A LONG-established Cumbrian caravan site is hoping to benefit from increased demand for so-called 'staycations' as it enters a new era.

Hesket Caravan Park was taken over by North-West based company Hoey Caravans in the autumn - and the easing of restrictions meant the newly redeveloped site could officially reopen to visitors and prospective buyers this week.

Frederika Swallow, company personal assistant for.Hoeys Caravans Ltd said: “An incredible amount of work has gone into the redevelopment and maintenance of the Park, and we have completely put our own stamp on it.

“The site was lacking a bit of character and not many people really even knew it was here. You couldn't really tell from the roadside what it was as it was a bit hidden.

“It was like starting with a clean slate as we have had to change everything and add a bit of character.”

The site is located on the A6 between Carlisle and Penrith, and the new owners are hoping to establish it as one of the region's premier sites.

Angelique Sansome of Cumbria's Real Deal Me has been involved to try and help the park reach new customers.

Just two of the park's pitches were occupied when Hoeys took over last year - but there has already been demand for new caravans on-site.

The park is open 12 months a year and owners can sublet their caravans to holiday makers of their own accord.

Frederika added: "“This way owners on the park can come and go as they please and also they are allowed to sublet their holiday home for no extra cost.

“We have a wide range of prices to suit all budgets, and site fees will be low - at the moment we have no site fees until January 2022."

Improvements already made at the site include the removal of a giant green shed that blocked views, with a specially-fitted children’s play area, a new wooden office and a sales showground all newly installed.

In addition, lighting, roads and the pitches themselves have all been improved and featured gates, Hoeys’ signature stag and elk statues, and a soon-to-be-completed barbecue hut have all been added.

Frederika continued: "“We’re looking forward to opening and inviting people to come and see this hidden gem for themselves.

“With staycations set to boom this year, we are already taking appointments for viewings, and you can also take a virtual tour online.

“We’re a friendly, family-run business and the park itself has incredibly beautiful views that can be seen from most pitches on site. Our holiday homes are affordable luxury, a real home-from-home at the edge of the Eden Valley.”