Village Life / Autumn/Winter 2019/20

ELVED EN FORE S T

VILL AGE LIFE AUTUMN/ WINTER 2019/20

Find your happy place SWIM, PL AY, REL A X, EXPLORE AND ENJOY

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TOP TIPS TO TEACH YOUR CHILD HOW TO CYCLE

PRESSING RESET HOW TO SWITCH OFF STRESS

FAMILY FOODIES THE BENEFITS OF EATING OUT

HIGHER GROUND TAKE A TOUR OF A TREEHOUSE

MAP AND GUIDE TO THE VILLAGE GET MORE FROM YOUR BREAK

CONTENTS Elveden Forest | Village Life

W E LCOME

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Your time, your break.

We know how special it is to spend time with your friends and family; the team at Elveden Forest are here to help make sure that you leave us with wonderful memories to treasure.

Your time with us can be spent doing what you like.

We offer a wealth of opportunities and your break can be as busy or as relaxed as you choose.

From adrenaline-filled group activities to quiet time to yourself, we want your break to be perfect.

Perhaps you’ll appreciate sleeping late and enjoying a leisurely breakfast in your accommodation or waking up early with the wildlife outside and discovering the freshness of a morning in the forest.

The choice is yours.

I N T O T H E WO O D S

TA S T E I T

YO U T I M E

04 News from across all our villages

22 Solve dining dilemmas at The Pancake House

T RY I T

28 Boost social skills by eating out in familyfriendly restaurants

40 How time with family and nature helps us to switch off stress

NICKY RICHARDSON General Manager, Elveden Forest

18 Top tips on the best way of teaching your child how to cycle

Cover: Ric Rawlins

G E T INVO LVE D

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08 Advice to help children be more confident around animals 13 Why parenthood turns us into outdoor types 14 Family fun for all ages as the grandparents join in Laser Combat

VILLAGE LIFE Center Parcs: www.centerparcs.co.uk Center Parcs Ltd, One Edison Rise, New Ollerton, Newark, Notts NG22 9DP Marketing Manager, Brand and Content: Andrew Regan Marketing Executive, Brand: Katie Bell Marketing Assistant, Brand and Content: Alisha Patel All rights reserved to Center Parcs Limited Sept 2019 Village Life is produced and designed for Center Parcs

by James Pembroke Media, 90 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BG Editor: Marianne Rawlins Art Editor: Katrina Ravn

facebook.com/CenterParcsUK

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34

33 The mess and magic of cooking with children

44 Use your break to kick-start a new self-care routine

V I LL AG E I N FO H O M E F RO M H O M E 34 Get an exclusive glimpse behind the scenes in our luxury Treehouses 39 Woodland-inspired homeware

47 Contacts to make the most of your break 48 A map of Elveden Forest

O U R CE N T E R PA RC S 50 One village, two views

Publisher: James Houston Group advertising sales manager: Lee Morris To advertise in this magazine, call Lee Morris on 020 3859 7097 or email lee.morris@jamespembrokemedia.co.uk All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of Center Parcs. We accept no liability for any insert, display or classified advertisement included in this publication.

While every reasonable care is taken to ensure that all advertisers are reliable and reputable, we can give no assurance that they will fulfil their obligation under all circumstances.

@CenterParcsUK

@centerparcsuk

@ blog.centerparcs.co.uk

AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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INTO THE WOODS Here’s what’s happening at Center Parcs

NE W VIL L AG E

LIG HT S G O ON AT LONG FORD Ireland’s Longford Forest is officially open, and guests are now enjoying the resort and making the most of all the fabulous activities and facilities that go hand in hand with a Center Parcs break.

Guest Janine Dolan, who went with her husband Dermot and children Matthew, aged seven, and Chloe, four, in August, said: “The children loved all the things to do, especially the Creepy Crawlies activity.

Their other highlights were playing on the beach and in the playgrounds and swimming in the Subtropical Swimming Paradise. We’ll definitely be back again.”

Find out more: centerparcs.co.uk/ discover-center-parcs/holiday-locations

ACCO M M O DAT IO N

BR ANCHING OUT Our Treehouses are coming to Whinfell Forest. We’re currently finishing four of the luxurious woodland getaways, which will be available from 2020 but can be pre-booked now. Read more about the pinnacle of Center Parcs accommodation on page 34. centerparcs.co.uk/accommodation

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30 years is how old Elveden Forest is this year – while Longleat Forest is also celebrating its 25th birthday.

We are constantly evolving and updating our villages. The Rajinda Pradesh restaurant at Elveden has a bold new look, with exotic colours and geometric tiles, while phase one of Longleat’s Aqua Sana refurbishment is now complete for guests to enjoy new spa experiences. Switch off with Forest Meditation or chill out in the Moonlight Steam Room. centerparcs.co.uk/restaurants; aquasana.co.uk

C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

VILL AGE NEWS

GOT I T COV ERED A Center Parcs break is weather proof – just like Joules’ latest collection, available at Spirit

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Reach for the stars

2

Fill your boots

SHOPPI N G

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JOULES T his year, British lifestyle brand Joules is celebrating 30 years of delivering fun, quality clothing for families and friends who enjoy living life to the full and making lasting memories together.

The Joules story began in 1989 when Tom Joule started selling clothing on a stand at a country show in Leicestershire. Tom would brave the elements in pursuit of delivering traditional clothing with a twist. These early days, facing driving rain and howling winds, made the Joules team experts in outwitting the weather and made sure an adventurous spirit is woven throughout everything created by the brand.

“Joules is renowned for its unique prints that are hand-drawn in-house”

Whatever the weather The predictably unpredictable British weather influenced a lot of the design elements you’ll find in the new Autumn/ Winter collection – waterproof fabrics, warm padding, functional features and thoughtful details. From the muchadmired Waterproof Coast Jacket and Packaway Golightly Jacket to the Cherington Padded Coat with its

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Pleasant pheasant

detachable hood (all pictured left) Joules has you covered, and all are available in Center Parcs’ Spirit stores.

Joules has become renowned for its original, unique prints that are hand-drawn in-house and are used to great effect on anything from rainwear and clothing to accessories. Joules’ in-house team draws inspiration from the great British countryside and coastline, injecting unique personality and hidden details along the way to create its bright and contemporary collections.

Inspired by iconic floral prints, the Joules 30th anniversary collection showcases the Cambridge Floral print (one of the first floral prints Joules designed). This beloved motif has been revived with a fresh twist and can be found on the Wellibob Short Wellies and the Coast Rucksack (pictured left), also available at Spirit.

So save a little space in your case and pop along to Spirit. Come rain or shine, Joules has something stylish and practical that will brighten up your trip, whatever the weather.

Spirit shops are at all villages: centerparcs. co.uk/discover-center-parcs/shops

OFFER

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Garden variety

5

A walk in the parka

1 Coat £94.95 2 Boots £39.95 3 Coat £44.95 4 Bag £59.95 5 Parka £189

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COME BACK SOON We love welcoming you to Center Parcs. That’s why our Come Back Soon offer makes your next break even better value!

When you or anyone in your party books your next visit – up to 18 months in advance – at any village, within 31 days of returning home from your last break, Come Back Soon brings you three great benefits…

1

OUR LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE. If you see the break you’ve booked advertised for less, call us and we’ll adjust your booking to the lower price.

2

CENTER PARCS VOUCHERS. Before your break, we’ll send you Center Parcs vouchers worth £25 so you can enjoy an extra treat!

3

FREE CANCELLATION. If you do need to cancel, your break will be covered.

Booking your break is so easy on our website centerparcs.co.uk – you’ll need to enter your previous booking reference and the lead booker’s surname.

If you prefer to book by phone, please give us a call on 034 48 266 266 and remember to mention Come Back Soon.

For full terms and conditions, please see centerparcs.co.uk/ information/comeback-soon

AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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VILL AGE NEWS

DI ARY DAT E S

LO DG E S

GO L ARG E N

Halloween

ew to Woburn Forest and offering you the most number of bedrooms under one roof, our six-bedroom Woodland Lodges are spacious and stylish.

With six roomy bedrooms, family bathrooms and shower rooms and a large open-plan living space (pictured right), they are the perfect lodges for large families or groups of friends.

The kitchen is fully equipped with an American-style fridge-freezer which will hold everything you need for your break, while the double oven, double sink and eight-burner hob

“Perfect for large families or groups of friends”

Thursday 31 October 2019 Do your little trickor-treaters fancy becoming a witch or wizard this autumn at Halloween? Then join us for a frightfully good time, with activities* such as Broomstick Making, Monster Making, Halloween Cupcake Decorating or Pumpkin Carving. Our spooktacular Grand Halloween Party brings you an exciting evening of ghoulish fancy dress, dazzling dancing, delicious food and magical fun.

mean that if you decide to stay in and dine, you’ll have all you need to cook up a gourmet delight for the family.

We will also be introducing our first ever six-bedroom Adapted Woodland Lodge at Woburn Forest, featuring ramp access to the accommodation as well as an electric bed, walk in/wheel-in showers and a fully equipped kitchen with lowered worktops.

Six-bedroom Woodland Lodges are also available at Whinfell and Sherwood Forest.

Winter Wonderland Friday 8 November until Friday 3 January 2020

M E NU UP DAT E

Your Winter Wonderland break is about truly memorable times with friends and family, as well as seasonal activities for all. The village transforms into a magical winter playground, with snow, lights and decorations. Soak up the festive atmosphere at Santa’s Woodland Village and visit Santa and his elves at his Woodland Workshop. Enjoy seasonal activities*, from Festive Carriage Rides to Festive Willow Craft.

PITCHERS AND PINS

GET SOCIAL WHATEVER ACTIVITY YOU’RE DOING AT CENTER PARCS, WE’D LOVE TO SEE YOUR PHOTOS. SHARE THEM AND TAG #MYCP

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Celebrate New Year Tuesday 31 December 2019 * All activities subject to availability – check your village ** Varies by village

Extend your game into cocktail hour at the Leisure Bowl by sampling a refreshing tipple from the new menu.

Score a strike with a Rhubarb Gin Fizz (pictured) – Warner’s Rhubarb Gin stirred over ice with mint, cucumber and ginger ale. Or sip a Strawberry Daiquiri – a smooth mix of Bacardi Superior Rum, strawberry and limes. The menu also now boasts more artisan gins and premium spirits, from Skyy vodka to Kraken Black Spiced Rum – all served exactly how you like. Prefer to go booze free? Try a Spice Up Your Life Mocktail: strawberry and passion fruit shaken with chilli, mint leaves and lime juice. Cheers!

Bowling is available all day – there’s no need to book a table for a drink, but you do need to book a bowling lane. Check the map on page 48 for locations.

A warm welcome awaits this New Year’s Eve. Watch the fantastic fireworks or pyrotechnics display in our unique woodland setting and dance into the new year at one of our fabulous family parties**.

For more on all seasonal activities and to book, please see centerparcs. co.uk/discover-center-parcs/ activities/seasonal-activities

C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

TRY IT…

Round-up of the new activities available at Elveden Forest

C H I L DREN’S AC TI V I T Y

SPY SCHOOL

WAT E R S P O R T S

AQUAPARC Bounce across bubbles, balance across beams or zoom down the dual slide into the water. With a variety of obstacles, there's a challenge to suit all your friends and family. So whether you jump, splash or climb your way to the end of our AquaParc, this is a session full of fun.

INDO O R AC T IV IT Y

FA MILY BALL WALL & INTER AC TIVE SQUA SH Enjoy active family fun with our new interactive soft ball game. Get competitive with your friends and family to see who has the most accurate throw or kick by hitting the targets on the interactive wall with soft balls. Alternatively, test your racquet skills with a game of squash.

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Become a spy and join our Center Parcs Spy School, get briefed by our Spymaster and sleuth through a variety of challenges which include secret message writing, decoding, dusting for fingerprints and invisible ink. At the end of your mission celebrate at your Spy School graduation with your fellow agents and find out your secret task to carry out during the remainder of your break.

BOOK IT To book any of these exciting new activities go to your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs online account: centerparcs.co.uk/ activities

SURVIVAL ADVENTURE Put your skills to the test in our Survival Adventure activity. Camouflage your team with face paint and collect your map, ready for your team mission.

Make your way through

the four checkpoints while learning how to endure the wilderness to see if your team can use your survival instincts to make it to the extraction point successfully.

Can you survive?

AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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T RY I T • N AT U R E

The Shack family with Activity Leader Ashleigh (far right) and Tino the pony

TRY IT

CREATURE COMFORT Some children can be wary when they encounter animals, but there’s plenty you can do to help put them at ease. The Shack family ventured into Longleat Forest to get tips from Ranger Steve Norris WORDS: Laura Shack PHOTOS: Joseph Branston

E

ducational Ranger Steve Norris (pictured right) bounds over with a wide grin on his face, holding two abandoned ducklings in his hands. He’s rescued them and is finding a temporary home to keep them warm, safe and dry.

Cue a resounding “Awwww” from everyone at Longleat Forest’s Junior Pony Rides enclosure.

With my children – Solomon, aged four, and Hugo, one – we’re on safe ground when it comes to ducklings. Who doesn’t love a small ball of yellow fluff with a beak? But when it comes to anything above their kneecap, it’s a different story. Animals can seem unpredictable and a scary unknown to children. And sometimes adults can be just as wary. We asked Ranger Steve – or “the man who knows everything”, as Solomon now calls him – to share his top tips for helping children have confidence around animals.

“With my children we’re on safe ground when it comes to ducklings. Who doesn’t love a ball of yellow fluff with a beak?”

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about animals 1 Talk together

Before his Center Parcs wildlife sessions, Steve says he talks about the different animals the children might find and answers any questions they have.

“Even adults will say, ‘Oh, I don’t want to see bats or snakes’ – they’re a little scared at first,” Steve says. “But I explain that a grass snake’s not going to bite you. It’s much smaller than you, and it’s far more frightened of you than you are of it.”

Talking to your child about animals can reassure them that there’s nothing to be afraid of. You could chat about what the animal looks like, what it likes to eat, where it sleeps or how it likes to be touched. If you’re going on a Junior Pony Ride or Festive Pony Ride*, you could even do a trial run on someone’s back. All of this will help prepare your child and make them feel more confident when they come across the real thing.

2 Be a nature detective

Whether you’re in your back garden or taking part in one of the many wildlife activities at Center Parcs, you can boost your child’s confidence around animals by going on a wildlife hunt.

“We run various nature activities through the week for children of all ages,” says Steve. “We look out for all sorts of birds, bugs and larger animals like deer too.”

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Get social

Taken a great nature photo at Center Parcs? Share it and tag #MYCP

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AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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T RY I T • N AT U R E

Clockwise from top right: Tino makes a patient yet adorable steed; mum Laura goes along for the ride; our Baby Owls activity also helps children get closer to nature

During sessions such as Family Nature Journal, Nature Detectives and Creepy Crawlies, Steve shows children how to look out for animal tracks and signs in nature.

“You might spot deer footprints, find out that squirrels eat pine cones in a certain way, or discover a badger’s toilet,” he says. “The children love it.”

Steve says it’s great to turn wildlife watching into a game: “During our Creepy Crawlies session, we go on a bug hunt with the children and play an I Spy scoring game. There’s five points for a slug, right up to 50 points for a grass snake.”

3 Get hands-on

It can be daunting to get up close and personal with animals – especially something larger like a pony. But being able to touch, smell and hold an animal helps to boost your child’s confidence and gives them a sense of achievement.

Steve says he shows children grass snakes and newts, and encourages them to pick up animals like frogs and toads, big insects and beetles, and even slow worms.

“They learn how to handle these animals gently and confidently, and how to release them safely back into the wild without causing any distress,” he says.

“I always encourage children to handle the slow worms we find and I explain to them about not holding their tail because it might come off. Many of the children don’t mind at all, but some do need more reassurance.”

MAKING MEMORIES: Solomon’s first Junior Pony Ride Tucked away in the Village Square of Center Parcs Longleat Forest is a magical woodland trail, decorated with bright hand-carved toadstools and fairy cottages.

This is where we meet two dinky whitehaired ponies called Fudge and Tino.

At first, Solomon is very excited about his first Junior Pony Ride. He’s been practising on Daddy’s shoulders and can’t wait for his turn. But when we’re introduced to Tino – who he’ll be riding for the session – he becomes shy.

He doesn’t want to stroke Tino’s mane. He doesn’t want to touch his nose. He’s not sure if he wants to climb on his back after all. Even our toddler

Hugo, who normally dives headfirst into anything and everything, wants to stand at arm’s length.

Bundles of charm What the miniature Tino lacks in size he makes up for in an abundance of charm and patience, waiting calmly while we make every effort to nudge our boys towards him.

Our Activity Leader, Ashleigh White, has seen it all before. She smiles and asks Solomon to name the dinosaurs on his top, while she fits his riding helmet. He’s quickly won over by her friendly and relaxed manner and, just like that, we’re ready to ride.

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Clinging on to my hand as we set off, I tell Solomon he can ride like a cowboy and he’s soon sitting pretty in the saddle all by himself.

“We do get a lot of children feeling nervous, because it might be the first time they’ve ridden a pony,” says Ashleigh. “We say silly things and make jokes. I talk about cartoon horses they like – I know them all.”

She certainly put Solomon at ease.

By the end he’s smiling from ear to ear, dismounting like a pro and asking when he can go pony riding again.

Junior Pony Rides are for children aged two to seven years.

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T RY I T • N AT U R E

BOOK IT Get closer to animals with a Junior Pony Ride or Festive Pony Ride, available at Sherwood, Elveden, Longleat and Longford Forest. Or discover more about nature on a Build a Nature House, Family Nature Journal, Nature Detectives, Creepy Crawlies or Falconry* activity. Book at your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs online account: centerparcs.co.uk/activities

“Being able to touch, smell and hold an animal helps to boost your child’s confidence and gives them a sense of achievement” He says: “Many of the children have never seen a slow worm before and it's a joy to see their faces after they’ve held one. They’re just over the moon. Parents will tell me that their child is normally quiet and really frightened, but that they absolutely loved the experience and they have not stopped talking about it.”

*Activities vary by village

your memories 4 Take with you

Keeping a nature diary is a great way to make sure you don’t forget all the wonderful wildlife you’ve discovered on your family adventures.

During the Family Nature Journal sessions at Center Parcs, you have the chance to collect feathers,

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flowers and lots more to stick into your very own quality journal. You could make drawings, take photos and write notes about your wildlife discoveries in your diary too.

5 Invite new animals home

Building your child’s confidence with animals doesn’t have to stop when you leave Center Parcs.

Perhaps you can conquer your own fears too by inviting a snake to live in your garden, for example?

“You might not think you’ve got snakes where you live, but put a piece of tin down,” says Steve. “A few days later, look under it with the children. There’s a good chance there will be a snake or a slow worm underneath.”

If you’d rather see something less slithery or don’t have a garden at home, why not make a bird box to fix to your wall or fence? At the Build a Nature House sessions, you’ll learn how to make a home for blue tits, robins, bats or insects.

“I’d encourage parents not to be frightened themselves and give these things a go,” says Steve. “During just one walk or activity, your children will find something new and become more confident.

It’s really rewarding and that’s why I love my job.”

Above left: Rangers give fascinating insights into a miniature world on the Creepy Crawlies activity. Above right: discover clues about woodland animals on a Nature Detectives activity.

Left: Solomon can't wait to go for another pony ride

AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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T RY I T • N AT U R E

TRY IT

“ I want my children to have a den-building, forest-exploring sort of childhood”

Illustration: Mark Conlan

Parenthood has a wonderful tendency to get even the most indoorsy of us off the sofa and into nature, says Robyn Wilder “What kind of tree is this, Mummy?”

It is morning and I am hustling my two small sons up the hill to nursery because we are, as I keep reminding everyone, already late. Despite all this urgency, my four-year-old has stopped to pet a tree. He’s that kind of four-year-old.

“What kind of tree is this?” he asks, again. “Is it a deciduous tree?”

I squint at the tree. Its trunk is brownish; its leaves greenish. It is, as far as I can tell, definitely a tree.

Beyond that I’m stumped.

“It’s OK,” my four-year-old sighs, clumping wearily up the hill. “I’ll ask my teacher. She’s outdoorsy.”

I am not outdoorsy. I am indoorsy. My idea of summer fun is a dark, hermetically sealed room with the air conditioning on full-blast, because I have a tendency for heatstroke, horrible hayfever and a shameful fear of insects. To see me at a barbecue is to see me again, five minutes later, sprinting into the distance because someone said the word ‘wasp’.

Having children has changed all this.

My boys are sweet and endlessly curious, and I want them to have a den-building, forest-exploring sort of childhood. Because I grew up in a coastal village and, before my allergies and insect-based neuroses took hold, I barely spent any time indoors, and I loved it.

So, I’m trying to be a bit more outdoorsy. I’m no Ray Mears, but we do decamp to our local beach

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almost every weekend now. We don’t set an agenda, but poke around on the beach to see what the tide’s brought in. There’s something about lounging in the dunes and observing the progress of the clouds across the sky that evokes that childhood sense of summer holidays lasting forever, and it’s very calming.

Occasionally I am organised enough to set us ‘outdoorsy missions’, like going to the park to find ‘helicopter’ seeds from Sycamore trees to turn into art, but often we just end up playing at being dinosaurs among the bluebells, which is equally fulfilling.

We are on the way to nursery again; late again, with my children’s hair glinting summer-gold from all the time they’ve spent outdoors lately.

“This,” I inform them. “Is an Ash tree. It’s a deciduous tree – that means it loses its leaves in winter – and did you know Ash tree seeds are called ‘keys’?”

“Look at me!” My son interrupts, because he’s that kind of four-year-old. “I am a tree! I am the biggest tree in the world! I am a GIANT SEQUOIA TREE and I am from America and as big as a bus and I am three-thousand-and-four-eleventy-one years old!”

I wait till I’ve dropped the children off before I fact-check my son on Wikipedia. Well, what do you know? Giant sequoias can live up to 3,000 years. My son was only four-eleventy-one years out. I might not be outdoorsy, but I must be doing something right.

ROBYN WILDER is a freelance journalist for the Observer, The Times and Grazia, among others. She writes a parenting column for The Huffington Post and edits The Naughty Step, an irreverent parenting newsletter and podcast.

Robyn lives in Kent with her husband and two sons

BOOK IT Inspire your family’s love of nature with a Wildlife Walk. Book at your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs account: centerparcs.co.uk/ activities

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T TRY I

A G N I V A

T S A L B

H

From sitting on the sidelines to centre of the action, what happened when the grandparents tried an activity they’d usually swerve? We join the Bartle family at Laser Combat to find out WORDS: Marianne Rawlins PHOTOS: Joseph Branston

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C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

Get social

Whatever activity you’re doing at Center Parcs, we’d love to see your photos.

Share them and tag #MYCP

Toby Bartle (foreground) hides from grandparents (from left) Mike Bartle and Vicky and Paul Cook

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AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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TRY IT • AC TIVITIES

Above: Toby gets camouflaged up. Right: Karine practises her aim

W

ith a full-on work and home life, the Bartle family are hard to keep up with.

Rob, an IT project manager, and Karine, a logistics consultant, are parents to three young children: Toby, aged seven, Natalie, five, and Noah, three. Even in their downtime they’re always on the go. Karine is a yoga fan, Rob runs, Toby plays football and Natalie dances – plus the whole family goes skiing once or twice a year.

Such a busy schedule means fitting in time with the extended family is a priority, and the Bartles have found that Center Parcs is the perfect location to get together. “It’s ideal for us because we meet up with Rob’s sister, her husband and their four children, as well as Rob’s parents, Mike and Margaret. There are seven

children in total so it’s great that there’s loads to keep them occupied. We can take them to the playgrounds, go on bike rides and, of course, the Subtropical Swimming Paradise is fantastic.”

The family started going to Center Parcs when Toby was only 10 months old and have been regulars ever since, staying at either Woburn, Sherwood or Whinfell Forest an average of twice a year. “We especially adore visiting between Christmas and New Year. It’s so convenient as we can all congregate in one place where you know the children will be safe and entertained.”

Have-a-go heroes The Bartles have found that Center Parcs activities are a great way to sample fresh experiences. “Over the years, we’ve tried Junior Pony Rides, Cupcake Decorating, Ten Pin

Village insider FUN FOR ALL AGES Stewart Frith, Head of Department, Outdoor Activities, says: “Laser Combat is a team activity so it’s a great way for grandparents to bond with their grandchildren. We can adapt the games to suit people of all ages and our instructors are always on hand to help. It’s such a brilliant activity to supervise – the guests don’t wear goggles so you can see on their faces how much they’re enjoying themselves.”

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Bowling, Soccer Play – even Hair Braiding! I’ve also managed to sneak off to the Aqua Sana Spa a few times, which has been lovely,” says Karine.

Laser Combat was a new experience, though, and the grandparents were initially cautious participants. “I was looking forward to it,” says Karine, “But Mum was apprehensive – she’s not one for running around.”

“I didn’t know what to expect,” says Karine’s mum, Vicky Cook. “I definitely would have sat the activity out and watched instead, but Karine persuaded me to give it a go.”

Rob’s dad Mike also had initial reservations: “Laser Combat is well out of my comfort zone.

I might go on a relaxing rowing boat, but I never would have dreamt of taking part usually.”

Mission accepted But once the grandparents had accepted their mission, there was no way Karine, Rob and Toby were going to let the older generation back out and it was time for Mike, Vicky and Karine’s dad Paul to head into the Sherwood Forest’s Laser Combat arena. The activity started with a safety briefing and an explanation of the five games that the family would be playing alongside around 25 other guests.

“The staff were excellent – they really helped us to understand the games and encouraged everyone to get involved,” says Karine. The family then had to paint their faces with camouflage-style make-up: “Mum was a bit

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TRY IT • AC TIVITIES

THE GRANDPARENTS’ VERDICTS VICKY COOK: “It was a real adrenaline rush”

Clockwise from top left: Toby leads the charge; Mike and son Rob try out their tactics; #TeamBartle get into character

“Laser Combat is well out of my comfort zone.

I might go on a relaxing rowing boat, but I never would have dreamt of taking part usually” reluctant, but we made her do it!” laughs Karine.

Then, armed with their head gear and state-ofthe-art laser guns, they ventured into the forest.

“The first game was ‘Reds against Blues’, where we were all divided into two teams,” says Karine.

“Then we got into pairs; Rob and his dad were together and got really competitive – they won the game! The next game was ‘Select a General’: a six-year-old was the general and we all had to do what they said – which was to target everyone!”

Next came games of ‘Every Man for Himself’ and ‘Adults versus Children’: “The younger ones got really into it,” says Karine. “But there were no tears, it was all in good humour.”

Bartle. “They thought it was really funny seeing three of their grandparents in face paint running around with laser guns!” recalls Karine.

The activity was part of Vicky and Paul’s first-ever Center Parcs visit, but it won’t be their last. “They thought the whole experience was amazing and can’t wait to return,” says Karine.

“And we all enjoyed Laser Combat so much that we’re planning to try it again with my sister-in-law, her husband and children on our next break in December. It was such good fun – we’ll remember the day for a long time.”

Making memories Karine says she loved the competitive element.

“It was one hour of running around so it was great exercise. Although, having said that, you can be as active as you want. There were trees to hide behind and forts to sneak into, so you could rest there if you needed.”

The minimum age limit for Laser Combat is six, so Natalie and Noah had to sit out the activity, looked after by Rob’s mum Margaret

CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

BOOK IT Want to try Laser Combat yourself? Book at your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs online account: centerparcs.co.uk/activities

“I’d not been to Center Parcs before, but I’d heard good reports from Karine and I wasn’t disappointed. I was apprehensive before doing Laser Combat – I guess it was fear of the unknown. Just as we were putting on the camouflage make-up I said, ‘Can I back out?’ But Karine said, ‘No, it’s too late!’ So I got on with it. The staff were brilliant – they were so supportive and explained all the games really clearly. They were always encouraging us to get involved in the action. Toby thought it was hilarious seeing his grandparents with their make-up and laser guns. My husband Paul had a fantastic time too. It was a real adrenaline rush and from start to finish we did nothing but laugh. I’d highly recommend it. It lasted an hour, but the time just flew by.”

MIKE BARTLE: “Every grandparent should have a go” “We normally go to Center Parcs as a big gang with our children and seven grandchildren. It works well as there’s plenty to do, day and night. Laser Combat was out of the ordinary for me, but I’ll give anything a go and I’m so pleased that I did. We took part in a series of games that involved a lot of hiding and running – basically pretending to be a solider.

When Rob and I paired up it was great fun to work together – we covered the territory well and won the game! I used to do a lot of skiing and running. I’m 74 now and haven’t been able to do that for a while, but this wasn’t too much for me. Every grandparent should have a go.”

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TRY IT

PEDAL POWER Cycling is good for your health and good for the soul, and Center Parcs is the ideal place to get children started.

But how best to go about teaching this life skill? We asked the experts…

WORDS: Charlie Lyon

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C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

TRY IT • CYCLING

T

here are hundreds of reasons for a little one to learn to cycle, not to mention fun and freedom. Cycling builds confidence, keeps them fit and active, widens social horizons and, after the initial layout, is a cheap hobby that they can do almost anywhere. What’s more, it’s an activity that spans generations, and with plenty of opportunity for family time at Center Parcs, plus vehicle-light roads, topnotch Cycle Centres and clean air, it’s the ideal spot to get them started.

Julie Rand, Volunteer Communications Officer at Cycling UK, and a National Standard Cycle Instructor, says you’re never too old to learn to cycle, but children as young as two or three can cycle unaided. Here she shares her top tips, and also the pitfalls to avoid…

just putting their feet on the ground. Make sure they’re using them both at the same time so they’re not likely to go over the bars or skid the back wheel.

4 It’s OK to give them a bit of a hand Get them walking the cycle along with their feet on the ground, then, once they get some momentum, gradually get them to pick their feet off the ground. They might need a little push sometimes if they’re not very good at pushing along. Pushing can be a struggle for some children.

You can help a little bit by holding the back of the saddle, but ideally it’s them making the cycle balance that helps them to learn to steer as well.

1 All you need is basic prep

5 Don’t be nervous

2

6 Avoid going OTT on the cycle

Dress kids in comfy clothing that’s not going to get caught in the chain or cogs. Knee pads and elbow pads aren’t necessary, although gloves or mitts are a good idea as their hands can get sore.

Find a hard surface to start on, rather than grass, ideally on a gentle downwards slope so they can get a bit of momentum.

Swerve stabilisers

Cycling UK always recommends that children start with a balance cycle, or that you simply take the pedals off a regular cycle. Stabilisers might get them pedalling, but pedalling is relatively easy; balancing the cycle using their body weight is the main skill. You can introduce pedals when they can freewheel for a fairly reasonable distance.

3 Explain the brakes

Start off by teaching them to use the brake levers properly – this might take one session.

They need to know how to learn to stop by not

“Cycling builds confidence, keeps children fit and active, widens social horizons and, after the initial layout, is a cheap hobby they can do almost anywhere” CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

That’s you, not them! Children can take on your fear. If you are nervous or your child is reluctant to take instructions from you, you might want to bring in a professional cycling instructor – you don’t want it to become a fraught process.

They might want a fashionable mini mountain bike but these types can be too heavy. Buy the right size – it’s safer. If they are riding a cycle that’s too big for them they’re going to find it harder to control.

7 Use short sessions

How long it takes to learn to cycle depends on the child, but the main thing is to go at their pace.

Left: introduce pedals once they feel confident balancing on the cycle

Village insider CHOOSING THE RIGHT CYCLE Alex McIntosh, Cycle Centre Assistant, says: “First of all we suss out a child’s ability by asking the parents, then we’ll estimate the size of the cycle they’ll need by eye.

We’ll adjust the saddle, to around hip height, then get them to sit on it to make sure they can touch the floor and stop easily.

The main thing is to get it to a safe height.

“You don’t want knees coming too close to the handlebars – they should be able to sit up comfortably and not be hunched over the handlebars. If they’re too close, the cycle is too small. We can adjust the brakes if their hands don’t reach round easily.

“At the Cycle Centres we’re experienced at teaching children to ride and we’ll always offer to help out if parents need a hand. Our forecourt is a good space for learning to ride – a long stretch of tarmac with tarpaulin over the top. When all the cycles are out, they can ride around and we’ll give pointers.”

AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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TRY IT • CYCLING

MAKING MEMORIES These guests taught their children the cycling skills that will last a lifetime on their Center Parcs breaks

Left: Mum Charlotte says Matilda had the time and space to practise her cycling skills in the safety of the village

CHARLOTTE LAING, BRISTOL

“Don’t put unnecessary pressure on them and stop when they’re not enjoying it anymore. Sessions of 15-20 minutes at a time are probably enough”

BOOK IT Get little ones off to a flying start with our Teach Me Balance Bike activity. Book at your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs account: centerparcs. co.uk/activities Visit your village’s Cycle Centre and our knowledgeable staff will make sure you get exactly the right bike – from balance bikes for younger guests to electric bikes and tandems. You can hire bikes for the duration of your stay or just a day. We also stock a range of accessories, such as helmets, to buy or hire, as well as cycle route maps.

Don’t put unnecessary pressure on them and stop when they’re not enjoying it anymore. Sessions of 15-20 minutes at a time, half an hour even, are probably enough. Small amounts of progress will lead to long-term success!

8 Give pointers

Get them to look ahead instead of at the ground, and keep reminding them to keep their back straight.

The further back on the saddle and the more upright they are, the more balanced they’re going to be.

What you can do to help if a child is struggling is stand with the front wheel between your knees and hold the handlebars, then get them to take their feet off the ground. They can feel how it is to balance.

Sometimes I get them to take their hands off the handlebars altogether – it’s amazing how much that can help.

9 Jump back on

If you follow the above methods learners shouldn’t crash or fall that often. It’s not impossible, but most children are pretty resilient – they’ll just get up and get on again. If they do have a tumble, wait, give them the time to recover, then persist with it.

The whole idea is to make it not seem too scary.

10 Make it fun

Introduce little games to improve control skills: to improve steering, have a go at cycling around obstacles like sticks or cones; to help with balancing, see how slowly they can pedal.

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“We arrived with our three-year-old, Matilda, who was just starting to pedal her new Frog bike – her first pedal bike after a balance bike. She could just about cycle but was having trouble starting and stopping! The environment there – the fact she could ride with the adults, and the freedom it gave her to pick up speed in a safe place – meant that she left Center Parcs after just three days a much more confident rider. In the outside world there are so many more hazards – here you’re not terrified if they zoom off 20 metres ahead of you.

If we cycled too far and her little legs couldn’t make it back, we could just lock up her cycle and put her in one of the trailers.”

Right: Dad James with Lucy and son Leo enjoying the Subtropical Swimming Paradise at Whinfell

ASHLEY BARNARD, NORTH YORKS “Whinfell Forest was an ideal place for my two stepdaughters, Isabella, 10, and Lucy, eight, to hone their cycling skills.

My husband James and I initially just hired cycles for them so we could walk alongside them – but it wasn’t long before they were off so we ended up getting some for ourselves! Hiring the cycles was quick and simple, and the girls enjoyed making sure they were chained up correctly in the many cycle parks when we went to do activities.

Lucy wasn’t confident on her cycle before we came away, but the quiet roads and forest trails were perfect for her to improve her skills.”

C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

TA S T E I T • T H E PA N C A K E H O U S E

Share a ‘Purple One’ shake on social

TA S T E I T

Shake it up There’s a picture-perfect dish for all the family at The Pancake House. Head there to solve your dining dilemmas – your Instagram grid will thank you…

WORDS: Marianne Rawlins

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C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

TA S T E I T • T H E PA N C A K E H O U S E

P

illow-like pancakes, hot-off-thepress waffles, golden omelettes and ice-cold milkshakes… at The Pancake House there’s a dish to fuel your family’s adventures.

There’s no need to book, just turn up and let our food heroes save the day.

been cycling all afternoon, 1 “We’ve now we’re starving!”

Cycling is one of the best ways to burn hundreds of calories in an hour, so it’s no wonder you’re feeling peckish. What better excuse do you need to dig into a chocoholics American Pancake Stack? Before you get to the main event, you’ll need to sink your spoon through layers of chocolate and toffee sauce, whipped cream, crushed Flake, Rolos and Munchies.

Why not add a scoop or two of chocolate, vanilla or strawberry ice cream for extra indulgence? After all, you’ve got the ride back to your lodge to work it off…

needs to be big – our 2 “Breakfast activities today are non-stop”

Whether you’ve got a full-on Laser Combat session, a pulse-raising Aerial Adventure or just a hard day of manicures and massages at the Aqua Sana spa, The Pancake House is the ultimate way to celebrate sunrise at Center Parcs. Our special breakfast menu features everything from ’grammable Smoked Salmon and Spinach Pancakes (don’t forget to tag us using #MYCP) to our ever-popular New York Stacks. Topped with smoked streaky bacon and lashings of maple syrup, they’ll ensure the family’s powered up for the day.

on a health kick, but want to 3 “I’m join in the family fun”

Our Farmers Omelettes are packed with colourful, fresh veggies to help you eat that daily rainbow we should be aiming for. The eggs pack a protein punch to keep you full until dinner, plus the mushrooms, peppers and spring onions add up to two of your five a day. As well as protein and fibre, the veg are brimming with vital vitamins and antioxidants, helping to support immune systems. For fewer calories, ask your server to hold the cheese.

4

“Does no gluten have to mean no choice?”

Definitely not. Coeliac disease affects around one in every 100 people in the UK, according to NHS figures, so we know that a lot of families visiting Center Parcs need gluten-free options. Look out for the GF symbol next to many dishes on the menu and ask for your meal to be tailored to your needs. Our Belgian-style waffles are a safe bet as you’ll find the GF symbol next to all of these. Go Dutch with a Dessert Pancake cooked with tangy apple and sweet sultanas, topped with silky whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, toffee sauce and the crunch of crushed honeycomb. Or, for a quintessentially British twist, plump for a fresh and fruity Strawberries and Cream Waffle.

Village insider WHAT’S YOUR FLAVOUR? Julie Greaves, Server at The Pancake House, says: “My favourite pancake has to be the Goat’s Cheese with caramelised onions, sun blush tomatoes and rocket.

Sometimes I’ll get a waft of it from the kitchen and I’ll get the urge to eat one there and then!”

Plump for a waff le topped with strawberries and cream

“Whether you’re doing Laser Combat or spending the day at Aqua Sana, The Pancake House is the ultimate way to celebrate sunrise” CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

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TA S T E I T • T H E PA N C A K E H O U S E Left: get together for a family treat at The Pancake House

As well as being tasty, our shakes are super-cute

“Our Children’s Shakes come in chocolate, strawberry and banana flavours and their own cute miniature bottles.

Containing calcium-packed real milk, the fruit-flavoured shakes are made with 100% natural purées”

My daughter’s just 5 “Help! gone vegan”

With everyone from Venus Williams to Benedict Cumberbatch plunging for plant-based, veganism is not the fringe diet it was once considered. In fact, the number of vegans in the UK quadrupled between 2014 and 2018, according to the Vegan Society. And with 10% of British children aged eight to 16 now said to be vegan or vegetarian, what to dish up for dinner is a common dilemma for many families. As usual, our restaurants have it covered and many of The Pancake House's dishes are available as vegan versions – simply look out for the VE symbol on the menu or ask your server. The moo-free Banoffee Pancake proves that desserts don’t need dairy to be delectable.

6

“We’ve got 30 minutes of treat time before our next activity”

Want an afternoon family treat, but haven’t got time for a full meal? Let us introduce you to our gourmet sundae shakes. Go for the ‘Purple One’

24 VILL AGE LIFE • A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 / 2 0

to really shake things up: blueberry purée, Oreos, vanilla ice cream and milk, blended and topped with whipped cream and, yes, more Oreos. Its vivid hue makes it splendidly shareable – on social, if not IRL. Little ones needn’t be left out – our Children’s Shakes come in chocolate, strawberry and banana flavours and their own cute miniature bottles. Containing calcium-packed real milk, they’re great for growing bones, plus the strawberry and banana flavours are made with 100% natural fruit purées.

BOOK IT There’s no need to book at The Pancake House, just turn up. For more information – including menus – on all Center Parcs restaurants, visit centerparcs.co.uk/restaurants

C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

TA S T E I T • T H E PA N C A K E H O U S E

On the grid #Instafood has never looked so delicious

@maxrhysjones

@_maddienoel

@jennief_b

@laurajoyce91

@smudger_smudge

@ricklaw15

The dishes at The Pancake House are just too pretty to eat without taking a picture first.

So what’s your photogenic favourite on menu? Sweet or savoury, breakfast or dinner, we want you to share your stacks with fellow foodies. Check in on social media or use the hashtag #MYCP on Twitter or Instagram

@chl0em1tchell

CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

@chloee.lloyd

AUTUMN/WINTER 2019/20 • VILLAGE LIFE

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In the BEST of SPIRITS Since 1886 The Franklin & Sons range is crafted with Staffordshire spring water, hand harvested Ecuadorian cinchona bark and natural British sugar beet to ensure the best quality tonic water. The high carbonation levels lift the delicate botanicals in every premium spirit.

Naturally light and found in the best of spirits with

38 calories per bottle Available in the Parc Market

Experience Worth Sharing www.franklinandsons.co.uk for our full range of Tonics, Mixers, and Soft Drinks

@Franklinandsons

Time for the perfect G&T Premium mixer and soft drink experts Franklin & Sons have created a gin and tonic recipe for you to enjoy whilst relaxing on your break; perfectly paired with Beefeater London Gin.

Gin is the go-to spirit at the moment and knowing how to make a serve that would be the envy of bartenders is easier than you think.

3. On to the ice‌

Simply follow the Franklin & Sons top tips and create a delicious drink to savour. All ingredients are available in the Parc Market.

The most important thing to get right is the tonic water, as it completes the perfect serve. The Franklin & Sons tonic water range has the highest levels of carbonation, which allow the delicate botanicals in the gin to come through. Made with the highest quality ingredients, the range only uses natural flavours, extracts and colours and never any preservatives or sweeteners.

1. Choose your gin wisely...

Every gin has a different taste profile, with the key botanicals influencing the flavour. If your chosen gin is a London Dry, such as the citrusy Beefeater London Dry gin, it will pair exceptionally well with Franklin & Sons Natural Indian Tonic Water. To balance floral gins, such as the on-trend Beefeater Pink Strawberry gin, the perfect pairing is Franklin & Sons Natural Light Tonic Water, as it balances the sweetness.

Alternatively, if you are the flavour connoisseur of the group, the Beefeater Blood Orange gin partners beautifully with Franklin & Sons Rosemary Tonic Water with Black Olive.

Ensure that your copa glass is filled with ice. More ice means less dilution, meaning your drinks stays colder for longer.

4. Add the premium Franklin & Sons tonic water...

2. The right glassware...

The next step is getting the glassware right. Copa glasses are the best way to serve a G&T, typically balloon shaped, the glass sits on a tall stem adding a touch of theatre to your serve while on holiday. Drinking from a copa glass ensures that the botanicals in the gin hit the nose, creating a full sensory experience. Buy the Franklin & Sons copa glass in the Parc Market to recreate your perfect serve at home.

tonic water. London Dry gins pair well with citrus garnishes such as lemon, lime, grapefruit or orange. Floral gins work well with cucumber, mint, edible flowers, citrus peel and berries, whereas spicy gins taste great with cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, peppercorns or rosemary.

The Franklin & Sons mixer and soft drinks range is available to buy in the Parc Market. Perfect for gin lovers, you can purchase one 70cl bottle of Beefeater Pink Strawberry Gin, two bottles of 500ml Franklin & Sons Natural Indian Tonic Water or Franklin & Sons Natural Light Tonic Water and a branded Franklin & Sons copa glass for just ÂŁ25!* For those who prefer something different, the Franklin & Sons Flavour Collection basket pack is also available in the Parc Market. Developed alongside industry expert mixologists, the Flavour Collection adds depth and complexity to your G&T, whilst remaining delicate and not masking the botanicals, or profiles of spirits. The pack includes four 250ml bottles of the dual flavoured tonic waters: Elderflower Tonic Water with Cucumber, Rhubarb Tonic Water with Hibiscus, Rosemary Tonic Water with Black Olive and Pink Grapefruit Tonic Water with Bergamot.

The range grants unlimited opportunities to experiment with flavour for the most sophisticated of serves.

5. The art of the garnish...

Experiment with different combinations to unlock new flavours in your gin.

A good garnish should enhance and complement the signature botanicals and * Price subject to change.

TA S T E I T • E AT I N G O U T

TA S T E I T

THE MUNCH BUNCH Our restaurants embrace the happy havoc of family dining, letting parents relax while children hone their social skills and gain confidence WORDS: Laura Shack

W

ith such a huge selection of familyfriendly restaurants to choose from, Center Parcs is the perfect place to eat out with your children.

From Huck’s American Bar and Grill to Rajinda Pradesh, you’ll discover a wide variety of dining options, with plenty of play areas and children’s menus to cater for even the pickiest of little eaters. And for the very youngest diners, there are highchairs and free Ella’s Kitchen food pouches available at special baby stations across all locations (see box, page 30).

Eating out with your children can be a positive family experience that helps boost your children’s communication skills, confidence and sense of adventure. We asked Anita Cleare, a parenting coach and author of the Thinking Parenting blog (anitacleare.co.uk/thinkingparenting), to tell us more about some of the benefits.

1 Time to talk

Eating out together gives families an often-rare chance to come together and shoot the breeze.

“Having conversations with your children is one of the best ways to boost their intelligence and neurological

“Eating out can be a positive family experience that helps boost your children’s communication skills, confidence and sense of adventure” 28 VILLAGE LIFE • A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 / 2 0

development,” says Anita. “Research shows that the number of conversations a young child participates in can still be seen 10 years later in their language and literacy levels. So, it’s not just about the amount of language they’re exposed to, it’s the number of conversations. And the dinner table is one of the best places to have conversations.”

As anyone with older children knows, it can be tricky to engage with your child at mealtimes if their face is buried behind a device. Anita says she combats this with a strict ‘no-tech’ rule at the dining table, which the whole family – including her own teenage children – follow.

“I love eating out with my children. It’s one of the few times when I’m almost guaranteed to get a conversation out of them,” she says. “They’re not going to be doing something else and it’s a really precious thing to do.”

Fewer distractions (and zero washing 2 up to do)

Do you ever sit down for a meal at home, only to get up two seconds later to check on something? All you can think about is the washing that needs to be done, the grass that needs to be mown or the pile of letters that are waiting to be opened. You can’t switch off because it’s all around you.

“When you go out to eat, you have that wonderful luxury of someone else cooking the food and doing the dishes for you,” says Anita. “That means you can focus on the nice bits and enjoy the experience rather than it just being one more chore – because dinner time can be a bit of a chore when it’s at home and part of a busy life.

“Eating out creates an opportunity to talk about different things and a little space to breathe together as a family," she adds.

C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

TA S T E I T • E AT I N G O U T

EASY EATING ETIQUETTE Fun family time – that's the main aim of eating out at Center Parcs. But there's no doubt table manners are a vital life skill We all try a bit harder with our table manners when we’re eating out. There’s a little less slurping, a little more chewing and we might even dab our mouth with a napkin. Being able to pull out our A-game table manners when they’re needed is an important social skill.

The restaurants at Center Parcs are designed with children in mind – so there’s no need to fret if more food ends up on the floor than in your little one’s mouth. But eating out does give your family a chance to learn those skills.

Practise with role play “Children are messy and they will get things wrong. And most of the time that’s fine,” Anita says. “But if you’re worried that your children will only eat with their fingers or can’t keep their bottom on a chair, you could do a little role play at home to practise.”

Choose a family-friendly restaurant It’s important to choose a restaurant that everyone feels comfortable in, so that you can enjoy a stress-free meal together. With family-friendly restaurants across our villages, you can practise table manners with your children in a welcoming environment.

Make a fun pack

From top: eating out with children is a chance to talk without distractions; make mealtimes playful and relaxed; activities such as colouring are interactive as well as fun

CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

It’s tempting to reach for a tech device to keep children well-behaved when eating out. But then everyone is missing out on a wonderful opportunity to interact with each other. Anita suggests taking along a little fun pack instead.

“It could be something as simple as a deck of cards or something silly that involves collaboration,” she says. “Playing I Spy and other word games is an easy way to get everybody involved."

We know it’s not in little ones’ natures to sit still, so you’ll find children’s activity sheets and crayons at restaurants across Center Parcs and soft play areas in some restaurants too. That’s great news for when you want to linger over your dining experience just that little bit longer.

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TA S T E I T • E AT I N G O U T

CENTER PARCS TEAMS UP WITH ELLA’S KITCHEN Look out for Ella’s Kitchen feeding stations when you’re dining out in our villages.

“We’re really excited to provide feeding stations for little ones to enjoy while on holiday,” says Elyssa Whyte Baker, Assistant Brand Manager at Ella’s Kitchen. “They can be found in the restaurants across all villages and offer a range of Ella’s Kitchen food – free for little ones whose families are eating in!”

Visit our blog for Ella’s Kitchen Nutritionist Claire Baseley’s tips on weaning little ones while out and about: blog.centerparcs.co.uk/tips-for-weaninglittle-ones-whilst-out-and-about/

“Memories are important for children’s resilience and an internal resource to draw upon – they're a little well of happiness”

3 Confidence building

Above: don't stress too much if children prefer to occasionally forgo the forks – go with the flow for a more laid-back eating experience

As adults, we have an idea of how most restaurants work, but for many children eating out is a new or unfamiliar experience. There are lots of tables and people, new cutlery, different sounds and smells, and a menu of food options to choose from.

Eating out together as a family helps children learn how to behave in different places. Even ordering a drink can hone your child’s social skills. Plus, talking about what you've done that day over dinner helps them to make memories. This plays a part in carving out their identities, in turn boosting confidence.

“When you talk about all the lovely things you’ve done on your day out, you strengthen your children’s memories,” Anita explains. “Memories are important for children’s resilience and an internal resource to draw upon – they're a little well of happiness. They help form a sense of family identity, answering questions like, ‘Who are we? What do we do together?’ And that’s important for children to build their own sense of selves.”

4 Adventurous eaters

Is there anything more frustrating than spending a good hour or two preparing a special meal, only for your children to pull a face and declare it ‘yucky’? We all want

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our children to try new foods, but it can feel like a waste of time and money when you end up scraping dishes into the dog's bowl. However, Anita says children are more likely to be adventurous in their food choices when they got out to eat. “When children see other children eating different foods, they’re more likely to try it themselves,” she says.

“It doesn’t mean they’re going to like it, but at least they’re attempting something new.”

But does it actually matter if your child will only eat, say, banana sandwiches? “We don’t want children to close down their nutritional choices too early,” says Anita. “It makes mealtimes more interesting if you’ve got a wider choice of things you can make, and it’s really good for them nutritionally to eat lots of different foods.”

She adds: “If children are willing to take a risk on something little like trying new foods, then hopefully that gives them the confidence to take calculated risks in other situations where they may be unsure at first.”

BOOK IT Our restaurants can get very busy so we advise that you make a reservation. A £5 deposit per person will secure a table and will be taken from your final bill. To book, sign into your Center Parcs account: centerparcs.co.uk/my-account There is no need to book at The Pancake House or Sports Café – just turn up. Children’s play areas can be found in many of our restaurants.

C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

TA S T E I T

“Of course there will be mess – often lots of it!”

A bit of chaos in the kitchen leads to more magical mealtimes.

Parenting blogger Emily Leary shares her family cooking tips

Illustration: Mark Conlan

EMILY LEARY Busy family life means evenings can be a whirl of activity as we attempt to keep the children entertained, help with homework, then get them fed, bathed and their teeth brushed, hopefully with a calm half hour leading up to bedtime.

Amid all this rushing around, involving the children in the kitchen might be the last thing on your mind, but with a little prep it can be incredibly rewarding, and may even take pressure off as you combine family time with meal-making.

Younger children will love practising basic number skills, while activities such as whisking, using a rolling pin, chopping fruit with a butter knife and sprinkling all enhance fine motor skills.

Older children can develop their maths and reading skills as they help you follow recipes and weigh out ingredients. You might even introduce basic scientific concepts such as chemical reactions – what happens when you apply heat to chocolate?

And, for the whole family, cooking is a chance to promote healthy eating by helping children learn where their food comes from and the different elements that make up their diet.

Involve children in cooking whenever you can, even if it’s just rinsing salad, scrubbing potatoes or collecting ingredients from the fridge. The more often they get the chance to be hands-on with food prep, the more confident and competent they’ll become.

Remember that children often want to be as independent as possible, so go for simple recipes,

CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

with the minimum need for adult intervention, which will allow children to try out techniques such as kneading, stirring and pouring.

So, what to make? For younger children, it’s good to start with baking because it typically requires blunt utensils, with grown-ups only needed to pop food in and out of the oven. Cookies and simple cakes are perfect. Why not try my Quick and Easy Shortbread or Banana Matcha Tea Cake? Introduce more complex responsibilities – such as grating and chopping – to older children as their coordination improves. My Red Pepper and Cheese Savoury Muffins are satisfying yet straightforward (see amummytoo.co.uk for all recipes).

Minimise hazards by setting up the children’s workstation in advance. Set it away from the oven and any dangerous objects you have in the kitchen, and use a stable step for smaller children to stand on.

Of course there will be mess – often lots of it! Put some paper down, throw on some old clothes or aprons, and go with the flow. It’s more fun if you’re not too hung up on everything being neat and tidy.

If you’re a novice in the kitchen, this all might sound like a disaster waiting to happen, but fear not; cooking together is a chance to learn together.

Start simply and work your way up to more complex challenges as a family. Focus first on cooking nonessential treats together at weekends or on family breaks when time is less stretched. That way, it’s no great disaster if your recipe doesn’t work out – you can all just laugh and try again next time!

is a writer, presenter, blogger, vlogger and mum of two. In 2011 she launched her recipes and parenting blog, A Mummy Too: amummytoo.co.uk.

Emily’s book, Get Your Kids to Eat Anything (Octopus), is out now

BOOK IT Try a Chocolate Chefs Academy or Family Cupcake Decorating activity. Book at your village’s Booking Desk, call 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs account: centerparcs.co.uk/ activities

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HOME FROM HOME

HEIGHT OF LUXURY

WORDS: Laura Cumberpatch

Get a glimpse inside the most luxurious accommodation we have to offer – the spectacular Treehouse

34 VILLAGE LIFE • A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 / 2 0

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H O M E F R O M H O M E • A CCO M M O D AT I O N

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H O M E F R O M H O M E • A CCO M M O D AT I O N

Village insider TOP OF THE TREE Sue Lewis, Treehouse Host, says: “’Exceeds expectations’ is the most common comment guests make as they enter their Treehouse.

Their first impression is of quality, tranquility and attention to detail.

“Guests appreciate our personal, one-to-one care. We get to know a little about them prior to arrival, enabling us to tailor their stay. Do they prefer white, red or rosé wine? It will be waiting for them when they arrive.

“Surprises and delights are around every corner.

For example, at Christmas guests will enjoy a roaring log fire and bespoke decorated tree with twinkling lights.

“It’s such a privilege to share that special moment when they walk through the door. We have had many a spontaneous hug!

“We are fortunate to have many returning Treehouse guests. My greeting to them is always, ‘Welcome home.’”

H

idden away in the heart of the forest, the Treehouses at Center Parcs are the pinnacle of our accommodation – literally.

This is the most luxurious residence you and your family could stay in, offering everything you could imagine for a exceptional stay in one of our villages.

Before we get to the standout features of our Treehouses (and there are many!), there are lots of practical details that will make a big difference to your break. These include access to your Treehouse from 2pm, rather than the usual 3pm, so you get to spend an hour extra to relax in your sumptuous surroundings. Guests also get dedicated parking spaces right next to the Treehouses, so you don’t have to worry about taking your car back to the car park after unpacking. Plus, to ensure your

“With open-plan living areas, Treehouses are designed so you can share special moments and make family memories” 36 VILLAGE LIFE • A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 / 2 0

stay is stress free, daily housekeeping is available throughout your break, allowing you to take a holiday from domestic duties.

Treehouses have so many exclusive features that you and your family will love. Each of the four en-suite bedrooms have their own sleek design, making them stand out from other accommodation. When you walk up the handcarved spiral staircase, you’ll find a stylish bedroom the like of which you will never have seen at Center Parcs before. Our advice: claim this room before anyone else does!

Let us entertain you To make your break extra special, you’ll have a dedicated Treehouse host who will be on hand to make every moment enjoyable and easy (see box, left). So you can sit back and relax in the comfort of the accommodation, watching Sky TV, listening to music on the Bose iPod docking station, relaxing in your private hot tub or heading out to do your activities, while your Treehouse host takes care of everything else.

With open-plan living areas, Treehouses are designed so you can share special moments and make family memories. If you’re in the kitchen –

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TREEHO U SE TREAT S

DEDICATED PARKING Forget that trip to the car park

DEDICATED HOST Expect a warm welcome

CHAMPAGNE Uncork, sip… relax Facing page: bond over a traditional family board game.

Above: the hot tub is the place to be on a starry night

cooking dinner or making a coffee – you’ll still be involved in the living room chatter. And the highspec entertainment system means the living space really is the perfect surroundings for a family night in – enjoy a movie night or sip a glass of something cold as you cosy in for the evening.

Escape to outdoors

UPGRADE TODAY Treehouses are available at Sherwood, Elveden, Longleat and Woburn Forest.

To read more about this spectacular accommodation and upgrade your next break, visit centerparcs.co.uk/ accommodation

But that’s only the inside of the Treehouse! Head out to the private decking and balcony areas and you’ll uncover the many striking surprises that set Treehouses apart from any other forest accommodation. Your childhood Treehouse dreams will become reality as you enter your own Games Den. With a flat-screen TV, pool table and board games, it’s the perfect hideout for children – and a great escape for adults too.

On the private outdoor patio you’ll find the perfect al-fresco dining area with gas barbecue, ideal for those evenings spent cooking and chatting together. Pop into the nearby ParcMarket for a dinner the whole family can get involved with.

And did we mention that each Treehouse has its own private outdoor hot tub? It’s the ultimate special feature, for any time of day. Stargaze from the hot tub in the evenings or, after a busy afternoon of activities, jump in to wind down.

A stay in a Center Parcs Treehouse really is a break in pure luxury and a rare chance to enjoy top-class facilities, accommodation and service as you escape from everyday stresses with family and friends. So what are you waiting for?

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GAMES DEN Did someone say ‘family tournament’?

DAILY HOUSEKEEPING Take a break from domestic duties

HOT TUB Stargazing compulsory

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H O M E F R O M H O M E • E LV E D E N

H O M E WA R E

FOREST FOLK Head to The Store Room to get in on the whimsical woodland accessories trend 1

WHERE TO SHOP Take a break between activities to browse in one of our village shops Treats, Sports Plaza Pop in for traditional and novelty confectionery. More than 20 different flavours of fudge made in store sit beside jelly beans, exquisite chocolates and pickand-mix sweets.

2

Spirit, Sports Plaza Treat yourself to a new outfit from the fabulous fashion brands at Spirit, including FatFace, Barbour, Animal, Jack Wills, Joules, White Stuff and Jack Wolfskin.

Aquatique, Sports Plaza

3

Goggles, swimming costumes, shorts, tankinis and bikinis, inflatables and more can be found at Aquatique, located at the entrance to the Subtropical Swimming Paradise.

4

Sportique, Sports Plaza Best-selling sport brands Adidas and Puma together with ranges from Superdry, Jack & Jones, Vero Moda and Trespass. There’s a great selection of footwear from Adidas, Puma, Skechers and more.

Time for Shade, Sports Plaza

5

Sunglasses, watches and jewellery from some of the world’s most popular names – Ray-Ban, Oakley, Ted Baker, Fossil, Sekonda, Carat and Clogau, to name a few.

6

Just Kids, Village Square Young guests will love finding something fun to spend their pocket money on, with a wide range of the latest toys and games to choose from.

The Store Room, Village Square

1 Keyring, Joules, £9.95 2 Hester Hedgie doorstop, Dora Designs, £35 3 Hare statue, Richard Lang, £34.95 4 Half-pint hedgehog mug, Emma Bridgewater, £19.95 5 Center Parcs heatable squirrel warmie, £14.95 6 Scarf, Joules, £19.95

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Browse an extensive range of gifts and souvenirs for loved ones and the home. Includes Britishmade brands such as Emma Bridgewater, Bomb Cosmetics, Wild and Wolf and Cath Kidston.

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YOU TIME

RELAX AND RESET Surrounded by nature and family, you’re in the right place to truly switch off stress, says GP, author and podcaster Dr Rangan Chatterjee WORDS: Laura Shack

A

GP for 20 years in Manchester, Dr Rangan Chatterjee is mindful to practise the stress-busting techniques he preaches. “Like many people I’m busy,” he says. “I’m married, I’ve got two young children, I work hard, I’m trying to make sure I spend enough time with my family – I’ve got to be careful I don’t burn out doing all of this. I absolutely have to practise stress management myself.”

As well as being a medical practitioner, Rangan is the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Stress Solution and founder and presenter of Feel Better, Live More, one of Europe’s biggest health podcasts.

We caught up with him in between appointments to find out why we can feel stressed out, even when we’re on holiday. And he shares the simple changes we can make for a healthier, happier break.

“We’re hardwired to be in nature.

So if you go on a Center Parcs break your stress levels will come down” 40 VILLAGE LIFE • A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 / 2 0

TAKE A BREATH One of the quickest ways to lower your stress levels is to focus on your breathing, says Rangan. “It’s quick, it’s free and it’s easy.”

1 Breathe in for three seconds 2H old for four seconds 3 Breathe out for five seconds

Why are we so stressed?

Rangan says that up to 90% of what a GP sees in any given day is related to stress. “A whole variety of different health conditions can be caused by stress – not just obesity and diabetes but also things like headaches, insomnia, an inability to concentrate, low libido and gut problems,” he says.

Originally our stress responses were there to keep us safe from wild predators, Rangan explains.

But now they’re being activated by our daily lives – by our email inboxes and our competing demands at work and home.

“For years I was a carer for my father and that was incredibly difficult,” he says. “Trying to work, trying to be a carer for my dad, trying to support my wife and my children. Modern living is inherently stressful – it’s why the World Health Organisation calls stress ‘the health epidemic of the 21st-century’.”

The problems Rangan sees in his surgery have inspired him to make it his mission to empower people to take control of their stress levels and health. “I want to give stress management the same importance as eating vegetables or going to the gym,” he says.

“Because when you feel better in yourself, you get more out of your life.”

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YOU TIME • WELLNESS

STRESS-BEATING HACKS FOR YOUR BREAK Away from your daily routine, why not take the opportunity to try some new wellness-boosting techniques? Here are Rangan’s tips for a truly relaxing break

1

PACK UP EARLY Packing can be stressful – why can you never find your children’s waterproofs?

So, try to get the bulk of your packing done five days before your holiday. You’ll reduce your stress levels, and you’ll find it easier to switch off when you arrive.

2

STARE AT A TREE “Spend five minutes staring at a tree and really focus on the details,” says Rangan.

“Look at the shape of a leaf, the branches blowing in the wind and the squirrel going up the trunk. It will make you feel calmer and happier.”

Unplug for a more connected break We tend to put a lot of pressure on breaks. When we’re rushing around in the our daily lives it’s tempting to think: ‘Oh, but when we go away, it will all be great.’

Rangan agrees, “There’s often an unrealistic expectation that we’ll be able to go from this disconnection with our partners and children, to complete connection. It can leave us feeling frustrated and more stressed if it doesn't happen immediately.” To help us connect better with our families – and ultimately see our stress levels come down – Rangan believes we should use our digital devices less.

“It’s very hard to resist temptation. And it’s not a human failing – phones are designed to be addictive.

So don’t beat yourself up about it,” he says. “But while you’re on holiday, ask yourself the question: ‘Do I really need to take my phone with me?’”

“Having your phone there is going to keep you distant from those people around you. So maybe go cycling on one of the beautiful paths at Center Parcs and leave your phones in your lodge. Spend the time together. You’ll find it’s a much different experience and you will connect more.”

CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

Above: From taking a hike together, to exploring nature or cycling, family adventures help you to reconnect and feel less stressed

3

INVEST IN A CAMERA Buy an inexpensive camera, so you don’t need to take your phone with you on every activity. Or put your phone on flight mode so you can use the camera app without being pulled into work emails… or videos of cats.

4

HOLD A PHONEDITCHING CEREMONY At mealtimes, create a ceremony of throwing your phones into a basket. Leave them there while you eat.

5

START AND END YOUR DAY RIGHT Find 10 minutes at the start and end of the day, just to be with your own thoughts or connect with your family. Your brain will thank you for this much-needed downtime.

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YOU TIME • WELLNESS

DR RANGAN CHATTERJEE Rangan's book, The Stress Solution (Penguin), is out now.

Feel Better, Live More is available to listen to on all podcast platforms. @drchattergee drchatterjee.com

“Go for a ride on one of the beautiful cycle paths and leave your phones in your lodge” Get outdoors and into nature

Photos: Susan Bell Photography

Above: Rangan sees family breaks as a chance to nourish relationships and spend time in nature

Have you ever wondered why you feel so refreshed after a walk in the forest or a trip to the coast? Rangan says it’s in our DNA. “We’re hardwired to be in nature,” says Rangan. “Nature is powerful for our physical health, our emotional health and our mental health – it’s absolutely incredible. Just being in nature, or looking at nature, will make your stress levels reduce immediately. So if you go on a Center Parcs break your stress levels will come down.”

He says that growing up, he didn’t have much access to nature. Now he makes a real effort to get into the outdoors every weekend with his family.

“We’re big fans of parkruns,” he says. “And what I find is that when we do get out in nature together – even if it’s raining – we come back and everyone’s just in a better mood. Everyone’s happier, everyone’s calmer, we feel as though we’ve connected more and everyone’s a bit more loving with each other.”

Try a family adventure Rangan says breaks offer a unique opportunity to spend quality time with our family and nourish those relationships.

“Spending time with your family helps lower stress levels, especially if you do it in a mindful way,” he says.

42 VILLAGE LIFE • A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 1 9 / 2 0

“Human touch is as important to your brain as food is for your physical health. But we’re touching our phones more than we hug our partners and children.

It’s problematic.”

He says the best way to be in the moment and more connected with each other is to ditch our digital devices and go on a family adventure. Why not take part in a Treasure Trail session, try some Field Archery, or go on a Wildlife Walk during your Center Parcs break?

“There’s something really exciting about making adventures together, making stories that you can re-tell afterwards,” he says. “And if you’re lost in creating adventures together, you’ve switched off from all the stuff that’s going on in your life. You’re being present, you’re being attentive to yourself and the people around you.

These shared experiences together in nature bonds us, and that lowers our stress levels.”

BOOK IT Take time to reconnect with your family and nature on a Wildlife Walk, Treasure Trail or Field Archery activity. Book at your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs online account: centerparcs.co.uk/ activities. To hire cycling equipment, visit your village’s Cycle Centre.

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YOU TIME • FITNESS

From worrier to warrior, let yoga soothe away stresses

YOU TIME

SOLO MISSION Away from the pressures of daily life, you have the headspace to kick-start a new self-care routine. Find inspiration at the Sports Plaza, Jardin des Sports or Aqua Sana Spa WORDS: Elizabeth Hufton

A

break at Center Parcs is the best possible way to get active with your family. But however adorable it is to see your little ones having fun, sometimes we all need a little bit of time dedicated just to ourselves.

You don’t have to wave goodbye to the family for a full day to feel like you’ve had quality self-care. Just spending an hour or two trying a new activity by yourself is all you need to feel recharged and ready to have more fun with the rest of your party. It’s also the perfect way to pick up lost fitness plans.

“In our normal lives we get so caught up in routines and commitments that making time for our own health and fitness is a struggle,” says fitness and wellbeing writer Claire Chamberlain (@claire_smiles), author of Self-Care: How to Live Mindfully and Look After Yourself (left). “On holiday we’re removed from that routine.”

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At home, guilt about what you should be doing – emails for work, household chores, or quality time with the children – can prevent you from taking time out to exercise, and that feeling sometimes follows you into holidays. Time to take a step back, says Claire. “If you can do something that makes you feel good about yourself, you’ll come back calmer, more centred and better able to look after the family. You don’t need a whole day – even if you’re in the Subtropical Swimming Paradise or on a bike ride, you can drop back or go aside for five minutes to get that silence and inner clarity that will make you more present afterwards.”

“People think it’s just slow sports that provide this mental break, but sweaty activities can be grounding as they bring you into the present moment” C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

YOU TIME • FITNESS

Strength training will make your body and mind stronger

“If you can do something that makes you feel good, you’ll come back calmer, and better able to look after the family” Gym and tonic Sweat out your worries with a session in the gym, where you can tune in to your breathing or zone out with music to keep your mind quiet. Choose from a range of cardiovascular machines and weights and go at your own pace.

Core values You’ll need to concentrate on your core in a slow, controlled Pilates class, which aims to target the muscles that support your body. Pilates improves your posture, banishes aches and pains, and helps your body to move well during more intense activities – such as boxfit, or lifting your two-year-old into the car.

Put the kettle on

Physical exercise is a great way to slow your racing mind. “When we exercise, our attention has to be in our physical body; we can’t get caught up in our anxieties and worries,” says Claire. “People think it’s just slow sports that provide this mental break, but sweaty activities can be incredibly grounding because the very nature of them brings you into the present moment.”

Now we’ve convinced you to take an hour to yourself, here are just some of the activities you could take part in to grab a bit of me-time and kick-start your fitness again.

Strike a pose If you really want to spend time caring for yourself, look no further than yoga. The physical benefits of improved strength and flexibility are great, of course, but it’s the clear-out for your consciousness that really makes it a winner. As your instructor talks you through the flowing movements, you’ll zone in on yourself and emerge feeling lighter, looser and a whole lot happier!

Blame it on the boogie There is no better way to forget your responsibilities than to unleash your inner child with a blast on a trampoline. Boogie Bounce uses mini trampolines to keep your heart-rate up as you bounce your way to better fitness and muscle tone. With motivating music to keep you going, you’ll finish full of energy, with a smile on your face – and the children will never get a look-in on the trampoline at home again!

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Our Kettlecise classes use serious strength training to build confidence and blast away worries. Exercises target major muscle groups and you’ll have expert supervision to ensure your kettlebells technique is spoton. Keep it up once your break is over and be amazed at how quickly this class can reshape your body and make you feel physically and mentally stronger.

Village insider FEELGOOD FITNESS Paula Arnold, Fitness Instructor at Center Parcs, says: “Exercise releases feelgood hormones, lowers your blood pressure and clears your head because you’re taking time out for yourself. My mainstay is yoga, which I’ve been practising for a long time. If you’re nervous about trying a new activity, just approach the Booking Desk to ask about the class. The staff are really friendly!”

Soothe operator For the ultimate in self-care, book a three-hour session at the Aqua Sana Spa. Keep the wellness vibe going with a treatment to soothe aching muscles.

The Decléor Bamboo Massage is a powerful deep tissue massage that produces a profound sense of relaxation, serenity and inner wellbeing.

Get in the zen zone

BOOK IT To book all classes and Aqua Sana Spa days and treatments, visit your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your online account: centerparcs.co.uk/activities

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I N F O • E LV E D E N

STO C K UP AT T H E PA RC MA RK ET WE’VE GOT IT ALL The ParcMarket offers favourite brands, plus selected lines from the Co-op range. You’ll also find a wide range of fresh fruit, salads, vegetables, meat and fish. Stock up on pasta, rice and other dried goods or try the Cook Food meal solutions, which can be cooked from frozen.

Our in-store bakery offers fresh loaves, rolls, cakes, cookies and cupcakes, along with croissants and pastries. It also serves hot food to take away, including pies and sausage rolls.

The off-licence is ready to add a little sparkle to your break, with a range of chilled beers and wines, as well as spirits and soft drinks. To mark a special occasion, pick up a bottle of Champagne. You’ll find several brands to choose from, including our own Center Parcs Champagne, chilled and ready for you to enjoy.

That’s not all: why not browse our extensive range of books, magazines and DVDs – perfect to keep the whole family entertained.

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ENJOY ELVEDEN FORES T

All the contacts and opening times you need to make the most of your break BOOK ACTIVITIES

BOOK RESTAURANTS

You can book activities by: • Using Booking Desks on our village • Calling our booking line: 03448 266 200 • Logging into your Center Parcs account at: centerparcs.co.uk/ my-account/sign-in.html

To book call 03448 266 200 For up-to-date restaurant opening times please check the website centerparcs.co.uk/ restaurants

BOOK AQUA SANA

Opening times Mon-Sat 8.00am-9.00pm Sunday 10.00am-4.00pm FREE delivery to your door.

If you spend more than £40 at the ParcMarket, we’ll deliver your shopping to your accommodation.

We can even bring your shopping in and place perishables in the fridge or freezer – there’s no need to wait in.

CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

Café Rouge, The Piazza 8.30am-10.00pm Canopy Café & Bar, Subtropical Swiming Paradise OPEN FROM 10AM-9PM 10.00am-8.00pm EVERY DAY Dexters Kitchen, Village Square 9.00am-8.00pm Dining In, Village Square 3.00pm-10.00pm Foresters’ Inn, The Country Club 9.00am-11.00pm Huck’s American Bar & Grill, Village Square 4.00pm-10.00pm Mo, Fr 12.00pm-10.00pm Leisure Bowl, Sports Plaza 9.00am-12.00am Rajinda Pradesh, The Piazza 5.00pm-10.00pm Closed Monday Sports Café, Sports Plaza 9.00am-11.00pm Starbucks* 8.30am-7.00pm The Pancake House, Village Square Open from 9am on Mo and Fr and 9:30am on non-changeover days**

SUBTROPICAL SWIMMING PARADISE

You can now book Aqua Sana by: • Calling our booking line: 03448 266 200 • Logging into your Center Parcs account: centerparcs.co.uk/ my-account/sign-in.html • To visit Aqua Sana at any time, go to aquasana.co.uk

Opening times Bella Italia, The Piazza 12.00pm-10.00pm

*We have three Starbucks on village, at the Sports Plaza, Subtropical Swimming Paradise and by the lake – opening times vary, depending on location. **For closing times, please see unit for more information.

Food served until 10.00pm at all restaurants (except Café Rouge, which stops at 9.30pm).

Opening times may vary during quiet periods.

CYCLE CENTRE When it comes to cycling, our staff at the Cycle Centre know everything there is to know.

There are many different kinds of cycle available to hire and, while you are welcome to hire for the entire duration of your break, you can also take one for a shorter period if you have a particular route you want to take, or you just fancy a meander through the forest.

Child and adult cycles are available, as well as trailers

for infants. If you have a flat tyre, call in for a repair kit, or pick up almost any other kind of cycle accessory you could need. Helmets are also available to buy or hire for the whole family.

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M A P • E LV E D E N

N E E D TO K N OW MEDICAL CENTRE Staffed by qualified nurses, our Medical Centre is open every day between 9am and 5pm. When it is closed, or in the event of an emergency, dial 4444 from the phone in your accommodation or 01842 894 444 from a mobile.

667-676

365-373

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479-486

348-364

729-738

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659-666

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LOST PROPERTY Lost property is carefully looked after by our Guest Services team. Report any loss immediately to them at the desk in the Welcome Centre. Visit the desk to collect your item between 9am and 4pm or call them on 01842 894 303.

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Subtropical Swimmin Paradise

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Sports Plaza

601-617

Action Challenge

450-463 318-331 574-584 390-393

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Village Square

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The Beach and Boatho

CASHPOINTS Low on cash? Don’t worry!

We have a cashpoint in the Village Square plus another in the Sports Plaza. If you’re picking up some groceries at the ParcMarket, you can get cashback (up to £50) there too.

ON DEPARTURE Please leave your accommodation in a clean and tidy condition.

Return your wristbands as soon as possible after 10am, either to Guest Services or in the wristband boxes as you exit. We look forward to welcoming you back!

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BOOK IT

533-545 401-405

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Book activities at the Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs online account: centerparcs.co.uk/ activities

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245-260

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YOUR V I L L AGE

ELVEDEN FORES T A map of all the facilities and accommodation

FREE WI-FI All our accommodation and most public areas are now equipped with free Wi-Fi. If you have a laptop, smartphone or tablet, you can make bookings at centerparcs. co.uk/bookmyplace

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY In the unlikely event of an emergency, please call: 01842 894 444.

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C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K

M A P • E LV E D E N

10 Village Speed Limit

949-958 763-772

773-782

749-762

939-943

783-792

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931-938

944-948

964-973 974-978

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wimming se

Pottery Painting Studio

Piazza

850-858

The Venue

Waterfront Apartments

Welcome Centre

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P

Breckland Apartments

Cycle Centre

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Arrivals Lodge and Security

96-100

101-110

43-48 112-115 116-124

501-514

125-136 166-180 201-210

Spa Suites

Aqua Sana Spa

893-900

92-94

Boathouse

The Country Club

901-905

817-824 825-833

Golf Course

959-963

153-165

CENTERPARCS.CO.UK

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Outdoor Activity Centre

49-58 59-76

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O U R CE N T E R PA RC S

Tracey builds Arlo’s confidence in the water

One village, two views

Kaitlin loves being a Center Parcs lifeguard

POOL PARTY The Subtropical Swimming Paradise is the highlight of Tracey Grew’s visits with her young family, while being a Center Parcs Lifeguard is a dream job for Kaitlin King

Photos: Ric Rawlins

Tracey Grew, Longleat Forest guest My husband Chris and I started coming to Center Parcs when I was pregnant with Max, now aged three. And my connection goes back further as my sister was a housekeeper at Longleat when we were younger.

We were soon hooked and have returned as guests six times. Now that we all have children, it’s a great place to meet up with friends from different parts of the country, as we know there will be activities to keep us all happy.

We also visit with Chris’ parents and his brother’s family.

His dad’s a tennis coach and Chris and his brother both play at county level, so they love the racquet sports.

But the place we spend most of our time is the Subtropical Swimming Paradise. Max and his younger brother Arlo, one, aren’t confident swimmers yet, so Venture Bay, with its spouts, slides and splashing pool, is perfect to get them used to the water. We also like that there are mini lifejackets to help keep them safe when we take a dip in the larger pools.

Longleat is only 20 minutes from our house, but when we go through the gates, we enter another world where we can just switch off and enjoy spending time together.

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BOOK IT Help your child to become more confident in the water with Swim Pups, suitable for children aged two to four. This fun, interactive activity is led by a qualified STA instructor, who will show your children some essential swimming and movement techniques.

Book at your village’s Booking Desk, call the booking line on 03448 266 200, or log into your Center Parcs online account: centerparcs. co.uk/activities

Kaitlin King, Longleat Forest Lifeguard I’ve always dreamt of being a lifeguard, but I wanted to work at a pool with a difference – that’s why I applied for the job at Center Parcs. Everyone’s taking a break so there’s a great atmosphere.

I started working at Longleat a year ago and went full time in July after finishing my A Levels. I’ve been a regular guest since I was three – my mum and I always used to come here. I’ve got loads of fantastic memories of going on the rides at the Subtropical Swimming Paradise, it’s always been my favourite bit of the village.

I get on really well with all of my colleagues and working with such a great team is one of the best parts of my job. My favourite ride is the Typhoon – you sit on a raft and go on drops and swings and can choose your own theme. It’s really fast and exciting, and never loses its thrill!

I’ll never forget when it snowed here in February this year. We had to close the outdoor pool for safety reasons but it looked so beautiful surrounded by treetops covered in snow. The whole village was magical.

C E N T E R PA R C S.CO.U K