8 minute read
DARWIN FOREST LODGES
The British summer is not famed for its blistering sunshine and consistency, but regardless of whatever hand we are dealt with, each setting embellishes the Darwin Forest in a unique and beautiful way. In the era of COVID, we know that activities and socialising outdoors are far safer. So why not utilise a safe, sociable and soothing environment at a time when we need to decompress the most? The Derbyshire Peak District is rich with sights to explore and is located in the very heart of England. Darwin Forest is owned by Pinelodge Holidays; a family business that also owns Sandybrook Country Park. Both locations are rated 5 stars and have consistently been voted as one of the UK’s top holiday parks. Darwin Forest even bagged a finalist position in the Visit England Awards. And though both lodges are under the same ownership, they have two distinct identities. They are the gateway to discovering the wondrous surrounding area. As a result of lockdown life, people are split between feeling overwhelming amounts of restlessness or feel a real need to decompress in this tumultuous time. With tranquil settings for a romantic or grounding atmosphere or exciting adventure opportunities for those who are itching to get active again, the range of activities and ways to be wonderfully inactive are unrivalled. This remarkable place is in between Matlock and Bakewell. It is known for its catering to inter-generational activities and facilities, with something for all ages to ensure all members of the clan can enjoy time with one and other. Most importantly during the COVID era, there is a concerted effort from Darwin Forest to keep these lodges as safe and sanitary as possible. Though always operating a 5 star cleaning regimen, this has been updated to ensure Darwin Forest is Covid proof.
Pinelodge truly has something for every individual, every occasion and has a wide variety of price ranges to cater to those looking for something on the lax or the luxe side. Suites range from Classic, Classic Vogue, Elite or Elite Vogue with additional more exclusive lodges to be found within the Glade and the Meadow. Even our furry friends are welcomed with open arms, with special lodges available for dogs named The Coppice. No exception to their counterparts, they are exquisitely furnished, some even including hot tubs. Most importantly during the COVID era, there is a concerted effort from Darwin Forest to keep these lodges as safe and sanitary as possible. Though always operating a 5 star cleaning regimen, this has been updated to ensure Darwin Forest is Covid proof. Not only are all lodges being throughly cleaned before reopening, new additions to their cleaning policy include providing leading cleaning products to guests in each lodge, giving an official certification of cleanliness to each residence called the “Clean + stamp”, and a removal of certain non essential items such as board games, cushions and certain crockery. More details on their “Covid safety processes” can be found on their website. Dogs are treated as divas and are pampered to perfection; with doggie showers, hairdryers and even their own ‘bedroom’. It ain’t too shabby for their two legged friends either. The Coppice offers a chic living space with a wine cooler, coffee machine, dishwasher and washing machine; that’s not to mention the Smart TV and opulent leather sofas. The master bedroom comes complete with a Kingsize bed and ensuite shower room, while the twin bedrooms have TVs and a shared family bathroom.
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All lodges have exceptional furnishing with a veranda, outdoor furniture perfect for dining al fresco and self catering accommodation. 1 to 4 bedroom lodges are available to cater to families of many sizes. The finest lodges available are found in two particular places in Darwin Forest. The Meadow is one of the crown jewels of the establishment; boasting three exclusive and elegant lodges. Each lodge has its own personality, with exceptional contemporary design, impeccable furnishing and luxe bathrooms. However the highlight for some may be the fact it is situated in a quiet meadow next to mature woodland. The Glade, its sibling, hosts even more impressive luxury lodges. The Glade is as glamorous as it is grounding; featuring noteworthy bedrooms and remarkable bathrooms. Just like the other lodges available, they too have beautiful outdoor furniture and all lodges in The Meadow and The Glade come with hot tubs. The area is laden with activities for when you simply *have* to pull yourself off that gorgeous leather couch. Unfortunately, activities have been restricted to adhere to social distancing guidelines including ‘Evolution Health & Fitness’. For those who visit after social distancing has ended, it has everything one needs whether you’re looking for an intense workout or an intense chill out. You can find a swimming pool, gymnasium, and make your way to the beauty therapy and massage suites after your killer workout. For the kids, Little Monkeys is a play centre to keep your little ones occupied for a few hours while you take some much needed you time. For the teens, the Activity Den is the perfect spot with pool tables, table tennis, arcade games and air hockey.
Escape to the majestic DARWIN FOREST
There are a large still a range of activities available with social distancing and Covid measures incorporated. If you’re looking for an outing to fit the whole family during the COVID era, you can take part in instructor led activities such as archery and body zorbing. Guest led activities available include tennis, mini golf and an array of woodland walks and cycling trails. Though all lodges are self-catering and come with stellar kitchens, no worry if you’re not keen to cook after your spa day. Foresters bar and restaurant is there to save the day, or Explorers café if you’re only after a light bite. Both are still open during this time. If you’re not feeling very Nigella but still want to take advantage of the al fresco veranda chez vous, you can take your food from Foresters to go; cooked with the finest local produce and freshest ingredients. Just outside the holiday park you’ll find a whole host of quaint market towns such as Ashbourne, Bakewell and Chesterfield which are easily accessible. Though they all host extraordinary seasonal markets, Bakewell is one to visit in particular as it’s known as the birthplace of the tart. Make sure to pay a visit to the Original Bakewell Pudding Shop! Your tastebuds will thank me kindly. An array of picturesque villages can be found in the Peak District. These villages are home to some dreamy and delightful tea rooms and authentic country pubs. The most wonderful aspect of visiting the district is that these villages are often connected by footpaths and cycling trails which in themselves are an adventure. The local area has a heap of family attractions and stately homes to visit. But for those who are feeling their inner Lara Croft, you can take a cable car above the Derwent Valley and explore the underground caverns or just behold the breathtaking views. If you’re a museum buff, the Crich Tramway is the perfect place. Reopening on July 11th, the museum showcases over 80 trams built in the 1800’s and is set within a period village containing a cafe, a pub, an old style sweetshop and tram depots. The museum’s collection of trams are found laden throughout the village setting with visitors transported to the past. For those looking for something that will leave you on the edge of your seat, quite literally, the one and only Alton Towers is just 10 miles away with a multitude of rides to fulfil your inner dare devil. Note that you will have to pre book at this time. Alternatively, Gulliver’s Kingdom can be found in Matlock Bath and is a great alternative for younger children. Social distancing measures have also been implemented there to ensure safety for all visitors.
Only 20 minutes away by car is Chatsworth House, a world-famous home. In addition to viewing the famed residence, there is also a large playground for children and farmyard animals to befriend. You can also avail of the fantastic farm shop so you can take home some of the Chatsworth Estate’s wonderful produce. Unfortunately, Haddon Hall which is a close by attraction for Pride and Prejudice fans is closed at present but hopes to reopen soon. Haddon Hall recommends that all visitors in the meantime visit the Summer Mercatum Artisan Markets held in Haddon’s private organic parkland. For those visiting after reopening, Haddon Hall made a number of appearances in the Pride and Prejudice film as well as Jayne Eyre and other period films. Dating back to the 12th century, it has been described as “the most perfect house to survive from the middle ages”. Overlooking the River Rye, it is a sight for sore eyes and is situated within its elegant Elizabethan terraced gardens. Just one of one hundred reasons to visit, Darwin Forest is a hidden treasure in plain sight. Before booking at this current time, Darwin Forest recommends you read their FAQs regarding facilities and activities
To book your visit and for more information, visit
