Latest news with #CenterParcs'
Scottish Sun
02-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
I found a Center Parcs alternative that's cheaper – for £74 you get a caravan with hot tub & kids eat FREE
Plus, how much a weekend at Center Parcs can set you back PARC LIFE I found a Center Parcs alternative that's cheaper – for £74 you get a caravan with hot tub & kids eat FREE Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MANY people love taking their kids to Center Parcs for a holiday - but it can be rather pricey at peak times. However, one savvy mum has revealed how she found a 'Center Parcs' alternative for just £74.50 a night - and it comes with heaps of perks. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Mum Nicole raved about a holiday park in Cumbria which is 'cheaper than Center Parcs' - and her caravan had a private hot tub Credit: tiktok@nicoletravelandlife 6 She said her kids ate free in the Coast and Country restaurant on site Credit: tiktok@nicoletravelandlife 6 The pool area has numerous sun loungers and an adults-only hour Credit: supplied 6 Nicole recommended the Wild Rose Holiday Park, near to the Lake District Credit: supplied Mum Nicole, who posts under @nicoletravelandlife, raved about the Wild Rose Holiday Park in Cumbria. She claimed the location felt like she was 'abroad' and she couldn't 'get over' how 'nice it was.' The family stayed in the holiday park's 'standard caravan', and Nicole claimed it was 'absolutely beautiful.' A highlight for her was the private hot tub outside, which had 'incredible views.' Inside, she said the caravan was 'spotless', had plenty of storage and came with absolutely everything you could need - and you 'literally just needed to bring your clothes.' She said in her clip, which has racked up over 17,500 likes: '[They] even give you a little box of bin bags, washing up tablets, everything like that. So you literally do not need to bring a thing.' The holiday park is also 'dog friendly', which she called a 'huge bonus', and the mum said they took advantage of the 'adults only swim' session, which was from 6pm to 7pm. Nicole also raved about the onsite restaurant, Coast and Country. She continued: 'They have children's entertainment, and children also eat free. 'So we got a family of four meal: two adults, two children. It cost £41, which I think's an absolute bargain. The English holiday resort that families say is a 'fancy Center Parcs' 'If you're a parent, you'll know how good this is, but in the restaurant, they have a little play area for your children to play in while you eat your meal.' Nicole said the highlights of the holiday park for her kids were the football pitch, the park and the live entertainment in the evenings - along with the games room. And if this wasn't enough, she shared how you can explore many exciting options nearby, including Windermere, seeing caves and going on walks. 6 The holiday park as a soft play in the restaurant to keep kids entertained Credit: supplied 6 Nicole claimed the location felt like she was 'abroad' Credit: supplied She said she would '100 per cent' recommend the holiday park as a 'perfect break away in the UK.' Many people were quick to comment on the video and give their thoughts. One person wrote: 'We've been as it's amazing! One of the best around!' Another added: 'Looks ace !!!' However, one wrote: 'Love to see my kids face when he sees that pool and I have to explain to him there's no way machine no rapids no cyclone. 'But you can have a little paddle if you like.' A weekend break at Center Parcs can vary significantly in price, but typically ranges from £499 to £949 or more, depending on the time of year.
The Irish Sun
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I found a Center Parcs alternative that's cheaper – for £74 you get a caravan with hot tub & kids eat FREE
MANY people love taking their kids to Center Parcs for a holiday - but it can be rather pricey at peak times. However, one savvy mum has revealed how she found a 6 Mum Nicole raved about a holiday park in Cumbria which is 'cheaper than Center Parcs' - and her caravan had a private hot tub Credit: tiktok@nicoletravelandlife 6 She said her kids ate free in the Coast and Country restaurant on site Credit: tiktok@nicoletravelandlife 6 The pool area has numerous sun loungers and an adults-only hour Credit: supplied 6 Nicole recommended the Wild Rose Holiday Park, near to the Lake District Credit: supplied Mum Nicole, who posts under Cumbria . She claimed the location felt like she was 'abroad' and she couldn't 'get over' how 'nice it was.' The family stayed in the holiday park's 'standard caravan', and Nicole claimed it was 'absolutely beautiful.' A highlight for her was the More on Center Parcs Inside, she said the caravan was 'spotless', had plenty of storage and came with absolutely everything you could need - and you 'literally just needed to bring your clothes.' She said in her clip, which has racked up over 17,500 likes: '[They] even give you a little box of bin bags, washing up tablets, everything like that. So you literally do not need to bring a thing.' The holiday park is also 'dog friendly', which she called a 'huge bonus', and the mum said they took advantage of the 'adults only swim' session, which was from 6pm to 7pm. Nicole also raved about the onsite restaurant, Coast and Country. Most read in Fabulous She continued: 'They have children's entertainment, and children also eat free. 'So we got a family of four meal: two adults, two children. It cost £41, which I think's an absolute bargain. The English holiday resort that families say is a 'fancy Center Parcs' 'If you're a parent, you'll know how good this is, but in the restaurant, they have a little play area for your children to play in while you eat your meal.' Nicole said the highlights of the football pitch, the park and the live entertainment in the evenings - along with the games room. And if this wasn't enough, she shared how you can explore many exciting options nearby, including Windermere, seeing caves and going on walks. 6 The holiday park as a soft play in the restaurant to keep kids entertained Credit: supplied 6 Nicole claimed the location felt like she was 'abroad' Credit: supplied She said she would '100 per cent' recommend the holiday park as a 'perfect break away in the UK.' Many people were quick to comment on the video and give their thoughts. One person wrote: 'We've been as it's amazing! One of the best around!' Another added: 'Looks ace !!!' However, one wrote: 'Love to see my kids face when he sees that pool and I have to explain to him there's no way machine no rapids no cyclone. 'But you can have a little paddle if you like.' A weekend break at Center Parcs can vary significantly in price, but typically ranges from £499 to £949 or more, depending on the time of year. How to survive six weeks of school summer holidays IF you are struggling with the six week summer holidays, you've come to the right place... BATTLING BOREDOM: Despite hours of activities and playdates, if your kids are already complaining there's nothing to do, parenting expert Liat Hughes Joshi says: 'Don't feel you have to organise every second of the holidays. Kids benefit from boredom and learn to make their own fun. 'Boredom can trigger creative and imaginative play but you need to encourage kids to get used to not being told how to spend their time. 'Ride out the pleas of boredom. Counter it with comments such as, 'What do you think you could do?' and maybe have a list of 'I'm bored' activity ideas on the fridge.' SCREEN OVERLOAD: It's tempting during the holidays to rely on a digital babysitter but don't let them gawp their whole summer away in front of a screen. Liat says: 'It's unfair to expect older kids to power down but it's important to set some ground rules. 'Set family tech rules together. If you're often distracted by your phone, follow the rules too. Maybe tell the kids they aren't allowed any screen time until they've done set chores, some exercise, or a board game. 'Are there times when you'd like to ban screens completely? Perhaps during dinner or when they have friends over to visit. 'Tech is a battleground for parents, but you have to set boundaries. Stand firm and be prepared to be unpopular.' TOO MUCH TOGETHERNESS: You love your kids, but being with them 24/7 can be exhausting. Do not feel guilty if you need a bit of downtime. Liat says: 'If you're juggling work and household tasks as well as occupying the kids, it's normal to start feeling overwhelmed or jaded and in need of some peace. 'If you can't afford or don't want to send your kids to all-day camps, look for free kids' workshops so you can get on with jobs or have a break for a couple of hours. 'Seeking a spell of quiet every now and then doesn't make you a bad parent — in fact it will probably make you more positive and enthusiastic when you are with the kids.' SCHEDULING CONFLICT: Schedules can go out the window during holidays, but late nights and early mornings can mean tired and unhappy children. Dr Tamara Bugembe, paediatrician and founder of says: 'Children get grumpy, test boundaries and become challenging when routines are broken. 'Sticking to some kind of routine during the holidays is a good idea. 'We release hormones at different times of the day and when regular meal times and bed times are broken, it causes dips and peaks in mood. 'Holidays are about having fun but an early night once or twice a week will make everyone happier.' EXCESS ENERGY: Make sure kids get out in the fresh air to tire them out — and make them healthier and happier. Dr Bugembe says: 'Sunshine also tops up vital vitamin D levels which helps improve bone strength and energy levels in children. Our levels run low in winter so let the kids stock up in warmer weather. 'Letting them run around in shorts and a T-shirt is the best way to top up. Make sure they're wearing sun cream, get outside and have fun. 'Encourage them to try healthy habits such as cycling and walking. They'll hopefully get hooked and want to carry them on when the weather gets colder.'
The Irish Sun
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Center Parcs launches first-ever new adventure attraction at UK holiday park in time for summer
CENTER Parcs has opened a new treetop experience at one of their holiday parks in the UK - the first of its kind for the resort. Opening at Longleat July 1, Adventure Nets allows families to "bounce, balance, leap and climb through the stunning redwood canopy", according to 5 Center Parcs has opened a new treetop experience at Longleat Forest in Wiltshire with trampolines and high ropes Credit: Supplied 5 Adventure Nets allows families to "bounce, balance, leap and climb through the stunning redwood canopy" Credit: Supplied The attraction features a number of treehouses that are connected by suspended nets, seven metres in the air. Visitors can crawl through tunnels, cross rope bridges and enjoy a Families on the course can also use TAG Active technology which allows guests to 'tag' beacons around the course and play TAG games such as Sarah Deverill, village director at Center Parcs, said: "We're thrilled to launch our first-ever Adventure Nets attraction which will allow kids to connect with nature in a daring way, building their confidence and sense of adventure immersed amongst the stunning redwood at Read more on Center Parcs "Our team have worked around the clock to ensure the experience is ready to welcome families to bounce, climb and laugh their way through the treetops this summer ." The Adventure Nets are available to pre-book for all Longleat Forest guests and is open to children aged three and older. In total, each session is 70-minutes long - which includes a 10-minute safety briefing, followed by 60-minutes of play. Center Parcs' site at Longleat Forest is located within an Most read in News Travel The park has multiple activities on offer, including a themed gold adventure and escape rooms. There are also a number of restaurants at the site. First images revealed of Center Parcs Scotland village For those looking for a bit of R&R, there is the Aqua Sana Forest Spa - boasting 24 spa experiences including the 'Forest Cavern' and the 'Moonlight Steam Room'. One recent visitor said: "A beautiful setting and fun-packed few days, we didn't want to leave! "The lodge was clean and comfortable, staff super-friendly, and choice of things to do varied, but the swimming pool was the best!" Center Parcs also recently revealed the plans for its 5 The attraction features a number of treehouses that are connected by suspended nets, seven metres in the air Credit: Supplied 5 In total, each session is 70-minutes long - which includes a 10-minute safety briefing, followed by 60-minutes of play Credit: Supplied Proposals include waterside In total, the park is expected to feature around 700 lodges. The Scottish village will also include a number of indoor and outdoor activities, retail outlets, bars, restaurants, and signature swimming and spa attractions. Plus, the affordable UK holiday park mums say is like 5 Center Parcs also recently revealed the plans for its first Scotland site Credit: Supplied
Daily Mirror
14-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
'I compared Center Parcs to Butlins and there's really only one obvious verdict'
Within the first six months of 2025 I have visited Center Parcs' Longleat Forest and Butlin's Minehead parks - and the contrasts couldn't be more stark Two of the leading UK holiday brands have a lot to offer, but it's exactly what they serve up to unassuming holidaymakers that makes them worlds apart. When I told my husband I wanted to compare Center Parcs with Butlin's, he told me it was impossible to compare apples with pears. In other words, their concepts are very different. But after a long-weekend at Center Parcs Longleat Forest in March, and then an additional four days at Butlin's in Minehead, there's a lot to be said for both and what they bring to the table in terms of staycations. Butlin's serves the British seaside culture, whereas Center Parcs plunges its guests into the middle of the countryside where urban life feels a million miles away. So yes, of course, they are going to be different and have their own appeals. And they don't promise to be like each other, either. Rocking up at Center Parcs in March, the wooden-clad lodges, towering trees, and abundant cyclists told me that this park is for the adventuring family. The ones who like to explore, walk, cycle and stay as active as possible. Let's be honest, you often need a holiday to recover from an action-packed stay at Center Parcs. Then, in the height of spring arriving at Minehead's Butlin's, the sea breeze, the far-away buzz of fairground rides and loud laughter of children told me this break was all about the simple concept of making children feel as included and entertained as possible. It's kids first and adults a close second. For anyone who hasn't yet been to either and could be looking to book a break to Butlin's or Center Parcs, I've done all the hard comparisons for you. Center Parcs vs. Butlins: Budgets The first obvious thing to mention is Center Parcs is way more expensive than Butlin's. Not only have I been to Longleat, but also to its Elveden Forest branch in Suffolk where the branding and concept is identical. You'd easily spend well over £600 for a basic family lodge at any of its locations, whereas Butlin's could set you back just over £100 for a basic apartment at either Minehead, Skegness or Bognor Regis. Butlin's offers smaller apartments, hotel-like rooms or self-catering complexes which all vary in cost. Center Parcs also has some variety but its price point starts much higher, with some of its luxurious lodges coming with hot-tubs, saunas and enclosed gardens. It also has designated lodges for people with dogs, which comes at an additional cost. But it's not just the price of staying over you'd need to be aware of. At Butlin's shows are free, as are the indoor and outdoor fairgrounds, something I found incredibly good value for money. We paid an additional £15 per person for VIP wristbands which enabled us to queue jump and get seated first for the performances. Swimming is also free and the indoor and outdoor pools can be used as often as you'd like. At Center Parcs swimming is also free, but any other activity such as quad biking, pottery painting, seeing owls, and hiring bikes come at an extra cost. But you are not pressured into buying into any of this - you can visit a Center Parcs site and bring your own bikes, explore the on-site parks and walking trails and not spend much money at all. If you are wanting to immerse yourself in the full CP experience, it is going to cost you. So to conclude - a budget-friendly break is far simpler to complete at Butlin's than it is at Center Parcs, but it's not impossible at either. Center Parcs vs. Butlins: Entertainment day and night One striking similarity at both parks is, by around 10pm, most of the noise and buzz dies down. After-all these are family-orientated complexes. Butlin's does, however, offer big weekenders for adults and these types of events go on well into the night. Guests are reminded of others who are in bed much earlier, and are asked to keep the noise down as they filter back to their accommodation. There's no doubt entertainment is Butlin's middle name, with organised shows, character meet-and-greets and fairground attractions taking centre stage. Center Parcs holds things like quiz nights and has a bustling sports bar at each site which is where adults are seen spending much time. But its concept is less-imposing, and with the site way more sprawled out, I've never heard noise after-dark. If you're looking for an upbeat break where bed-times don't matter, Butlin's should be your first choice. If you want to shut the noise away on your terms, it's Center Parcs all the way. Center Parcs vs Butlin's: Things to do Both holiday parks have more than enough to do - but I'd say Center Parcs has more of a variety than Butlin's. This is because there's a lot of activities for families and adults. Butlin's is very child-orientated if you are there for a standard week's holiday. By the end of our fourth day I was more than ready to come home and felt as though we had done everything the park had to offer. With Center Parcs, unless you have an unlimited bank account and an infinite amount of time, you'll never get around all the activities in a single stay. This means you can keep returning and there will always be something new to do next time. But much of the activities are outdoors based, so if you've picked an unfortunate week weather wise, wellies and waterproofs are essential. Plus, the sites are varied. At Longleat there's a little road train which takes guests across the park due to its sheer size, but there's nothing like this at Elveden as it's much smaller and not so hilly. Some of CP's sites also house some incredible spas, which are so sought after that people living nearby visit these alone. Of course, treatments and visiting all costs. Butlin's main event tents are dominated by arcade machines, which obviously require cash to operate. They also have a bowling alley and other small scale games for the family to participate in. At Center Parcs, they also have designated areas with arcade-like entertainment, pre-booked smaller scale activities such as teddy bear designing, hair braiding and face painting along with 10-pin bowling. Both sites have great outdoor parks for children, with Butlin's recently spending millions on a new interactive playground, with lights and sounds, for kids at Minehead. Center Parcs has wooden, rustic playgrounds - equally as fun - with around the same amount of facilities. Center Parcs vs. Butlin's: Eating arrangements At Butlin's you can pay for a half-board eating plan which requires you to go to one or two of its on-site restaurants and pick from a buffet-style choice. This obviously means you can fill up at breakfast time, have a light snack at lunch and be ready for dinner. It's by far the cheapest option on site, with food court dining priced at £24.95 per adult, per day, and under £7 per child, per day. Premium dining is only a fraction more expensive at £32.95 per day for an adult and just under £10 for a child. There's also fish and chips and Costa coffee outlets for anyone wanting to eat on-the-go. There are a number of restaurants scattered around the park for anyone wanting to eat-out and experience table service. We brought some of our own food, and our apartment was set up with a microwave and oven if we wanted to cook our own, but we didn't need to bother. Center Parcs offers no such dining plans. We nearly always do a food shop before arriving and cook our own dinners in the apartment. Center Parcs houses big name restaurants such as Bella Italia, Pret-a-Manger and Las Iguanas to name a few. It also allows you to pre-book takeaways from their on-site restaurants delivered directly to your lodge. My verdict My husband was right - directly comparing both parks is no easy feat. They both have their pros and cons, but ultimately, for me, Center Parcs wins my vote. I found the parks more modern, clean, and varied. And I came away with the ability to have stayed longer had the option been there. My four-year-old also fell in love with the pools, which had various flumes and areas designated for children. We never go over-board when it comes to shelling out on endless activities, and I like the fact you don't need to feel obliged to do so. Center Parcs had way more for adults to do, with kids in mind too. Butlin's was without a doubt a great break for my little one who was buzzing at the shows, the fairground rides and the arcade amusements. She loved the football ground, and the swimming. But as the pool's flumes were too big for her to go on, she wasn't itching to go back. I was also more than ready to go on our last day. If you're looking for a budget break by the sea, Butlin's is where it's at. But if you're into the countryside and could walk and cycle for hours away from civilisation, Center Parcs is the holiday for you.
Daily Record
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Mum discovers 'cheap Center Parcs' with pool, hot tub and no pre-booking
With summer on the horizon, many families are looking for affordable UK staycations. One mum has shared her 'cheap Center Parcs' alternative that's perfect for a last-minute getaway. As the summer season approaches and school holidays beckon, families are scouting for their annual retreats. With an eye on simplicity and budget, UK staycations are becoming increasingly popular over foreign jaunts. Center Parcs, beloved by adults and children alike with its numerous UK locations, is renowned for its wide range of activities. However, those planning extended stays or travelling with larger groups are on the lookout for more cost-effective alternatives. Louise, a mother of two children aged nine and six, has suggested a thrifty substitute that she claims offers a similar experience without the hefty price tag, reports Nottinghamshire Live. "If you're looking for a cheap Center Parcs alternative, then this could be right up your street. We spent three nights here for just under 500 quid, or £40 per person per night," Louise explained in her 'Bored with Kids' TikTok video. She's referring to Sherwood Castle Retreat in Newark, Nottinghamshire. In clips from her video, Louise noted: "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." The mum offered viewers a virtual tour of their woodland lodge, highlighting the kitchen and dining area, a snug living room complete with TV and children's bunk beds, not to mention a quaint log burner. She excitedly shared, "The woodland lodges have hot tubs, and are pretty similar to the Center Parcs ones with the layout," and included, "We even had a log burner here, which was lovely at night." She continued, detailing the resort's amenities: "Plus you have tennis, bowling, and swimming available before five 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 five am every morning." Despite many highlights, she indicated drawbacks such as the absence of Wi-Fi and underwhelming play park and mini golf options. Louise concluded her video by saying, "However, it is less than half the price of the cheapest Center Parcs lodge, it's in a beautiful location, and there are loads of lovely places to visit nearby". Her video has stirred discussions among viewers, with one reminiscing warmly, "We stayed there, it was amazing." The reviews were positive, with several viewers expressing gratitude to Louise for uncovering the gem, echoing sentiments like, "This place looks great and brilliant price." Sherwood Castle Holiday Forest is a stunning retreat set within 40 acres of enchanting woodland in the legendary Robin Hood Country, positioned near Rufford, Nottinghamshire. It's just two miles south of Ollerton and around 20 miles north of Nottingham. The forest resort offers guests a selection of seven types of spacious, self-catering pine lodges, which can accommodate from two to eight visitors. Some lodges even boast the luxury of hot tub baths for the ultimate relaxation amongst the trees. These traditional wooden lodges sit quietly in the dense, green woodland, allowing visitors to rise each morning to the tranquil sounds of nature. Every lodge provides guests with cosy fireplaces, TV entertainment, well-stocked kitchens, and private bathrooms complete with complimentary toiletries. The accommodation options include various layouts, with some featuring both double and bunk bedrooms, making them ideal for family stays. Facilities and Things to Do An array of amenities awaits visitors on-site, including: A bowling alley, minimarket, and children's playground Swimming pool and leisure hall Woodland trails, outdoor activities, an animal corner, bug hotel and bird feeding viewing wall Archery center Games room and family rooms For enthusiasts of the "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" film, the park holds an added allure with original movie props displayed for an authentic touch. Leveraging its famed connection to the tales of Robin Hood, the holiday park ensures a captivating and unique stay amid this ancient and storied forest setting.
