Pontins has been identified as the United Kingdom's worst holiday park for 2026, according to a new survey by consumer champion Which?. The holiday park chain received a customer score of 61 percent and scored just two stars across all surveyed categories, including customer service and cleanliness.
One visitor reportedly advised bringing disinfectant and wiping down surfaces. The average price per night at Pontins is £38. The chain was acquired 15 years ago by Britannia Hotels, which has frequently been named the UK's worst hotel chain by Which?.
Following Pontins, Butlin's was ranked as the second-worst holiday park with a 63 percent customer score. It received two stars in most categories, managing three stars only for facilities, activities, and entertainment.
Parkdean Resorts came in third from the bottom with a 68 percent customer score. Other low performers included Haven Holiday Parks at 68 percent and Center Parcs at 69 percent.
Top-Rated Holiday Parks
On the other end of the spectrum, Potters Resorts, with locations in Norfolk and Suffolk, was named the nation's best holiday park, achieving an 83 percent customer score. The resort earned five stars in customer service, facilities, activities, and entertainment, as well as food and drink.
Hoburne Holidays, operating across seven locations in the south and southwest of England, secured the second position with an 81 percent customer score. Darwin Escapes, Landal Green Parks, and Waterside Holiday Group also ranked highly, each with an 80 percent score.
A spokesperson for Britannia Hotels Group stated that the company is disappointed by the ranking and takes guest feedback seriously. The spokesperson noted that while the report refers to 'Pontins,' no Pontins holiday parks are currently open to guests, with their only operational park being the adults-only Sand Bay Holiday Village. The company acknowledges that some accommodation reflects the site's heritage and is investing in improvements to upgrade facilities and enhance the guest experience, aiming to provide value and hospitality.