River Dart Country Park

Owned by the Simpson family for four generations, the estate on which the award-winning River Dart Country Park sits has seen diversification, ambition and investment in its future for many years.

However, it wasn’t until 1976 that the estate took off in an entirely new direction, when the Simpson family saw an opportunity to turn a pocket of land over to camping, touring and adventure experiences.

Since then, the River Dart Country Park has grown into a visitor attraction that draws thousands of locals as well as tourists from across the world to this enchanting retreat, comprising 90 acres of woodland on the banks of the River Dart, part of the 1200-acre Holne Estate.

Renowned for its camping, touring, B&B options and outdoor facilities, River Dart Country Park is a year round attraction that has become a focal point for activities such as high ropes and zip wires, white water kayaking and a wide range of family friendly events.

More than that, the park offers great food, indoor climbing experiences, and an enviable list of activities, all of which are thrown into the day ticket.

During any visit you’ll see children gallivanting about, taking on the commando assault course, tyre swings or losing themselves in a magical world of play in the wooden fort or on the iconic Pirate Ship, which sits in the middle of the water-park area. Throw into that mix Dare Devil experiences that you can buy, such as water zorbing, kayaking, and off-road biking on courses designed by ex-pro BMXer Kye Forte, and you have the ultimate adventure day out.

But it doesn’t end there. There’s laser clay pigeon experiences, pony rides, salmon and sea trout fishing, even an inflatable assault course to discover. Add in adventure days that encompass everything from rock climbing and high beam tree-top walks, to caving, and you have an attraction that’s perfect for big kids of all ages. No wonder so many buy season tickets.

One of the other factors that sets River Dart Country Park aside is its commitment to developing a more sustainable business, where it minimises its impact on both the local and wider environment. This vision led to the construction of a hydroelectric generator back in 2007 using water from the River Dart, followed by the inclusion of a woodchip biomass district heating scheme, solar PV scheme, composter and a “Zero to Landfill” waste recycling policy.

Constant investment in the business requires excellent planning, both in terms of Mark’s visionary approach to the next big thing, but also in respect of ensuring that improvements are made as tax efficiently as possible. This is where Simpkins Edwards comes in.

Jon Williams, partner comments: “The River Dart Country Park has gone from strength to strength in recent years, supported by Mark’s clear vision for the future and the continuing investment in the fabric of the property and the experiences on offer. Maximising tax reliefs and planning around the utilisation of capital allowances, including the annual investment allowance and enhanced reliefs for energy efficient assets, are a key part of the services that we provide to the company.”

“During five years of working with Mark and his wife, Susan, the family’s wider business interests have also developed, and it is rewarding to be a sounding board for investment and financing decisions, providing advice on the structuring of new enterprises.”

“A fundamental part of Simpkins Edwards’ role with our owner-managed businesses of all sizes involves keeping an eye on “the big picture” and taking a joined-up approach to business and family tax planning. Maintaining a complete view of activities, income sources and financial objectives enables us to advise on the structure and timing of remuneration and profit extraction to make optimum use of available allowances and manage marginal rates of tax appropriately.”

Commenting on his relationship with Simpkins Edwards, Mark Simpson says: “We’ve found it very reassuring having such expertise on the end of the phone. In our case, having Jon Williams ready to help and answer any of our questions has been great. River Dart Country Park would have no hesitation in recommending Simpkins Edwards’ services to other businesses.”

As for the future, River Dart Country Park continues to focus on its wedding and corporate venue at Holne Park House, as well as growing its range of experiences for adventurous families with children aged from 5 to 15 years old, plus school groups, youth groups and professionals looking for something that little bit different.

www.riverdart.co.uk / 01364 652511