Buying a holiday home in the Lake District – your questions answered
Thinking of buying a holiday lodge or caravan at Hill of Oaks?
To help you make the best decision about purchasing a holiday home in the Lake District, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions. Should you need any further clarification or have additional questions, please feel free to get in touch.
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Why buy a holiday home in the Lake District?
Holiday home ownership offers a relaxed and stress-free holiday experience, enhanced by the conveniences of a holiday park. Unburdened by advance bookings or fixed stay durations and designated arrival/departure days or times, enjoy spontaneous escapes from the everyday hustle and bustle, allowing you to recharge, reconnect and enjoy quality time with friends and family.
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What are the annual costs of a holiday home in the Lake District?
Site fees cover park maintenance and access to facilities such as the play area, reception, owner services, and security. Water and electricity are metered, while gas is bottled or supplied through a metered connection. Insurance, Wi-Fi, winter drain-downs, servicing, and exterior cleaning are billed separately.
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When do I pay site fees?
Site fees are due annually and are usually sent out before the forthcoming season in November or December.
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Is Hill of Oaks a dog-friendly holiday park?
Absolutely! Dogs are very much welcome here. We love seeing happy pooches enjoying their holidays with their owners at our park. We know how much your canine companions are part of the family, and we believe holidays are best enjoyed together. To ensure everyone has a comfortable stay, we kindly ask that you bring no more than two dogs per unit.
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How do I arrange a viewing?
Simply use the contact form below, email us at holidayhomes@lakedistrictestates.co.uk, or call us on 01539 531 578, and we’ll happily arrange a visit.
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How long is the tenure or licence for a caravan or lodge in the Lake District?
Caravans and lodges are sold with a licence agreement that sets out the length of tenure, which varies depending on the unit. For example, new lodges often come with a 30-year licence, while caravans typically have a shorter term of 15–20 years. Full details are always provided before purchase.
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What happens when my licence is expiring?
When your licence agreement is approaching expiry, we’ll contact you well in advance to discuss your options. These might include upgrading to a newer unit, relocating to a different pitch, or, in some cases, extending the agreement if the unit and pitch remain suitable. We always aim to work with owners to find the best outcome.
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Can I live in my holiday home in the Lake District permanently?
No—our parks are licensed for holiday and recreational use only, not as permanent residences. This means your holiday home cannot be your main residence. We will ask you to confirm your residential address when you buy, and may request proof of this from time to time, as required under our site licence.
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How long can I stay each time I visit?
There’s no set limit on how long you can stay during each visit, so long as your use is genuinely for holidays or recreational breaks. Your holiday home must not be your main residence, and you must have a permanent address elsewhere. The season runs from the beginning of March to the beginning of January.
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Can I sublet my caravan or lodge?
No, we do not allow subletting of caravans or lodges at our park.
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When is the best time to upgrade or part exchange?
You can part-exchange at any time if something catches your eye, you need more space, or your needs change. That said, many owners choose to upgrade before the end of their licence term, or take advantage of new stock and seasonal offers.
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Do you offer finance for holiday home purchases?
We don’t offer finance directly, but we work closely with a specialist broker who provides tailored finance solutions for holiday home purchases.
Buying a holiday home hints, tips and FAQs from the BH&HPA
This resource-packed page, created by the British Holiday & Home Parks Association, offers many answers to frequently asked questions, along with a short, informative video and expert guidance to support you on your journey to owning a holiday caravan or lodge. To support consumers, it covers everything from contracts and running costs to usage rules, as well as choosing the right park for you.
The BH&HPA are the UK’s national trade body representing and supporting the holiday park industry along with consumers.