By William Coleman
Celebrating a golden anniversary is always something special, but to be awarded gold in the year of the anniversary makes it an outstanding achievement and should be celebrated as such. One of Cornwall’s most picturesque park has been awarded gold as they enter their 50th year of operation.
Polmanter Touring Park in St Ives took top awards at the Cornwall Tourism Awards and was the overall category winner after a close fought battle for the top spot. The judges had their work cut out for them at the end of 2017 following a bumper year which saw tremendous success across Devon and Cornwall.
The park, which has been owned by the Osborne family for over half a century, is now confirmed as a finalist in the South West Tourism Excellence Awards. The next stage of the competition, which takes place in February, coincides with a landmark year for Polmanter which first opened its gates back in 1968.
Back in the 60s the site was run by John and Sheena, who were dairy farmers at the time, who began allowing visiting campers to use their pastures at pitch sites. It is easy to see the appeal with such breathtaking views along the cornish coast.
Soon after word started to spread about the impressive and welcoming location. Very quickly John and Sheena found themselves with a holiday business that rivaled their farm enterprise. It just goes to show how many little gems that park of the UK has.
With such a hot spot on their hand the couple decided to develop Polmanter as a must visit destination for visitors seeking top notch settings for their getaways. Over time they were able to then add family friendly facilities.
One thing that has not changed over the past 50 years are the iconic views, but there have been some great new additions over the years. When visiting be sure to make the most of the outdoor heated pool, luxurious spam tennis courts, play areas and the onsite shop with Cornish food and drink specialities. Another stand out for me is the park’s Stable Bar, which uses locally produced good which are freshly prepared on site and is located in the farm’s former milking parlour.
Over the years John and Sheena have taken a step back from the day to day running and now Phil Osborne, one of their four sons, is now at at the helm. Phil is also assisted by his wife Becki who also works as a local family GP.
The couple, who have two young children, could not be happier with the Cornwall Tourism award for top caravan and camping park. They see the accolade as a curtain raiser which could not have come at a better time as they celebrate their 50th year.
In 2008 the Polmanter site took the same award and also saw them win the prestigious gold AA five-pennant award for the quality of the sites facilities.
According to Becki, feedback suggests that one of the main reasons for the park’s success is its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff team:
“Almost all of our guests are either repeat visitors – sometimes the second or third generation of the same family – or coming as a result of a personal recommendation,” she said.
“We tend to attract people of all ages – and especially those with children – who enjoy traditional Cornish holidays, and who love exploring our amazing coast and countryside.
“We’ve tried to create an environment which is a match to these magnificent surroundings, and where everyone knows they can properly relax and rely on our help if needed.
“Our family and staff are greatly looking forward to Polmanter’s golden year, and I hope that our guests will be able to join in some of the events we have planned!” added Becki.
As well as competing in February’s South West Tourism Excellence finals, the park has also been nominated to represent the South West in the national VisitEngland finals this year.
There is more information about Polmanter, which is a member of the Best of British consortium of top family-owned holiday parks, at www.polmanter.co.uk
