THANKS to volcanic ash clouds, threats of airline staff strikes, the weak pound and, lest we forget, the lingering economic crisis, there’s never been a better time to holiday in the UK.

Yes the Great British seaside holiday, now re-branded as a ‘Staycation’ by some canny PR type, is experiencing a long-overdue revival with budget-conscious families.

And within minutes of arriving at the Perran Sands holiday park in Cornwall’s Perranporth, we can see why.

Less than four hours after leaving home, we are gazing out over the sand dunes at a massive expanse of deserted beach – as beautiful and natural a scene as you could find anywhere in the world.

Few holiday parks can boast such an idyllic location but this is not the only advantage Perran Sands has.

As part of the Haven group, Perran Sands has all the facilities you would expect from one of the country’s leading park operators but isn’t large enough to be overwhelming.

There is a relaxed, friendly atmosphere but still plenty to do, with indoor and outdoor pools, crazy golf, kids’ clubs and nightly entertainment.

Sporty types are invited to try their hand at fencing, archery or surfing, while children can enjoy treasure hunts, messy play and meet and greets with Rory the Tiger and his pals.

We had the benefit of a top-rated caravan, which was kitted out in lavish style and certainly surpassed any other caravan accommodation we have had in the past.

We made the most of the park’s facilities in the evening, when my husband and I were able to enjoy a relaxed drink while the baby slept in his pushchair and our four-year-old daughter hit the dance floor to demonstrate her own unique versions of the Macarena, Agadoo and Superman.

But during the day, we were keen to get out and explore Cornwall.

First stop was the Lappa Valley Steam Railway, which has three miniature steam railways, a boating lake, adventure play park and nature trails to keep the whole family entertained.

We also enjoyed a day at Crealy Park, which has a seriously terrifying array of drop slides.

Buoyed by watching my daughter Maddie hurl herself down the vertical drops, I climbed the stairs myself – only to face an embarrassing trudge back down past a queue of youngsters when my courage deserted me.

Another day was spent exploring the quaint, narrow streets of Padstow.

Thanks to a steady stream of tourists and the Rick Stein factor (the TV chef now has at least five businesses in the town), Padstow has few of the big brand names that dominate many high streets.

Its harbour is also ideal for a spot of crabbing – if you can keep your bait safe from the scavenging seagulls.

As we enjoyed our last club night and allowed Maddie a final fling on the dance floor, we admitted we were surprised at how easy and relaxing the week away had proved.

Suddenly that awful ‘Staycation’ term made sense – you just want to stay a bit longer.

Getting there

• Perran Sands offers a choice of accommodation from the luxurious top of the range “Platinum” holiday homes to the more economical “Standard” range. All offer two/three bedrooms, lounge with TV, well-equipped kitchen/dining area, shower and toilet. The price includes full use of the park facilities and entertainment.

• Breaks in June start at £319 for a family of up to six in two bedroom “Superior” accommodation based on 3 nights from 24th June. Seven nights from July 8th start from £719. u Touring caravans and tents are also welcome at Perran Sands. For details, special offers and immediate bookings visit haven.com, call 0871 230 1900 or call the park direct on 01872 573 551.

• If you’d like to buy your own holiday home at Perran Sands prices for a caravan start at around £17,995. Visit havenholidayhomes.co.uk or call 0871 230 1299.