Hiya. My wife and I were on the tour with you, I was the bald guy in the blue coat and my wife was in the green coat. Only just seen this as I didn't know you were doing a review etc. Very good video. It was announced yesterday that the camp was closing immediately. Unsure if it will ever reopen, but just so glad that we got to see the filming locations at last. All the best. X
We remember you! Yes, we were doing a video and Craig did one too. It’s such a shame, but kind of inevitable. I’m so glad we got to have a tour before it shut - especially the swimming pool! We’re glad you enjoyed our video. 🍻
Time moves, both for tastes in comedy and Pontins. I can still watch On The Buses, but not with any great amusement. Pontins Prestatyn Sands - yes, I owe quite a lot to that place. I worked as a Pianist there 77-79, but more importantly it led to discovery of other lines of entertainment that brought up our kids and bought houses. So my job (which was really well paid) was as Lounge Pianist upstairs in a big room, I notice all the windows now blanked out. Mostly elderly clientele, I was playing even for people born in the 1890s! I also did kids and adult talent shows. It was a lot of fun, and the place was rammed out for most weeks of a long 6 to 7 month season. A fantastic employer of musicians and entertainers. Staff accommodation was poor but liveable. Guest Chalets were getting a bit worn, often needing new curtains, kitchenware etc but people seemed very happy in general. Even though sold out to Coral Leisure, Sir Fred often appeared on the scene. Two reasons for now in 2023 I believe (1) changing tastes (2) Britannia Hotels ownership. I've seen so many lovely 5 star hotels I played piano in turned to Cr*p by Britannia - Pontins is no different than these. I think it's time to call it a day now and redevelop the site. Good video :)
Wow, thank you so much for sharing your memories. Larry who also worked there, was on the tour with us and it really did sound like such a fun and bustling site. We’d love to travel back in time just for a day to see it in its heyday. It sounds like Fred was passionate about the parks. We totally agree about Britannia, they are taking the great out of so many hotels around the country as well as the poor Pontins sites. We did enjoy our tour, I really hope the next buyers will do something amazing as it’s a great site on a beautiful beach - it will probably have to be pulled down though. Thanks again for watching and sharing your memories. Cheers 🍻
Great video. Good commentary and nicely put together. It was lovely to see you both go in with positive, open minds. I have never visited here. To be honest never visited a Pontin's. However I am familiar with the great 'Holiday on the Buses'. Change is happening everywhere. Where I do agree, to some extent, that changes and modernisation need to happen. Well things do look very dated. However it is about trying to keep that nostalgic charm going. As people get older, you find interest in things which did not even cross your mind when young. Staff cut backs are never a good sign. They always start chopping from the bottom. You may be one of the lucky ones and keep your job - for time being. Good timing with your video. Let's see what happens with the place?
Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment on our video. It was a fun day and to see all the locations from the film was great. It probably didn’t help that it was a wet and grey day - it certainly helped it look a lot more miserable. To be fair inside the entertainment hub people were having a good time, it was just outside and the accommodation that was just desperate. We’d love to know what’s going to happen to it and are certainly keeping our ear to the ground! It seems that Britannia are saying nothing, the council are saying nothing - we’ll see! It’s a prime piece of sea front so it would be lovely to see it developed into a gorgeous site and be loved and cared for. Cheers for watching and happy Christmas 🎄 🍻
Hi both we quite like the Prestatyn/ Talacre area especially for cycling but from this it seems the park needs a little revamp 😮 Good that you enjoyed the Buses tour but I agree and think the holiday park needs some work doing on it because Prestatyn Beach nearby is really quite nice. Shame that you got caught in the rain again 😐 people will think it always rains here in North Wales 🏴🤭 Good to look around as we did visit there for a church conference a few years back and it was a bit tired then. But such a good location especially with Talacre nearby. Good to see it again and you had your fav 2p machines 😃👍~ Anna
It was a really fun day and we really did want to make it all positive. It just needs some money and hands on work! It sits on a stunning beach and is close to some great resorts! Here’s hoping someone will give it the love it deserves one day. Cheers 🍻
Retro cool indeed. Sadly never seen “on the buses” will be checking that out, love me some 70s comedies. 2p falls Rach? Check! Mmm a lovely beige menu. Nice looking breakfast. £9.50? What thats criminal. Well the mountains haven’t moved Craig! Looks exactly the same! That bush is looking very healthy, maybe not 50 year healthy! Think it might need more than paint and a brush! Im pretty sure thats not fire regulation! Alcatraz! So much closed! Did seem pretty sad, what a shame. Well we have a Hornsea video coming out a week on Friday, it makes your Pontins look worldclass! ❤ 🍻
Cheers guys. The site is so much potential, it’s just not loved any more! It’s sad. Yep Craig is certainly into his movie location shots!! It was interesting, but we did use the tour to get onto the site! Hornsea can’t be as bad as Pontins??? Surely?? We look forward to your video! Maybe it’s just retro cool!! Cheers 🍻
Such a great review. I love the film and have watched it a few times over the years. I've never stayed at Pontins ever, but about 7 years ago my dad took us there to have a look at the place whilst we were in North Wales. I first noticed how quiet it was. My young kids played on the mini go karts which they enjoyed and the play area. We then had a ride around by the chalets and I just thought how depressing they looked. It looked like a ghost town. I saw just one person walking past. I like the nostalgic element of it though, but that's all.
It’s so sad isn’t it. It looks so vibrant in the film and full of life. The blue coats were really going for it on the entertainment but outside, it’s just desolate. Fingers crossed it will get the love it deserves one day. Thanks for watching 🍻
Hi both, This looked like a fascinating tour, I used to love the films back in the day and have a fascination with filming locations. Great vlog. I did stop at a similar pontius in Brixham some 20 plus years ago. It was run down, horrible damp accommodation, but some of the best holiday evening entertainment I had seen so put up with it. Never stayed at one again, though. It's such a shame that it has been so neglected as it could be such a wonderful place. Great vlog. 👍🏻👍🏻
It’s such a shame isn’t it. Whimsy it’s brilliant for the nostalgia and film locations tour, it really does need pulling down - well the accommodation does! I’m glad we got to visit but didn’t have to stay. Cheers for watching 🍻
That was brilliant guys 👍 we love on the buses and the nostalgic days of Pontins and Butlins.. shame its been run down .. really enjoyed watching 👌👌 have s great Christmas regards Glyn
Cheers Glyn. Glad you enjoyed it. Sadly it’s now closed completely, so we’re very glad we got onto this tour and got to see it one last time. No one know what the future holds for the site yet! As soon as we get an inkling we hope to do an update. Cheers for watching and happy Christmas 🎄 🍻
i used to work there as a venue cleaner in 2018. i loved it. the problem there is the company who owns pontins are the problem. it just needs someone to care for the place and it will be back to the way it was. i loved on the buses too.
That’s the problem isn’t it! The bones of the place is all still there and it could be amazing. The ents team work really hard, but it’s just so neglected. Thanks so much for watching. Cheers 🍻
Loved On the Busses 🤣! Never saw the movie though🤪! Pool looked pretty well ok- apart from the sand. Great Arcade. Breakfast...hmmmm! The exterior did look like it needed some TLC, fresh flower baskets and weed free car park. Indeed the accommodation needs upgrading. Pity rally, the effort to keep this 'memory' alive does sort of feel sad and hard work. The place needs money, a new vision and a great PR team. Oh I know a couple who could do this. I do agree that a lot can be done to clean the place up needing only hands and feet. Indeed sad..... what a shame. Good on you for bringing this what once was a jewel to everyone's attention. 👌🇳🇱🙋♀🇳🇿
Thanks Anita. Yes basically the bones of a really great holiday camp is there, it’s just so neglected outside. The main hub is ok, it’s just the activities and outdoor stuff that is so depressing. I think any new buyer would pull down that accommodations and start again as it’s too far gone. Good for a retro film locations tour though! Cheers 🍻
I used to live in Prestatyn from 1960 until 1974. I worked in the kitchens during one school holiday. I wasn,t working there during the filming of the buses film . But I have nothing but wonderful memories of Prestatyn and Pontins.Shame it has gone down a bit.
Everyone we’ve spoken to who was there around that time says the same thing. They loved working there and it had a real family feel. It’s so sad to see it how it is now. Cheers for watching 🍻
Loved the passion of the 'On the Buses' superfan and tour guide. The TV series was shown on Australian TV for years (it kept getting repeated) I think it was broadcast long after they finished making it. Not long after we moved to Australia my parents discovered it on TV and they loved it, the comedy was so physical, their English was limited but they still got all the jokes. I think they claim it helped them learn English. A few years back I bought them the whole box series of all the episodes for Christmas, I'm now curious to see whether the movie was part of the set. I can't recall if we ever watched it.
It’s a cult classic for sure. How amazing that your parents learnt English through it. The films are available on DVD - we couldn’t find any download sites for them. Cheers for watching 🍻
Thank you for the “on the buses” tour. Th st was most interesting. Great coverage. I have stayed at Pontins when young at the age of 6 to 10 years old and when in the pontins had a upgrade or something similar, lol. Everyone takes pontins as they see it through there own eyes.
Definitely. It was quite the place to visit in the 70’s and 80’s. It’s so sad to see how neglected it is now. Fingers crossed a new buyer will see it right. 🍻
This is awesome 👏🏻 message to the people who really involve it. Everyone had a voice to talk on what everyone’s perspective. Greetings from Germany 🇩🇪.
This breaks my heart. We had fantastic holidays there year after year in the 80s. It was a fantastic site, the bluecoats were like celebrities. There was a boating lake, and amazing entertainment. I think the 2nd show area was the original one. I'd love to stay and compare my old photos
It’s so sad isn’t it! The boating lake is now the go karts - it’s so neglected d outside. The blue coats were doing a brilliant job, but the whole site shouts desperate. I know many people will have had the most amazing times in their childhoods. It was once a really popular site. Cheers for watching 🍻
That was bizarre. I applaud your positivity. The fact is that the site is too big now for the amount of customers they have. They should sell half of the accommodation to the public and spend the money on revamping a smaller site. If not it will be closed within a year. Sad but true. Great video once again. ;-)
We honestly wanted every other Vlog we’d seen to be wrong! But it wasn’t to be. It’s such a shame as it sites next to a beautiful beach and the hub isn’t too bad. Private ownership and maybe plots for camping or vans would probably help loads! To be fair the accommodation needs pulling down and starting again. Cheers for watching 🍻
Great review guys, Such a shame isn't it, if there were positives to be found, then postcard would have found them. Sadly, the mess everywhere and state of the chalets, aswell as practically everything being closed etc, speaks for itself. I (Shell) had quite a few holidays here as a child, my sister and i loved it, but it was so different back then. Saddened to see what it has become. We really hope it gets investment, as families need a cheap option for a holiday now more than ever. The on the buses tour was good fun though!😂👍. Not our bag at all, but as we have said before, you two can make a brilliant vlog no matter what you do🤗👍. Have a great week Shell and Pete😊👊👍
Ah thanks guys. Everyone we’ve spoken to of a ‘cough’ certain age! All have amazing memories of this place. We’d love to go back in time and see it bustling how it once was. It’s a heart breaking place now it really is. Cheers for your kind words, even Mr and Mrs positive failed on this one!! Cheers 🍻
I’ve been to pontins every single year since I was born. I agree, the cheaper rooms aren’t the best. But I’ve always stayed in the club and I’ve never had a problem with cleanliness or anything. I’ve never gone in the pool though because it Dosent have the best of reputations for being clean. But I love pontins with all my heart and its a good holiday if you make it a good holiday. Thanks for reading guys 🤩🤩🤩
@@PostcardAndAPint I absolutely love pontins Prestatyn with all my heart. I want to be a bluecoat as one of my first jobs so I can try and bring up its reputation, but I don’t think it’s salvageable anymore 🤣🤣
Hi guys brilliant as usual we used to love 'on the buses' back in the day. Shame about the state of the park. A little bit of TLC and sunshine 🌞 would be good for it. Best wishes ❤
Way to keep your journalistic integrity. It would be interesting to see how long you could survive at the Hoel/motel. The tour guide seemed like a Legend. Didn't know that the movie was thwarted by cricket. Never seen a sport take down a movie like that.
Er no thanks, we’ve got a lovely house about 10 miles away!! 🤣. Yep having trouble with my words in this one - probably water damage to the brain after all that rain! Cheers guys 🍻
Just watched this and loved it,and good on you rach for saying a time when you can say anything without offending everybody and there cat.Made us both smile as were fans all those films and tv series from that era.Nowday in this orwellian society we live in everybody is afraid of upsetting anyone in this pc woke world we now live in.Like what you said i would love to go back just for one day.The pontins were we are is closed now.I think soon more pubs and all things we love will slowly all close.Was in a pub after dropping my daughter of to go america in london ,and on a saturday night it was nearly empty,in the 80'90' would been full.sorry waffling debs xx 💎🤗
Oo don’t get me started Debs! I’ll be on my soapbox all evening. We live in a very snowflake world these days. When I think back to how I was taught in school and dance - teachers would be locked up today - but… it made me a strong person???? Is that wrong?? Imll stop now. Yes it was a cool tour and the site was so retro, I just wish they’d give it a bit more love and care. Sending you and Phil big hugs and best wishes. 🍻
You sneaky pair I was on this tour! I have spotted myself a couple of times, if I knew you were making a vlog I would’ve said a few words. I don’t look amused though but tbh I was very sad to see the state of the place. The film has such a feel good factor and I’m sure it was an amazing place back in the day. Shame they let it be ran into the ground eh
Hahaha - Richard and Craig both knew we were making a vlog. Like you we were so saddened to see what it had become. The film has so much joy in it and talking to people who visited and worked there back in the 70’s - it was a brilliant place. Now it’s closed for good! So at least we got to see it one last time. Cheers 🍻
I grew up on Vancouver Island, we got British TV until I was 13. I loved On the Busses, Dave Allne, The Goodies, The two Ronnies, The Avengers, The Saint. But as you said, the hell with ancient old glory-most people are not as into it as the guide. i wouldn't want to be within' 40' of Smoking Jack or Olive! I would pass on the tour! More important than that-give this shoddy resort a full makeover-New Glory!
Sounds like you lucked out with the era of tv you had as a kid! Some top shows there. The site actually closed this week, very suddenly and with immediate effect, so no one knows what’s going to happen there now. There won’t be any more nostalgia tours that’s for sure! Cheers 🍻
Well, I won't be rushing there any time soon 😅 I did go to Prestatyn for a week at a holiday camp years back ( I think it was haven) it rained every day (even more than where I live now) Enjoyed the video tho 😊
Yes there is a haven site a mile or so before Pontins, great beach at that one too! The weather has been dreadful here since mid July! Cheers for watching 🍻
Great video guys. We stayed in grt Yarmouth pontins years ago and it was disgusting. No pride in the place at all. This looks much the same. On the buses was a bit of a cult in the end. Seeing your tour of the place. I would have to say it’s a no from me. Hope you have a great week. Cheers 👍🏻🍻
We shamelessly used the tour to gain access to the site, but in doing so found appreciation for the film. It was a sad site once you got outside the main hub! We would love to travel back in time though to see it in its former glory when the great British seaside holiday was the thing! Cheers for watching and have a brilliant week 🍻
This place was amazing when i was a kid in the 90s. I think the problem is everything is there from when i was a kid but obviously whoever runs it doesn't care about the site and has run it into the ground. Its so sad as it used to be such a lovely place 😢
It is sad. There’s so much there, but it’s all neglected and hardly any of it open. The entertainment team work really hard in the dome, but outside it’s derelict in so many places. Cheers for watching 🍻
The history is absolutely amazing and I wish we could travel back in time and see it in its heyday. I just wish it was cared about now! Those entertainers really work hard. Cheers for watching 🍻
Such a shame that it has now closed, the park is crying out to be made good once again. Needs the right owner, with the right vision and a good few quid to inject into it.
It’s so sad isn’t it. Inside the main building it’s fine and the entertainment team seem to work really hard, it’s just outside and the accommodation that looks so depressing. Cheers for watching 🍻
Thanks for doing that. That would definitely be a hard pass for us. As everyone is saying, it's a shame. They just need a new buyer/investor to come in and spend some funds to modernise it a bit in areas and to afford staff for upkeep and I think it could be quite popular again..... even if that happens, however, the tour would not be on my radar😂
I think a new buyer would blintz the accommodation and start again, I think some of those buildings are too far gone. To be fair, the tour was fun and interesting (because we’d watched the film the night before!!). Would we stay? Nope, we’ve got a nice cozy house 10 miles away!! Cheers for watching 🍻
It’s closed now permanently but back in the late 80s and 90s to me it was a good holiday resort and plenty going on regarding entertainment and the chalets were clean but I believe it went very down hill after reading the reviews, I wonder what will happen to it now?
Thanks for the comment, and good question. We released a new update video this week if you’re interested. Cheers. Why Did PONTINS Prestatyn Close? What's Next For Pontins? th-cam.com/video/M2nvStTNwZw/w-d-xo.html
Some great memories of on the buses, Prestatyn is now sadly closed, it's probably due to management of all the parks not keeping up with maintenance, sad really.
It's such a fun film isn't it! We went back a few weeks back to see if we could find out anything else about its closure. We had a good chat to the guys on the gate which was interesting. Cheers for watching 🍻
Ah, Prestatyn...A town that - When approached by rail from the east - Immediately presents a coastal town that's shadowed by the hills immediately inland, a grey and uninviting beach, and a pier that's so dilapidated it absolutely warrants a _UKCA_ mark. The only place in the UK that's darker and more foreboding than this are the deeper and darker aspects of my own mental health, and _neither_ are the best places to consider taking a hole-iday! 🕳 Admittedly, much of the former isn't the towns fault; Had it not been for Railway Mania sprouting new towns alongside every railway line in the country (And IIUC; It used to be four tracks wide from Chester to Llandudno Jct.) Prestatyn wouldn't have developed into a seaside town. It was a beautiful place until more recently, but it seems climate change might have all but removed the beautiful weather that used to be seen around those parts. ⛈ And on Pontins; Based on other videos I've seen recently, Pontins are now owned by a group whose only interest is taking money from guests and putting it straight in the profit. They don't care about investing in the parks, don't care how dilapidated they've become, and the extreme cost-cutting they're going to (You have to bring your own bedding and clean your own chalet on arrival, now) means every site will only ever have the bare minimum of staff the HSE tells them must be there for the site to operate at all. And of course, it's the budget holidaymakers (Those overworked families with children who just want a week away from it all, but can't afford to go abroad) who get hurt the most. 😢 So yeah, I'm not surprised about the low reviews Prestatyn gets...And regrettably, mismanaged eyesores - Like Pontins and the Pier - Really don't help the town at all. 🙁 But to end this on a more positive note: I have absolutely no interest in _On the Buses_ at all...But Craig seems so amiable I'd happily try out one of his tours all the same! 🥰
Cheers for watching, to be honest as kids we didn't really visit Prestatyn, just drove though it on the way further up the coast! It does seem to be caravan central these days. It's such a shame that the ffrith beach complex is no more. Wills used to go there as a child. That Lontins is now closed permanently, which is probably for the best as it was so dilapidated. All the locals reckon it's going to house immigrants, but the last bit about it in the press said that Butlins were interested? Who knows, the beach outside it is still beautiful. Yep Craig certainly knew his stuff on the film, it was quite a funny day all in all! Cheers 🍻
Well, where are the people!? Hmmm...maybe this one deserves a low rating...?? I think getting the staff and having everything open would help with bringing the people for sure! Not so sure about the photo album tour either...probably being picky. Bruce and Otis
This was what the great British holiday once was (when it was open and not so sad!!) then because we’re so close to mainland Europe, cheap flight killed it! (The weather is better in Spain!!). You never know, the extreme heat of the continent could drive people back, but they’d need to spend a heck of a lot to get that park back to standard! It’s a shame as it’s a big site with lots of potential. We saw some interesting sites on the tour. Learnt a whole lot about the film. Cheers for joining us 🍻
It looks so vibrant in the movie - Great movie too!! It's very sad these days, but there's been an article in the news this week to say Butlins might buy it! Watch this space. Cheers for watching 🍻
The closest thing we've done to a film location tour was the bike ride through Central Park, the guide pointed out some of the locations from popular movies. It was kind of cool. This place has seen better days... we hope 🤭🤭 It's actually more astonishing the place is still open. Very brave of you guys 👍👍
Oo we’d love to do that! Just to go to Central Park would be amazingZ we’ve both been, just not together. Yep poor old Pontins has really seen better days. Cheers for watching 🍻
Thanks for trying a positive spin. It looks like the kind of place they send those on community service to a) work there, and if their crime was worse then b) holiday there. Apparently the Sun has refused to shine there as it doesn't want to be associated with the place. Unfortunately it would take deep pocketed passion project to revive the place as it'd cost millions to renovate with little to no chance to recoup. Sadly it'll remain an ailing patient on end-of-life life support until someone mercifully pulls the plug.
Thanks for watching. I’ve literally just seen on social media it’s closed tonight with immediate effect as has Camber Sands! It was a god forsaken place but you had to hand it to the bluecoats who were trying so hard and really did entertain the kids. The weather certainly didn’t help! I wonder what will happen to it now! Cheers 🍻
Thanks so much for watching. It’s such a shame isn’t it. You see how full of life it was back in the time of this movie. We wouldn’t stay either!! Cheers 🍻
The tour highlighted the problem - the camp has not changed very much. I am also annoyed Pontins let the camp run down - they could have easily invested in the camp and made a good profit. Giving many an enjoyable budget holiday but RIP Pontins Prestatyn.
It’s so so sad, as it sits next to a beautiful beach. The land itself is vast and if landscaped, could be a great park. The entertainers were really putting in a shift, I feel so sorry for them that their jobs have now gone. We’ll keep our ear to the ground to see if we can find out what’s going to happen - but so far it doesn’t sound good! Cheers for watching 🍻
Don’t they just. It’s got the bones of being a great place. They need to pull the accommodation down, landscape the place and build some lovely new places to stay. Fingers crossed this will happen one day. Cheers for watching 🍻
It is really sad as there is so much potential there. When you see the film and see how the British holiday was back in the day, it’s so sad what it’s become. We still had a fun day and learnt quite a lot about on the buses!! Cheers
I've stayed at Pontin's Prestatyn and Camber Sands in recent times, for a specific '80s act, as well as part of Holiday On The Buses. I think it's fine as it's a lot more relaxing and cheaper than Butlin's - where I've stayed, in all the camps, for exactly the same thing. Far from being put off, it made me think of stays in their other camps as an alternative to hotels or guesthouses.
You sure can't even recognize the old survivng cast of the show! Celebs are just ordinairy people to me but with boatlaods of cash-I don't worship tham and I don't tend to get starstruck. Tie in with new stars-I'm sure millienials never saw On the Busses. They could've tied in with the Spice Girl phenom.
Totally agree with you. Working in theatre we’ve both worked with our fair share! We’ve total respect for those who are incredible at their craft and are amazing actors - neither of us have time for the reality show celebs!!!
At age 13, Victoria switched from British programming to Nashvile. The dark age of TV. I wanted to tie the chord around my neck and throw it out the window. Hee Haw and Grand Old Oprey, Dukes of Hazard, The Waltons-Three very Dark Years! Then programming came to us from Hollywood-thank goodness! I'm only 55, which is to say way too young for country music!
Oo bad times (although I did like a bit of dukes of hazard as a kid - bought the box set last year!). Thanks so much for watching this video. We’re glad we managed to bring back some happy memories for you.Cheers 🍻
Yeah no fan of Dukes but i love the original Hawaii 5-0, original Star Trtek, not the next Degredation. Was a big fan of Junkyard wars and Grand Designs. Some good stuff comes to us from Britain like youtuber Walk with me Tim and Gabby.@@PostcardAndAPint
@@johndefalque5061 the dukes of hazard seemed so different to a kid in Wales! Got to say we do love a bit of Grand Designs! Walk with me Tim is a great channel! Oh to be as big as his channel some day! Cheers 🍻
You are in my mind as big as Tim. You're both good presenters, much easier to understand and relate to than Calum's Corner. If I get a motocycle next year, I will dio travel vlogs of Quebec.@@PostcardAndAPint
I'm only 55, which is to say way too young for country-too much of it is crying or sounds very bible belt, ignorant and untuned. I do love faster more upbeat bluegrass.@@PostcardAndAPint
Two 50 year olds on a day pass (questionable) will never have the same experience as two adults with three children. Two adults paying a day pass and slating the place says more about you than anybody going as a family.
To be fair, if you watch all of the Vlog, unlike many others, we want to find the positives, and we did find many! Yes the ents team work hard and the entertainment hub and restaurant are fine and everyone has a great time. I bet loads of families have a brilliant holiday there - but- you can’t take away that so much of it is now neglected, run down and to be honest sad! The weather probably didn’t help as on a sunny day you have that fantastic beach right outside the park. It’s such a shame that Britannia are running it into the ground as it was the pride of the parks back in the 80’s. There are far more defamatory vlogs than this one about the place, but thanks for watching anyway. Cheers 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPintthanks for the comeback, as most times you’ll find people don’t take well to criticism, however I can’t fault your response and honesty. Bravo.
@@PostcardAndAPint when is he doing the other two films as he knows a lot about holiday on the buses. Really enjoyed your film and shame to see a place fall apart and go down hill from what it one’s was.
Me and my family did stay there but we left after one day. We had water coming in from the outside in the bedroom and it was cold at night with the heating not working properly. I would not even send my kids there. Funny to say butlns will always be the best.
I’m not going to lie - when we did this tour, we were very glad we weren’t staying. It was such a shame as it has the bones of a great holiday camp, it’s just so neglected! I hope you had a better stay elsewhere! Cheers 🍻
You did the wrong thing in signalling that you didn't film in Croc's Adventure Land, because of the children. It implies that there's something wrong with doing that or that it's illegal. People need to know that, adult or child, if you're in a public place, you don't have any expectation of privacy. It causes so much trouble and is dangerous.
Cheers for the comment. You’re probably right, but we just feel uncomfortable filming when there are children around, even if technically we wouldn’t be doing any wrong. Thanks for watching though.
Hahaha I see why this is the lowest rated but it’s just proof you can have fun anywhere :) sure they could have put in more effort but if there is no bottom line what would we compare to?
You certainly can have fun anywhere and it was a good tour. It’s just sad to see what it’s become as it was once very much the place to go. Cheers for watching 🍻
This place is not very good now I think it's been closed down I went to this place last year and there was a hell of a storm the entertainment was quite nice but when we booked it they'v we but but one of the staff took us to the wrong chalet this place is good but it was filmed on a very famous program called holiday on buses but not quite sure it's gonna reopen Pontins should be just called crap ponds update it's not going to reopen it says on Google it's currently Permanently closed and when I went there everything was closed even swimming pool and fun fair rides and stuff but one thing it wasn't closed was entertainment and Arcade
Yes it's been closed for a while now. We managed to get on and do an On the Buses filming locations tour before it shut. It's such a shame as in its heyday, it looked a brilliant place where lots of happy memories were made. It looked really tired and shabby when we visited then. Cheers for watching 🍻
To be fair the day we were there, the folks on holiday seemed to be having a lovely time. It was mainly families with young kids and the kids were loving the entertainment. The place was in such bad repair though. Sad it’s closed taking all that history with it! 🍻
Standards aren't as high? Bwahahaha... 😂 People actually pay to stay there? Not just Pontins, but holiday parks in general? I can think of only one thing worse. A cruise. 😂 Reminds me of the 80s when Russian cruise ships plied the seas from Australia and NZ. Really cheap. Some friends went on one to NZ. And it sank. They said they wouldn't have missed it for the world. More fun than the actual cruise. Nobody died. It was not like the Titanic. (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS_Mikhail_Lermontov). No idea why this holiday park reminds of a Russian cruise liner that sank. 😂 Breakfast number 2 or breakfast like number 2? On The Buses, the pinnacle of British cinema. Not counting the Carry On series of course. That is the top of world cinema. I loved that era of British TV. On the Buses, Dad's Army, Are you being served? It Ain't half hot mum... Great whatever this was 😂 You two are legends.
People so indeed lay to stay there. We have a nice cozy house about 30 mins away, so it was never going to be us staying. Now we do like a cruise though, we’re going to have to convert you on that one! I think the holiday park does have a look of communism about it!! Sounds like your mates had a fun time on their cruise!! Glad you love that era of British TV - we do too, everything is all just a bit, buffed and fake these days. You can’t say anything without offending someone!! Cheers Shane and have. G’day 🍻
Really!!! Wow that is a surprise . It was still definitely holiday makers just a few months back. I wish someone would buy it off Britannia and give it the love it deserves as it’s on a gorgeous beach and could be an amazing holiday site. Cheers for watching. 🍻
To be honest we’ve seen other videos of them and they do look grim, but when you’ve got a house only 20 mins away, there was no way we were going to stay in one! From looking at other comments on our videos it seems to be luck of the draw! If you get one that’s not leaking, not stained and you don’t get attached by gulls, you might have a nice time! Cheers for watching 🍻
Worked there for 2 years cleaning windows Owners cut this back & prefer complaints about Seagull shit all over windows than paying cleaners Owners more interested in housing illegal immigrants for income nowadays
I believe this site has now been taken over by SERCO on behalf of the Home Office to house illegal migrants. I understand the site is being refurbished at the moment for this purpose. A TH-camr called "Walk with me Tim" actually stayed there about a year ago.
We love Walk With me Tim - but as we only live 25 mins away there was no way we were staying!!! The council are claiming that it’s not going to be used for that purpose, but in all honesty I don’t trust any of our local councils to be fair!! So you you could very well be right! Cheers for watching 🍻
@@glenmiller272 thanks for the comment. We actually have a video about what’s next for pontins coming out on Sunday and we have his quote on there. Cheers
I think the age of these holiday parks has passed people expect better some resorts in other countries certainly far better erm hi di hi *big like👍Au👁full view🥸*
We have other sorts on the U.K. that still do really well. Center Parcs are more often than not lovely houses and accommodations in forests. Haven seem to do pretty well. This one needs investment! Razing to the ground and starting again as it’s on a pretty amazing piece of land. cheers for watching 🍻
This isn't definite yet though is it? It's being strongly denied, although the site has just advertised for a handyman, so who knows!!! Cheers for watching 🍻
@@robnorman1365 not going to lie. Most people on the tour were very very into it!!! We did find the film amusing but used to tour to look at Pontins! Cheers for watching 🍻
Hiya. My wife and I were on the tour with you, I was the bald guy in the blue coat and my wife was in the green coat. Only just seen this as I didn't know you were doing a review etc. Very good video. It was announced yesterday that the camp was closing immediately. Unsure if it will ever reopen, but just so glad that we got to see the filming locations at last. All the best. X
We remember you! Yes, we were doing a video and Craig did one too. It’s such a shame, but kind of inevitable. I’m so glad we got to have a tour before it shut - especially the swimming pool! We’re glad you enjoyed our video. 🍻
Time moves, both for tastes in comedy and Pontins. I can still watch On The Buses, but not with any great amusement. Pontins Prestatyn Sands - yes, I owe quite a lot to that place. I worked as a Pianist there 77-79, but more importantly it led to discovery of other lines of entertainment that brought up our kids and bought houses. So my job (which was really well paid) was as Lounge Pianist upstairs in a big room, I notice all the windows now blanked out. Mostly elderly clientele, I was playing even for people born in the 1890s! I also did kids and adult talent shows. It was a lot of fun, and the place was rammed out for most weeks of a long 6 to 7 month season. A fantastic employer of musicians and entertainers. Staff accommodation was poor but liveable. Guest Chalets were getting a bit worn, often needing new curtains, kitchenware etc but people seemed very happy in general. Even though sold out to Coral Leisure, Sir Fred often appeared on the scene. Two reasons for now in 2023 I believe (1) changing tastes (2) Britannia Hotels ownership. I've seen so many lovely 5 star hotels I played piano in turned to Cr*p by Britannia - Pontins is no different than these. I think it's time to call it a day now and redevelop the site. Good video :)
Wow, thank you so much for sharing your memories. Larry who also worked there, was on the tour with us and it really did sound like such a fun and bustling site. We’d love to travel back in time just for a day to see it in its heyday. It sounds like Fred was passionate about the parks. We totally agree about Britannia, they are taking the great out of so many hotels around the country as well as the poor Pontins sites. We did enjoy our tour, I really hope the next buyers will do something amazing as it’s a great site on a beautiful beach - it will probably have to be pulled down though. Thanks again for watching and sharing your memories. Cheers 🍻
Great video. Good commentary and nicely put together. It was lovely to see you both go in with positive, open minds.
I have never visited here. To be honest never visited a Pontin's. However I am familiar with the great 'Holiday on the Buses'.
Change is happening everywhere. Where I do agree, to some extent, that changes and modernisation need to happen. Well things do look very dated. However it is about trying to keep that nostalgic charm going. As people get older, you find interest in things which did not even cross your mind when young.
Staff cut backs are never a good sign. They always start chopping from the bottom. You may be one of the lucky ones and keep your job - for time being.
Good timing with your video. Let's see what happens with the place?
Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and comment on our video. It was a fun day and to see all the locations from the film was great. It probably didn’t help that it was a wet and grey day - it certainly helped it look a lot more miserable. To be fair inside the entertainment hub people were having a good time, it was just outside and the accommodation that was just desperate. We’d love to know what’s going to happen to it and are certainly keeping our ear to the ground! It seems that Britannia are saying nothing, the council are saying nothing - we’ll see! It’s a prime piece of sea front so it would be lovely to see it developed into a gorgeous site and be loved and cared for. Cheers for watching and happy Christmas 🎄 🍻
Hi both we quite like the Prestatyn/ Talacre area especially for cycling but from this it seems the park needs a little revamp 😮 Good that you enjoyed the Buses tour but I agree and think the holiday park needs some work doing on it because Prestatyn Beach nearby is really quite nice. Shame that you got caught in the rain again 😐 people will think it always rains here in North Wales 🏴🤭 Good to look around as we did visit there for a church conference a few years back and it was a bit tired then. But such a good location especially with Talacre nearby. Good to see it again and you had your fav 2p machines 😃👍~ Anna
It was a really fun day and we really did want to make it all positive. It just needs some money and hands on work! It sits on a stunning beach and is close to some great resorts! Here’s hoping someone will give it the love it deserves one day. Cheers 🍻
Retro cool indeed. Sadly never seen “on the buses” will be checking that out, love me some 70s comedies. 2p falls Rach? Check! Mmm a lovely beige menu. Nice looking breakfast. £9.50? What thats criminal. Well the mountains haven’t moved Craig! Looks exactly the same! That bush is looking very healthy, maybe not 50 year healthy! Think it might need more than paint and a brush! Im pretty sure thats not fire regulation! Alcatraz! So much closed! Did seem pretty sad, what a shame. Well we have a Hornsea video coming out a week on Friday, it makes your Pontins look worldclass! ❤ 🍻
Cheers guys. The site is so much potential, it’s just not loved any more! It’s sad. Yep Craig is certainly into his movie location shots!! It was interesting, but we did use the tour to get onto the site! Hornsea can’t be as bad as Pontins??? Surely?? We look forward to your video! Maybe it’s just retro cool!! Cheers 🍻
Such a great review. I love the film and have watched it a few times over the years. I've never stayed at Pontins ever, but about 7 years ago my dad took us there to have a look at the place whilst we were in North Wales. I first noticed how quiet it was. My young kids played on the mini go karts which they enjoyed and the play area. We then had a ride around by the chalets and I just thought how depressing they looked. It looked like a ghost town. I saw just one person walking past. I like the nostalgic element of it though, but that's all.
It’s so sad isn’t it. It looks so vibrant in the film and full of life. The blue coats were really going for it on the entertainment but outside, it’s just desolate. Fingers crossed it will get the love it deserves one day. Thanks for watching 🍻
Hi both, This looked like a fascinating tour, I used to love the films back in the day and have a fascination with filming locations. Great vlog. I did stop at a similar pontius in Brixham some 20 plus years ago. It was run down, horrible damp accommodation, but some of the best holiday evening entertainment I had seen so put up with it. Never stayed at one again, though. It's such a shame that it has been so neglected as it could be such a wonderful place. Great vlog. 👍🏻👍🏻
It’s such a shame isn’t it. Whimsy it’s brilliant for the nostalgia and film locations tour, it really does need pulling down - well the accommodation does! I’m glad we got to visit but didn’t have to stay. Cheers for watching 🍻
That was brilliant guys 👍 we love on the buses and the nostalgic days of Pontins and Butlins.. shame its been run down .. really enjoyed watching 👌👌 have s great Christmas regards Glyn
Cheers Glyn. Glad you enjoyed it. Sadly it’s now closed completely, so we’re very glad we got onto this tour and got to see it one last time. No one know what the future holds for the site yet! As soon as we get an inkling we hope to do an update. Cheers for watching and happy Christmas 🎄 🍻
Congratulations my dear, viral video. Editing super. I wish you all success
Thank you so much Aishu. That’s really kind. You have done amazingly well too. 🍻
Great sharing of your adventure visiting this Pontins - Prestatyn I enjoy watching your tour thanks for sharing
Thanks so much for joining us. Cheers 🍻
Very nice upload! I like it very much !
Have a nice time. Greetings
Thank you so much for watching 🍻
i used to work there as a venue cleaner in 2018. i loved it. the problem there is the company who owns pontins are the problem. it just needs someone to care for the place and it will be back to the way it was. i loved on the buses too.
That’s the problem isn’t it! The bones of the place is all still there and it could be amazing. The ents team work really hard, but it’s just so neglected. Thanks so much for watching. Cheers 🍻
Loved On the Busses 🤣! Never saw the movie though🤪! Pool looked pretty well ok- apart from the sand. Great Arcade. Breakfast...hmmmm! The exterior did look like it needed some TLC, fresh flower baskets and weed free car park. Indeed the accommodation needs upgrading. Pity rally, the effort to keep this 'memory' alive does sort of feel sad and hard work. The place needs money, a new vision and a great PR team. Oh I know a couple who could do this. I do agree that a lot can be done to clean the place up needing only hands and feet. Indeed sad..... what a shame. Good on you for bringing this what once was a jewel to everyone's attention. 👌🇳🇱🙋♀🇳🇿
Thanks Anita. Yes basically the bones of a really great holiday camp is there, it’s just so neglected outside. The main hub is ok, it’s just the activities and outdoor stuff that is so depressing. I think any new buyer would pull down that accommodations and start again as it’s too far gone. Good for a retro film locations tour though! Cheers 🍻
I used to live in Prestatyn from 1960 until 1974. I worked in the kitchens during one school holiday. I wasn,t working there during the filming of the buses film . But I have nothing but wonderful memories of Prestatyn and Pontins.Shame it has gone down a bit.
Everyone we’ve spoken to who was there around that time says the same thing. They loved working there and it had a real family feel. It’s so sad to see it how it is now. Cheers for watching 🍻
Loved the passion of the 'On the Buses' superfan and tour guide. The TV series was shown on Australian TV for years (it kept getting repeated) I think it was broadcast long after they finished making it. Not long after we moved to Australia my parents discovered it on TV and they loved it, the comedy was so physical, their English was limited but they still got all the jokes. I think they claim it helped them learn English. A few years back I bought them the whole box series of all the episodes for Christmas, I'm now curious to see whether the movie was part of the set. I can't recall if we ever watched it.
It’s a cult classic for sure. How amazing that your parents learnt English through it. The films are available on DVD - we couldn’t find any download sites for them. Cheers for watching 🍻
Thank you for the “on the buses” tour. Th st was most interesting. Great coverage.
I have stayed at Pontins when young at the age of 6 to 10 years old and when in the pontins had a upgrade or something similar, lol.
Everyone takes pontins as they see it through there own eyes.
Definitely. It was quite the place to visit in the 70’s and 80’s. It’s so sad to see how neglected it is now. Fingers crossed a new buyer will see it right. 🍻
This is awesome 👏🏻 message to the people who really involve it. Everyone had a voice to talk on what everyone’s perspective. Greetings from Germany 🇩🇪.
Thanks so much Kenn. Cheers 🍻
Thanks to my friend for sharing this wonderful video.
Thanks for watching 🍻
This breaks my heart. We had fantastic holidays there year after year in the 80s. It was a fantastic site, the bluecoats were like celebrities. There was a boating lake, and amazing entertainment. I think the 2nd show area was the original one. I'd love to stay and compare my old photos
It’s so sad isn’t it! The boating lake is now the go karts - it’s so neglected d outside. The blue coats were doing a brilliant job, but the whole site shouts desperate. I know many people will have had the most amazing times in their childhoods. It was once a really popular site. Cheers for watching 🍻
Wow what an amazing video thank you both so much I had the opportunity to go there a couple of years ago I’m now glad I didn’t go 👍👍
Thanks so much for watching. It was an interesting tour, but we’re glad we didn’t have to stay!! Cheers 🍻
That was bizarre. I applaud your positivity. The fact is that the site is too big now for the amount of customers they have. They should sell half of the accommodation to the public and spend the money on revamping a smaller site. If not it will be closed within a year. Sad but true. Great video once again. ;-)
We honestly wanted every other Vlog we’d seen to be wrong! But it wasn’t to be. It’s such a shame as it sites next to a beautiful beach and the hub isn’t too bad. Private ownership and maybe plots for camping or vans would probably help loads! To be fair the accommodation needs pulling down and starting again. Cheers for watching 🍻
Great review guys,
Such a shame isn't it, if there were positives to be found, then postcard would have found them. Sadly, the mess everywhere and state of the chalets, aswell as practically everything being closed etc, speaks for itself. I (Shell) had quite a few holidays here as a child, my sister and i loved it, but it was so different back then. Saddened to see what it has become. We really hope it gets investment, as families need a cheap option for a holiday now more than ever. The on the buses tour was good fun though!😂👍. Not our bag at all, but as we have said before, you two can make a brilliant vlog no matter what you do🤗👍.
Have a great week
Shell and Pete😊👊👍
Ah thanks guys. Everyone we’ve spoken to of a ‘cough’ certain age! All have amazing memories of this place. We’d love to go back in time and see it bustling how it once was. It’s a heart breaking place now it really is. Cheers for your kind words, even Mr and Mrs positive failed on this one!! Cheers 🍻
Crocodile,crocodile…we’re marching in single file.
😃🍻
Used to go for family holidays at Pontin - Brixham is one that I remember. Looks very sad and forlorn at Prestatyn though these days.
It does. It used to be quite the place looking at the film. Thanks for watching 🍻
I’ve been to pontins every single year since I was born. I agree, the cheaper rooms aren’t the best. But I’ve always stayed in the club and I’ve never had a problem with cleanliness or anything. I’ve never gone in the pool though because it Dosent have the best of reputations for being clean. But I love pontins with all my heart and its a good holiday if you make it a good holiday. Thanks for reading guys 🤩🤩🤩
You’re absolutely right. A holiday is what you make it. I just wish they’d put on a few more staff! Cheers for watching 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint I absolutely love pontins Prestatyn with all my heart. I want to be a bluecoat as one of my first jobs so I can try and bring up its reputation, but I don’t think it’s salvageable anymore 🤣🤣
Hi guys brilliant as usual we used to love 'on the buses' back in the day. Shame about the state of the park. A little bit of TLC and sunshine 🌞 would be good for it. Best wishes ❤
Sunshine would have certainly helped! And a fair bit of manpower. Cheers for watching 🍻
Way to keep your journalistic integrity. It would be interesting to see how long you could survive at the Hoel/motel. The tour guide seemed like a Legend. Didn't know that the movie was thwarted by cricket. Never seen a sport take down a movie like that.
Er no thanks, we’ve got a lovely house about 10 miles away!! 🤣. Yep having trouble with my words in this one - probably water damage to the brain after all that rain! Cheers guys 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint 🍻
Just watched this and loved it,and good on you rach for saying a time when you can say anything without offending everybody and there cat.Made us both smile as were fans all those films and tv series from that era.Nowday in this orwellian society we live in everybody is afraid of upsetting anyone in this pc woke world we now live in.Like what you said i would love to go back just for one day.The pontins were we are is closed now.I think soon more pubs and all things we love will slowly all close.Was in a pub after dropping my daughter of to go america in london ,and on a saturday night it was nearly empty,in the 80'90' would been full.sorry waffling debs xx 💎🤗
Oo don’t get me started Debs! I’ll be on my soapbox all evening. We live in a very snowflake world these days. When I think back to how I was taught in school and dance - teachers would be locked up today - but… it made me a strong person???? Is that wrong?? Imll stop now. Yes it was a cool tour and the site was so retro, I just wish they’d give it a bit more love and care. Sending you and Phil big hugs and best wishes. 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint Thank you and ditto debs xx ps makes me happy i am not only one thinking we are living in george orwell's 1984 😱pps your both 💎 💎
Great video guys 😊shame it’s in such disrepair 😢
Isn’t it just! It’s a sad sight indeed. Cheers 🍻
You sneaky pair I was on this tour! I have spotted myself a couple of times, if I knew you were making a vlog I would’ve said a few words. I don’t look amused though but tbh I was very sad to see the state of the place. The film has such a feel good factor and I’m sure it was an amazing place back in the day. Shame they let it be ran into the ground eh
Hahaha - Richard and Craig both knew we were making a vlog. Like you we were so saddened to see what it had become. The film has so much joy in it and talking to people who visited and worked there back in the 70’s - it was a brilliant place. Now it’s closed for good! So at least we got to see it one last time. Cheers 🍻
Sorry that was worded wrong I meant I would’ve said a few words on the vlog and attempted to look a bit happier haha
I grew up on Vancouver Island, we got British TV until I was 13. I loved On the Busses, Dave Allne, The Goodies, The two Ronnies, The Avengers, The Saint. But as you said, the hell with ancient old glory-most people are not as into it as the guide. i wouldn't want to be within' 40' of Smoking Jack or Olive! I would pass on the tour! More important than that-give this shoddy resort a full makeover-New Glory!
Sounds like you lucked out with the era of tv you had as a kid! Some top shows there. The site actually closed this week, very suddenly and with immediate effect, so no one knows what’s going to happen there now. There won’t be any more nostalgia tours that’s for sure! Cheers 🍻
Well, I won't be rushing there any time soon 😅
I did go to Prestatyn for a week at a holiday camp years back ( I think it was haven) it rained every day (even more than where I live now)
Enjoyed the video tho 😊
Yes there is a haven site a mile or so before Pontins, great beach at that one too! The weather has been dreadful here since mid July! Cheers for watching 🍻
@PostcardAndAPint yea it had a great beach ⛱️ couldn't use it tho due to the lovely July weather
Hmm, interesting never heard of this movie. I am going have to see if I can find a copy.
It’s from that era of British film, before the pc brigade invaded! You’ll either love it or be very offended!! Cheers 🍻
Great video guys. We stayed in grt Yarmouth pontins years ago and it was disgusting. No pride in the place at all. This looks much the same. On the buses was a bit of a cult in the end. Seeing your tour of the place. I would have to say it’s a no from me. Hope you have a great week. Cheers 👍🏻🍻
We shamelessly used the tour to gain access to the site, but in doing so found appreciation for the film. It was a sad site once you got outside the main hub! We would love to travel back in time though to see it in its former glory when the great British seaside holiday was the thing! Cheers for watching and have a brilliant week 🍻
This place was amazing when i was a kid in the 90s. I think the problem is everything is there from when i was a kid but obviously whoever runs it doesn't care about the site and has run it into the ground. Its so sad as it used to be such a lovely place 😢
It is sad. There’s so much there, but it’s all neglected and hardly any of it open. The entertainment team work really hard in the dome, but outside it’s derelict in so many places. Cheers for watching 🍻
Oh my I just discovered this & see myself on it. I was on that tour, you sneaky pair haha. Now I’m TH-cam famous 😂 p.s what an absolute dive it was
It’s a fabulous camp…full of history and wonderful fam8ly memories. The entertainment is amazing👍
The history is absolutely amazing and I wish we could travel back in time and see it in its heyday. I just wish it was cared about now! Those entertainers really work hard. Cheers for watching 🍻
1988 and 1989 as a kid I had 2 belter holidays there. The place was pretty good back in the day.
I bet it was a brilliant place to go when everything was open and it was cared about. Cheers for watching 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint yeah different era. The cabaret room packed, everyone up dancing and having a great time. Really good
Such a shame that it has now closed, the park is crying out to be made good once again. Needs the right owner, with the right vision and a good few quid to inject into it.
You're so right. The last we heard was that Butlins were interested, which would be amazing, but it's all gone quiet now. Cheers for watching 🍻
Love your flog guys. You say it how it is .ty.
❤❤
Ah thank you so much. We're glad you enjoy them. Cheers 🍻
thanks for sharing this review on Holiday Park in Wales gets al little sad @15:13 thanks for telling it as it actually is L59
It is sad, especially when you think back to how it was in its prime. Cheers for watching 🍻
As someone how goes to the same pontins, I agree. Every year I go with my family and progressively has got to worse it I ashame
It’s so sad isn’t it. Inside the main building it’s fine and the entertainment team seem to work really hard, it’s just outside and the accommodation that looks so depressing. Cheers for watching 🍻
Congratulations for your work my friends! 💖
Thank you so much 🍻
This has always been the best Pontins. They need more staff to keep more facilities open. Was here in July. xx
You’re absolutely right, with more staff it has the makings of a great park! Cheers for watching 🍻
Stayed there once, first holiday I took my kids on… couldn’t wait to get home!
Ah bad times. The accommodation did look rough! The inside of the experiment place though wasn’t too bad. Cheers for watching 🍻
i wonder what happened to the old coin pusher machines, hope they wasn't smashed up
Oo we don't know. It was a pretty good arcade to be fair. Cheers for watching 🍻
Thanks for doing that. That would definitely be a hard pass for us. As everyone is saying, it's a shame. They just need a new buyer/investor to come in and spend some funds to modernise it a bit in areas and to afford staff for upkeep and I think it could be quite popular again..... even if that happens, however, the tour would not be on my radar😂
I think a new buyer would blintz the accommodation and start again, I think some of those buildings are too far gone. To be fair, the tour was fun and interesting (because we’d watched the film the night before!!). Would we stay? Nope, we’ve got a nice cozy house 10 miles away!! Cheers for watching 🍻
Thank you for sharing🙏🏽😊
Thank you for watching 🍻
It’s closed now permanently but back in the late 80s and 90s to me it was a good holiday resort and plenty going on regarding entertainment and the chalets were clean but I believe it went very down hill after reading the reviews, I wonder what will happen to it now?
Thanks for the comment, and good question. We released a new update video this week if you’re interested. Cheers. Why Did PONTINS Prestatyn Close? What's Next For Pontins?
th-cam.com/video/M2nvStTNwZw/w-d-xo.html
Some great memories of on the buses, Prestatyn is now sadly closed, it's probably due to management of all the parks not keeping up with maintenance, sad really.
It's such a fun film isn't it! We went back a few weeks back to see if we could find out anything else about its closure. We had a good chat to the guys on the gate which was interesting. Cheers for watching 🍻
Who did you book the tour with? 😊
Just saw it on Facebook! Then researched it. Booked direct with Richard cog hill who organised it.
@PostcardAndAPint I didn't realise they were doing it before the anniversary. Looks good shame about the park 😕
Ah, Prestatyn...A town that - When approached by rail from the east - Immediately presents a coastal town that's shadowed by the hills immediately inland, a grey and uninviting beach, and a pier that's so dilapidated it absolutely warrants a _UKCA_ mark. The only place in the UK that's darker and more foreboding than this are the deeper and darker aspects of my own mental health, and _neither_ are the best places to consider taking a hole-iday! 🕳
Admittedly, much of the former isn't the towns fault; Had it not been for Railway Mania sprouting new towns alongside every railway line in the country (And IIUC; It used to be four tracks wide from Chester to Llandudno Jct.) Prestatyn wouldn't have developed into a seaside town. It was a beautiful place until more recently, but it seems climate change might have all but removed the beautiful weather that used to be seen around those parts. ⛈
And on Pontins; Based on other videos I've seen recently, Pontins are now owned by a group whose only interest is taking money from guests and putting it straight in the profit. They don't care about investing in the parks, don't care how dilapidated they've become, and the extreme cost-cutting they're going to (You have to bring your own bedding and clean your own chalet on arrival, now) means every site will only ever have the bare minimum of staff the HSE tells them must be there for the site to operate at all. And of course, it's the budget holidaymakers (Those overworked families with children who just want a week away from it all, but can't afford to go abroad) who get hurt the most. 😢
So yeah, I'm not surprised about the low reviews Prestatyn gets...And regrettably, mismanaged eyesores - Like Pontins and the Pier - Really don't help the town at all. 🙁
But to end this on a more positive note: I have absolutely no interest in _On the Buses_ at all...But Craig seems so amiable I'd happily try out one of his tours all the same! 🥰
Cheers for watching, to be honest as kids we didn't really visit Prestatyn, just drove though it on the way further up the coast! It does seem to be caravan central these days. It's such a shame that the ffrith beach complex is no more. Wills used to go there as a child. That Lontins is now closed permanently, which is probably for the best as it was so dilapidated. All the locals reckon it's going to house immigrants, but the last bit about it in the press said that Butlins were interested? Who knows, the beach outside it is still beautiful. Yep Craig certainly knew his stuff on the film, it was quite a funny day all in all! Cheers 🍻
Well, where are the people!? Hmmm...maybe this one deserves a low rating...?? I think getting the staff and having everything open would help with bringing the people for sure! Not so sure about the photo album tour either...probably being picky. Bruce and Otis
This was what the great British holiday once was (when it was open and not so sad!!) then because we’re so close to mainland Europe, cheap flight killed it! (The weather is better in Spain!!). You never know, the extreme heat of the continent could drive people back, but they’d need to spend a heck of a lot to get that park back to standard! It’s a shame as it’s a big site with lots of potential. We saw some interesting sites on the tour. Learnt a whole lot about the film. Cheers for joining us 🍻
I never minded this pontins but I was a kid last time I went amd think it's cause Hoilday on the Buses was filmed there and I really like that movie
It looks so vibrant in the movie - Great movie too!! It's very sad these days, but there's been an article in the news this week to say Butlins might buy it! Watch this space. Cheers for watching 🍻
The closest thing we've done to a film location tour was the bike ride through Central Park, the guide pointed out some of the locations from popular movies. It was kind of cool. This place has seen better days... we hope 🤭🤭 It's actually more astonishing the place is still open. Very brave of you guys 👍👍
Oo we’d love to do that! Just to go to Central Park would be amazingZ we’ve both been, just not together. Yep poor old Pontins has really seen better days. Cheers for watching 🍻
Thanks for trying a positive spin. It looks like the kind of place they send those on community service to a) work there, and if their crime was worse then b) holiday there. Apparently the Sun has refused to shine there as it doesn't want to be associated with the place. Unfortunately it would take deep pocketed passion project to revive the place as it'd cost millions to renovate with little to no chance to recoup. Sadly it'll remain an ailing patient on end-of-life life support until someone mercifully pulls the plug.
Thanks for watching. I’ve literally just seen on social media it’s closed tonight with immediate effect as has Camber Sands! It was a god forsaken place but you had to hand it to the bluecoats who were trying so hard and really did entertain the kids. The weather certainly didn’t help! I wonder what will happen to it now! Cheers 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint They probably need to shut to apply more rust :D. Sad for the staff though. They did try their best.
I watched another on the buses movie on the weekend, love this video but no I would not stay there now
Thanks so much for watching. It’s such a shame isn’t it. You see how full of life it was back in the time of this movie. We wouldn’t stay either!! Cheers 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint it is a shame for sure
The tour highlighted the problem - the camp has not changed very much. I am also annoyed Pontins let the camp run down - they could have easily invested in the camp and made a good profit. Giving many an enjoyable budget holiday but RIP Pontins Prestatyn.
It’s so so sad, as it sits next to a beautiful beach. The land itself is vast and if landscaped, could be a great park. The entertainers were really putting in a shift, I feel so sorry for them that their jobs have now gone. We’ll keep our ear to the ground to see if we can find out what’s going to happen - but so far it doesn’t sound good! Cheers for watching 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPintglad i never went there. I'm more of a Talacre beach person. TV is politically correct today
@@peterwilliamskelhorn6675 we love Talacre - great choice!
@@PostcardAndAPint I've been going there since i was a 7 or 8 year old boy and had loads of memories
@@peterwilliamskelhorn6675 it’s a beautiful beach and lovely resort x
Such a shame to see they defo need to pull their socks up its a bit of an icon and should be the selling point
Don’t they just. It’s got the bones of being a great place. They need to pull the accommodation down, landscape the place and build some lovely new places to stay. Fingers crossed this will happen one day. Cheers for watching 🍻
Hi I loved the film have it on DVD, plus used to work there 2000, 2003
We love that era of British comedy. I bet it was a very different place to work in back then. Cheers for watching 🍻
Pontins Prestatyn twinned with Chernobyl. That looked grim, sad when it could be great.
It is really sad as there is so much potential there. When you see the film and see how the British holiday was back in the day, it’s so sad what it’s become. We still had a fun day and learnt quite a lot about on the buses!! Cheers
We went there around 83 the curtains was still the same as in the film
Brilliant. Thanks for watching 🍻
The Pontins in Prestatyn and Camber Sands are closed now
Yes we saw on the news. It was quite sudden! Cheers 🍻
Errrr you made my day Butler , I’ll get you for this ,come on get this bus owt !
It's a great film isn't it. Cheers 🍻
Such a shame really, lots of potential.
I know, so sad. Thanks for watching 🍻
I've stayed at Pontin's Prestatyn and Camber Sands in recent times, for a specific '80s act, as well as part of Holiday On The Buses. I think it's fine as it's a lot more relaxing and cheaper than Butlin's - where I've stayed, in all the camps, for exactly the same thing. Far from being put off, it made me think of stays in their other camps as an alternative to hotels or guesthouses.
You sure can't even recognize the old survivng cast of the show! Celebs are just ordinairy people to me but with boatlaods of cash-I don't worship tham and I don't tend to get starstruck. Tie in with new stars-I'm sure millienials never saw On the Busses. They could've tied in with the Spice Girl phenom.
Totally agree with you. Working in theatre we’ve both worked with our fair share! We’ve total respect for those who are incredible at their craft and are amazing actors - neither of us have time for the reality show celebs!!!
Well I like Gordon Ramsay and Philppe Echebest, but not tRump!@@PostcardAndAPint
Great review. Yes wou
D not take too much for a face lift.
The land is amazing. I think it would need to be rebuilt, but you could make a lovely site here. Cheers for watching 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint thank you guys for posting.
@@PostcardAndAPint then comes the vicious circle,
Nobody invests coz nobody goes. Nobody goes coz it needs a big investment.
At age 13, Victoria switched from British programming to Nashvile. The dark age of TV. I wanted to tie the chord around my neck and throw it out the window. Hee Haw and Grand Old Oprey, Dukes of Hazard, The Waltons-Three very Dark Years! Then programming came to us from Hollywood-thank goodness! I'm only 55, which is to say way too young for country music!
Oo bad times (although I did like a bit of dukes of hazard as a kid - bought the box set last year!). Thanks so much for watching this video. We’re glad we managed to bring back some happy memories for you.Cheers 🍻
Yeah no fan of Dukes but i love the original Hawaii 5-0, original Star Trtek, not the next Degredation. Was a big fan of Junkyard wars and Grand Designs. Some good stuff comes to us from Britain like youtuber Walk with me Tim and Gabby.@@PostcardAndAPint
@@johndefalque5061 the dukes of hazard seemed so different to a kid in Wales! Got to say we do love a bit of Grand Designs! Walk with me Tim is a great channel! Oh to be as big as his channel some day! Cheers 🍻
You are in my mind as big as Tim. You're both good presenters, much easier to understand and relate to than Calum's Corner. If I get a motocycle next year, I will dio travel vlogs of Quebec.@@PostcardAndAPint
I'm only 55, which is to say way too young for country-too much of it is crying or sounds very bible belt, ignorant and untuned. I do love faster more upbeat bluegrass.@@PostcardAndAPint
Two 50 year olds on a day pass (questionable) will never have the same experience as two adults with three children. Two adults paying a day pass and slating the place says more about you than anybody going as a family.
To be fair, if you watch all of the Vlog, unlike many others, we want to find the positives, and we did find many! Yes the ents team work hard and the entertainment hub and restaurant are fine and everyone has a great time. I bet loads of families have a brilliant holiday there - but- you can’t take away that so much of it is now neglected, run down and to be honest sad! The weather probably didn’t help as on a sunny day you have that fantastic beach right outside the park. It’s such a shame that Britannia are running it into the ground as it was the pride of the parks back in the 80’s. There are far more defamatory vlogs than this one about the place, but thanks for watching anyway. Cheers 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPintthanks for the comeback, as most times you’ll find people don’t take well to criticism, however I can’t fault your response and honesty. Bravo.
Where can you by the book and what’s the name off the book too.
I don’t think it’s out yet, but the guy who is writing it is called Richard Coghill. I’d google him to keep up with when he’s releasing it. Cheers 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint will do I’ll look out for it.
@@PostcardAndAPint when is he doing the other two films as he knows a lot about holiday on the buses. Really enjoyed your film and shame to see a place fall apart and go down hill from what it one’s was.
Me and my family did stay there but we left after one day. We had water coming in from the outside in the bedroom and it was cold at night with the heating not working properly. I would not even send my kids there. Funny to say butlns will always be the best.
I’m not going to lie - when we did this tour, we were very glad we weren’t staying. It was such a shame as it has the bones of a great holiday camp, it’s just so neglected! I hope you had a better stay elsewhere! Cheers 🍻
You did the wrong thing in signalling that you didn't film in Croc's Adventure Land, because of the children. It implies that there's something wrong with doing that or that it's illegal. People need to know that, adult or child, if you're in a public place, you don't have any expectation of privacy. It causes so much trouble and is dangerous.
Cheers for the comment. You’re probably right, but we just feel uncomfortable filming when there are children around, even if technically we wouldn’t be doing any wrong. Thanks for watching though.
Hahaha I see why this is the lowest rated but it’s just proof you can have fun anywhere :) sure they could have put in more effort but if there is no bottom line what would we compare to?
You certainly can have fun anywhere and it was a good tour. It’s just sad to see what it’s become as it was once very much the place to go. Cheers for watching 🍻
This place is not very good now I think it's been closed down I went to this place last year and there was a hell of a storm the entertainment was quite nice but when we booked it they'v we but but one of the staff took us to the wrong chalet this place is good but it was filmed on a very famous program called holiday on buses but not quite sure it's gonna reopen Pontins should be just called crap ponds update it's not going to reopen it says on Google it's currently Permanently closed and when I went there everything was closed even swimming pool and fun fair rides and stuff but one thing it wasn't closed was entertainment and Arcade
Yes it's been closed for a while now. We managed to get on and do an On the Buses filming locations tour before it shut. It's such a shame as in its heyday, it looked a brilliant place where lots of happy memories were made. It looked really tired and shabby when we visited then. Cheers for watching 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint thanks for the comment it is a bit sad as closed down 😞
Love you two what a great video
Thank you so much. We're glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for leaving this lovely comment!! Cheers 🍻
You no why ....brittannia own it ....say no more 😢
Yup, we have watched many a video about their hotels too. It’s so sad. Cheers for watching 🍻
Welcome both of you so professional on camera, thanks for doing rhyl ,live here myself cheers guys
@@oceanbeachsteve1619 ah thank you! We love Rhyl 🍻
Literally just got back from there today
We hope you had a good time. Cheers 🍻
That's a very large bush these days 🤣
You can’t beat a large bush! 🤣🍻
A bit like Fawlty Towers ...only not as funny ...
We love loads of the comedy from that era. Fawlty Towers was classic! Cheers for watching 🍻
It was never so much the place itself that made it bad, but the low life that went there.
To be fair the day we were there, the folks on holiday seemed to be having a lovely time. It was mainly families with young kids and the kids were loving the entertainment. The place was in such bad repair though. Sad it’s closed taking all that history with it! 🍻
Love the film but that campsite as add it 😢
Sad but true. Great film as you say. Cheers for watching 🍻
Standards aren't as high? Bwahahaha... 😂
People actually pay to stay there? Not just Pontins, but holiday parks in general? I can think of only one thing worse. A cruise. 😂 Reminds me of the 80s when Russian cruise ships plied the seas from Australia and NZ. Really cheap. Some friends went on one to NZ. And it sank. They said they wouldn't have missed it for the world. More fun than the actual cruise. Nobody died. It was not like the Titanic. (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS_Mikhail_Lermontov). No idea why this holiday park reminds of a Russian cruise liner that sank. 😂
Breakfast number 2 or breakfast like number 2?
On The Buses, the pinnacle of British cinema. Not counting the Carry On series of course. That is the top of world cinema.
I loved that era of British TV. On the Buses, Dad's Army, Are you being served? It Ain't half hot mum...
Great whatever this was 😂 You two are legends.
People so indeed lay to stay there. We have a nice cozy house about 30 mins away, so it was never going to be us staying. Now we do like a cruise though, we’re going to have to convert you on that one! I think the holiday park does have a look of communism about it!! Sounds like your mates had a fun time on their cruise!! Glad you love that era of British TV - we do too, everything is all just a bit, buffed and fake these days. You can’t say anything without offending someone!! Cheers Shane and have. G’day 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint "lay to stay"? Awesome! 😂 No wonder they trim the shrubbery
@@ShaneNixonFamily sorry fat thumbs! Guess it would get the punters in!
I am on the train coming back from pontins Prestatyn
We hope you had a brilliant time 🍻
I did
I loved when we whent to watch the show at night
@@bevsmith3483 yes they work really hard don’t they 🍻
Went here other day and its packed out with 800 Muslim immigrants all men being housed there absolutely disgrace in my eyes
Really!!! Wow that is a surprise . It was still definitely holiday makers just a few months back. I wish someone would buy it off Britannia and give it the love it deserves as it’s on a gorgeous beach and could be an amazing holiday site. Cheers for watching. 🍻
It needs Geoff and Josef mounds to take this place over
Their parks seems to be doing great, there’s a Lyon’s on every corner around Prestatyn and Rhyl! Cheers 🍻
900 quid a night though?
Sorry but i really don't know how you can comment on the state of the chalets without staying in them, they are absolutely hideous.
To be honest we’ve seen other videos of them and they do look grim, but when you’ve got a house only 20 mins away, there was no way we were going to stay in one! From looking at other comments on our videos it seems to be luck of the draw! If you get one that’s not leaking, not stained and you don’t get attached by gulls, you might have a nice time! Cheers for watching 🍻
Good review though
Thank you so much 🍻
Worked there for 2 years cleaning windows
Owners cut this back & prefer complaints about Seagull shit all over windows than paying cleaners
Owners more interested in housing illegal immigrants for income nowadays
Wow that must have been quite some job, there’s windows everywhere! Yes the seagulls have taken it over now. It’s so sad. Cheers for watching 🍻
Omg it's just shut down!
Yup just seen it on the news!! Camber Sands too!
I believe this site has now been taken over by SERCO on behalf of the Home Office to house illegal migrants. I understand the site is being refurbished at the moment for this purpose.
A TH-camr called "Walk with me Tim" actually stayed there about a year ago.
We love Walk With me Tim - but as we only live 25 mins away there was no way we were staying!!! The council are claiming that it’s not going to be used for that purpose, but in all honesty I don’t trust any of our local councils to be fair!! So you you could very well be right! Cheers for watching 🍻
As of now our MP Dr James Davies has been assured by the home office that the camp won't be used to accommodate migrants, but we'll see...
@@glenmiller272 thanks for the comment. We actually have a video about what’s next for pontins coming out on Sunday and we have his quote on there. Cheers
@@glenmiller272 MP's lie, and then lie about lying, so I wouldn't hold your breath!
0h my...such a shame yes get it sorted people pay to holiday there not fair !!!!!!!!!!!!
It is isn’t it. With a few more staff and a good clean, they could offer such a better service. Cheers for watching 🍻
it not here any more
Yes, we did a follow up video all about its closure. Cheers for watching 🍻
I think the age of these holiday parks has passed people expect better some resorts in other countries certainly far better erm hi di hi
*big like👍Au👁full view🥸*
We have other sorts on the U.K. that still do really well. Center Parcs are more often than not lovely houses and accommodations in forests. Haven seem to do pretty well. This one needs investment! Razing to the ground and starting again as it’s on a pretty amazing piece of land. cheers for watching 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPint yes guess as with lots of things about money
Now all migrant camps for the next 3 years at least 😂😂👏🏻👏🏻
This isn't definite yet though is it? It's being strongly denied, although the site has just advertised for a handyman, so who knows!!! Cheers for watching 🍻
I stayed there before it got shut down
Did you have a good time? We loved seeing it on the movie on the buses. It's looked in its prime then. Cheers for watching 🍻
Talk about milking it , they're going on like it's The Godfather that was filmed tbere was filmed there on the buses is shite
@@robnorman1365 not going to lie. Most people on the tour were very very into it!!! We did find the film amusing but used to tour to look at Pontins! Cheers for watching 🍻
I thought it was good
It used to be back in its heyday! We love to see it in the film on Holiday on the Buses. Cheers for watching 🍻
😂👏
Like deployed 👍
Cheers 🍻
Bloody dive.
The entertainment hub wasn’t too bad to be fair. We definitely would want to stay on a chalet though. Cheers for watching 🍻
Its the most you make of it reallyn ow isn't it
Absolutely. There were people there having a good holiday. Cheers for watching 🍻
Soon to be immigrant town.
We’ve heard those rumours too but no one has made a statement!!! Do you have the inside scoop????? Cheers 🍻
@@PostcardAndAPintVale of clwyd MP Dr James Davies has apparently been assured by the home office that it won't accommodate migrants