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 384 reviews

4.8

out of 5

Value for money

4.4

Location and surroundings

4.8

Helpfulness of staff

4.8

Facilities

4.6

Overall rating

4.8

Leanne

  • Cleethorpes

5

out of 5

Had the best time. The lodge was beautiful. The facilities were fab too. Would recommend

26 Mar 2025

Verified Customer Review

5

out of 5

Perfect location with fabulous facilities for all!

26 Mar 2025

Louise

  • Solihull

3

out of 5

The park is brilliant but the lodge was not up to the usual standard as we stay in these types of holidays a few times a year for several years now through hoseasons. We have a new born baby and the heating controls had been removed, the hot tub was too cold and again couldn't be changed. The kitchen was very basic to the point thay you can't even cook pancakes so take your own cooking equipment. The second shower was electric and was literally like a tap so couldn't really be used. Only 1 towel provided which with the hot tub and pool onsite and showering was just not enough it was damp the whole time and no where were we advised to bring our own towels. The lodge was clean though, the park and facilities brilliant but not value for money in terms of accommodation when you compare to others.

26 Mar 2025

Location

Accommodation

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