The park’s impressive facilities include an indoor pool with flume rides (Image: Haven)
The nation’s best holiday park of 2026 has been announced, and it’s set along a stunning section of the Norfolk coastline near two popular seaside towns.
Haven’s Hopton Holiday Village is found between Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth, close to the border with Suffolk. The AA awarded it five stars under its rating system, with inspectors noting it offered: “Excellent leisure and entertainment facilities for all ages.”
The AA Caravan and Camping Awards for 2025-26 inspected parks throughout the UK, covering various award categories, from Small Campsite of the Year to Glamping Site of the Year. Hopton secured the coveted AA Holiday Park of the Year award, with inspectors praising its stunning seaside location, picturesque rural surroundings, and impressive array of on-site amenities.
Guests can stay just steps from Hopton’s beautiful beach (Image: Haven)
The park, which has 775 static caravans, is located in the village of Hopton, known for its expansive sandy beach that proves particularly popular during the summer months. Guests benefit from direct beach access, allowing them to spend time on the golden shores or stroll along the gentle grassy clifftops.
The village itself has a classic seaside atmosphere, complete with fish and chip shops, vibrant amusements, and several convenient shops. It’s just a ten-minute drive to the more lively and energetic Great Yarmouth, where families can experience the rides at the Pleasure Beach, discover the SEA LIFE Centre, or enjoy seaside entertainment on the pier.
Further north, roughly a 40-minute drive from Hopton, visitors can explore Horsey Gap, a beach renowned for its huge grey seal colony. Pupping season, which spans from late October through to February, is the optimal time to observe them, and guests can use the viewing platforms to spot the charming seals without causing disturbance.
The park’s excellent facilities and beach access helped clinch the award (Image: Haven)
Another traditional day out is Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park, approximately 15 miles from the park. This well-loved theme park offers attractions for all ages, from a Kiddie Zone for younger visitors to thrilling rollercoasters. In 2026, the park has plans to expand and add four new rides.
It also has wildlife areas where guests can observe colourful birds and sea lions, plus a soft play area included in the admission price.
If you’d rather not venture too far, there’s lots to do on Hopton Holiday Village’s site. There’s an indoor pool with flumes, alongside a covered outdoor pool that opens during the warmer months.
Families can enjoy a round of six-hole golf or play tennis, hire bikes or karts, or enjoy the inflatable arena during the summer months. Being a Haven park, there are also many bookable activities such as a climbing wall, archery, and arts and crafts.
Enjoy Great Yarmouth’s classic seaside vibes (Image: Getty)
The park features a large entertainment complex, which includes a fish and chip shop, amusements, fast food takeaways, and The Marina Bar and Stage where Haven’s entertainment team stage shows. Evening entertainment begins with The Seaside Squad with games that keep the children entertained, followed by activities such as bingo and all-ages shows.
Early-April will also bring a new food and drink option to the park. It’ll become the latest Haven park to get its own JD Wetherspoon pub, so families will be able to enjoy their ‘Spoons favourites even on holiday.
Getaways at Hopton Holiday Village begin at £49 for a three-night stay for a family of four sharing a saver caravan. See prices and book your break on the Haven website.
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