda as part of its efforts to grow its market share, following years of negotiations.

Parkdean, which has 65 parks across the UK and owned Ruda for 23 years, has transferred ownership before the summer season, with staff and guests being assured of a ‘seamless’ handover.

Martyn Fowler, managing director at John Fowler Holidays, said: “This is a landmark day for our business.

“To acquire one of the most iconic holiday parks in the country is a real achievement. Holidays are all about location, and it doesn’t get much better than this.

“Ruda will play a big part in the future of our development. We are looking forward to the challenge of building on its considerable success whilst being committed to ensuring the park remains a cherished destination for new and returning visitors for years to come.” 

Above: The John Fowler Holidays leadership team on Croyde Beach. Credit: Seth Conway Media/John Fowler Holidays

The deal sees John Fowler take over the 300-acre Ruda park with its 817 pitches for static lodges and caravans, touring and tenting, as well as a glamping village. The park has recently added a new tropical pool and flume and comes with wide-ranging facilities including a number of bars, six catering outlets and a supermarket.  

John Fowler Holidays has been a presence in North Devon for decades, with ownership of two parks in Combe Martin and the former Ilfracombe Holiday Park, which it sold a few years ago.

The business has come a long way since 1953 when the late John Fowler placed a single caravan in a field near Newquay, investing the profits to buy a second and so John Fowler Holidays was born.

With the purchase of Ruda comes ownership of Croyde’s busy blue flag beach, which John Fowler property director Ollie Fowler is very proud of.

He said: “We know just how important Croyde beach is to everyone in North Devon, with its UNESCO designated dunes and golden sands. To be custodians of Croyde beach is an honour for us.

“This strategic purchase marks a significant milestone in our firm’s ongoing expansion, and commitment to providing exceptional holiday experiences in some of the UK’s most sought-after destinations.” 

Commenting on the deal, Steve Richards, CEO at Parkdean Resorts, said: “We are pleased to have agreed a sale to John Fowler, with whom we have been in discussions for some time.

“The sale aligns with our long-term strategy, by enabling us to reinvest the proceeds into enhancing our existing parks and supporting future growth at a time when the UK staycation market is strengthening.

“We’re proud of the legacy we leave in Croyde and are confident that John Fowler will continue to serve holiday homeowners, guests and the wider community with the same dedication and care.

“I would like to thank all of the brilliant Ruda staff for their hard work and enthusiasm in continuously delivering a great experience for owners and holidaymakers.”

HSBC UK provided a multi-million finance package to make the purchase possible. The bank's relationship director Paul Lane said: "HSBC UK has a long-standing 15-year relationship with John Fowler Holidays and our latest collaboration marks a milestone moment for the business.

"HSBC UK supported the acquisition of the iconic Ruda Holiday Park with a multi-million deal, enabling it a significant opportunity to expand its footprint in one of the UK’s most sought-after coastal destinations. This deal not only strengthens John Fowler Holidays' portfolio but also ensures families and future generations can have brilliant holiday experiences at this beautiful location for years to come.”

Guests who have booked a stay at Ruda will see their holiday transferred to John Fowler Holidays, which will get in touch with them.