Potters mixes the classic British holiday camp vibe with modern all-inclusive resorts
(Image: Potters Resorts)

I went to the UK's only all-inclusive resort — I loved everything about it

by · Manchester Evening News

I recently spent a weekend at the UK's only all-inclusive resort and it was the ideal family retreat. Picture the quintessential British 'holiday camp' vibe - seaside family fun, nightly entertainment and everything you need on-site - but modernised with comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities.

Now, imagine it incorporated some elements from luxury cruise ships. That's when you start to get a sense of what Potters is like. Nestled on Norfolk's coast, Potters at Hopton on Sea is a charming British treasure that's rich in history yet has bravely evolved with the times. It's also been crowned the best holiday park in the UK, reports the Mirror.

I would return in a heartbeat. It's located almost exactly halfway between Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft. If you're not driving, a train to either town followed by a 20-minute coastal bus ride will bring you right to the resort's doorstep. And when the tide recedes, a lovely little sandy beach is just a few minutes walk away.

Potters has a lovely little beach just a few minutes walk away
(Image: Potters Resorts)

The resort has been catering to guests since 1920, initially accommodating families in quaint wooden huts - one of which still stands in the hotel lobby today.

Fast forward a hundred years, and it's now a fully-fledged resort, complete with a pool, numerous sports facilities and activities to try - and nearly non-stop entertainment from dawn till well past my bedtime. Many guests opt to stay in the rows of snug bungalows, which offer basic, solid amenities at a reasonable price.

The rooms at Potters

My family and I lodged at the Resort's hotel for our three-night getaway. The hotel rooms are slightly pricier, but they offer more room and feature private balcony or terrace areas. And when I mention spacious, I truly mean it. The standard hotel room is approximately double the size of a typical British hotel room.

The rooms at Potters are very spacious
(Image: Potters Resorts)

In addition to a supremely comfortable bed and a luxurious bathroom with double sinks, there's a lounge area with a sofa and chair. A pull-down 'Murphy bed' provides the option of accommodating a third person - and given the size of the room, there's ample space for three.

While the bungalows are nearer to the sports fields and beach, the hotel is closer to dining and entertainment venues as well as the pool.

The food and drink is where Potters really stands out

Everything I sampled was delicious
(Image: Potters Resorts)

Potters truly stands out when it comes to food and drink. Everything is included - and everything I sampled was scrumptious.

For many, the term 'all-inclusive resort' brings to mind images of tepid buffets, heaped with chips and slices of pizza, perhaps the odd chicken nugget and long benches filled with peculiar-looking salad.

This is not the case at Potters. Each lunchtime and evening menu presents three or four restaurant-quality starter and main options.

During my visit, I enjoyed a buttery, flaky Sea Bass fillet, some delightfully crispy deep fried Halloumi and a perfectly cooked chicken breast with mushroom and thyme sauce.

None of them would trouble a Michelin star - but they'd give any of the foodie pubs near me a solid run for their money. And that's before we come to the carvery, which is served every evening with a different roast meat.

In addition, there's a second buffet option - typically a curry or Chinese dish - that you can help yourself to if you're in a rush or simply don't fancy the a la carte options. I sampled the butter chicken, which was as good as any I've tasted, and the crispy fried king prawns with sweet n sour, which were enormous and very addictive. Every night, a couple of hot desserts are offered, or you can select from a lengthy list of cold puds. Or more than one.

Eat as many as you can, it's all inclusive. Your group is assigned your own table in the grand Garden restaurant, where you'll return for every meal - as well as being attended to by the same member of the incredibly friendly and helpful staff. Nothing was ever too much for our server, and service was impressively swift - a boon for families with restless children. The restaurant - as well as the nearby Garden bar - have clearly had some investment recently. They're bright, airy and a delightful place to unwind.

The children's menu is quite impressive, offering a daily rotation of pastas, fish fingers, pizza and other favourites served buffet style - ensuring that hungry little ones don't have to wait to start eating. Breakfast consists of a straightforward, no-frills breakfast buffet - which included fried bread that instantly brought back memories of Little Chef Olympic breakfasts from my childhood. Those who remember will understand the high praise this implies.

Lunch offers a generous assortment of lighter options, salads and freshly prepared omelettes. And the enigmatic fourth meal of the day? It's a late-night snack served after the main evening entertainment. The offerings change each night, but during my visit, they served hot dogs, fajitas and lasagne on consecutive nights. And naturally, being all-inclusive means drinks are also included. Whether you prefer soft or alcoholic, hot or cold, there's a robust selection of premium beverages for everyone, all included in the price.

Things to do, from swimming and go-karts to golf and pickle ball

Upon arrival, we were handed a sheet detailing all the activities available throughout the day - and it's an extensive list. For those seeking excitement, there are go-karts, off-road Segways, indoor climbing or a ride on a massive bungee swing.

For those looking to unwind, yoga or daily craft workshops are available. There's a gym, a golf course, indoor pickle ball courts and outdoor tennis courts. There's no need to book any of these - simply show up at the right location during the designated time slot and you'll typically be able to participate after a short wait.

Swimming at Potters
(Image: Potters Resorts)
I had a go at archery
(Image: Mikey Smith/ Reach PLC)

I gave archery a go, guided by an excellent instructor who was both helpful and attentive, teaching me the ropes. While I didnt manage to 'split any willows', as they say, it turned out to be a terrific experience.

For most of the year, Potters operates as an adults-only resort, yet during the summer months, it welcomes family visitors of all ages, offering an abundance of activities for children.

Wandering the corridors, you might encounter a giant fluffy panda ready to dispense big, fuzzy hugs. The amenities include an arcade and bowling alley which are subject to a small fee as well as a compact but delightful soft play area.

Theres also an external play space, a kids club brimming with fun, competitive games, children's discos, and every now and then, a shockingly lifelike pack of dinosaurs making an appearance.

The entertainment at Potters is excellent

The entertainment at Potters was excellent
(Image: Potters Resorts)

Coming from someone with a background in musical theatre, there's always a hint of scepticism when places boast "West End Quality" shows. However, I found myself rather impressed by the nightly performances featuring a first-class ensemble of vocalists and dancers alongside some truly remarkable staging effects.

The variety on offer really spices up the evenings. One night might showcase a medley of American pop classics; another could feature musical numbers from a mix of timeless and current productions - think West Side Story, Oliver! , Hamilton, and Wicked.

They were spot-on with everything - set design, costumes, and some notably powerful singing even tackling the ambitious 'One Day More' from Les Miserables was executed flawlessly.

Finding fault with Potters is a challenge, so I won't strive too hard to do so. The most compelling review of the place is that I encountered numerous individuals who visit annually, some for decades.

There are families who have spent every summer there growing up, now bringing their own children and grandchildren - all of whom adore it. My family may well join them.

Potters Resort is currently offering a £100 discount on half-term family breaks. Visit their website for more information.