'Forget Centre Parcs - I found a hidden gem hot tub lodge holiday with a spa'

The term 'relaxing' is seldom used to describe a family holiday, particularly when young children are involved.

Likewise, the parents of older children also face the challenge of finding engaging activities for their offspring.

This is why destinations like Center Parcs, with their indoor swimming facilities and other activities to suit all ages, are so sought-after - despite the steep prices people are willing to pay for such convenience.

However, savvy mum and reporter Emma Gill discovered Darwin Forest, a lesser-known holiday park, offers a comparable woodland lodge experience without the larger price tag. 

Situated just outside Matlock on the fringes of the Derbyshire Peak District, it's a picturesque two-hour drive from Manchester, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Emma said: "We arrived on a Friday afternoon for a three-night stay in one of its 137 luxury lodges - the pet-friendly Classic Vogue with two bedrooms, a private hot tub and gated decking, which is always a plus for those with children or pets.

"We were able to park our car next to the lodge, saving us from having to leave it in the communal car park and make the dreaded walk back.

"Our kitchen was fully equipped with everything we needed, although we kept meals simple with pizzas, breakfasts and snacks, knowing we would be dining out during part of our stay."

"Of course, there was always time for television, and the kids were more than satisfied with the flat screen TV equipped with Freeview and Chromecast for streaming."

Speaking about the timing of their visit coinciding with the release of Oases tickets she said: "Despite the long queue for tickets, we were pleasantly surprised by the reliable wi-fi and managed to secure our tickets thanks to a pre-sale code.

"The only fitting way to celebrate such a victory was with a relaxing dip in the hot tub, providing much-needed relief after the stressful event."

She added:"This set the tone for our upcoming trip to Matlock on Saturday, where we indulged in some retail therapy, strolled around Hall Leys Park and took a cable car ride to the stunning Heights of Abraham - an award-winning hilltop estate boasting breathtaking views, adventure playgrounds, cavern tours, trails and much more.

"Even without leaving the Darwin Forest site, there's plenty to keep children of all ages entertained, including a Little Monkeys indoor soft play centre, mini golf, woodland trails, a Trim Trak and bookable activities such as archery, zorbing and underwater sea scooters."

"We dedicated our entire Sunday to exploring the site, walking our dog through the forest, enjoying air hockey and arcade games in the Activity Den and taking a trip to the swimming pool, which is free for guests.

"While I decided to skip the gym overlooking the pool, I couldn't resist the opportunity to visit the adjoining spa, complete with a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, for a mere £4.

When Emma and her family ventured out, she said: "Having heard rave reviews about the on-site Foresters bar and restaurant, we decided to give it a try during our stay and opted for a Sunday lunch there.

"The bar area is dog-friendly, allowing Milo to join us, although he was eyeing our scrumptious turkey, pork and beef dinners with roast potatoes, roasted root veg and red wine gravy. Unfortunately for him, he didn't stand a chance.

"After a brief five-minute stroll from the restaurant, we were back at our lodge, ready for another night of hot tub relaxation and television."

In conclusion, Emma added: "It seems that family breaks can indeed be relaxing, provided you find the right location - and being nestled in the heart of a 47-acre woodland paradise certainly helps."

A two-bedroom lodge, accommodating a family of four, starts from £369 for a short break. Breaks are either four nights from Monday to Friday or three nights from Friday to Monday, with seven-night breaks also available.

For more information and to book, call 01629 732428 or visit the website here.