Leisure Industry News - November 2025

November has seen a wave of investment, innovation, and recognition across the UK leisure industry. 

Holiday parks are leading the charge, with Parkdean and Haven unveiling major upgrades and national accolades. In hospitality, new concepts like London’s tech-driven Drey Hotel signal a shift toward smarter, streamlined stays. 

From landmark refurbishments and operator appointments to creative regeneration projects and award-winning attractions, this month reflects a sector balancing tradition with transformation.

Here’s a look at the key stories shaping the leisure landscape this month...

• Two Parkdean resorts, Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth and Highfield Grange Holiday Park in Essex are receiving a multi-million-pound upgrade ready for next season. New additions include the Hat-Tricks sports bar, adventure golf, Bear Grylls escape rooms, and much more.

• Haven’s Hopton Holiday Village near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, has been awarded the prestigious AA Holiday Park of the Year for 2025. The park was recognised for its "immaculate" grounds, continuous improvement, and exceptional guest and owner service.

• Link Golf, a leading UK course operator, has acquired London Airlinks Golf Course in Hounslow, West London, expanding its portfolio. The 5,314-yard, par-68 course originally opened in 2023 and was previously owned by Glendale Golf and managed by Lex Leisure.

• Ramside Hall, a County Durham resort, has begun a major multi-million-pound renovation of its two championship golf courses, the Cathedral and Prince Bishop's. This investment follows the recent opening of a new 43-bay Toptracer range and indoor bowling and includes the addition of a new floodlit short-game area.

• ICON Gym is set to launch in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, taking over a former dry cleaning unit. While the official opening is 1st December, residents can get an early preview on 21st November, during the Christmas Lights switch-on.

• A 125-bedroom, tech-driven hotel called The Drey, featuring minimal staff and no reception desk, is launching in London's Earl's Court later this year. Positioned as a 'room-only' concept, guests will manage their stay, check-in, and access their rooms using a dedicated app on their phones.

• The Ardencote Hotel in Warwickshire is planning a multi-million-pound refurbishment across its Victorian manor house and 83 acres of grounds. To facilitate these upgrades, the four-star, 110-bedroom hotel will hold an auction selling off a wide range of furniture, equipment, and fittings.

• Everyone Active, part of Sports and Leisure Management Ltd, has been confirmed as the new operator for the Tides Leisure Centre in Deal, Kent. This was confirmed by Dover District Council as the centre continues its £20 million major revamp before fully reopening in 2027.

• Dorset Council is considering plans for a new university specialising in dentistry in Weymouth, with funding already allocated for the faculty. The project is being developed in partnership with Health Sciences University (HSU) and local NHS partners as part of the town's regeneration efforts to retain talent.

• Oxford Castle & Prison has been named one of the UK’s top attractions, receiving the prestigious VisitEngland Best Told Story accolade. The almost 1,000-year-old site was recognised for its exceptional guided experiences that vividly bring its history of royalty, rebellion, and incarceration to life.