Potters Resorts has retained its prestigious Five-Star status at Hopton-on-Sea and Five Lakes.
VisitEngland, the country’s official tourism board, visited both Essex and Norfolk in recent weeks to experience a fully inclusive break at Potters, as enjoyed by tens of thousands of guests every year.
And with outstanding scores of 96% and 94%, it’s clear that Potters continues to lead the way in UK staycations.
Their representative said: “Potters Resorts continue to retain the Five Star award following the recent assessment.”
"Maintaining and enhancing the overall guest experience is the major focus of the team and this is being experienced in a considerable number of areas."
- Visit England“It is through the constant investment of the complex and the development of the team that helps this be retained.”
The achievement marks an unprecedented 24th consecutive year for Hopton-on-Sea in Norfolk, reaffirming its position as the UK’s longest-running Five-Star Holiday Village. Meanwhile, Five Lakes in Essex—which has seen tens of millions invested in its facilities and entertainment since 2022—has proudly retained its Five-Star accolade for a third consecutive year.
A Mark of Excellence
Achieving a Five-Star rating from VisitEngland is no small feat. The prestigious accolade is reserved for those achieving exceptional quality in every aspect of the guest experience. That includes accommodation, food and drink, entertainment, sports and leisure facilities, cleanliness and guest service.
And at Potters, it’s not just about meeting the highest standards—it’s about exceeding them.
“Retaining five stars at both resorts is so rewarding,” said Chief Operating Officer, Kirstie Hood. “Even after so many years, especially at Hopton-on-Sea, it always feels like we’re getting it for the first time again.
Potters Resorts Hopton-on-Sea, NorfolkA Legacy of Excellence at Hopton-on-Sea
Back in 2002, Potters Leisure Resort, as it was known then, made history as the UK’s first Five-Star Holiday Village. Year after year, the exceptional standards at Hopton-on-Sea have seen the resort retain that prestigious status every year since.
Brian Potter MBE back in 2002 after the English Tourist Board awarded Potters 5 stars, the first in the UKShaun Smith, Resort General Manager at Hopton-on-Sea, said: “Receiving five stars from VisitEngland is always a wonderful reminder to our team of the roles they all play. From recruitment, to training, to ‘showtime’ as we like to call it, it’s so important that we have true Potters people delivering our guest experience. While the accolade also takes into account the brilliant facilities we have here in Norfolk, it’s ultimately our amazing team that leaves the lasting impression.”
Potters Resorts Five Lakes, EssexBuilding a Five-Star Future at Five Lakes
Following significant investment after Potters acquired the resort in late 2021, Five Lakes secured its first Five-Star award from VisitEngland in 2023 and has retained it ever since. Nestled in the picturesque Essex countryside, and combining stunning surroundings with top-tier hospitality, entertainment, and relaxation for adults only, it’s a destination that continues to go from strength to strength.
Oli Smith, Resort General Manager at Five Lakes, said: “Having re-opened as Potters in May 2022, here we are retaining this accolade for a third consecutive year. For the team in Essex it continues to be an amazing journey, providing memorable breaks to guests.”
Well said Oli, because Potters Resorts isn’t just a holiday—it’s an unforgettable experience.
And whether you choose coastal delights at Hopton-on-Sea or the peaceful countryside at Five Lakes, one thing is certain—you’re in for a Five-Star staycation like no other.
