A SAVVY mum has claimed to have found a “beautiful” Center Parcs alternative that’s “less than half the price.“
So if you want to get away with your little darlings this summer but can’t afford to splash too much cash , then you’ll need to check this out.
While the cost of a Center Parcs break can vary massively depending on the location, time of year and the type of accommodation, during the school summer holidays , families can expect to pay upwards of £899 for a summer break .
But according to this bargain hunter , she has found a much cheaper location that is just £40 per person per night.
Not only is the more affordable alternative set in a gorgeous forest in Nottinghamshire , but there’s plenty for kids to do – there’s a large swimming pool, a petting zoo and of course hot tubs too.
Posting on social media , a content creator who posts under the username ‘Bored With Kids’ gave her followers a close-up look at her recent trip to Sherwood Castle Holiday Forest.
The mother and her sons had “a lovely break” whilst staying at the “little woodland lodges,” which are said to “offer visitors a chance to step into a world where history and fantasy intertwine.”
The lodges are set amidst the whispering trees of the ancient forest, ensuring guests wake up to the serene sounds of nature.
Thrilled with her recent stay, the mother said: “If you’re looking for a cheap Center Parcs alternative, then this could be right up your street – we spent three nights here for just under £500 or £40 per person per night.
“It is heavily influenced by its location near Sherwood Forest and by the film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves – there are loads of original props from the movie here, including the actual reception.”
Thrilled with the accommodation, the mother continued: “The woodland lodges have hot tubs and are pretty similar to the Center Parcs ones with the layout – we even had a log burner here, which was lovely at night.
“Plus you have tennis , bowling and swimming available before 5pm – you can actually book out the whole pool for yourselves if you wanted.”
Not only this, but there’s also a petting zoo , a mini golf course and a large playground too.
According to the holiday forest’s website , this resort will enable kids to “release their energy,” whilst ensuring “every member of the family is catered to.”
How to survive six weeks of school summer holidays
IF you are struggling with the six week summer holidays, you've come to the right place...
BATTLING BOREDOM: Despite hours of activities and playdates, if your kids are already complaining there’s nothing to do, parenting expert Liat Hughes Joshi says: “Don’t feel you have to organise every second of the holidays. Kids benefit from boredom and learn to make their own fun.
“Boredom can trigger creative and imaginative play but you need to encourage kids to get used to not being told how to spend their time.
“Ride out the pleas of boredom. Counter it with comments such as, ‘What do you think you could do?’ and maybe have a list of ‘I’m bored’ activity ideas on the fridge.”
SCREEN OVERLOAD: It’s tempting during the holidays to rely on a digital babysitter but don’t let them gawp their whole summer away in front of a screen.
Liat says: “It’s unfair to expect older kids to power down but it’s important to set some ground rules.
“Set family tech rules together. If you’re often distracted by your phone, follow the rules too. Maybe tell the kids they aren’t allowed any screen time until they’ve done set chores, some exercise, or a board game.
“Are there times when you’d like to ban screens completely? Perhaps during dinner or when they have friends over to visit.
“Tech is a battleground for parents, but you have to set boundaries. Stand firm and be prepared to be unpopular.”
TOO MUCH TOGETHERNESS: You love your kids, but being with them 24/7 can be exhausting. Do not feel guilty if you need a bit of downtime.
Liat says: “If you’re juggling work and household tasks as well as occupying the kids, it’s normal to start feeling overwhelmed or jaded and in need of some peace.
“If you can’t afford or don’t want to send your kids to all-day camps, look for free kids’ workshops so you can get on with jobs or have a break for a couple of hours.
“Seeking a spell of quiet every now and then doesn’t make you a bad parent — in fact it will probably make you more positive and enthusiastic when you are with the kids.”
SCHEDULING CONFLICT: Schedules can go out the window during holidays, but late nights and early mornings can mean tired and unhappy children.
Dr Tamara Bugembe, paediatrician and founder of Helperbees.co.uk says: “Children get grumpy, test boundaries and become challenging when routines are broken.
“Sticking to some kind of routine during the holidays is a good idea.
“We release hormones at different times of the day and when regular meal times and bed times are broken, it causes dips and peaks in mood.
“Holidays are about having fun but an early night once or twice a week will make everyone happier.”
EXCESS ENERGY: Make sure kids get out in the fresh air to tire them out — and make them healthier and happier.
Dr Bugembe says: “Sunshine also tops up vital vitamin D levels which helps improve bone strength and energy levels in children. Our levels run low in winter so let the kids stock up in warmer weather.
“Letting them run around in shorts and a T-shirt is the best way to top up. Make sure they’re wearing sun cream, get outside and have fun.
“Encourage them to try healthy habits such as cycling and walking. They’ll hopefully get hooked and want to carry them on when the weather gets colder.”
As well as being affordable, thanks to the extensive range of family-friendly amenities and activities, it’s said to be “the ideal destination for a memorable getaway.”
Clearly overjoyed with the fantastic, fun staycation destination , the mother concluded: “It is less than half the price of the cheapest Center Parcs lodge , it’s in a beautiful location and there are loads of lovely places to visit nearby.”
Social media users react
The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @ bored_with_kids , has clearly impressed many, as it has quickly racked up 163,600 views, 1,235 likes and 58 comments.
Social media users were left open-mouthed by the “great” holiday destination , which is great for those looking to cut costs on flights and spend time in the UK this summer .
It is less than half the price of the cheapest Center Parcs lodge, it’s in a beautiful location
TikTok poster
One person said: “Looks great.”
Another added: “This place looks great and brilliant price.”
Top Hacks for Holidaying with Kids
IF you've got plans to go on holiday with your little ones this summer, here's some advice to take on board.
Plan Ahead:
- Book accommodations with family-friendly amenities.
- Research kid-friendly attractions and activities.
- Make travel arrangements that accommodate your children’s schedules.
Pack Smart:
- Create a packing checklist to ensure you don’t forget essentials.
- Pack a mix of familiar and new toys to keep kids entertained.
- Bring snacks, extra clothes, and emergency supplies in your carry-on.
Travel Comfort:
- Use neck pillows and blankets for a more comfortable journey.
- Download movies, games, and music on tablets or phones.
- Schedule travel during nap times or overnight to maximise sleep.
Stay Organized:
- Use packing cubes to keep clothes and items sorted.
- Keep important documents, like passports and tickets, in a dedicated folder.
- Utilise apps for itinerary management and navigation.
Engage and Entertain:
- Plan interactive activities like scavenger hunts or travel journals.
- Explore local parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly museums.
- Involve kids in trip planning to get them excited and engaged.
Maintain Routine:
- Stick to regular meal and sleep times as much as possible.
- Bring along comfort items, like favorite blankets or stuffed animals.
- Allow for downtime to avoid overstimulation.
Stay Flexible:
- Be prepared to adjust plans based on your children’s needs and moods.
- Embrace the unexpected and make the most of impromptu moments.
- Keep a positive attitude to set the tone for a fun and memorable trip.
These hacks can help make your holiday with kids smoother, more enjoyable, and will ensure that you return home with wonderful memories!
Meanwhile, a third asked: “Is it dog friendly?”
In response, the savvy influencer responded and shared: “It is.”
Meanwhile, one user snapped: “That’s not cheap.”
To this, the content creator wrote back and shared: “It’s cheaper than Centre Parcs.”
