What is El Niño and what does it mean for UK holidays in 2026?
The term 'El Niño' refers to the warming of the sea surface temperature, which occurs every few years. It's a natural weather pattern, developing in the Pacific Ocean when the winds that usually blow east to west weaken or reverse, spreading warmer water across the central and eastern tropical Pacific. El Niño has begun, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which means 2026 could be another record-breaking year in terms of temperature, with 2027 potentially being the hottest year on record.
Summers in the UK have already been breaking records over the last few years, with 29°C recorded in Scotland in May 2026, so having a few tips to stay cool will help you make the most of your summer and have a holiday you'll never forget.
How to keep cool at our holiday parks?
A summer holiday brings longer days, warmer evenings and the opportunity to enjoy time outdoors, but a heatwave can bring temperatures that are uncomfortable and pose a risk to health. If a heatwave is forecast for your holiday, there are various ways to stay cool on our parks, so you can enjoy your break to the fullest.
Relax in the natural shade
What could be better than lying back in the shade, with a good book or even a card game. Our parks are located in beautiful, thriving places throughout Scotland and Northern England, shrouded in nature with plenty of trees to provide shade.
Thurston Manor is surrounded by woodland, providing plenty of shade to cool off, and Erigmore is located within a lush Perthshire forest, offering plenty of shady spots to kick back and relax.
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Take a dip
A refreshing dip can be just the thing to help you cool off during a heatwave, and we have pools available at Viewfield Manor, Erigmore, Riverside and Thurston Manor. Whether you're looking for a spot of family fun or a relaxing swim, our pools are the perfect way to not only cool down but have fun too.
While not all our parks have a pool, there are lots of other spots to enjoy a dip. Our coastal parks are perfect for those seeking to splash in the waves or perhaps try some water sports, and our countryside and woodland parks have rivers nearby, offering fabulous paddling opportunities. Whether you prefer a swim in the sea or wading through a river, our parks are a great base for enjoying natural water spots.
If you're choosing to swim in rivers or the sea, remember to stay safe. Don't swim alone and make sure to tell someone else where you're going and when you'll be back. Check tide times and the forecast before heading out, take a means of calling for help with you, and always enter the water slowly to give your body time to adjust to the temperature. Never jump or dive directly into open water as this can cause cold water shock. In case of emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
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Tips for keeping cool while on holiday
Before you head out on your holiday, make sure to pack light clothing to keep you as comfortable as possible on your trip. When planning your itinerary, stick to activities in the early morning and evening and save midday, when the heat is at its peak, for rest and relaxation. Caravans and lodges can get warm very quickly, but keeping the blinds and curtains drawn during the day, and opening windows at night, can help you stay cool.
Everyone loves a treat, especially while on holiday, and a heatwave is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a frozen snack. If you're bringing your canine companion, you could also freeze their treats so they don't have to be left out.
What to pack on a heatwave holiday?
If a heatwave is on the table for your holiday, there are a few essentials you'll want to pack.
- A good quality, high SPF suncream
- After sun lotion
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Light, breathable clothing
- Swimwear
- Insulated cool bag
- Portable fan
