Darwin Forest, Matlock
Darwin Forest, Matlock
Site
Matlock, Peak District
DARF

Darwin Forest

Part of theMagnificentCollection

4.8

out of 5

Darwin Forest, part of our exclusive Magnificent Collection, is nestled in a beautiful woodland setting near Matlock and Bakewell, right on the edge of Derbyshire’s breathtaking Peak District. A proud winner of multiple accolades, including the prestigious Best in Britain award, this premier park offers a perfect blend of top-tier facilities and serene natural surroundings—ideal for enjoying quality family time at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone.

For those in need of some well needed relaxation and pampering, Evolution Health and Fitness provides a heated indoor pool, spa area, gym, and even indulgent beauty treatments to help you unwind. Then for those looking for more adventure, activities like tennis, mini-golf, body zorbing, archery, and Sea Scooters await, while numerous footpaths and cycling trails wind through the park, offering scenic routes for exploration. Little ones will delight in the multi-level fun at Little Monkeys indoor play centre, and older kids can head to the Activity Den for pool tables, air hockey, and arcade games. The Trim Trak obstacle course and orienteering are family favourites, or you can simply enjoy a tranquil woodland walk.

Outside the resort, the wonders of the Peak District await. Alton Towers promises a day of adrenaline-pumping fun, while the elegant Chatsworth House invites you for a leisurely afternoon stroll. Explore the scenic Monsal Trail, ride the Heights of Abraham cable car for stunning panoramic views, venture into historic underground caverns, or hike up Mam Tor and Bamford Edge for unforgettable vistas. There’s no shortage of natural beauty and exciting attractions to discover.
Please note, the park requires 72 hours’ notice if adding extras onto the booking:
  • Celebration Pack
  • Pamper Pack
  • Champagne and Chocolates
  • Indoor heated pool
  • Evolution health and fitness leisure centre
  • Spa*, steam room*, sauna* (over 16s)
  • Gym* (over 16s)
  • Massage and beauty treatments*
  • Foresters Bar and Restaurant
  • Explorers Café
  • Wi-Fi access
  • Trim Trak
  • Cycle hire*
  • Mini golf*
  • Archery*
  • Pool table*
  • Tennis court*
  • Little Monkeys Indoor Play Centre*
  • Childrens playground
  • SeaScooters*
  • Body Zorbs*
  • Orienteering course*
  • Woodland walks
  • DVD hire*
  • Parking for two cars next to lodge†
  • Shop, launderette*

†Two spaces is subject to size of the vehicles
††Age restrictions may apply to activities
All facilities available for all dates, except the Foresters Bar and Restaurant (shuts Christmas Day only). *Charges apply.

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Awards

    David Bellamy Gold

    Diamond Awards - Winner 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024

Features

Bar
Cafe/Take Away
Fishing Nearby - Within 3 miles
Golf Nearby - Within 3 miles
Gym/Fitness Room
Indoor Heated Pool
Kids Play Area
Launderette
Restaurant
Sauna
Shop/Supermarket
Spa And Beauty
WiFi

Overall holiday experience

Based on 365 reviews

4.8

out of 5

Value for money

4.4

Location and surroundings

4.9

Helpfulness of staff

4.9

Facilities

4.6

Overall rating

4.8

Cath

  • Lancashire

5

out of 5

We stayed in lodge 116. We liked the position because it seemed like the lodges were set in a semi circle with grass all around ( it resembled a mini field) The lodge was spotlessly clean and very comfortable. There was only milk in plastic packets so take your own or buy milk from the onsite shop! I am disabled and need help in the shower. This couldn't happen in the en suite because the flow of water came out at the end that you walked into the shower. The water needed to come out at the other end meaning my husband could stand in the shower without getting wet! Phew, sorry about that!!!!!We went into the bar / restaurant each morning for breakfast. Very reasonably priced comparable with eating outside of the park. I have had a stroke so cannot use my left hand at all. On our first morning Nicola served us I told her I needed a spoon to eat my food with. I also requested a takeaway cup for my coffee. The next morning Nicola was again on duty. She remembered what we wanted to eat and that I wanted a takeaway cup. Excellent customer service I was very impressed. I thoroughly recommend breakfast at the park. We did go into the bar at night, they have a cocktail menu but the cocktail I like wasn't on the menu so I asked the man who was serving his name is TOM and he was super helpful. I requested a Tom Collins NO problem said Tom made me one after checking with me the ingredients! The first one wasn't the best and I informed Tom it needed more lemon my second one was perfect. We only had 2 drinks each in the bar but I left feeling very happy! I only ever have a cocktail on holiday. We didn't eat in the restaurant other than breakfast. The onsite shop is the best I have ever seen on a holiday park it is really well stocked. We didn't use any of the other amenities with in the park. Fabulous staff, lovely site what more do you want? Thanks everyone. Cath

19 May 2025

Lesley

  • Fleetwood Lancashire

5

out of 5

just had a fabulous 4 nights in Darwin Forest lodge, wish we had gone for the week, the lodge was great - very comfortable, everything you need and spotlessly clean, beautiful grounds and forest walk. the only downfall is there is no TV it relies on you having an up to date laptop / equipment that you can connect to the TV, it was too much trouble to set up. staff were so nice and helpful, would definitely recommend to my family and friends and we will be going again.

19 May 2025

Verified Customer Review

5

out of 5

19 May 2025

Location

Accommodation

Flash Sale! Get up to £250 off your next Hoseasons holiday, discount already included in the final price.Book before 28/05/25 for stays between 21/05/25 and 31/08/25 to take advantage of this offer! For full terms and conditions visit www.hoseasons.co.uk/terms-and-conditions

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