Holiday Camps in Britain
There was a time where taking a vacation was a luxury that only the wealthiest could afford. In 1938, legislation was introduced called the Holidays with Pays Act. The Act mandated that most workers were entitled to one week of paid leave per year. While one week may seem modest compared to holiday entitlements now, it was a significant improvement for the working class at the time.
In the 1950’s and 60’s, holiday camps were an affordable holiday option, which was especially important in the post-war years. These camps provided a family-friendly environment for holiday makers to enjoy.
Most holiday camps offered full board packages, which included meals in a large dining hall. I remember a story my grandmother told that she had witnessed a rather large lady who sat opposite them in the dining hall and had stolen toast from the blind person sitting next to them.
Guests could choose between different types of accommodation including chalets, caravans and self-catering apartments. Holiday camps were known for their extensive entertainment programs. Music, cabaret shows, bingo and dancing were among entertainment on offer. Families could access any of the main activities available, such as swimming pools, amusements arcades, sports facilities and children’s play areas.
Butlin’s holiday camps were famous for their ‘Redcoats’, who were uniformed staff members responsible for organising games, activities and entertainment. The ‘Redcoats’ played a crucial role in ensuring guests had a memorable experience.
Holiday camps continued to be popular in Britain through the 1970, but their popularity declined with overseas travel and other experiences becoming more accessible.
Like many British people, my own grandparents were nostalgic about the holidays they had at Butlin’s and Wallis’ Cayton Bay Holiday Camp in Scarborough.
Have you got a story or photo of a holiday camp or holiday that you can document about for your future generations?