'Better than Center Parcs' holiday park an hour from Stoke-on-Trent has spa and hot tubs - and it's cheaper too
The term 'relaxing' is rarely used when describing family getaways, particularly those involving youngsters. Parents with older children are also on the lookout for ways to keep their little ones entertained, leading to the popularity of spots like Center Parcs, known for their indoor swimming areas and plethora of activities albeit at a steep price.
Yet, Emma Gill, a journalist and astute mother, discovered that Darwin Forest Country Park offers an experience comparable to its more famous counterpart but in a serene woodland setting that's easier on the wallet. Situated just a stone's throw from Matlock on the precipice of the Peak District, it boasts a picturesque one-hour drive from the Stoke-on-Trent area.
Emma recounts her break saying: "We arrived on a Friday afternoon for a three-night stay in one of its 137 luxury lodges - the pet-friendly Classic Vogue with two bedrooms, a private hot tub and gated decking, which is always a plus for those with children or pets."
READ MORE:NHS says do this if you have Covid symptoms as new contagious XEC strain found in UK
READ MORE:Mum opens nail salon to help fund cost of visas after Staffordshire move
She elaborated: "We were able to park our car next to the lodge, saving us from having to leave it in the communal car park and make the dreaded walk back."
On the topic of facilities, she observed: "Our kitchen was fully equipped with everything we needed, although we kept meals simple with pizzas, breakfasts and snacks, knowing we would be dining out during part of our stay," as reported by the Express. "We always made time for TV, and the kids loved the flat-screen TV with Freeview and Chromecast for streaming."
She recounted their experience, explaining: "Despite the long queue for tickets, we were pleasantly surprised by the reliable wi-fi and managed to secure our tickets thanks to a pre-sale code. The only fitting way to celebrate such a victory was with a relaxing dip in the hot tub, providing much-needed relief after the stressful event."
Further sharing details about their weekend, she said: "This set the tone for our upcoming trip to Matlock on Saturday, where we indulged in some retail therapy, strolled around Hall Leys Park and took a cable car ride to the stunning Heights of Abraham - an award-winning hilltop estate boasting breathtaking views, adventure playgrounds, cavern tours, trails and much more."
Detailing the activities at their accommodation, she added: "Even without leaving the Darwin Forest site, there's plenty to keep children of all ages entertained, including a Little Monkeys indoor soft play centre, mini golf, woodland trails, a Trim Trak and bookable activities such as archery, zorbing and underwater sea scooters."
Describing a full day at the site, she told us: "We dedicated our entire Sunday to exploring the site, walking our dog through the forest, enjoying air hockey and arcade games in the Activity Den and taking a trip to the swimming pool, which is free for guests. While I decided to skip the gym overlooking the pool, I couldn't resist the opportunity to visit the adjoining spa, complete with a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, for a mere £4."
When Emma and her family ventured out, she said: "Having heard rave reviews about the on-site Foresters bar and restaurant, we decided to give it a try during our stay and opted for a Sunday lunch there. The bar area is dog-friendly, allowing Milo to join us, although he was eyeing our scrumptious turkey, pork and beef dinners with roast potatoes, roasted root veg and red wine gravy. Unfortunately for him, he didn't stand a chance.
"After a brief five-minute stroll from the restaurant, we were back at our lodge, ready for another night of hot tub relaxation and television."
In conclusion, Emma added: "It seems that family breaks can indeed be relaxing, provided you find the right location - and being nestled in the heart of a 47-acre woodland paradise certainly helps."
A two-bedroom lodge, accommodating a family of four, starts from £369 for a short break. Breaks are offered as either four nights from Monday to Friday or three nights from Friday to Monday, with options for seven-night stays as well.