Where We've Stayed (Part Five) - The Orchards, Yarmouth

On one occasion the guys at The Sun decided to send us to The Orchards Holiday Park, which is a short drive from Yarmouth.

The Orchards is a small, independent caravan site towards the west of the Island which opens between March and October. What struck us when we arrived was how ordered it was. Campers in adjacent fields flew flags, the caravans were neatly aligned and we were advised by friendly staff that the site was pedestrain only, except for when luggage was being loaded and unloaded on departure and arrival.

The site has the usual range of facilities, which impress in every department. It has a large, well-stocked camp shop, take-away food, pleasant indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a coffee shop, a recreation area, pool and table tennis, children's play equipment and a dog walking area. One can also play Pétanque, a game related to boulles that I confess I'd never heard of, but do click the link for details if it appeals.

The only thing that was missing - and it's a big only for some - was social activity in the evenings. There is a small club run by volunteers (mostly prison officers) about five minutes' walk from the site and visitors to the site are offered special temporary membership at a few quid for the week, but it is basically a place where they sell beer rather than an entertainment venue.

I'd recommend The Orchards for a quiet weekend, but only if Park Resorts or the other larger sites aren't your thing.