Crealy Theme Park & Resort

It's clear upon first arrival at Crealy Meadows that this is a camping park with a difference -- the main being that it's themed. As well as the traditional pitches for tents and caravans, guests have the choice of two distinct areas -- African Experience and the Camelot Village. While offering basically the same facilities, the African Experience has the look of a safari campsite, complete with model giraffe and big cats, while the Camelot Village is all about knights and Medieval-style pavilions. Opened 2012, the Crealy Meadows Caravan & Camping Park is also one of the cleaner and better-maintained sites set in flat, landscaped grounds complete with meadows scattered with wild flowers where miniature ponies and llamas can be found grazing. Although Crealy does host some corporate events, it is really geared towards families -- kids love the themed tents and the adventure zone -- while the campsite adjoins the Crealy Adventure Park with its own secret VIP entrance.

The campsite is located at the end of a peaceful country lane just off the A3052 and just a 15-minute drive east of the city of Exeter. Surrounded by South Devon countryside, the area is a picturesque patchwork of fields dotted with villages and market towns. Its position also means easy access to the pretty coastal town of Exmouth -- 20 minutes by car -- while Exeter Airport is just 10 minutes' drive away. While there are some local bus routes, arrival by car is highly recommended. 

The site comprises nine luxury Safari-themed and nine Medieval-themed "glamping" tents, as well as 99 fully serviced standard pitches and 21 super pitches for tents, caravans, and motor homes. The pitches are well spaced out and have power and water hookup points. The more upscale themed accommodations are fully equipped for self-catering with farmhouse-style kitchens that includes wood-burning stoves, Belfast sinks, and mini-fridges. These can sleep up to eight comfortably, and provide three power sockets each. Washroom facilities are shared, though feel more upscale than the average campsite, with underfloor heating and touch point showers. While accommodation is generally well maintained, some of the tents are starting to show signs of wear and tear. 

While one of the main draws is the neighboring Crealy Adventure Park (to which guests get a discount) the campsite also has its own "adventure zone" complete with slides, rides, and obstacle courses. While there are no restaurants or bars on-site, the campsite shop stocks plenty of groceries, and pizza can also be delivered direct to pitches. Evening entertainment is also put on daily with child-friendly acts earlier on and disco and karaoke later for grown-ups -- entertainment quality can be inconsistent. Children also have the opportunity to look after a miniature pony for the day, including feeding and grooming. Wi-Fi is also available free of charge on-site, though signal strength can be weak.