Last weekend, the All About Travel group gathered for their annual trip, which took place at Darwin Forest in the stunning Derbyshire Peak District. This renowned UK holiday park is a top destination, offering luxury self-catering lodges. Previously named "Best in Britain" by Hoseasons, it has also received the prestigious "Gold" award in the Visit England Awards for Excellence and the Derbyshire & Peak District Awards.
Located in the heart of the Peak District, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. The lodges were gorgeous—spacious, modern, and incredibly cosy! Each one had everything we needed, including a fully equipped kitchen, comfy beds, and even a private hot tub for ultimate relaxation.
The park itself offers a wide variety of activities and facilities for guests to enjoy. Darwin Forest in Matlock is perfect for a mix of relaxation and adventure, with plenty to do on-site:
On-Site Activities & Facilities:
Relax in a Luxury Lodge: Many lodges come with private hot tubs for the perfect way to unwind.
Evolution Health & Fitness: Featuring a swimming pool, gym, sauna, and spa treatments.
Foresters Bar & Restaurant: A cosy spot for a delicious meal or drinks.
Little Monkeys Play Centre: A fantastic indoor soft play area for children.
Mini Golf & Tennis: Fun for the entire family.
Woodland Walks & Trails: Scenic walking and running routes around the park.
Cycle Hire: Rent bikes and enjoy a ride through the beautiful surroundings.
Trim Trak Assault Course: An outdoor fitness challenge for all ages.
Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure, or family fun, Darwin Forest offers something for everyone!
The Peak District: A Perfect Destination While staying in the UK’s first National Park, there’s plenty to explore. You can visit iconic stately homes like Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall, take a cable car at the Heights of Abraham, or embark on a subterranean adventure in a limestone cavern. The area is also home to popular theme parks such as Alton Towers and Gulliver's Kingdom, offering some of the best rides in the country.
The Peak District is filled with miles of scenic footpaths, perfect for all ages and abilities. Hikers can enjoy the more challenging routes in the Dark Peak, with breathtaking views from spots like Kinder Scout or Stanage Edge. For those seeking gentler walks or exploring with children, there are many charming trails offering equally stunning views of the area’s magnificent landscapes.
For cycling enthusiasts, the Peak District offers 65 miles of off-road trails, plus numerous quiet lanes to explore. More experienced mountain bikers can tackle the area’s mountain bike trails, and there are plenty of adventure sports available for thrill-seekers.
Due to us having a large group, we also used a local mobile beauty therapist, who came to the lodge for some relaxing treatments as well as using the onsite spa facilities. We would highly recommend Sophie from https://www.swmobilebeauty.co.uk/ and the Evolution team for a massage & beauty treatments.
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