Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, Penrith

I can't fault Whinfell. Myself and members of my family go every year, sometimes twice. We have also visited the highly acclaimed Sherwood Forest and found that nothing compares to this Cumbrian delight. To begin with the basics, Whinfell Forest is a park from the Center Parcs UK chain. The setting is, as the name suggests, in a forest; accommodation includes lodges and apartments. We have stayed in the Comfort Plus, Woodland Lodge and also the Exclusive Lodge, all of which have been maintained to a high standard. The Comfort Plus, although behind in decorating style, is perfectly adequate and makes for a comfortable stay. Don't be shy of going for a cheaper accommodation, you'll still have a fantastic time. Prices for any of the Center Parcs resorts rocket during school holidays and summertime. We have found that the cheapest prices are in October (excluding half term week) and the 3rd week in January. We frequently visit during these weeks and can stay in a three bed (sleeps six plus one cot) Woodland Lodge for about £300 for five days. Perfectly reasonable. We also like to stay during the last week of November/first week in December for the Winter Wonderland. This is truly magical. Center Parcs does a really good job of the Christmas malarkey and definitely makes the experience magical for young ones. The grotto is well kitted out and Father Christmas is just the most believable edition yet. The settings are decorated with reindeer and sparkling garlands and the lake is lit with gorgeous swans. It snowed this year, which just added to the whole experience. Despite the subzero temps it was perfect. Activities on offer for young children start at just a couple of pounds and go up to about £10-15. These include crafts (make your own stocking, messy play, make a bear etc.), exercise (toddler dance moves, get fit with Rupert etc.), social activities (Teddy Bears Picnic with Rupert etc.) and wildlife activities (Tots Go Wild, Owl Babies etc.). The lists really are endless and are very well priced. Activities are also available in abundance for older children, teenagers and adults and include, for example, paintballing, 3G Swings, Zip Wire, Rallying, Archery etc. We have tried tons of these during our time at the villages and have never been disappointed yet. Paintballing and Rallying are really popular and can be expensive, but the activities last a while and are definitely worth it. The cost is really only what you would pay if you went on holiday somewhere else and chose to do an excursion. There is also evening entertainment on some nights, including a Christmas Panto, but the typical singing and dancing shows are put on throughout the year. Food is reasonable at The Lakeside Inn (by the lake) and the Sports Cafe, however I would advise to avoid these if at all possible. The quality isn't great. For a great lunch head to either Cafe Rouge, Hucks Diner or Bella Italia in the Village Centre. You won't be disappointed. For evening meals, I suggest either Yangs (chinese), Bella Italia or the Indian just near the lake. There is also two Starbucks on site and a Dining Inn takeaway service which also delivers pizza, Indian, Chinese, Ice-Cream and drinks to your lodge. Great for a night inn. The forest is a Red Squirrel reserve so keep your eyes peeled. We also enjoyed hunting for Gruffalo (there's plenty of logpile houses, underground houses and treetop houses to catch up with the characters) and swimming is also free. There are waterslides for older children. For more free fun try the outdoors playground. I could go on and on. Such a perfect place. Try it. It's well worth the money.

Centre Parcs is a great place for a family, activity packed holiday with lots of activities for all the family (although some of the charges are expensive, especially if you have one or more children). There is a great spa (again, not cheap) but perfect for chilling and relaxing whilst the kids are at activities. Cars are not allowed in the park, so its safe to let the kids out alone on their bikes. Best to take your own food, but there is a variety of restaurants and a site shop for all your essentials.