Center Parcs- any good? Post Reply

[klw]

Having previously thought we'd never want to go to Center Parcs, now that we have 2 children under four years old it seems a bit more appealing.... the thought of having lots of kiddie activities, easy practical accommodation and some fresh forest air sounds like a good formula for a decent break with little ones.

Please can you let me know about your experiences? Does it get over crowded? Is it worth the price tag?

Thanks!

[LTBattersea]

I have experience of Center Parcs as both an adult and a child. I have been quite a few times so am slightly biased but I enjoy it now and loved it as a child, it is really easy and there is so much for children to do.
Some of the villas in the original parks are a bit dated now, so try and get one of the renovated ones (I haven't been to the newer parks so this may not be an issue there). Also, I would advice choosing a villa fairly close to the main centre so you can be close to the restaurants/swimming pool etc etc. Take your own bikes if you have them (no cars allowed in the park) and book the activities you would like to do either before you go or as soon as you get there (some things book up quickly).
My first baby is due soon and I'm looking forward to taking him when he is old enough to enjoy it.

[ekf]

We went for the first time last year and thought it was brilliant. The facilities were great and the activities organised well. We hired bikes with seats on the back for the kids and we rode around the entire place.
I even managed to escape and have a facial at the relaxing spa for a few hours.
As previous poster mentioned ensure you book any activities you really want to do beforehand. We did book a few others while we were there but had limited availability.
We would definitely go again.

[Txmom]

I would agree with previous posts. My husband especially said he would never go but we have now been twice with the kids and have already signed up for next year too. It is fantastic for the kids - really. Try to find a villa at least close to the pool but to be honest, nothing is too far by bike. So don't stress too much about location if cost is an issue. the pool is excellent and as the kids get older, more and more activities are relevant. Mine will be 4 this year when we go and there was plenty for them to do the past 2 years. We are converted....for the kids sake!

[nell65]

My only reservations about Centre Parcs is the cost of everything on top of what you pay initially. Virtually every activity is extra and if you have four kids it will mount up.
Even bowling was high cost - I think nearly £20 for a game. Football club, etc everything you had to pay for apart from the swimming pool.
I would investigate further and find out the costs of all the activities on top of the accommodation costs. Then maybe compare it to say Mark Warner etc.
If you hire a bike with a kiddie seat they give you one with no gears - which at Longleat which is really hilly was a killer, gave up in end and went everywhere by train.
I enjoyed it but think it is very expensive for what it is. You could probably pay less to go abroad to somewhere where everything is included in the price.