Nestled in a captivating and historic part of the UK, Bluestone National Park Resort offers a holiday experience that feels worlds away yet is just a 2.5-hour drive from western Gloucestershire. Surrounded by ancient stone burial chambers, Latin and Ogham-inscribed standing stones, and one of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines, this Welsh retreat seamlessly combines natural wonder with modern indulgence.
Set within 500 acres of rugged Welsh terrain in Pembrokeshire, Bluestone is more than a holiday park—it’s an immersive escape into nature. Despite its size and over 300 timber lodges scattered among rolling hills near Narberth, the resort integrates so harmoniously with the landscape that its presence is softly felt. Guests enjoy contemporary luxury, especially in the spectacular new Platinum Collection lodges.
Our visit centered around the St Govan Lodge, a pristine three-bedroom haven designed for six guests. The lodge features two bathrooms, including a spa-like en suite with rainfall shower, freestanding bath, and calming starlight ceiling effects. An expansive upstairs open-plan living area opens into a sunroom with fully retractable glass walls, inviting the fresh Pembrokeshire air and stunning views inside. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, fully equipped with an oven, microwave, fridge freezer, dishwasher, and even an air fryer, ideal for preparing family meals shared around the six-seat dining table.
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A highlight of the Platinum experience is the complimentary electric buggy, perfect for effortless travel around the resort. For my five-year-old, cruising at 6 mph and joining the lively tradition of “beep the horn at everyone you pass” was unforgettable. Each lodge has its own buggy charging station, enhancing convenience and eco-friendly mobility.
Beyond accommodation, Bluestone’s heart is its vibrant village. You’ll find colorful stone cottages, diverse dining options, shops filled with Welsh products, a spa, a traditional pub, and a sunny beer garden adjacent to a children’s playground—perfect for parents watching their kids play.
When it comes to activities, Bluestone caters wonderfully to families with young children. Outdoor adventures abound—from stand-up paddleboarding and archery to woodland trails and zip-lining. The Steep Ravine and Camp Smokey outdoor dining spots, reopening soon, promise rustic charm and toasted marshmallows around a campfire.
Rain or shine, entertainment continues indoors. The Blue Lagoon Water Park welcomes guests with heated pools, thrilling slides, a wave machine, and toddler splash zones. Although it’s showing signs of age, it remains a beloved attraction. The Hive offers expansive soft play areas, climbing walls, and the standout attraction—Adrenaline, a circular zipline soaring above the play zone that left my children beaming with joy. The Serendome dome adds aerial adventures, a theatre, a silent disco, and food vendors for endless fun.
For adults, The Well Spa provides a serene retreat with thermal experiences, hydrotherapy, and luxury treatments—an ideal respite while children tire themselves out.
Dining options are varied and satisfying. The Farmhouse Grill serves hearty, family-friendly meals; The Oak Tree delivers delicious Italian fare; and Knights Tafarn offers traditional pub classics by the fire or in the beer garden. For a more refined experience, Black Pool Mill, just a short walk or drive away, showcases exceptional cuisine.
Despite a wealth of local attractions—such as the charming towns of Narberth and Tenby, historic St David’s city, St Govan’s Head, and world-renowned beaches like Barafundle and Whitesands—we found everything we needed within Bluestone’s welcoming embrace during our three-night stay.
Rated Wales’ best holiday park and third-best in the UK for three consecutive years by holidaymakers and Which? readers, Bluestone clearly excels. With exceptional accommodations, stellar facilities, and breathtaking surroundings, it’s easy to see why I now prefer Bluestone over Center Parcs.