to ask for opinions of Centre Parcs v Butlins

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Hi all, plans for 1/2 term have changed (tradesmen in meaning we have to go!). Looking at Centre Parcs (Longleat, been before, know what you get) but it’s £1200 for a two bed lodge for me, partner, 3yr old and 1 yr old.

Butlins (never been) in Minehead is £400 for a Silver Apartment. Two bedrooms.

Seems like you get a lot more for your money at Butlins, but which is better for a 4 day break? Any advice gratefully received.

I never thought about class when I went and more importantly neither did my children who had an amazing time meeting fireman Sam and other characters and dressing up for the discos, watching the puppet show and going on the rides/swimming pool. They loved it!

I dont get people who put people into boxes like that as though you possibly couldnt go on a kids holiday because u have decided you are middle class and couldnt possibly mix with 'working class' people Its probably not going to the holiday for you as you are a bit of a bore who spends too much time judging people rather than having fun.

All I say is upgrade as silver is a bit crap. I would go for a newer hotel.

That should have read - some of the people that go. Not everybody, obviously!!

They've only got have hotels in Bognor, but I would agree that the silver accommodation, whilst perfectly OK, are pretty basic, so you'd be better off choosing Gold or Seaside accommodation.

They've only got hotels - not sure why I put the extra 'have' in there! LOL

Ive just done Butlins with a 3 year and 1 year old! The 3 year old had the time of his life! Honestly he loved every second, the rides, the disco, the pool, the park...

It was great for kids. We are thinking of going back next year. BUT i would only stay in the premium seaside apartments. The silver accommodation was shocking. We got a free upgrade due to issues...

Center parcs i love but i think a 3 and 1 year old might get a bit bored.. Although we're thinking of going back there again next summer as i have a longer summer holiday so.its cheaper.

If you embrace the "holiday camp" idea then Butlins is fab! If you think you'll struggle then go for center parcs...

I haven't done centre park's, but have done Butlins a few times and we love it. There's loads going on for free once you're there and the shops are reasonable, so you don't have to keep saying no to the plastic tat they love.

For kids that age I'd go for Butlins every time. Loads for them to do, loads of other young families around too. Lots of noise and excitement. The only issue is we come back from Butlins feeling like we need another holiday and we're so wiped out. So if you're looking for a rest it might not be the best choice.

Butlins is better. My kids fondest memories are holidays to Butlins.

We've been to centreparcs a few times as well, it's basically Butlins but not as good for kids entertainment wise.......also ridiculously expensive. I mean Butlins is.overpriced but i.found myself saying no a lot and.scrimping at centreparcs. Which I hated.

Butlins has a lot of activities too, go karts, archery, pottery painting , high wire course, bike hire etc but it's far cheaper than doing activities at centreparcs.

Center Parcs everytime.

Been to Butlins a few times but, the DC’s preferred Center Parcs, A’s did DH & I

Butlins, but only in the hotel.

Whatever you decide don’t choose Pontins for the love of god!!!

It’s cheap for a reason.

Look at haven, park resorts and independents too - they all offer swimming pools etc, but at centre parcs you pay a lot extra to ensure that only the middle class can afford it! At that age they can't do any of the kids activities really. We stayed in a place in Paignton that was nice for around £400, walk to the shops and restaurants

Butlins over CP anyday of the week. It's so expensive and I've never truly got over the disappointment that it wasn't actually under a massive dome as was suggested in early adverts.

Yes Butlins is chavvy. Went once and left the next day. Have been to CP 4 times now. It’s lovely.

I would never choose Butlins. CP definitely or a cottage by the sea? Air bnb or any of the cottage companies would find you something lovely.

Not done Butlins but know friends who go every year.
I like Haven, pay a bit more for a better caravan and request close to the centre. With kids the ages yours are I'd say it's much better value than Centre Parcs.

A stay at Legoland would be perfect for your dc age.

Your age kids I'd say Bluestone in South Wales is the best.

Center Parcs is posh Butlins. Really don't think it is worth £800 extra!!!

Butlins is far from cheap.so I'm not sure why people think it's working class and chavvy

Butlins was great when my kids were little and then we went to Centre Parcs when they were older. I'd upgrade to Gold though.

Eurocamp

I have never been to Butlins, but like Centre Paris. It’s clean and the lodges are cleverly built so you don’t feel like you live on top of other people. I also rate CP in France and Holland and they are cheaper.

CP is really chilled and perhaps not if you like entertainment etc though they do have a child’s disco I think.

Siver at Butlins is very very basic. Don't expect much although the kids will love it.

Go to Butlins!

I was going to suggest Bluestone too, like CP but cheaper.