Not up to standard
This site just wasn’t up to scratch, especially when compared to other club sites.
On a positive, the site is very well maintained aesthetically. Unfortunately there were a number of issues during our stay that make this a site we won’t be visiting again. We have visited a number of club sites, and have not experienced any of the issuesThose issues were:
1. The toilet blocks close for cleaning at 10.30am (for men). I can’t think of a worse time. This is a campsite. Some of us have campervans to reorganise each morning. You are constantly clock-watching. Even if you use the wash facilities in time, the toilets are closed other than a unisex toilet that is in constant use anyway due to the main blocks closed off. On one of the days, the attendant came in to the toilet block, and shouted that there was 10 minutes to go before it closed. I left in good time, but a barrier had already been placed on the door. This was just unacceptable. It felt like the cleaning time was at the convenience of the site rather than those staying.
2. Lack of visible staff. The automated check-in when we first arrived seemed like a great idea at first - until we found it difficult to find a member of staff in the shop/reception. We visited a number of times during the daytime too.
3. The ‘saving energy’ signs. There were signs displayed stating that the site bollard lights would be turned off in the evenings, and that people should use the light on their phones instead. This was part of a green initiative. I’m up for saving energy, but where was the information stating that the cost savings would be passed onto the customer? Afterall, we were still paying the same?
Just as a comparison, we just got back from the lovely Burford site in Oxfordshire. When we checked in, we were greeted by a member staff. There was always a staff member available right up until 5pm. The toilet/washing blocked closed at 2.00pm - when everyone had used them, and we’re out and about. No signs about turning off any evening bollard lights - and they even had visiting catering vans.
In comparison, the Southland site felt like it was simply doing the bare minimum to actually save money, at the inconvenience of the people who stay there.
Darkstarr
Reviewed on 27/08/2023 21:50
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