Take a walk on The wild side at Center Parcs: Dad Mark's story

Looking out of the window of our cosy lodge all we could see was the forest and wildlife. We could have been a million miles from anywhere, yet we were only a two-minute bike ride to a hive of activity. Center Parcs is a wonderful escape from normality.

My two daughters, aged 12 and 9, were so afraid that they would miss something, they did not want to watch TV, and didn’t argue once. As soon as the girls got up they would put on trainers with their pyjamas and sit at the window taking pictures until mum and dad were up and they could go outside. After a fun-filled day and a quick refuel at our lodge (there was no time to eat out), their trainers were once again teamed with their PJs. They were eager to squeeze in a few more precious moments outside before bed.

It was a calm and peaceful start and end to a day. In-between was all action. There were so many things that we could do together as a family. We went swimming, played Adventure Golf and had unique experiences. A highlight was a two-hour Dusk Nature Walk with a ranger where we saw bats. We also gained a valuable insight into nature conservation as well as learning about the different birds, plants and animals that inhabited the forest.

My 12-year-old was totally enthralled with the medieval art of falconry session. Holding a golden eagle in her gloved hand was an experience that she will never forget. My younger daughter thought the Robin Hood and Little Johns (an archery class for parents and children) was “really cool”.

You know you have had a good break when time flashes by too quickly. We were all so sad to leave. We are looking forward to Woburn Forest opening as it will be far enough away to feel as if you have gone somewhere, but close enough for a long weekend.

For information about Center Parcs visit centerparcs.co.uk/eveningstandard

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