With festivities coming to an end and the New Year upon us, thoughts turn to those all-important breaks away.
And you don’t need to travel too far from Manchester for a spot of relaxation.
Darwin Forest is just two hours away, just outside of Matlock on the edge of the Derbyshire Peak District, and attracts couples, families and groups from miles around.
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It’s particularly appealing for those with young children as it’s got its own indoor pool, which is free to use as part of your stay; a host activities and even its own soft play.
But it’s also got everything you need for the grown ups too, with not only hot tub lodges, but a spa attached to the swimming pool, which has a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi and costs just £4 to visit.
There are pet friendly lodges at the site too, so you can take your furry friend along on your stay.
They’re also allowed in the dog-friendly on-site Foresters bar and restaurant, which is renown for its Sunday lunches.
In fact you don’t really need to leave the site at all. With its Little Monkeys indoor soft play centre, mini golf, woodland trails, a Trim Trak and bookable activities such as archery, zorbing and underwater sea scooters, as well as air hockey and arcade games inside the Activity Den, there’s plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained.
But if you do want to venture out, there are a number of things to do on the doorstep, including shopping in Matlock, a wander around Hall Leys Park, or a cable car ride to the popular Heights of Abraham – an award-winning hilltop estate offering magnificent views, adventure playgrounds, cavern tours, trails and lots more.
A two bedroom lodge, sleeping a family of four starts from £369 for a short break. For more information visit the website here.
