Centre Parcs Elveden tips

[Gigi00]

Im due to go to Centre Parcs this July with 17 month old.

Any advice on the best activities for this age ? Iv looked at the activities online, but keen to hear what is worth while doing?

Do they check ages, if i were to book an activity for 18months+ ?

Any tips for Elveden?

Do we need to prebook swimming or turn up?

that age? no activities

just swimming, man made “beach” and toodiling around on back of bike visiting little playgrounds as you pass

There’s a free swimming session just for babies and toddlers before the pool opens to the public. At least, there was when we went. It’s worth going to because it’s so quiet and you meet other parents of similar aged dc.
Take beach toys for the sand at the lakeside beach.

They’re not overly strict on ages, they just seem to want attendance! As long as your dd can participate without running amok!

I've been 3 times but never with a young toddler so I don't know the best activities but something I do know is that you won't be able to book them when the time comes if the system has your child date of birth as younger than the specified age. It simply won't be an option.

Just turn up for swimming. The venture cove area for younger kids is perfect for your child's age.

@Pascha whats the venture cove area?

Toward the back of the pool area. Lots of water play, small slides and nice and warm. It's slightly separate from the main pool so not overwhelming.

Tips!

There are cots and high chairs in all lodges.
Bed guards can be requested.
Consider using the crèche (my kids were always happy there).
The microwave's are very powerful but the older ovens are rubbish and we avoid using them.
At that age no need to book too many activities, the pool, beach, bike rides, Starbucks all fill time.
Remember a torch if planning to be out late as it gets really dark.
There's a small soft play in the bowling alley.
Join a FB group for more advice.

You can only book activities that you meet the age requirements for, so you physically won't be able to book anything that's 18m+ for example.
Elveden has so much wildlife, so a bit of swimming (the Venture Cove area and a few laps of the lazy river will be great fun) plus walking around spotting the muntjac deer (that are everywhere amongst the lodges, you won't go five minutes without seeing one) should be sufficient activities. The little beach by the lake is great. Take a picnic blanket to sit on and a bucket and spade or they do sell them in the kiosk by the beach.
The deer love carrots and apples, and monkey nuts or peanuts and mixed bird seed for the ducks and geese and squirrels that will camp out of your patio.
There's a big outdoor play area by the Sports Cafe. A lot of it will be too big for your little one but there is a toddler sized section too.

I love Elveden, it's my favourite CP. you'll have a great time.

Thanks everyone!! Very helpful!

There's an Elveden group on Facebook