'I stayed in a UK Center Parcs dupe and the location was simply unreal'

Daily Mirror

a day ago

Louise, a mum-of-two, spent three nights at the retreat with her family and was very impressed with the facilities - as well as the price tag
Center Parcs is a renowned UK staycation staple for many Brits, with vast parks in some of the most beautiful, rural settings.
With sites in Suffolk, Bedfordshire, Wiltshire and Newark to name a few, getting to one of these locations couldn't be easier for many holidaymakers who don't want the fuss of flying. But, with many activities costing extra once there, the parks are often touted as expensive, and can rack up quite the bill.
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But one mum has revealed a budget-friendly option. Louise, a mum of two children aged nine and six, has come up with a cost-effective alternative that she claims offers a comparable experience without breaking the bank.
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"If you're looking for a cheap Center Parcs alternative, then this could be right up your street," she said on her Bored with Kids TikTok video. "We spent three nights here for just under 500 quid, or £40 per person per night."
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She's talking about Sherwood Castle Retreat in Newark, Nottinghamshire, a holiday site around 14-miles from its Center Parcs competitor. In snippets from her video, Louise remarked: "It is heavily influenced by its location near Sherwood Forest and by the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. There are loads of original props from the movie here, including the actual reception.", reports Nottinghamshire Live.
The mum took to sharing a video of their delightful woodland lodge, replete with kitchen and dining area, a snug living room complete with TV and children's bunk beds, not forgetting the alluring log burner. She explained: "The woodland lodges have hot tubs, and are pretty similar to the Centre Parcs ones with the layout," further revealing, "We even had a log burner here, which was lovely at night."
She expressed additional perks: "Plus you have tennis, bowling, and swimming available before 5 pm. You can actually book out the whole pool for yourselves if you wanted. They even have a little animal farm here too. Although you probably don't wanna be staying too close to it as they have two massive cockerels and these woke us up before 5am everyday."
However, the lack of Wi-Fi and underwhelming play park and mini golf offerings were downsides she didn't shy away from noting. Wrapping up her review, Louise added: "However, it is less than half the price of the cheapest Centre Parcs lodge, it's in a beautiful location, and there are loads of lovely places to visit nearby,".
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Louise's video has since stirred up chatter online, with viewers chiming in with their thoughts, including one who recalled, "We stayed there, it was amazing." Several followers expressed gratitude to Louise for highlighting such a gem, with comments pouring in like, "This place looks great and brilliant price."
Nestled in a 40-acre woodland in the legendary Sherwood Forest, the Sherwood Castle Holiday Forest is a serene getaway situated near Rufford, Nottinghamshire, just two miles south of Ollerton and a mere stone's throw, 20 miles north, from Nottingham.
Offering an enchanting escape, the retreat boasts seven different styles of cosy detached pine lodges that can accommodate anywhere from 2 to 8 people, with some boasting their own private jacuzzis. Set amongst the rustling trees of this storied forest, guests are greeted every morning by the tranquil sounds of nature.
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The lodges come complete with modern comforts like en-suites stocked with complimentary toiletries, fitted kitchens for self-catering stays, toasty fireplaces, and televisions. Several units also offer a mix of double and bunk bedrooms, catering perfectly to family holidays.
Facilities and activities
Visitors looking to immerse themselves in the Robin Hood legend will find no shortage of activities, including:
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Movie buffs of "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" will delight at props from the movie, thoughtfully displayed throughout the park, enhancing the magical ambiance connected to the Lore of Robin Hood and providing a truly distinctive experience right in the cradle of English history.
How to get there
Sherwood Castle Holiday Forest is situated on Rufford Lane. To avoid a wet crossing, it's advised that visitors use the entrance from Wellow side of Rufford Lane, staying clear of the ford (stream).
Journeying by Train from London: Hop on an LNER service departing from London King's Cross to Newark North Gate (a swift travel time of 1 hour 27 minutes), followed by a short taxi or bus jaunt that will whisk you to the tranquillity of Sherwood Forest, close to Ollerton.
By Car from London: Head north on the M25 to A1(M), continue on the A1 past Peterborough, take the A614 exit towards Ollerton/Rufford, then follow Rufford Lane from the Wellow end - total journey approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, covering 120-130 miles from London.
Where to book
The retreat can be booked on various sites, including their own website, where a stay begins at £92 per day at the time of writing. You can also secure your spot at the retreat on Booking.com and TripAdvisor.