Families could save hundreds by booking Center Parc holidays in Europe instead of UK, investigation claims

Families planning a Center Parcs getaway in the UK might want to reconsider their destination as new analysis reveals potential savings of "hundreds of pounds" by opting for the continent instead. Consumer group Which? has published a study into the costs of four-night stays at 16 sites across England, France, and Belgium for various holiday periods. Their research found that, on average, a family of four would spend £1,274 in the UK, compared to £701 in Belgium and £833 in France.

Center Parcs UK said there was huge demand for shortbreaks in the UK - and stressed that it was run separately from its European business, although the two companies share the same branding.

However, Which? identified substantial savings between the destinations during October half-term and Easter 2024, primarily due to differences in school calendars among the studied countries. For instance, an Easter holiday in the UK costs an average of £1,259, while the same break could be booked for just £392 in France and £800 in Belgium.

Center Parcs offers woodland-based holidays with lodge accommodation and a range of activities, including swimming, water sports, crafting, and cycling. The company operates five sites in England: Elveden Forest in Suffolk, Longleat Forest in Wiltshire, Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, Woburn Forest in Bedfordshire, and Whinfell Forest in Cumbria.

According to Which?, substantial savings can still be achieved even when factoring in travel costs. Return ferry sailings from Dover for a family of four during October half-term can be booked for approximately £125 to Calais and £170 to Dunkirk.

Jo Rhodes, deputy editor of Which? Travel, advised travelers to consider looking beyond the UK when planning their Center Parcs