(Image Rights: Ian Burt)
The Holkham Estate has strengthened its presence on the Norfolk coast by acquiring six caravan parks from the family-owned holiday operator McDonnell Caravans. This acquisition includes well-known sites in Snettisham, Heacham, Holme-next-the-Sea, Brancaster, and two locations in Thornham. The deal also includes the caravan distribution and sales operations of McDonnell Caravans, a respected name in Norfolk’s holiday industry since 1966.
With a longstanding history, McDonnell Caravans began by selling static holiday homes and touring caravans before establishing a series of caravan parks along Norfolk’s picturesque coastline. The business’s former head office in Gayton, near King’s Lynn, will now serve as the operational base for Holkham Holiday Parks Ltd, a newly formed subsidiary to oversee the expanded portfolio.
Mike McDonnell, who took over the business from his father in 1983, will remain involved as an advisory consultant to Holkham Estate. Despite the acquisition, McDonnell has retained ownership of two caravan parks in Hunstanton, which he will continue to operate independently. His team in Gayton will also support these parks during the transitional period, providing continuity for long-standing clients and caravan owners.
Reflecting on the acquisition, McDonnell stated, “My father founded the company in 1966, and I took it over in 1983. After 41 years at the helm, this is the right time for me to scale back my involvement. I am very proud of the business I have built and the quality of all its parks. I am pleased to see six of my parks now being taken forward by the Holkham Estate, who I am confident will carry on with the same commitment to running exceptional parks that has worked so well for me.”
Leading the new direction of McDonnell Caravans is Darren Williams, director of Holkham Holiday Parks Ltd and general manager of Holkham’s Pinewoods Holiday Park in Wells-next-the-Sea. Williams will serve as managing director for the newly acquired operations, adding his experience to help manage the expanded group of parks.
The acquisition aligns with Holkham’s vision of enhancing the Norfolk coast’s tourism offering. Holkham Estate is expected to maintain McDonnell Caravans’ tradition of quality service, providing a seamless transition for the loyal clientele of Norfolk’s much-loved holiday parks.
