Brits ditch Center Parcs for dog-friendly cabins in stunning locations

While holidaymakers flock to the forest lodges of Center Parcs every year to spend time in their iconic subtropical domes. But, with prices for a week costing over £2,200 for a family of four, cash-strapped 'staycationers' are looking at cheaper options.

A real 'hidden gem' Forest Holidays offers cabins hidden in tranquil woodland settings, each with a private outdoor hot tub. Unlike the self-contained resort style of Centre Parcs, Forest Holidays focuses on a quieter retreat with a few optional activities and plenty of freedom where guests can spend their days hiking, soaking in the hot tub, or relaxing with a book on the cabin deck.

These outdoor getaways are noticeable more affordable too, and right now guests can save £60 on selected breaks booked before April 13. The discount deal is valid on stays with travel dates between March 2 and October 2 when using code NATURE60.

Because our furry friends are just as much a part of the family, Forest Holidays has plenty of cabins specifically designated as pet-friendly across all its locations. Guests can bring up to four dogs per cabin for a small fee, which often includes a doggy welcome pack, and cabins feature secure decking and easy access to forest trails.

Each Forest Holidays park has a Forest Retreat, the social heart of the location, bringing together a warm reception, a cosy café and bar, and a shop stocked with local treats. It’s also home to a children’s play area and the Forest Ranger Hub, where families can book fun activities like night vision walks or survival skill sessions.

Forest Holidays

Save £60 on cabin breaks with Forest Holidays

Save on selected breaks when you book by April 13, for stays with travel dates between March 2 - October 2 with code NATURE60.

Prices vary

Forest Holidays

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Every park offers in-cabin dining so meals can be ordered straight to your TV. Guests can also hire bikes to explore nearby trails, and every site is B Corp certified, with eco-friendly design that helps protect the surrounding woodland.

The Golden Oak Hideaway in Cropton, North Yorkshire, is a cosy cabin for two, nestled in a stunning woodland setting. With front-row forest views and a private hot tub, it’s perfect for a peaceful and romantic retreat, while still being ideally located for local adventures. A four-night stay in May is available for £525 after discount.

Hot tubs — Most of the log cabins come with their own private hot tubs (Image: Forest Holidays)

The cabins are situated in 13 idyllic locations across the UK (Image: Forest Holidays)

For those seeking a more traditional woodland experience, the Silver Birch cabin at the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire provides a comfortable and stylish retreat for up to six people in three bedrooms. Nestled deep among the majestic oaks and ancient trails of the forest, these cabins come equipped with a private outdoor hot tub and currently start from approximately £465 for a four-night break.

The Golden Oak Treehouse at Thorpe Forest in Norfolk is a spectacular choice for larger groups, offering a unique split-level design that sleeps up to ten guests across five bedrooms. This luxury accommodation features a main four-bedroom cabin connected to a secluded one-bedroom treehouse pod via an adventurous rope bridge, with prices typically starting around £2,710 for a week-long stay during peak periods.

For a classic British holiday park experience, Haven Holidays offers beautiful coastal views and a variety of caravans, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a traditional seaside getaway. With breaks starting from £49 per person, there are parks to choose from at Filey and Flamborough.

Elsewhere, Parkdean Resorts has just launched a range of all-inclusive stays in 42 locations across the UK. Starting from £25 per person, per day, the money-saving package is available on selected dates between now and July.

Up to four dogs are welcome for a small extra fee (Image: Forest Holidays)

Guests who have already discovered Forest Holidays have left glowing reviews online. One visitor who stayed in the Forest of Dean location described it as 'the perfect getaway', adding: "Reconnecting with nature was just what was needed with a sprinkle tech when needed."

A second who enjoyed spending time at the Sherwood Forest resort said: "Beautiful place and so quiet, a lovely treat to unwind. Love the fact the dog could be outside on its own terrace and just listen to the birds. Lodge was beautiful and clean and nothing was too much trouble."

A 'peaceful, stripped-back forest getaway', said another, adding: "To describe this as a 'minimalist Center Parcs' is actually no insult - I thoroughly enjoyed our four-night stay in Blackwood Forest."

Not all visitors were quite so impressed. One visitors who stayed at Thorpe Forest who left a three-star review said: "Nice place but in general, the cabins are slightly run down and the windows are in need of a good clean."

Despite this, many visitors seemed to enjoy their stay with Forest Holidays. Another five star review summed it up saying: "We stayed in a golden oak cabin with our three children (6, 9 and 11). We had the most magical break (Beddgelert, North Wales). If you are considering this place, book it. I promise you won’t be disappointed!"