Center Parcs Longleat Forest Review: When I was a child we use to visit Center Parcs most Summers. I have fond memories of the holiday park. Taking our own bikes and cycling everywhere, the water rapids, the lazy river and the sweet shop! Now as a mother it’s great to be able to share these memories with the boys. So when we were invited to spend a short break at the Center Parcs resort Longleat Forest Village I was very excited (just a little bit!) and looking forward to great things.
Center Parcs Longleat Forest Review
We decided to head up after school on Friday, our first day meant we arrived around 4 pm. This worked really well for us because it meant we could go straight into our Executive Lodge. Likewise, on Sunday we left at bedtime so that we could get back for school. If we were a little closer then I think I would have been tempted to get up early and leave in the morning.
I was a little dubious of leaving early evening but it went very smoothly. We left the Subtropical Swimming Paradise around four, had an early dinner in Bella Italia before enjoying the Jacuzzi bath and getting the boys into their PJs. We brought the car around from the car park, loaded up and left. I am not even sure if we were even out of the village before they fell asleep. They slept peacefully all the way home and both transferred to bed without any trouble. Probably worn out from all the swimming and splashing. Knowing how easy it was I would definitely look to do it again.
What did we think of the accommodation?
We had one of the Executive Lodges which sleeps four. I couldn’t get over the size of it! There was plenty of room for us all. The exclusive lodges came with two bathrooms and three showers including a gorgeous rain shower. Each lodge comes with its own high chair and cot at no extra cost. The cot is more like an actual cot than a travel cot, I didn’t realise and had brought a normal travel cot sheet. Thankfully it fitted fine and it must have been comfortable since Harry slept really well both nights. The boys shared the twin room which meant that Hubby and I had a huge bedroom!
The open plan living area really worked for us because it meant we could keep an eye on Harry from where ever we were. We didn’t use it but there was also an open fire to keep you warm in the colder months. In the centre there is a breakfast bar and a fully equipped kitchen that had everything we needed. We had ordered a grocery pack in advance which meant we didn’t need to stop to pick any food shopping up on route. Both saving us time and space in the car. It had everything we needed for breakfast both mornings as well as some cooking essentials. We had various messages left on the chalkboard from the maids and the boys enjoyed scribbling on it.
The Lodge’s Location
As the weather wasn’t very good we opted not to hire bikes. I think if we were to visit again we would bring the kids bikes with us. Our lodge was in the Pine area. The location was perfect as we could walk to the Plaza in around fifteen minutes and that’s with two young children trailing behind… I was pleased to find the lodge is surrounded by woodland. On Saturday morning we had a real treat as a little Roe Deer decided to make her way around the back of the patio. After eating her fill of what looked like carrots she settled down on a little hill at the back of the lodge. Although a little jumpy she was not too disturbed by the children looking out the window.
Our lodge had everything we needed for our weekend away including good wifi. Which when you are a blogger is essential. It was also very clean, the sheets nice and crisp and the bed comfortable. The wear and tear (which I expect) was minimal. Longleat Forest Village is in the process of refurbishing many of the Woodland Lodges to give them 40″ televisions and a state of the art media hub. They also have a range of different accommodation options including three-bed lodges and some with hot tubs.
What did we think of the park itself?
Longleat Forest is such a gorgeous setting. We did a fair amount of walking on Saturday and it was lovely watching the light spread through the pine forest. Because it is in a pine forest there is a long zig-zag walkway down from the Plaza to the Jardin des Sports. If you are without a buggy or a cycle then you can cut down the walk by going down the steps. There are strategically placed play areas by the side of it too. I would estimate that it took us about twenty minutes to walk it.
There is plenty of places to eat both in the Plaza, the Village Square and Jardin des Sports. When we arrived we ate at Las Iguanas (amazing food) in the Plaza, we hadn’t booked and they managed to squeeze us in. I would recommend booking all your meals in advance, especially the pancake house which is very popular. It is easy to do via the website or at one of the many information points. On Saturday evening we ate in the curry house. It was refreshing to see that there were plenty of options for the children. As both of ours are a little curry mad so it worked really well. There were other things for those little ones that aren’t that keen too.
There is a land train which runs around the village every fifteen minutes from 8 am to 6 pm. After which it’s every twenty minutes until 11 pm. We didn’t need to use it but I can see how it would be useful for those staying in lodges a bit further out.
The Subtropical Swimming Paradise – Center Parcs Longleat Forest Review
The Plaza was a source of interest for Charli he liked to play at following the little paths down and around to the Subtropical Swimming Paradise. Taking pictures of the fish as he went. Seeing it all lit up at night reminded me so much of my childhood. It was very magical. At the bottom, there is a pathway that takes you over the water which both boys were fascinated with. The pool is just as I remember it with a couple of new additions! I don’t think I will ever forget the sound of the Tarzan cry to signify the wave machine starting.
Charlie really enjoyed the water flumes. He wasn’t tall enough for any of the big slides but loved the smaller enclosed ones. There was a very good toddler pools which kept Harry enthralled for most of the time we were in the complex. The water was very warm which kept me happy! He discovered a little slide which he could go on, on his own. Fiercely independent this pleased him immensely. Next door was a pirate splashdown area more like a mini water parks with more slides which we all played in too. I think if we visited for a week next time we could probably spend all day every day in the pool and the kids wouldn’t get bored. Making more use of the outdoor pool, especially in the warmer weather.
I really liked the nature area which was located in the Village Square. There were lots of different bug houses to explore including some bat boxes which Monkey was particularly interested in. There are a number of activities which can be booked that use the are including nature workshops and a falconry centre.
What did we think of the activities?
We got up to so much on our short trip the boys loved the indoor sport. I was surprised by just how we fitted it all in. Our first activity on Saturday morning was Monkeys Archery Little Outlaws Class which was held inside. Perfect for the changeable weather we had all weekend. He really enjoyed the half hour class (I think it helped he was the only one). There were four nets that he needed to aim at from various points around the room. Held in a squash court meant that Harry had free reign in the court next door to run around. This put me at ease straight away as it meant that we could focus on Charlie without worrying about Harry. Turned out he was pretty good at it.
For toddlers?
From the archery, I took Harry over to the Activity Den for his Sensory Play Session. It was held in a small dark room that had all sorts of interesting toys laid out to explore. He particularly liked the light toys intent working out how to turn them on and off. As well as the sensory toys there was singing and the opportunity to have some handprints done.
The weather improved so we decided to spend some time in the fresh air on the Adventure Golf. Monkey insisted on doing all eighteen holes. The first nine were fine for the buggy although the second was not so easy because of the steps. Its on the sides of the pine forest so we couldn’t really let Kipper out of the buggy as it was quite steep in places. The course is very well maintained with lots of little extras in keeping with the knight theme.
After our game we decided to head back over to the Plaza for our Super Bowl. Monkey loves bowling and the fact that everything is neon made it even more fun. The ally is very clever as you can pre load the bumpers by person which made the game flow much better. As you hire the lane by time and not by game we managed to get two full games in.
What about the Aqua Sana Spa?
On Sunday I even managed to have some time to myself at the Aqua Sana. Being treated to an Elemis Brighten and Glow Massage and facial. It was the perfect therapy for Mothers Day. Its aim is to ease away daily stresses and induce a deep level of relaxation. I definitely felt more relaxed and I could have stayed in the relaxation room for the rest of the day.
As you can tell we squeezed a lot into our weekend break and made some valuable family memories. I would never have thought of visiting Center Parcs on a weekend before our trip. Now I am trying to work out which one we should look at next, perhaps Sherwood Forest. We had a brilliant trip and I would highly recommend a visit to a Center Parcs break. Thank you Center Parcs Resorts for inviting us we had a wonderful time.
If you would like to see more of our adventure then I have made a short video:
You can read more about our recent travels under the travel section of our website.
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The stay at Longleat Forest was gifted for the purpose of this blog post Center Parcs Longleat Forest Review all words and opinions are my own.
Center Parcs Longleat Forest Review Center Parcs Longleat Forest Review
75 Responses
We went a good 13yrs ago now Was great fun Lots to-do and loads of walking around I would go again though
This looks awesome and sounds like you had a fantastic time 🙂 I’ve only been to a Center Parcs in France and also stayed in a Woodland Lodge, it was well kitted out and spacious. Loved the fact we could sit out at the back and watch the deer, it was all very relaxing despite bruises from archery and paintball! 😉 Sim x
Great looing spot
I have stayed at sherwood, and honestly, it is soooo lovely, I would go all the time if I could! Really lovely time x
Ohh that place looks like a lot of fun ! I am thibking of booking holliday there now you convinced me
Oh, my, you have got me wishing I could book a trip there today. I would go almost anywhere for a pool with genuinely warm water. No wonder the children loved it. Some lovely pics and very useful information in your review. Many thanks.
Wow . This looks like a haven for you all. Looks like the ideal place for kiddies. I’d love to visit it despite the distance ( we live in Ireland !) Am now thinking about a trip over the summer , it really does look amazing . Your pictures are beautiful !
We love Center Parcs! We went a couple of times a year up until the kids starting school. We just can’t justify the cost now during school holidays. Sounds like you had a fab time.
We have been there before too and loved it!
That looks a great place for a holiday
I have never stayed at center parcs but would really love too! Sound like you all had a fab time!
Just this weekend I was looking into UK family breaks, so I will definitely be looking at center parks now.
Looks lovely! What great memories are being made and so close to home really! Much less hassle than jumping on a plane with little ones. Looks like you had a blast.
Family action packed ADVENTURES – havent been for a while – SOON
We have never done centre parcs it always seems to be pricey and I’m not overly sure if it’s worth that much maybe I can find a special deal or something
Looks lovely, would love a family hol here
It looks amazing. We went last May but Small Boy wasn’t even one then and so we didn’t do any of the activities as he was a little too young and the dates didn’t work. There is so much there though. I think we’ll definitely go back when he’s a little older (and now likes swimming which he hated at the time). It’s so geared up for families and the choice of dining is great. It’s quite expensive but the supermarket on site was very well stocked and there’s a Waitrose up the road anyway so you can always eat in and save some pennies. Definitely go with booking meals in advance though – I loved the fact that you can do it all via an app! #BloggerClubUK
Hi, this on my list of places to stay I would love to cram in as many activities as possible #BloggerClubUK
Looks and sounds like an amazing stay. We’ve thought about centre parcs before but never booked it. Based on this review we might go for it next time. #BloggerClubUK
Looks lovely, we’ve visited Longleat Safari Park before but not the Center Parcs – will have to check it out!
looks like you all had a great time! I love Center Parcs, we’ve been every year since my eldest was born (usually at Christmas though as the twinkly lights make it feel so magical)> We’ve been to most of them in the UK but I think Longleat is probably my favourite (even though it is quite hilly!) Ooh you’ve made me want to go again now! #BloggersClubUk
Looks amazing, we are looking into Centre parks for when our daughter is a little bit older, its hard to get the most out of all of the activities when she’s this little but its definitely one for the future
Would you believe I have never been to Center Parcs? Ever! It looks amazing though, and Longleat isn’t too far away from us.
I wouldn’t have thought of making the most of the activities on the Sunday though. Giving the boys a Jacuzzi bath before their Jammies was a great call. 🙂
That place looks like a lot of fun! Love the photos. Your kiddos are adorable!
#BloggerClubUK
Never been to centre parcs but will be taking the little one when she’s a bit older. Thanks for sharing x #bloggerclubuk
Soffy // themumaffairs.blogspot.com
I have actually never been to center park. Looks fantastic, nature all around. The idea of the Aqua Sana sounds fantastic.
Wow you fit in so much!! I love Center Parcs, there are so many brilliant activities! A lovely review , makes me want to book our next trip #bloggerclubuk
We love Center Parks too, we’re well overdue a trip.#BloggerClubUK
I can’t believe how much you fitted in. No wonder they slept! A good idea to go for a weekend during term time. A nice little break butt no real disruption #bloggerclubuk
There is so much to do, great place for creating precious family memories!
Longleat is our closest Centre Paris too and I love it, still yet to brave it with a toddler though!
Love the happy pic of your little one covered in bubbles! And Monkey trying archery – he looks like he knows what he’s doing! Definitely concentrating hard. Sounds like you packed so much into your short stay, the kids must have loved it. We went ages ago and had a great time too. Remember it being extremely hot in the pool area!
What a lovely place to go away too, I love all the sensory stuff and looks really chilled out X #bloggerclubuk
What a great family break full of memorys
Wow it looks magical this is a must to visit
We love Center Parcs, I would love to go again but it is quite expensive.
Looks like a fun place to visit with activities everyone can enjoy. #countrykids
looks like a place where all kids of different ages can have lots of fun
To be honest I wouldn’t have thought about it either with the boys at school. We went to Woburn in Feb and it was great but very expensive.
Ahh! It looks like you had a fab stay at Center Parcs. It sounds like there was plenty to see and do. #CountryKids
This looks like a great place to take the family
This looks amazing! Love the pool surrounded with tropical plants. Would love to visit this too especially since it’s obvious the little one had so much fun 🙂
There always looks to be a huge amount for everyone to do at Center Parks. The accommodation sounds like it more than lived up to your expectations and the facilities too. It does look like it is set in a beautiful place. I love the photo with the sun through the trees, what a lovely walk that would be. The nature area sounds a great idea too.
Happy Easter and thank you for sharing with me on #CountryKids
I haven’t taken my girls yet but would love to. Whenever I’ve looked they have always been booked up for the dates I want. I need to be more organised as this definitely looks like somewhere we’d enjoy as a family x
Looks like great place for a family holiday with lots to do.
Looks like a great place to visit with the kids would love to go with my children
I haven’t been to centre parcs for 20 years! it looks like you had a lovely stay. #countrykids
Lovely photos and lots of wonder full places to explore! The food looked lovely and my hubby and daughter love doing archery.
This is one of the places im dying to visit. Lovely review and pictures.
Wow it looks like there is so much to do there! I e always wondered what it’s like we must visit with our children x
looks like there is a lot of different stuff to do, every day
I adore Center Parcs – we went over February half term and it was wonderful. Looks like you had a cracking time! Popping over from #countrykids
It’s been a long time since we visited Centre Parcs but it’s certainly on our radar and one of them is close to family in France #BloggerClubUK
Look at that swimming pool! Center Parcs does look fantastic – I would love to go and stay at one of them some day with the kids. #CountryKids
I love longleat centre parcs and had such a great time there with my kids.
Mainy
#bloggerclubuk
Centerparcs look amazing holidays and definitely one I would love to take my kids on! You definitely managed to fit lots into your weekend! #CountryKids
I love longleat. I have many happy childhood memories there. We took the children last year to the festival of light.
#countrykids
We’ve just been to Longlet, didn’t even know about center parcs till we drove past it!
That bubble bath picture, though! I’ve always wanted to try CP, but it’s a bit out of our budget, sadly. Looks like you had an amazing time! #BloggerClubUK
Wow! This holiday venue has a lot to offer in a beautiful setting!
Somewhere that I have to take the Grand Children
We love Centre Parcs, brilliant family holiday! We have so many happy family memories here! Would highly recommend!!!
fantastic place for kids and adults alike
Longleat is somewhere that i’d love to take my daughter to but we live too far away!
Looks great, the pool looks lovely 🙂
Everything about this getaway looks great. I have watched your video about your trip to Longleat and thought this is somewhere I’d like to go. Longleat is quite a way from us so looked into one nearer which is Elveden. The lodges and area look lovely, so when the warmer weather gets here this is a possible retreat for my husband and I.
This place looks amazing i want to go here
We’ve not been to Centre Parcs but it looks amazing for all the family.
This looks the perfect place to take my grandchildren, they’d absolutely love it
We took our 2 grandchildren there a few years ago and we all had a wonderful time. We went for a week which made it far more relaxed and less rushing about!
Looks like you all had a great time, we are going in the summer, can’t wait!
I’ve wanted to go to centre parcs for ages, it looks soo much fun xx
Looks like a great time for the whole family and I love a curry ?
looks amazing somewhere i need to take my 2 little monkeys
Looks like good fun for all the family is love to go with my children
I have had to comment on this a few times as it’s on different competitions….. But again it looks like a good day out for all the family ?