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North Wales Live
14-06-2025
- North Wales Live
Center Parcs reviewed - a weekend as relaxing or exciting as you want it to be
If you were going to design a perfect, relaxing family holiday - this would probably be it. A cabin in the woods, an open fire, no traffic. Birds and animals coming up to your window every day, dappled sunlight glinting off the lakes. There's a spa just a few minutes from your door, and enough places to eat so you won't have to cook for days. They have got this down to a fine art. We first visited Center Parcs Longleat 16 years ago and we've been back a few times - enjoying each and every break Our children have grown up with it, so we've seen them enjoy everything from children's clubs to junior activities - and this time they got to come to the spa with us and even go on a quad biking safari. The joy of Center Parcs is that it is a holiday you personalise, putting together whatever you want - as relaxing or active as you like, as social or isolated as you want. We took a long weekend break, turning up on Friday morning to make the most of the facilities. After grabbing a coffee in the Plaza we headed to the pool - the Subtropical Swimming Paradise. On a warm day, the outdoor part of the pool is a very pleasant place to be - and there are plenty of slides, rides and rapids for those who want a bit more adventure. We were surprised that neither the Plaza nor the pool seemed too busy. In previous years, crossover days have been hectic - you could queue to get a changing cubicle. But despite it being a bank holiday weekend everything was very efficient and calm. After our swim we picked up our bikes from the cycle centre - a great way to get around the park with the layout specifically designed so it is accessible for all ages and abilities. We then headed to the Pancake House in the village centre for a delicious lunch out in the sunshine, overlooking the forest. We got into our lodge in the afternoon, at the far end of the park from the entrance, but right next to a land-train stop, and - as mentioned - those bikes come in handy. The lodges are fully equipped with everything you need. Facilities vary depending on what you book, but you should get a full kitchen with all mod cons - from microwave and dishwasher to coffee machine and in some cases a wine fridge. It's worth ordering a grocery delivery so you have all the supplies you need. And you can always head out to the Parc Market to top up on essentials and treats. If you want to keep the cost down, there is a Morrisons not far from the park so stock up before heading in. You could spend your whole weekend in the lodge. Throw open the patio doors and soak in the fauna and flora - brilliant sunshine or showers and storms are all fantastic through the filter of the forest. But there is also far too much to do in the park not to take advantage. On Saturday, we spent three hours enjoying all the Aqua Sana spa has to offer. Room after room of heat, steam, soothing sound and scents. There are cosy places where you can curl up and sleep, or steam and sauna rooms, each themed to something different - volcanic heat, woodland campfire, Nordic vibes, etc. There is a pool at the heart of the spa, hot tubs out back and two floors of spaces where you will find something to relax and recharge you. The down side of the spa being such a great attraction and being open to people who aren't staying at the park is that for us, it was busy. It's not really a problem with so many rooms to choose from, but the signs reminding people that the spaces are supposed to be quiet and relaxing seem to have disappeared, so you may need to move from room to room to find somewhere where groups aren't chattering through the experience. But when you find a quiet spot - it is everything. After the spa, we headed down to the lake for a quiet outdoor lunch on the beach. Then we went into the sports centre for games and coffee. In the evening, we headed out to a restaurant. There are plenty of places to choose from - chain names to unique cuisine. Go French, South American, USA, Gastropub, Italian, Chinese, Indian etc etc etc. We ate at Las Iguanas, a familiar name and a great selection for a family with different tastes. It was a delicious meal and a fun atmosphere in the heart of the park. Sunday was that quad biking safari I mentioned. You get all the gear, a detailed lesson in safety and how to operate the bikes, then you head off around a course for 45 minutes of high(ish) speed fun. The course leaders are great at keeping an eye on everyone and will split the group into those who want to go a bit faster, and those who want to take it a little easier. The course has plenty of hills, turns, banks and challenges so you can drift and slide - or enjoy a more sedate experience. Great fun, and the course leaders really knew what they were doing and kept everyone safe and happy. The afternoon was more swimming, and shopping in the various stores. Then for dinner we ordered in - each picking from a different restaurant and it all arrived together, hot and delicious - pizza, chinese and Indian all at the same time. As I've said, there are hundreds of activities and events to choose from. But for us, some of the best times were just sitting quietly on the lodge with the door open, absorbing the sights, sounds and smells of the forest. Squirrels, deer, birds, rabbits and hedgehogs come up to explore and see if you're willing to throw them a few seeds or peanuts Sunday night we headed out to the sports bar for a fun family quiz and a few drinks. Inexpensive and a great family activity It may be that the bedrooms are perfect for relaxing, or just that we tired ourselves out - but we all slept well in the comfortable lodge.. On Monday, the last day, we headed out of the lodge by 10 a.m. You get to explore the park for the rest of the day — enjoy activities from sports and escape rooms to swimming, arts and crafts, horse riding, Segways, or nature trails. There is a handy app that lets you find out what's on and book your places. It will also remind you when you need to be somewhere and even give you directions to get there. When we left, we headed across the road for a few hours enjoying Longleat Safari Park - a great way to end a family weekend packed with fun, relaxation, adventure and most of all memories. Center Parcs Longleat is this month launching Adventure Nets - Navigate through a series of suspended nets, tunnels, a ball zone and treehouses in an activity for thrill-seekers. Exclusive to Center Parcs, the Adventure Nets course also includes TAG Active technology, where you'll use a wristband to 'tag' beacons around the course and score points. You can choose whether you play competitve, timed TAG games or just explore and play during your session. The cheapest Center Parcs breaks are mid-week, term-time stays in basic woodland lodges or apartments—especially outside school holidays. You could find a Woodland Lodge at £25 per person per night based on six people staying together at Longleat, with even cheaper breaks available at Sherwood Forest. There are also one-bedroom apartments which generally offer lower prices - from £200 total for four nights. Even in peak season, such as July, and with a family of four you can secure a three-bed Woodland Lodge in some parcs from £800 - £55 per person per night. 3-bedroom 'New Style' Woodland lodges offer the best value compared to Executive or Exclusive options. Center Parcs offers a range of prices, depending on the facilities you want in your accommodation. Full details, prices and booking options available here.
Wales Online
14-06-2025
- Wales Online
Center Parcs reviewed - a weekend as relaxing or exciting as you want it to be
Center Parcs reviewed - a weekend as relaxing or exciting as you want it to be The parcs offer a slice of calm in the heart of the UK and Ireland, with six locations to choose from If you were going to design a perfect, relaxing family holiday - this would probably be it. A cabin in the woods, an open fire, no traffic. Birds and animals coming up to your window every day, dappled sunlight glinting off the lakes. There's a spa just a few minutes from your door, and enough places to eat so you won't have to cook for days. They have got this down to a fine art. We first visited Center Parcs Longleat 16 years ago and we've been back a few times - enjoying each and every break Our children have grown up with it, so we've seen them enjoy everything from children's clubs to junior activities - and this time they got to come to the spa with us and even go on a quad biking safari. The joy of Center Parcs is that it is a holiday you personalise, putting together whatever you want - as relaxing or active as you like, as social or isolated as you want. Article continues below We took a long weekend break, turning up on Friday morning to make the most of the facilities. After grabbing a coffee in the Plaza we headed to the pool - the Subtropical Swimming Paradise. On a warm day, the outdoor part of the pool is a very pleasant place to be - and there are plenty of slides, rides and rapids for those who want a bit more adventure. We were surprised that neither the Plaza nor the pool seemed too busy. In previous years, crossover days have been hectic - you could queue to get a changing cubicle. But despite it being a bank holiday weekend everything was very efficient and calm. After our swim we picked up our bikes from the cycle centre - a great way to get around the park with the layout specifically designed so it is accessible for all ages and abilities. We then headed to the Pancake House in the village centre for a delicious lunch out in the sunshine, overlooking the forest. We got into our lodge in the afternoon, at the far end of the park from the entrance, but right next to a land-train stop, and - as mentioned - those bikes come in handy. The lodges are fully equipped with everything you need. Facilities vary depending on what you book, but you should get a full kitchen with all mod cons - from microwave and dishwasher to coffee machine and in some cases a wine fridge. It's worth ordering a grocery delivery so you have all the supplies you need. And you can always head out to the Parc Market to top up on essentials and treats. If you want to keep the cost down, there is a Morrisons not far from the park so stock up before heading in. You could spend your whole weekend in the lodge. Throw open the patio doors and soak in the fauna and flora - brilliant sunshine or showers and storms are all fantastic through the filter of the forest. But there is also far too much to do in the park not to take advantage. On Saturday, we spent three hours enjoying all the Aqua Sana spa has to offer. Room after room of heat, steam, soothing sound and scents. There are cosy places where you can curl up and sleep, or steam and sauna rooms, each themed to something different - volcanic heat, woodland campfire, Nordic vibes, etc. There is a pool at the heart of the spa, hot tubs out back and two floors of spaces where you will find something to relax and recharge you. The down side of the spa being such a great attraction and being open to people who aren't staying at the park is that for us, it was busy. It's not really a problem with so many rooms to choose from, but the signs reminding people that the spaces are supposed to be quiet and relaxing seem to have disappeared, so you may need to move from room to room to find somewhere where groups aren't chattering through the experience. But when you find a quiet spot - it is everything. After the spa, we headed down to the lake for a quiet outdoor lunch on the beach. Then we went into the sports centre for games and coffee. In the evening, we headed out to a restaurant. There are plenty of places to choose from - chain names to unique cuisine. Go French, South American, USA, Gastropub, Italian, Chinese, Indian etc etc etc. We ate at Las Iguanas, a familiar name and a great selection for a family with different tastes. It was a delicious meal and a fun atmosphere in the heart of the park. Sunday was that quad biking safari I mentioned. You get all the gear, a detailed lesson in safety and how to operate the bikes, then you head off around a course for 45 minutes of high(ish) speed fun. The course leaders are great at keeping an eye on everyone and will split the group into those who want to go a bit faster, and those who want to take it a little easier. The course has plenty of hills, turns, banks and challenges so you can drift and slide - or enjoy a more sedate experience. Great fun, and the course leaders really knew what they were doing and kept everyone safe and happy. The afternoon was more swimming, and shopping in the various stores. Then for dinner we ordered in - each picking from a different restaurant and it all arrived together, hot and delicious - pizza, chinese and Indian all at the same time. As I've said, there are hundreds of activities and events to choose from. But for us, some of the best times were just sitting quietly on the lodge with the door open, absorbing the sights, sounds and smells of the forest. Squirrels, deer, birds, rabbits and hedgehogs come up to explore and see if you're willing to throw them a few seeds or peanuts Sunday night we headed out to the sports bar for a fun family quiz and a few drinks. Inexpensive and a great family activity It may be that the bedrooms are perfect for relaxing, or just that we tired ourselves out - but we all slept well in the comfortable lodge.. On Monday, the last day, we headed out of the lodge by 10 a.m. You get to explore the park for the rest of the day — enjoy activities from sports and escape rooms to swimming, arts and crafts, horse riding, Segways, or nature trails. There is a handy app that lets you find out what's on and book your places. It will also remind you when you need to be somewhere and even give you directions to get there. When we left, we headed across the road for a few hours enjoying Longleat Safari Park - a great way to end a family weekend packed with fun, relaxation, adventure and most of all memories. Center Parcs Longleat is this month launching Adventure Nets - Navigate through a series of suspended nets, tunnels, a ball zone and treehouses in an activity for thrill-seekers. Exclusive to Center Parcs, the Adventure Nets course also includes TAG Active technology, where you'll use a wristband to 'tag' beacons around the course and score points. You can choose whether you play competitve, timed TAG games or just explore and play during your session. The cheapest Center Parcs breaks are mid-week, term-time stays in basic woodland lodges or apartments—especially outside school holidays. You could find a Woodland Lodge at £25 per person per night based on six people staying together at Longleat, with even cheaper breaks available at Sherwood Forest. There are also one-bedroom apartments which generally offer lower prices - from £200 total for four nights. Even in peak season, such as July, and with a family of four you can secure a three-bed Woodland Lodge in some parcs from £800 - £55 per person per night. 3-bedroom 'New Style' Woodland lodges offer the best value compared to Executive or Exclusive options. Article continues below Center Parcs offers a range of prices, depending on the facilities you want in your accommodation. Full details, prices and booking options available here.
Daily Mirror
21-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Huge Center Parcs £67 million expansion as guests warned over work starting
A popular Center Parcs resort is undergoing a huge £67 million expansion, which will see 200 new lodges added to the site. However, guests have been warned the upgrade may cause some disruption Center Parcs has warned customers over potential disruption, as it ploughs ahead with a huge expansion. Whether you're a sucker for the Subtropical Swimming Paradise and wave machine, or love to stroll through the forest after splurging out at the Pancake House - a trip to Centre Parcs is like no other. The holiday complex, which first came to the UK back in 1987, aims to bring 'people and nature together'. Its site, which tend to be set amongst vast stretches of woodlands, feature all your typical holiday camp facilities - such as an indoor swimming pools, water slides, arcades, restaurants, shops and a spa. But, guests can also work up a sweat thanks to the numerous activities on offer - spanning from badminton and tennis to archery and yoga. Originating in the Netherlands, Center Parcs now has 28 resorts across Europe, including six in the UK. Over in Ireland, the resort's Longford Forest is a popular choice - and is currently undergoing a huge €80 million (around £76 million) refurb. The huge investment, which was first announced back in 2021, include the addition of 200 new lodges, including four of the brand's iconic treehouses. These premium accommodation types sleep up to eight people, and come with a games den, outdoor hot tub, private parking and dedicated 'Treehouse Host'. Alongside new lodges, Center Parcs also has plans to extend its existing leisure facilities, restaurants, cafés, as well as the Subtropical Swimming Paradise and Aqua Sana Spa. In a 2021 press release, Center Parcs said the investment would create 250 permanent jobs, as well as a further 300 jobs during construction. "As part of our ongoing development, we are currently constructing new lodges and facilities at Center Parcs Longford Forest," the resort states on its website. "During your stay, you may notice increased construction traffic around the village and hear some noise from the works taking place." Center Parcs confirmed that the works will not impact the village facilities, which will remain open as normal. "We will work hard to keep disruption to a minimum," it added. "Thank you for bearing with us during this time." If you're wanting to visit a Center Parcs lodge a bit closer to home, you can choose from Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire; Woburn Forest, Bedfordshire; Elveden Forest, Suffolk; Whinfell Forest, Cumbria, or Longleat Forest, Wiltshire. May half-term breaks start from £799. Prices include entry to the Subtropical Swimming Paradise, but do not include activities such as tennis, badminton, bowling, or access to the spa. You can book these ahead of your visit on the Center Parcs app.
The Herald Scotland
24-04-2025
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Center Parcs unveils further details for proposed Scottish site
The updated masterplan incorporates technical refinements and feedback gathered from earlier consultations, ensuring the proposals reflect the views and aspirations of the local community. Key highlights include new visuals and more detailed designs for the village centre, showcasing the iconic Subtropical Swimming Paradise, the luxurious Aqua Sana Forest Spa, and a selection of family-friendly retail and dining options, including the much-loved Pancake House. Attendees also learned more about the layout of the accommodation, which includes woodland lodges and an apartment block, as well as a range of outdoor and adventure facilities such as tree trekking, adventure golf, and a zip wire. READ MORE: Center Parcs plans for first Scottish site take 'major step forward' Center Parcs unveils masterplan for proposed Scottish Borders village Center Parcs unveils zoning plan for proposed Scottish Borders village Additional detail was also shared on the "carefully designed" lochs, wildflower meadows, nature walks, and wetlands of the development. A dedicated Nature and Heritage Centre—complete with an adjacent restaurant and coffee shop - "will be both educational and a welcome spot for guests to relax". The masterplan also outlines extensive landscaping and screening measures "to ensure the village blends seamlessly into the surrounding natural environment". Meanwhile, "carefully integrated paths and access roads" have been designed to "preserve the village's tranquillity while enhancing guests' connection to the surrounding natural landscape". This latest consultation follows previous events in Lilliesleaf in February, where the preliminary zoning plan was revealed, and in Denholm last month, where the first iteration of the masterplan was shared. The final public consultation event will take place in Hawick on Tuesday, May 20 with a Community Open Day being hosted on Wednesday, May 21, where further detail will be revealed including new CGI of the proposed development. An updated version of the village masterplan (Image: Center Parcs) Center Parcs plans to submit a formal planning application to Scottish Borders Council this summer. Colin McKinlay, CEO of Center Parcs, said: "We're pleased to share the latest version of the masterplan with the community and show how their feedback is helping to shape the future of the Scottish Borders village. From the layout of our lodges to the design of key facilities like the Subtropical Swimming Paradise and Aqua Sana Forest Spa, every detail has been carefully considered to reflect the unique character of the location. We have made good progress so far in our design, technical and consultation work and we are committed to continuing positive collaboration as we move towards submitting our planning application." Center Parcs currently operates six villages across the UK and Ireland and brings over 35 years of experience in delivering high-quality, family short breaks. If planning permission is granted for the Scottish Borders site, the development is expected to generate between 750 and 800 jobs during the construction phase. Once operational, the village is expected to create approximately 1,200 permanent, non-seasonal roles—offering a wide range of career opportunities for local residents, including management positions. The total investment in the project is estimated at between £350 million and £400 million.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Yahoo
The St. Johns River: 30 experiences to explore the scenic waterway
Take a trip on the St. Johns River, whether by boat or by wandering its shores on foot, and it's possible to imagine a time when saber-toothed cats and mastodons wandered the Florida peninsula or the Timucua people inhabited its banks. Modern-day explorers can find natural serenity and plenty of places for a full immersion in the wilderness along Florida's longer river, which stretches for 310 miles as it flows north before meeting with the Atlantic Ocean just outside of Jacksonville. Central Florida's portion of the 'River of Lakes' leaves many experiences for adventurers to dive into — from springs to waterfront restaurants and scenic boat tours. There are 148 known springs along the St. Johns River, leaving many places for swimmers and snorkelers to cool off and splash around. In Central Florida, the most popular of these is Blue Spring State Park, a wintertime haven for manatees and a summertime oasis for tourists and locals alike. Though a little further from the river itself, DeLeon Springs also flows into the St. Johns and offers opportunities for swimming, diving, boat tours and eating pancakes at the Old Sugar Mill Pancake House. Gemini Springs and Green Springs both flow into Sanford's Lake Monroe, one of the larger lakes along the St. Johns River. Though neither allows swimming, the parks make for great places to have a picnic or take a stroll. The Wekiva River also flows into the St. Johns, which is fed by Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs. Both of these offer places to swim (or tube at Kelly Park) and relax during a sunny day outdoors. Ocala National Forest is chock full of springs that flow into the St. Johns River, including Alexander, Juniper, Silver Glen and Salt Springs. Silver Springs also joins the St. Johns by way of the Ocklawaha River. Plenty of parks and trails offer the chance to get up close to the St. Johns without getting wet. Black Bear Wilderness Area, for example, takes hikers on a 7-mile loop with well-maintained boardwalks right along the river's edge. Nearby, the nearly 5-mile Sanford Riverwalk gives cyclists, runners and walkers a chance to enjoy views of Lake Monroe. Other outdoor areas that share a connection with the St. Johns River include Mullet Lake Park, Little Big Econ State Forest, Hontoon Island State Park and Lake Beresford Park. In the future, DeBary's 170-acre Alexander Island will allow the public access to the St. Johns River on land right across from the Black Bear Wilderness Area. From scenic boat tours to kayaking and sailing, there are no shortage of methods for exploring the St. Johns River by water. The St. Johns Rivership Co. has multiple cruises a week that depart from Sanford, including dinner and lunch excursions and 'Rockin' on the River' every Friday. A St. Johns River Nature Cruise departs from Blue Spring State Park daily. Airboat tours are available at a number of locations, including Camp Holly in Melbourne, Airboat Rides at Midway in Christmas, the Black Hammock in Oviedo and Twister Airboat Rides at Lone Cabbage Fish Camp in Cocoa. Boat rentals are available at venues such as Highland Park Fish Camp and Holly Bluff Marina, both in DeLand. Prime places for kayaking and paddleboarding include the Wekiva River and Econlockhatchee River, both of which flow into the St. Johns. For seafood lovers who also enjoy great views, the St. Johns offers many areas for waterfront dining. Venues include the Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill in Geneva, Gators Riverside Grille in Sanford, St. Johns River Steak and Seafood in Sanford, Swamp House Riverfront Grill in DeBary and Drifters Waterfront in Astor. St. Johns Riverkeeper, the primary nonprofit that protects and defends the river, encourages visitors to adopt environmentally friendly practices while visiting and urges people to consider environmental stewardship. 310 miles, 8 days on the St. Johns River: An epic kayaking odyssey from source to sea Boaters should be mindful of loose items to prevent litter and avoid leaking fluids into the water. People who live within the St. Johns River watershed, which includes the Wekiva River and Econlockhatchee River, are encouraged to create a river-friendly yard by using fertilizer responsibly, avoiding pesticides, using organic mulch and selecting native plants. The St. Johns Riverkeeper's website has many more tips for those looking to give back and plenty of more places to explore along Florida's longest river. Visit or to learn more. Find me @PConnPie on Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@
