Abandoned Isle of Wight Holiday Camp Set for Multi-Million Pound Transformation
A holiday park left abandoned for two decades on the Isle of Wight is set to be transformed into the ultimate luxury coastal escape. Previously known as Atherfield Bay Holiday Camp and abandoned since 2007, the site is now being redeveloped by Evergreen Escapes as the Isle of Wight Resort. Overlooking Atherfield Bay, the new multi-million holiday park is set to open in April 2027.
The regeneration of this long-vacant coastal site represents a major investment in local tourism infrastructure. According to the resort website, it will be a peaceful haven, where sweeping sea views and star-filled skies go hand-in-hand with exceptional accommodation and five-star facilities. The multi-million pound project includes building 63 luxury lodges with sea views.
What Types of Accommodation Will Be Available at the Isle of Wight Resort?
Guests visiting the new coastal destination will be able to choose from two distinct styles of accommodation. There will be two options, which are Elite and Signature lodges. All of the lodges will be self-catered accommodation.
Elite lodges will feature either two or three bedrooms sleeping up to six people, with an open plan living and dining space, as well as a private outdoor decking. On the other hand, Signature lodges will be slightly more luxury, sleeping up to eight people across four bedrooms. The living and dining space will be open plan like the Elite lodges, but guests can also expect pops of colour or feature walls.
Every single lodge across the property is dog friendly. If visitors bring their beloved pooch, they will get their very own welcome pack. There will be a welcome pack for the humans too though, with Isle of Wight goodies. Each lodge will have Rituals smellies and luxury robes and slippers too.
What Five-Star Facilities Are Included in the Development?
Beyond the private accommodations, the project incorporates a wide array of leisure amenities designed for year-round use. Also on-site will be an indoor swimming pool, perfect for the colder winters months, as well as a sauna, steam room and a gym. At the centre of the resort, The Wight Isle Lounge will serve hot drinks, alcoholic drinks, snacks and fresh pizzas.
Local residents will also be able to use the entire holiday park. Furthermore, discounted ferry tickets will be available to staying guests to ease travel logistics. Bookings are currently open for stays from April 2027, with 38 out of the 63 lodges available to rent while the rest will be for sale.
Leadership and Broad Corporate Expansion Plans
Geoff Cowley, CEO of Evergreen Escapes Group, spoke about the vision behind the project. He stated that the Isle of Wight Resort will be a fantastic addition to the Island already thriving hospitality scene when it opens. He also noted that they are investing in high-end accommodation and facilities, and investing in the resort team. Cowley added that they have already filled a number of senior roles but are actively looking for others to join them and highlight the best the Island has to offer for guests and owners alike.
Evergreen Escapes also has plans for another 15 to 20 resorts over the next five years. The Isle of Wight Resort will follow Evergreen Escapes acquiring Manor and Ashbury Resorts in Devon and Doublebois Lodge Escape and St Mabyn Lodge Escape, in Cornwall. This wider corporate strategy demonstrates sustained growth in the regional hospitality sector.
History of the Atherfield Bay Site
The location of the new resort has a long history as a destination for holidaymakers before falling into disuse. The former Atherfield Bay Holiday Camp welcomed visitors for decades before closing its doors and becoming abandoned since 2007. For nearly twenty years, the expansive coastal plot remained empty, sitting quietly above the shoreline on the southwest coast of the Isle of Wight.
The redevelopment brings new life to an area that had long been considered a derelict eyesore by locals. By replacing the derelict structures with modern, sustainable, and high-end lodges, the project repairs a neglected pocket of the coastline. Construction efforts are now underway to meet the scheduled opening date in April 2027.
Practical Details for Future Visitors and Local Community
Travelers planning a getaway to the upcoming destination can already secure their dates online. With bookings currently open for stays from April 2027, early planners have access to the initial pool of 38 rental units out of the total 63 lodges. The remaining units are designated for purchase by private buyers seeking a permanent holiday retreat.
The integration with the surrounding community remains a core element of the project design. Local residents will also be able to use the entire holiday park facilities. Combined with discounted ferry tickets for staying guests and regional recruitment drives for staff, the resort aims to blend seamlessly into the local economy.
