14 of us (8 adults + 6 kids) spent the early May Bank Holiday weekend at Darwin Forest in a Sudbury Lodge (no 26) and a Hassop lodge (no 23). We were looking for a park which wasn’t too big, but still had some decent on-site facilities and that wasn’t too difficult to get to. We also wanted good quality 3 and 4 bedroom accommodation. Darwin Forest seemed to fit the bill perfectly also we were all keen to see if the reality lived up to the brochure etc. I am pleased to report that it definitely did.

We arrived on a wet and windy afternoon and were glad to be able to check in quickly and head straight to our lodges. Both lodges were just a short walk from the main area with space for 2 cars outside. The Sudbury (2 doubles, 1 twin) seemed newer than the Hassop (2 doubles, 2 twins) but both were well appointed and cosy. We’d be happy to book either again.
The weather was mixed all weekend which meant we weren’t able to make use of the decking, but we did at least get to use the Trim Tail, Woodland Walk, Forest Trail and outdoor play area. When the weather was bad, we made good use of Little Monkeys and the pool. The non-parents also spent quite a lot of time in the spa area, which was lovely and relaxing.

We had a nice dinner in the Foresters Inn and lunch in the Explorers Cafe (worth getting there early if you have kids who get ratty if they eat late).

We also managed trips out the nearby Farm Park and into Matlock Bath (go there as early as you can and park at the Heights of Abraham) both were enjoyed by everyone, as was lunch at the Grouse and Claret at Rowsley. There really is a lot to do in the area so you are unlikely to get bored.

The only small negative comment I would make is that we felt the charge for using the hot tubs is very expensive (£100 for a week/£80 for a short break). We were contacted 3 times to ask if we wanted to use it but couldn’t justify the extra expense, especially when it only cost £3.75 each to use the spa. I’m sure more people would pay to use them if the cost was lower. This is a minor point though; overall we really liked Darwin Forest and are very likely to go back there in future.

We stayed here for a week at Xmas and are planning to re-book this year

The pinelodges are veryclean, modern and comfortable

There is a great indoor pool for kids, crazy golf, small arcade area, outdoor play area

If you stay in the lodges you are a good miles drive away from the nearest village - but that is what staying in a pine lodge is all about

There is a small shop on site as well as a large pub that does great food

During Xmas week there was entertainment in the pub and a great atmosphere - we had Xmas lunch in the pub and the landlord dressed up as Father Xmas and gave all the children toys

Highly recommended all round

We stayed at Darwin Forest 2 years ago and it is absolutely beautiful.

The park is very family orientated. The lodges are first class acommodation, with all mod cons.We were hoping to return this year but unfortunately they are fully booked the time we were hoping to visit.

My friend and her family have holidayed there the past two years and maybe returning this year too. The park is accessable for Matlock and Matlock baths, Crich railway, the village were they filmed "Peak Practice" Edam,and Chesterfield.