Center Parcs Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire, England

Hotel Information

User Rating:
8 / 10
(42 User Reviews)

Hotel Description:

Life at Sherwood revolves around the continental Village Square with its whitewashed walls, pantiled roofs and leafy terraces. There’s an inviting cluster of eating places here, including our lovely contemporary Indian restaurant, Rajinda Pradesh. The village square is also home to the magical Leisure Bowl, with ten-pin bowling. The Sub-tropical swimming paradise is here and has now been extended to include a new scuba diving and lane swimming pool.
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Center Parcs Sherwood Forest Holiday Reviews

Center Parcs Sherwood Forest Reviews

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" I have been going to Centre Parcs... "

I have been going to Centre Parcs once or twice a year since Sherwood Forest opened, and I am never disappointed, I have been as a kid and as a parent and it is great!

Generally we have gone in the winter, as it is cheaper and there is loads to do inside, both kids and parents occupied.

I have just returned from a midweek break in Sherwood Forest and it is the first time we have gone in the summer and it cost us about 3 times as much as normal!

But as usual it was a great holiday but an expensive one. Centre Parc is not weather dependant unless you like watersports, so we will be sticking to low and mid season next time.

The sports facilities were great, if only my local sport centre was this good! Everything was clean, we had no problems getting activities booked, Spa was out of this world!!

The only thing I would quibble about is the villas, we had a basic comfort villa and it was showing its age, I would definitely next time be upgrading to the new woodland lodges which look fantastic.

All complaints were sorted quickly with no problems.

Drinks and food are pricey but you have everything you need to self cater, so stock up before you go.

If you can take your own bikes, save on the hire charges.

The best time for us to go in the pool was 5pm when all the little ones were out to have their tea and it was a little quieter.

If you can do this holiday in a large group, as then there is always someone around to play tennis with or take the kids down "Jungle River.”

In all it is a very safe holiday for the kids, I was happy to let my 6yr old have a little independence while promoting an active lifestyle and for us adults to have a holiday as well without being a slave to the kids.

My daughter described this holiday as "WICKED" and I have to agree, as we have already booked for next year!

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  • User Rating:
    9 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Aug 2007
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" Having been to Centre Parcs Longleat... "

Having been to Centre Parcs Longleat we already had high hopes for our holiday, however with two small children under 2years, our eldest cannot walk far, and the other is in a pushchair.

At Sherwood Forest everything is close by there is not far to go to any of the facilities and all are of an amazing quality. The swimming complex was amazingly clean even when it was extremely busy and everything was in good working order we never saw a broken anything.

The play parks are safe and children are very well catered for parks suitable for all ages.

There is a beach on site and it is amazing safe clean no nasty rubbish or obstacles that were any cause for concern. The food is not too expensive and the quality of the food was outstanding.

The only negative thing to say was that the decor of our standard villa was a little dated but as there was so much to do this was not too much of an issue.

In all we had an amazing time in an amazing environment. Can’t wait to go back in October!

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  • User Rating:
    9 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:May 2007
  • Board Basis:Room Only
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" Ok things are expensive. That's the... "

Ok things are expensive. That's the first thing to know. More or less whatever you want to do you'll be paying a high price. A coke and a beer cost £5 something, cocktails £5 and the activities isn’t cheap.

Sure the accommodation isn't going to win any prizes for interior design, but why does that matter? I didn't go away to marvel at interior design. The villa wasn't pristine but it wasn't dirty by any means.

You can't get your room till 3 which it says in the info, but you can go earlier, park up in the car park then go and do your own thing.

The swimming place is awesome, hot whirlpools, wave machines slides, and stuff. The raft ride can be a long queue, I did it once and it was good, you really do need to hold on, but after that once I didn't queue again. The lazy river/rapids thing is awesome and you don't have to queue.

When the wave machine comes on get to the deep end in the left hand corner that's where the waves get highest. The cold plunge pool will look rough, and it is. But it's worth jumping into the cold water, because when you get out and get back into the warm water it feels awesome.

ALSO if it's raining or cold go to the outside bit cos all steam comes off the water and it looks great.

When doing your activities be careful that you dress right, I went fencing and had to go back and get trousers, even though I couldn't remember reading anything that said I needed trousers. The fencing is really good fun, although you get hot doing it. We also did badminton which was only £7 for a hour I thing which isn't that bad and it was good fun.

The nature walk sucked because the person who ran it didn't know squat about nature, the high ropes thing is not for the feint hearted. If you like a bit of adrenalin then go for it.

There were kids on it who were either really brave or really stupid, but I ended 30 foot in the air on a 2 foot by 2 foot board that shook with 2 kids grabbing onto me (stupidity and bravery all spent) when you come off of it you do have a bit of an adrenalin high but good fun.

The quad biking was good fun, yes it's expensive but I’ve never done it before, and it's nice and safe and was good fun. The dancing was good, I didn't do it but someone in my group did and she enjoyed it.

If you have bikes take them, because it has a big cycle culture which is fun, it isn’t too hilly, and it isn’t hard to cycle.

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  • User Rating:
    9 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Jul 2007
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" What a fantastic and beautiful... "

What a fantastic and beautiful retreat. We needed a relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives and that’s exactly what we got.

The kids didn’t know where to start first, they were so excited and everywhere there was a new adventure just waiting to be discovered.

Entertainment was great as was the choice of places to eat and food quality was very impressive also.

Only downside I can think of is the price really. A very expensive break but I think that it was worth every penny.

Will definitely return in a year or two.

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  • User Rating:
    10 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:May 2007
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" Having visited Centre Parcs 3 times... "

Having visited Centre Parcs 3 times this year and visiting again next week we have come to know this place as our second home.

Every time we visit we have never been disappointed, if there has been a problem like missing utensils etc we have visited the information desk where it has been dealt with immediately.

All the staff have been friendly and helpful and villas have been clean and comfortable.

We have never been stuck for something to do if anything we run out of time to do it. If you enjoy fresh air, aren’t afraid of trying something new and enjoy having a laugh then this is the place for you. A great place for children of all ages!

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  • User Rating:
    9 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:May 2007
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" Really a wonderful place to explore... "

Really a wonderful place to explore and enjoy.

There was plenty of things on the park to keep both adults and children amused.

The surrounding countryside was nothing less than astounding.

One small point of annoyance was the lack of affordable food on the site.

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  • User Rating:
    7 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Sep 2006
  • Board Basis:Room Only
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" It was a lovely holiday staff were... "

It was a lovely holiday staff were helpful and kind.

There was lots to do on the holiday activity wise and it great for a kids and teenagers and every one is safe to go and do there own thing.

There are bikes and no cars in the resort, so it’s safer for kids and environmentally friendly.

I would recommend it to other people of all ages.

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  • User Rating:
    6 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Feb 2007
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Center Parcs

" This was one of many visits that... "

This was one of many visits that I’ve made to Centre Parcs over the last few years and I have to say I’ve loved every one.

This was my first visit to Sherwood. My boyfriend and I usually go as part of a group but decided to do this holiday alone.

We stayed in a 2 person villa which was more or less one room with a separate bathroom. There was ample space and the patio doors looked out on the garden which led to a small stream.

What I love about Centre Parcs is that you can do as much or as little as you fancy. We did bowling, hired bikes and played golf most days and made sure we took full advantage of the Subtropical Swimming Paradise which is free of charge.

Altogether a fantastic holiday, my only warning would be not to rely on the on-site supermarket as it works out to be much more expensive, so make sure you do a big shop before you get there!

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  • User Rating:
    9 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Feb 2005
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" We have been to Center Parcs over 15... "

We have been to Center Parcs over 15 times, 4 of them since we have had children.

All of our visits have been to Sherwood Forest. We have been at all different times of the year and have once been for Xmas.

In the past we have always been satisfied, had a great time and recommended it to many of our friends. Yes it’s expensive but you get what you pay for.

Or so that used to be the case! We went on the 4th December 2006 for the countdown to Xmas event.

We took our two children aged 3 and 4. We expected it to be a magical experience for them.

Unfortunately we could not have been more wrong, one of the bedroom walls in the villa was covered in mould and the room smelt disgusting, the skirting board was hanging off in another bedroom, in the bathroom one of the lights above the bath was hanging down and the wires were exposed.

The villa was generally dirty, half of the equipment in the kitchen was missing (including the bread knife so we had to tear the bread into pieces), we ordered two lots of food for delivery (Indian and pizza) the pizza was inedible and the Indian was full of chunks of gristle.

You may think why we didn’t complain when we were there. We did, but nothing was ever done about it. I also rang and complained to head office the day we returned home only to be told I would need to write, which I promptly did.

Apparently they never received this letter, how convenient! I have since made numerous telephone calls but no one wants to take any responsibility for it.

As I said you used to get what you paid for, not anymore, think carefully before you book. If you do, ensure you get a new villa and don’t order a takeaway.

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  • User Rating:
    3 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Dec 2006
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" I have just returned from a stay at... "

I have just returned from a stay at the Sherwood Forest Village. I had a great time as usual, this being my 3rd stay. My grumbles though are the cleanliness of the villas and the ridiculously expensive prices.

I think the villas are way overpriced for what you get. If you were to have some activities thrown in with the price, I think that would be better, as the only thing that’s free is the swimming pool. Which I must say, is fantastic.

The villas are a bit shabby looking now, and I wasn't impressed with the cleanliness of them. I do like the village, obviously, as I keep going back, but it’s just that the accommodation itself and the price of it, lets it down really.

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  • User Rating:
    7 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Oct 2006
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" Just returned from long weekend in... "

Just returned from long weekend in Centerparcs. Great for the kids and loads to do. The accommodation is dated, but they are updating so always worth seeing if you can swing a modernized chalet.

They have a myriad of things to do but it all costs. They get the important things right, the swimming pool, sports hall and childcare was A+. Food was mostly acceptable but stay away from the pancake house.

All in all we will go again.

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  • User Rating:
    7 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Sep 2006
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" We selected the holiday to make sure... "

We selected the holiday to make sure there was something for my 18 month old son to do each day. The location is great, the swimming and water slides were also great. However when it came to other activities for the under 2s I felt there could have been more for them to do. The only other negative comment I have to make is that the quality of the food in the restaurants was not the best and should we decide to return to centre parcs I would plan to self cater more.

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  • User Rating:
    7 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Aug 2006
  • Board Basis:Room Only
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" Well, I was invited down to... "

Well, I was invited down to centerparcs for a day with a group of mates, and I had heard some great stories from my 2 friends who go every year.

When I got there we met our friends and headed to their villa (btw I would pick your own villa online because you really don’t want one on the outskirts) Our first impressions of the villa was clean , modern and tidy even though it was only a comfort villa.

We soon headed off to the subtropical swimming area which we were all taken back!
I could not believe how well designed and full of fun the swimming area was!
The wave machines were great but only came on every 30 minuets or so. I was quite disappointed with the new raft ride "Grand cassaid" as it took 25 minuets to wait and we did dent get that much of a thrill.

But the best feature about the swimming area was the rapids, 100% full of fun!

After the long 6 amazing hours in the pool (which never once got boring!) we left the swimming area and went to a sweet shop , the prices weren’t bad , I’ve seen higher and the restaurants aren’t to pricey either.

We went back to the villa and had some tea , we spend a couple of hours chilling with the warm, cosy, real fire then some went home but me and some others stayed and went to the nightclub!

Walking to the nightclub was very safe, with lights and signs pointing you the way.
We arrived at the nightclub with music for younger adults which were just our taste. You can request a song as well if you like.

The nightclub is quite small and crowded but it does have a nice big open view of the outdoor rapids.

Alcohol is reasonably priced and staff are always very friendly.

Me and my friends left at 11.30 and went back to our home town. This was the best experience of my life and me and my family are going back there in Jan 07 and I hope they can see how great it is , just like I did. Even though it was only one day, it felt like a week. This is a perfect family holiday and I guarantee you will love it and go back there over and over... Thank you to all the staff in centerparcs!

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  • User Rating:
    10 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Apr 2006
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:?

" As a regular visitor to Oasis... "

As a regular visitor to Oasis Whinfell Forest, I decided as a change to visit Sherwood this time.

First impressions were favourable, surroundings lovely and check-in quick and efficient. However, I would not recommend arriving so early (12.30 pm), as most of the guests leaving that day were still there and as a result it was practically impossible to find a car park space (took almost an hour!)

After a relaxing swim in the sub-tropical swimming paradise, we found our accommodation, which was disappointing. The "Comfort" lodge was basically a brick shed, and facilities were Spartan to say the least. Furthermore we had no hot water, and had been allocated a double bed, when I had booked twin beds (as the holiday was just myself and my young daughter). However both these issues were sorted out quickly once they had been reported.

The village as a whole is pleasant, but starting to show its age a bit. Staff are on the whole very friendly, although some bar staff did appear to be having a competition between themselves as to who could get away with charging the most for the same round of drinks.

Prices are as expected ridiculously high, although all the pre booked activities were very enjoyable.

Walking around the village should carry a health warning in view of the large numbers of cyclists who show no regard at all for the safety of either themselves or pedestrians.

Overall a slightly disappointing holiday, and for over £100 per night, its not unreasonable to expect something better.

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  • User Rating:
    5 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Booked Independently

" I have been going to Center Parcs for... "

I have been going to Center Parcs for 19 years and I am 19 years old. Me and my family have been around 22 times. This was our first time at Oasis Whinfell and we enjoyed every moment!

The accommodation were fantastic with an open view plan and loads of space just to relax and be on your own. The level of privacy is amazing, you can step outside your back door and you would have to make an effort to see anyone.

The activities are very diverse and are enjoyable for all ages. The availability can be tricky but book early and you will be fine!

The swimming pool is large, with lots of slides and different things to try.

The environment is amazing just to look at, the amount of wildlife that is at your door is astonishing.

For D Brown above, do you realise how many villas the cleaners have to clean!! It is amazing the level of cleanliness that is achieved! I'm guessing that if I were to visit your house it wouldn't be half as clean!

To everyone who is interested in going to Center Parcs, I would not listen to Mr. D Brown! Take it from me a person who has been many more times than him, if you go to Sherwood Forest or Oasis Whinfell I can say by past experience you will not be disappointed!

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  • User Rating:
    10 / 10
  • Date of Holiday:Aug 2005
  • Board Basis:Self Catering
  • Tour Operator:Not Specified
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