As we bring our 50th season to a close, we can’t help but feel a little nostalgic. Half a century of laughter, sunshine, sea breezes, and happy memories — it’s hard to believe how far we’ve come. From a small caravan site on a working farm to a five-star Cornish Holiday Park welcoming guests from all over the world, our journey has been one of love, family, and Cornwall itself.

Where Our Story Began

Our story started long before the first holidaymaker arrived. The land that is now Wooda Farm Holiday Park was once home to 200 sheep and 50 dairy cows, lovingly tended by Jim (Samuel) and Bessie Colwill. The old milking parlour, where milk churns and farm tools once stood, is now The Yard Bar — a cosy place where guests gather for good food, local drinks, and great company.

In 1975, their son Ken and his wife Elizabeth had an idea. They transformed part of the farmland into a small caravan site — just a handful of pitches, a few facilities, and a big dream. That dream grew quickly, as visitors began to fall in love with our peaceful setting, sweeping sea views, and the warmth of the Colwill family welcome.

Growing with Care

From those early days, we’ve evolved into something truly special. In 1981, we earned our first five-star rating — a milestone that set the tone for everything that followed. But while our facilities have grown, our heart has never changed.

We’re still proudly family-run, and everything we do — from our luxury holiday homes and cottages to our camping and glamping pitches — is guided by the same care and attention that began all those years ago. Our guests often tell us that staying at Wooda feels like coming home, and for us, that’s the best compliment we could ever receive.

As we look around today, we see a place where tradition and comfort sit side by side — where you can sip coffee on your decking as the Atlantic sparkles in the distance, or wander down to the Yard Bar to meet friends old and new.

Cornish Roots, Sustainable Future

We’ve always believed that our beautiful location in Bude comes with a responsibility to look after it. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Over the years, we’ve added solar panels, air-source heat pumps, energy-saving lighting, and rainwater harvesting systems.

We compost, recycle, and source local produce wherever possible — not just because it’s good for the planet, but because it keeps us connected to our community and our Cornish roots. Many of our team have been with us for years, and together we take pride in creating a place that celebrates the best of Cornwall — naturally, sustainably, and with a smile.

Five Decades of Memories

Looking back, it’s impossible not to feel emotional about the thousands of families who have stayed with us over the last five decades. We’ve seen children grow up, couples return for anniversaries, and generations of the same families come back year after year.

Every part of the park holds a story — from the first caravans and hand-painted signs to today’s luxury holiday homes and modern facilities. Our Yard Bar, Lodge & Loft, and artisan touches reflect how we’ve grown with the times while keeping that same welcoming spirit alive.

This year’s 50th anniversary has been one we’ll never forget. From our special WoodaFest celebration to nostalgic displays and wonderful messages from our guests, 2025 has been about gratitude — for our past, for our people, and for every moment shared here at our Cornish Holiday Park.

Family at Our Heart

Family is what Wooda has always been about. After Ken and Elizabeth’s early vision, their children — Sue Read (resident Artist), Graeme Colwill (Director), and Helen Larwood (F&B Manager) — each played a part in our story. Today, Graeme continues to lead the park alongside his wife Kerry. And now, Graeme’s daughter Charlotte has joined the family business as Co-Director.

Seeing Charlotte’s children — Elsie, Rose, and Hallie (and their cousins!) — playing happily around the park fills us with joy. They represent a bright fourth generation and remind us that this story is still unfolding.

As Charlotte says, “It’s amazing to think that what my grandparents started in 1975 has become something so special — but it still feels like home. Guests aren’t just visitors here; they’re part of our extended family.”

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we look ahead to our 51st season, our passion for what we do feels stronger than ever. We’re always looking for new ways to make your holidays here even more special — from enhancing our luxury accommodation and family facilities to creating more opportunities to reconnect with nature and one another.

In 2026, we’ll continue investing in sustainability, well-being, and community. Expect more experiences that celebrate what makes Cornwall so magical.

As Graeme often says, “Every improvement we make is about giving back — to our guests, to our team, and to the land that’s given us so much. The best part of celebrating 50 years is knowing there’s still so much more to come.”

Thank You — From All of Us at Wooda

As we close the book on our 50th season, we want to say a heartfelt thank you. To everyone who has stayed with us, supported us, or simply shared a smile along the way — you’re part of our story.

What began as a small family dream on a Cornish hillside has become a place full of memories, friendships, and a very special kind of magic. We’re so proud to have shared it with you — and we can’t wait to welcome you back for the next chapter.

Here’s to the next 50 years of Wooda — and to keeping the warmth, hospitality, and Cornish charm that make our holiday park so loved by so many.