General news

Latest in the Subtropical Swimming Paradise for our UK villages

Last updated 2 September 2021

As we continue to step carefully away from some of the COVID-19 restrictions, much of our focus has been on the Subtropical Swimming Paradise.  We know that the pool continues to be a really important part of the Center Parcs experience and lots of guests have previously shared comments regarding limited swim sessions.

Over the past few breaks we’ve trialled offering our guests additional swim sessions across all of our villages.  Guests have been delighted to visit the pool more often during their breaks whilst also positively commenting on the experience being less busy than pre COVID-19 times.  We’ve been carefully learning and observing and are now comfortable at this stage to offer increased swim sessions to all guests on upcoming breaks visiting one of our UK villages, whilst continuing to control the total numbers in the Subtropical Swimming Paradise at any one time:

• 3 night weekend break: 3 x 2-hour swim sessions
• 4 night midweek break: 4 x 2-hour swim sessions
• 7 night full week break: 7 x 2-hour swim sessions

Our number one priority is safety, followed by guest experience.  We’re sending a selection of guests who visit the pool a text survey to measure overall experience and we’ll continue to listen and learn.  So far guests that have experienced the pre-bookable slots continue to tell us that they enjoy a more relaxed environment though we do want to increase access when it is safe and right to do so.

The next part of our phased approach will start on 4 October where guests will trial 3-hour pre-bookable swim sessions with the last bookable slots being 5pm.  From 6pm we will also trial an evening ‘turn up and swim’ session. This means that the last pre-bookable slot with a full 3 hours of controlled entry will be 3pm. Our hope is that this approach provides guests a mixture of improved experience with pre-bookable sessions and some spontaneity in the evening. There will also no longer be a charge for pre-booking swim sessions.

Breaks now available until 17 April 2023

3 August 2021

We are pleased to let you know that we’ve added more breaks, so you can now book at all six villages for arrival dates up until (and including) 17 April 2023.

Find out more

Latest update from our villages

Last updated 19 July 2021

Like many other businesses we are unfortunately impacted by members of our team being required to self-isolate by the NHS Test & Trace system. Our first priority is keeping our team and guests safe, but this does mean that you may find some disruption to our normal services due to staff shortages.

For guests who have a restaurant or activity booking impacted by staff shortages we will contact you directly.

Thank you for your understanding. 

Latest government update

Last updated 13 July 2021

The Prime Minister made it very clear in his announcement (12 July 2021) that the pandemic is still with us. Whilst most legal restrictions will be removed, he also emphasised that the responsibility sits with all of us to do our best to keep everyone as safe as possible.

With cases of COVID-19 increasing at this time throughout the country we are making some tough decisions that we feel are right for our guests, our colleagues and our business. This means that we are stepping away from restrictions cautiously. On our villages, we feel this is the responsible approach and reflects government advice. See the news article below for all the details.

We know that the Subtropical Swimming Paradise is a really important part of the Center Parcs experience and lots of guests have shared their disappointment regarding limited pool slots. Pre-bookable pool slots help us manage capacity and keep everyone safe and this is the reason we’re keeping them.

We are planning to increase the number of pool slots as we step out of restrictions, as long as we feel it is safe to do so. We will continue to review the situation on a weekly basis and guests should start to see additional swim slots become available in the coming weeks.

Guests that have experienced the swim slots tell us that they enjoy a more relaxed Subtropical Swimming experience. We are hoping to increase swim slots further and also add an extra evening ‘turn up and swim’ session to provide additional flexibility. Unfortunately, we cannot predict how things will pan out over the coming weeks and months and cannot therefore finalise details or dates. 

We are sorry if this does not meet everyone’s expectations but we feel that this is the responsible approach. We are still offering our Book with Confidence Guarantee and we are happy to help any guests that would rather move their breaks to a later date or indeed cancel with a full refund.

 

The Center Parcs Experience from 19 July

Last updated 12 July 2021

At Center Parcs we’re planning to step away from COVID-19 restrictions in a cautious and careful way with our priority being to keep guests and colleagues, as safe as possible in the forest. With COVID-19 still in the community, it remains important that we all continue to look after ourselves and those around us.

We’ve also been listening to guest feedback and some of the changes we have had to make over the past few months have been so well received that, with further review, they will help us evolve and consider new and better ways of doing things into the future.

Following the Government announcement, we are still working through some of the detail but the information below will help guests understand some initial changes: 

Are pool slots staying?

Yes. We still believe it is important to avoid overcrowding but also, longer-term, we have been closely monitoring guest feedback from those that have stayed with us recently and they consistently tell us that fewer numbers in the Subtropical Swimming Paradise gives a much-improved experience – and it is the pre-booked swim slots that help us to manage guest numbers better. The pool is less crowded with shorter queues for slides and the changing experience is more relaxed. However, guests have also told us they would like to swim more often and this is certainly something we will make available as soon as it is safe to do so.

Text message offering extra swim slots?

We are planning to offer additional swim slots where we can. If we find that we have last minute availability we will text guests to let them know on their day of arrival.

Additional swim slots aren’t guaranteed and can vary depending on booking volumes by village.

Will the wave pool be open?

Yes, the wave pool will be open.

Will the showers be available in the Subtropical Swimming Paradise?

Yes, the showers will be open.

Will all play areas be open?

All outdoor play areas will be open and indoor play areas will open when we feel it is safe to do so.

Will the village start accepting cash?

No, we are now a cashless environment and this will continue.

Is maid service being reintroduced?

We’re stepping out of the COVID period very carefully and taking the opportunity to review our Housekeeping Service. For now, we won’t be reinstating our daily service, however, we will be replenishing some essential items part way through your break (Executive lodges and above). 

Can we arrive on village from 10am?

From 19 July guests may arrive on village from 12 noon.

We are planning to return to normal arrival times soon but we would like to review the volume of guests on arrival days to ensure this is safe before we jump to 10am.

Can I check-in my lodge at 3pm now?

We’re stepping out of the COVID period very carefully and taking the opportunity to continue the increased cleaning we have introduced. We feel that this is still really important and may be something we continue to do. For now, guests may check-in their lodge from 4pm.

Will there be more availability in restaurants and activities?

We will be doing this carefully, we will start to gently increase availability if we feel it is safe to do so.

Test & Trace

We will continue to request details from all guests at the time of booking to support any future requests. However, providing Test & Trace details for everyone at individual units will now be optional.

Face coverings

We request that guests wear face coverings in indoor public areas and in close contact areas. There may also be some close contact activities where we require guests to wear a face covering – this is for the protection of both our guests and our colleagues. 

We strongly suggest that all guests bring a face covering with them.

Will there still be sanitiser on village?

Yes, we will continue to provide hand sanitiser and strongly recommend that guests continue to use.

Book with Confidence Guarantee

All guests with an arrival date up to 18 April 2022 are covered by our Book with Confidence Guarantee and will have the option to reschedule or cancel with a full refund 11 weeks before arrival. 

How to change or cancel your break for any arrival date up to 18 April 2022

Under our Book with Confidence Guarantee guests with an arrival date of up to 18 April 2022 may change the date of their booking or cancel by completing this form. Our team will pick this up, action your request, and you'll receive an email confirmation within seven days.

Guests are responsible for checking the latest Government advice

Government information may change and rules and advice are constantly under review. Guests must check government information themselves to understand any changes or new rules prior to visiting Center Parcs, booking a new break or when considering a date change or cancellation of an existing booking. The following Government links should provide the most up to date information:

https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/coronavirus-covid-19

https://gov.wales/coronavirus

https://www.gov.scot/coronavirus-covid-19/

Can I contact you?

I’m sure you will appreciate that we have lots of guests to support during this time, if you are impacted by the closure period please complete this form to tell us if you would like to reschedule or cancel your break and the team will action your request and confirm via email.

Our opening times for calls, social and webchat are as follows:

• 9am - 7pm Monday, Friday and Sunday
• 9am - 5:30pm (until 7pm for social and webchat) Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday

Exciting news: Our plans for a sixth Center Parcs in the UK

12 July 2021

We’re excited to announce that we have identified a site for a sixth Center Parcs village in the UK.

We have secured an option agreement to acquire 553 acres of woodland off Balcombe Road in Worth, West Sussex. The forest has been chosen because of its location (to the south of London) and its excellent transport links.

The development is expected to cost between £350m and £400m and will create around 1,500 permanent local jobs once operational, as well as around 1,000 jobs during construction. We anticipate the development would add an additional £40m to the local economy each year.

We will now begin working on rigorous site surveys, detailed designs and pre-planning works to make sure the woodland meets our specific requirements for a Center Parcs village, as well as beginning a programme of community engagement with the local area.

We are hoping to submit a planning application in 2022.

CEO Martin Dalby said: “It’s really exciting to have identified a potential site for another Center Parcs village in the UK. Today’s announcement marks the first step of a long journey, and there is still a huge amount of work to be done before we can submit a planning application. The proposal we will be submitting will create a significant number of jobs and bring major benefits to the local and national economy.”

Electric scooters, hover boards and other motorised wheeled equipment

18 June 2021

There are lots of ways to explore the forest but please be aware that electric scooters, hover boards and other motorised wheeled equipment are now prohibited. You can still use traditional non powered scooters and electric bikes, just make sure you are looking out for the no wheels signed areas and find an alternative scenic route. The Cycle Centre have plenty cycles and accessories on offer if you are looking to travel the village in style.

Rajinda Pradesh at Sherwood Forest is undergoing refurbishment

14 May 2021

Rajinda Pradesh at Sherwood Forest is closed for refurbishment from 17 May to 11 June. Even with the restaurant doors closed, a delicious curry is still on the menu. Guests can order a delivery and enjoy in the comfort of their lodge instead – order here up to four days in advance.

Aqua Sana Elveden Forest is undergoing refurbishment

Latest update 13 May 2021

We are constantly looking for ways to improve our facilities to ensure guests have the best possible experience when visiting our villages. As part of this, our Aqua Sana Spa at Elveden Forest is undergoing a makeover and we can’t wait to share the changes with you. 

While renovations are under way, our Aqua Sana Spa will be closed to guests until 24 May and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

From Tuesday 25 May, while on a Center Parcs break, you will be able to visit Aqua Sana for pre-booked treatments only. Unfortunately, spa sessions with full access to our spa saunas and steam rooms will not be available until further notice. Please keep checking our website for updates. Our boutique will be open for you to stock up on your favourite products. 

We look forward to welcoming you back to our Aqua Sana Spa at Elveden Forest. 

New Joules stores to open at all Center Parcs villages

1 April 2021

We’re thrilled to announce our new partnership with a fun-loving, family lifestyle brand, Joules.

The British company is noticeable for their vibrant prints, bold colour palettes, and whatever-the-weather styles. Now, they’re bringing their love of the outdoors to all of our villages with stores opening over the next few months – starting with Woburn Forest in April! 

Each store will offer clothing for women, men, and children, as well as for pets, homes, and gardens. Just like us, Joules has a deep respect for the woodland, they know how important time spent with loved ones is, plus they’re not being afraid of a little rain… so we’re excited for them to move in!

 

Join Nutmeg and Clove on an adventure at Center Parcs

22 December 2020

We are pleased to share our exclusive animated stories featuring our friendly reindeer, Nutmeg and Clove. See our familiar storybooks, Nutmeg’s Antlers and Nutmeg’s Little Sister being brought to life and watch the two siblings as they take on an exciting adventure’s at Center Parcs. 

Find out more

Center Parcs recognised for commitment to charity

13 June 2019

We are delighted to announce that Center Parcs have won the award for Best Scheme to Encourage Staff Fundraising at the 2019 Better Society Awards. Celebrating our long-standing partnership with Together for Short Lives.

Find out more

Dog owners' advice

In recent years, an unexplained dog illness known as 'seasonal canine illness' has been found in an increasing number of forest areas around the UK, particularly in late summer and early autumn. The illness is currently believed to be triggered by a naturally occurring cause and has affected a number of dogs in areas across the country, including those local to some of our villages, particularly Sherwood and Elveden Forest. There appears to be no comprehensive explanation as to why this has occurred.

Cases of Alabama Rot have also been reported around the country. This is another unexplained disease affecting dogs. None of our villages have been identified as locations with cases of Alabama Rot, but in the interest of vigilance, we recommend dog owners familiarise themselves with the symptoms on the Forestry website.

If you are visiting Center Parcs with a dog please ensure you’re aware of the potential risks of a forest environment to animals. Please research or talk to your veterinary surgeon about SCI (Seasonal Canine Illness) and Alabama Rot.

If you are bringing a dog to one of our villages and have concerns, please call our Contact Centre team on 03448 266 266.

Please note: if you are visiting Longleat Forest, dogs are not allowed on our Land Train except guide dogs.

Tommy’s Award for Best Family Friendly UK Holiday

5 April 2018

We are delighted to have won Best Family Friendly UK Holiday Provider at the Tommy’s Awards, which took place on 16 March at the Landmark Hotel, London to a packed audience of household name companies and Tommy’s supporters.

Find out more

Parking on village

We are keen to keep our villages as traffic-free as possible so that guests can enjoy the tranquillity of the forest environment. There will of course be a small amount of traffic during times of developments and to support village operation. However, once you have unloaded your belongings from your vehicle, we kindly request that all guests move their cars to the car park as soon as possible, on the day of arrival. In response to recent feedback from our guests, the Security team will be supporting this by requesting that all cars left on the village after this time, are moved. Should the accommodation type include a car parking space, please use the space allocated.

External shows, events and festivals

Because our villages are set in some of the most beautiful parts of the UK, they are often close to popular tourist areas which can mean increased noise and traffic in the surrounding area. Despite our best efforts to preserve the tranquillity of the forest in our villages, there may occasionally be noise from local events, shows and music festivals.

It's never too early to have a short break in the diary, so book now and give yourself something amazing to look forward to.

Accommodation upgrades

As many of our guests will already be aware, we upgrade a number of accommodation units every year at Center Parcs. Work is regularly underway across most of our villages to ensure we continually improve our standards. Such works are closely monitored and disruption to our guests visiting during this time will be kept to a minimum.

Find out more

Forestry works

As we are in a forest setting it is essential that we manage the environment and preserve the natural outlook. This means that from time to time forestry works such as tree felling may be taking place during your break with us.

The lake in winter

Being close to nature is an important part of a Center Parcs break, but it also means our villages are subject to the whims of British weather! For this reason, and for our guests’ safety, our lakes may close for watersports during the winter. But don’t worry, we still have plenty of indoor and outdoor activities available during this time, from cosy indoor crafts to bracing bike rides.