I’ve wanted to go to Center Parcs for practically all my life – the big kid never left me! I had a friend at school who used to go to the Longleat Forest location every summer. Meanwhile, I was flying off to Florida — you’d think that would feel like a win, but it’s funny what actually sticks with you as a kid. Center Parcs always seemed like this magical woodland retreat full of adventures, and I’d always dreamed of experiencing it myself.
Fast forward to now – and in 2023, I finally made it happen for my twins’ 10th birthday! A special milestone and a long-held dream all wrapped into one unforgettable trip. As someone who’s always on the lookout for ways to make things more efficient, more fun, and less stressful, I thought I’d share our rookie mistakes and the things I’ll do differently next time (we’re already excited to return in 2026!).
So if you’re planning your first (or next) visit to Center Parcs, here are some honest tips from a first-timer that might help you get even more out of your stay.
🌲 Planning Tips Before You Arrive
1. Plan Ahead
Spend a little time researching what’s on offer. There are so many activities, dining spots, and facilities – it can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan. Planning ahead means less faffing and more doing! Everything can be booked via their website. There is also a customer information centre near the swimming and bowling area.
2. Book Activities Early
Activities get booked up FAST. As soon as your booking opens, hop online and favourite your top picks. Then book them in one go. Some favourites fill up weeks in advance, so don’t leave it too late!
3. Bring Your Own Bikes (Or Don’t)
Center Parcs is made for cyclists, with loads of cycle paths and bike parking. If your family loves cycling, bringing your own bikes is great. But if that feels like a hassle, you can hire everything on-site, helmets included.
4. Groceries vs. Eating Out
You’ve got options:
- Bring your own groceries and cook (especially helpful with fussy eaters).
- Eat out and enjoy the variety (just remember to book restaurants in advance).
- Mix it up (our approach!).
The on-site supermarket is super handy but expect higher prices. Budget accordingly.
As the parent that does eveything, next time we go, we’re eating out and I’m only taking the bare minimum with us as the shop is a) not always the quickest to get to (depending on where you are on site) and b) expensive – so we’ll take our own essentials and grab any tops ups we need.
🧳 What to Pack
5. Swimwear & Towels
The Subtropical Swimming Paradise is included with your stay, and it’s incredible! Bring plenty of swimwear (especially for kids who’ll want to go daily). Also pack swimming towels – the lodge towels are for showers only and don’t get replaced during your stay. You can hire swim towels if needed – but we prefer to use our own swimming towels. If you book a cabana – which I highly recommend, they provide towels as part of the hire.
6. The Usual Essentials
- Toiletries (there’s no daily housekeeping like in hotels)
- Umbrellas, raincoats & wellies (you are in the UK after all)
- Layers for unpredictable weather
- Reusable water bottles
- Snacks and drinks for quick energy boosts
Note: We have a massive roof box which was well worth the money. It meant I wasn’t stressing packing the extra things like presents, wellies and clothes. If you can, I would invest – depending on how big your group is.
🏡 Onsite Facilities & What Not to Miss
7. Use the Facilities Fully
From playgrounds and soft play to tennis courts and nature trails, Center Parcs is bursting with activities. Even if you don’t book extras, there’s loads to enjoy:
- Free unlimited access to the Subtropical Swimming Paradise
- Woodland walks and cycle trails
- Sandy beach areas
- Adventure playgrounds
There’s a sports bar as well, for any sporting fans!
8. Explore and Unwind
Whether it’s a lazy morning in the lodge or a spa session – don’t forget to relax. There’s a real sense of calm in the forest. Let it soak in.
🎈 What Made It Extra Special
Celebrating the twins’ 10th birthday at Center Parcs was something we’ll never forget. We had balloons and banners, birthday treats, and made memories in the most beautiful setting. The joy on their faces made every bit of planning worth it. If you call ahead of time and let Center Parcs know it’s a birthday celebration – they kindly left birthday Center Parc teddy bears for the girls with a message on their chalkboard as a lovely welcome to the lodge.
💡 Final Thoughts
Whilst we had such a wonderful time, I do think Center Parcs needs to get better with their rules around the pool – there are lots of older kids unattended and they do cause havoc. Lifegaurds are around all areas, they just need to be stricter.
Next time I’ll…
- Make the most of the resturants there and budget to eat out more
- Book some extra activities, esp as my twins will be older
- Bring an extra towel or two – whilst we managed, it would have been good to have a back up towel
- Book extra days in the cabana – we loved having this space to retreat from all the water activites
And most importantly, I’ll relax a little more and stress a little less. Because Center Parcs really is that special place where families connect, laugh, and breathe again.
Thinking of booking your own Center Parcs trip?
Do it. And if you’ve already been – what are your top tips? I’d love to hear in the comments! We can’t wait for our return visit in 2026.
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