Center Parcs breaks are amazing, but the price can be shocking, especially during school holidays. If you’re looking for a similar family holiday experience without the hefty cost, here are seven cheap Center Parcs alternatives in the UK.
1. Forest Holidays – 13 Locations Around the UK
If what you love most about Center Parcs is staying in a cosy log cabin surrounded by peaceful forest, Forest Holidays could be your ideal, budget-friendly alternative. With sites across the country, there’s likely one within reasonable driving distance from home.
Keep in mind that facilities vary by location, and none of the Forest Holidays sites has a swimming pool. On the plus side, you can bring up to four pets, compared with only two at Center Parcs.
Are Forest Holidays Cheaper Than Center Parcs?
It depends on the season and accommodation type, but overall costs can be lower, especially if you reduce travel expenses. You can also save with Forest Holidays newsletters offering discounts, like 10% off selected breaks.
Book here: Forest Holidays
2. Bluestone Wales – Closest Experience to Center Parcs
Bluestone Wales is probably the most similar alternative to Center Parcs, with comparable accommodation and activities. The setting is more open than forested, and while there’s a swimming pool, it’s shared with the public. Only assistance dogs are allowed.
Price Comparison: A May half-term stay for a family of four can be around £400 cheaper than Center Parcs, but travel costs may offset savings.
Additional costs like hiring a golf buggy or paying for flexible bookings (£99 vs £25 at Center Parcs) are worth factoring in.
Book Here: Bluestone Wales
3. Haven – UK Wide Holiday Parks
Haven offers budget-friendly seaside breaks across the UK. Some sites have large swimming pools and entertainment, while others let you book accommodation only for a lower price if you won’t use the facilities.
While the experience is different from forest cabins, Haven can still offer many of the same activities and is ideal if you want a cheap family holiday in the UK by the sea.
Book Here: Haven Holidays
4. Center Parcs Europe
If you’re open to traveling abroad, Center Parcs Europe locations in France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands can be significantly cheaper than a UK break.
European breaks work well during school holidays, but don’t forget extra costs such as flights, transfers, petrol, ferries, travel insurance, and passports. Dogs may also be restricted, so check pet policies in advance.
If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris but don’t want to stay onsite, the Villages Nature Paris is close enough for a day trip or two.
Book Here: Center Parcs Europe
5. Ribby Hall Village, Lancashire
Ribby Hall Village is a family-owned resort offering luxury lodges and many of the same amenities as Center Parcs, including swimming pools, spas, on-site restaurants, and activities.
Being near the coast is a bonus, as no UK Center Parcs locations are seaside. You could also consider buying a lodge here as a long-term investment, something not possible with Center Parcs.
Though slightly more expensive than some other alternatives, careful planning — such as booking off-peak or sharing accommodation with friends — can make it more affordable.
Book Here: Ribby Hall
6. Hoseasons
Hoseasons has sites across the UK, including woodland lodges reminiscent of Center Parcs. Facilities vary by location, with some geared toward adults and others for family fun.
If you’re looking for hot tub lodges or luxury accommodation, it’s worth comparing prices with Center Parcs to see where you can save without compromising on comfort.
Book Here: Hoeseasons
7. Butlins – Minehead, Skegness, Bognor Regis
Butlins is very different from Center Parcs but offers cheap family breaks with plenty of on-site activities.
We booked a last-minute half-term stay and were pleasantly surprised. The swimming pools aren’t as fancy as Center Parcs’ Subtropical Swimming Paradise, but free activities and entertainment throughout the day more than make up for it.
Butlins has also invested in new Sky Parks and modern accommodation like Lakeside Villas. If you’re on a tight budget, midweek room-only stays can start from as little as £60 for a family of four, making it one of the cheapest family holiday options in the UK.
Book Here: Butlins
Conclusion
A Center Parcs break can be amazing, but it’s not always the most budget-friendly option.
The good news is there are plenty of cheap Center Parcs alternatives across the UK and even in Europe.
Whether you’re after a log cabin surrounded by nature, a seaside caravan park, or a short break abroad, planning ahead and comparing prices can save you hundreds.
Hopefully, this list gives you some inspiration for your next family getaway without breaking the bank.
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