Centre Parcs in January - are we mad?

[weblette]

Yes, it's another CP thread.

Kids don't go back to school until 12th of Jan so have had daft idea of going to somewhere like CP for a weekend.

We are CP virgins so really have no idea of what to actually expect, is going when it's so fecking cold a bad idea??

[bristols]

We went to CP a couple of years ago in January and had a great time. If you cycle around you keep warm anyway and the swimming area is lovely and tropical! Just be prepared for the cold and you'll have a great time.

We're off again next weekend and can't wait! We actually prefer it in the cold weather, especially lighting the real fire in the lodge...

[pippinlippin]

No, you're not mad. We've been several times in winter.

The swimming pool complexes are mainly inside, so lovely and warm. Where they do go outside (flumes etc) the water is so warm you don't get cold. Quite a nice contrast actually!

Also, they have loads of other indoor activities. Ir can be a bit cold cycling back to your chalet, but we just wrap up. If you don't like the idea of that, you can always book a chalet close to centre.

I can't imagine going in summer to be honest.

[DurhamDurham]

You'll have a great time, we've been winter and summer time. Completely different breaks but equally as good.

Swimming will be great and there loads more to do. There's a indoor soft play area near the cocktail bar so you don't have to pay for loads of different activities all the time. When we went in winter it was freezing but dry, we went on lots of walks and then treated ourselves to a hot chocolate at Starbucks.

The lodges are always lovely and warm, we take dvd's and cd's for when we want to chill for a few hours.

Have a great time!

[Kez100]

Love winter there. Cycle, walk - just wrap up warm. If you are miles out then there is the land train if it rains. The swimming paradise is wonderful in winter - and swimming outside in the dark at night in winter - sublime.

Yummy Starbucks chocolate after a walk or cycle - lovely.

[FortunateHamster]

I've always wanted to go in winter. Still haven't got around to it but want to soon. I don't cycle, though.

[Kez100]

Fortunatehamster - if you don't cycle and go to Longleat, make sure your villa is close to the activities you will mainly do (either plaza, sports or aqua sana) or if you want to be in the cheaper accommodations, pick a villa close to the land train stop. We like the vills close to heavens gate and nockett stops as you have the choice of two and can pick the most convenient.

[detoxdiva]

We always go in January - the only time we could afford to go

Wrap up warm and spend loads of time in the pool or the spa if you can get away from the kids

[Bettymoody]

agree get a centrally located one
not the very snazzy ones in longlea ( are donw a hill) the trad executives are ace

[MissingMySleep]

Hi there, can you advise, we are looking for a last minute break and thinking centre parcs might do the trick, for next week, 2 adults plus a 5 and 7 year old.

I am hoping there is enough at CP to keep the kids happy but that I might also get a break.

I know this is self catering but can we get food there/nearby without it costing a fortune?

Thanks

[MissingMySleep]

Also can anyone tell me (we are looking at either Longleat or Elveden) if the indoor play areas are toddlers only? I am hoping there are some for the 5 & 7 year old to go nuts in.
Thanks again