The bits people usually want to know

Check-in is from 3pm on your arrival day. Check-out is by 10am on departure day. Late check-outs by arrangement only.

There's a key safe at the caravan. Jane will WhatsApp you the access code, your pitch number and directions the day before you arrive.

Just message Jane on WhatsApp — 07991 018210. Late arrivals are absolutely fine, we just like to know.

Yes — up to 2 well-behaved dogs are welcome, and Crimdon beach is dog-friendly all year. Just tell us when you book. We ask that dogs aren't left alone in the caravan and are kept off the furniture and beds.

We're strictly non-smoking inside the caravan, including e-cigarettes and vapes. Smoking is fine outside, away from doors and windows.

No — Joy By The Sea is a family holiday home. We don't permit parties, stag/hen groups or single-sex groups. The booking is for the named guests only.

Maximum occupancy is 6 people including children. Drop us a message before booking if you're not sure.

All bed linen and bath towels are included and made up for your arrival. We don't provide beach towels — bring your own.

Yes — free Wi-Fi throughout. Strong enough for Netflix and a catch-up on emails.

Yes — dedicated off-pitch parking for 2 cars.

There are a few steps up to the entrance and a step into the shower, so it isn't suitable for wheelchair users. If you have specific needs, please ask Jane before booking — she'll be straight with you about whether it'll work.

A 25% deposit at the time of booking, by card via Stripe. The balance is due 14 days before your arrival — we'll email you a payment link. No fees, just the booking total.

We hold £100 against your card. We don't charge it unless there's damage or excessive cleaning needed, and it's released automatically within 14 days of departure.

Full refund 30+ days before arrival, 50% within 14–30 days, and no refund within 14 days. We always recommend taking out travel insurance.

Minimum stays are 2 nights in low season, 3 nights in mid season (and most weekends), and full weeks (Sat–Sat) in peak summer.

Sometimes — if a week is unbooked close to the date, message Jane and ask. No promises, but no harm in asking.

Crimdon Dene is run by Parkdean and is typically open from March to early November. If you're after winter dates, ask Jane to confirm.

Crimdon's sandy beach is on the park's doorstep — about a 5-minute walk through the dunes.

Yes — full access to the indoor pool & jacuzzi, the Ocean Edge entertainment centre, amusement arcade, sports court and The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant. All run by Parkdean.

Plenty — HMS Trincomalee & the National Museum of the Royal Navy (15 mins), Castle Eden Dene (15 mins), Seaham's sea-glass beaches (25 mins), Beamish Museum (40 mins), and the Durham Heritage Coast path straight from the park. See the Location page for more.

Just let Jane know on 07991 018210 or WhatsApp — we'll sort it as quickly as we can. Honest accidents happen and we don't penalise guests for fair wear and tear.

There's a welcome folder in the kitchen with everything labelled. If it's not there, WhatsApp Jane.