Center Parcs with Teenagers: What You Need To Know

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Center Parcs has a reputation as a destination for families with young children — and it’s well earned. But what about tweens and teens?

I visited Center Parcs (Whinfell Forest) with a 13 and 15 year old as part of a group trip and they loved it.

The car-free environment gives teenagers a level of freedom that’s genuinely rare on a family holiday. On our trip they were regularly heading to the ParcMarket for us and independently booking activities between themselves.

Best Activities For Teenagers

Aerial Tree Trekking: On our trip to Whinfell this was the standout activity for both teenagers — it’s physically challenging and genuinely exciting. Available at all villages.

Subtropical Swimming Paradise: One of the few free activities at Center Parcs, the Subtropical Swimming Paradise has waterslides and a wave pool that are a huge hit with teenagers. Included in your lodge price but needs to be booked in advance. Available at all villages.

Quad Biking: There are two versions depending on age. Ages 12–15 have their own purpose-built track experience, while ages 16 and over have a separate, more advanced session. Available at Whinfell, Sherwood, Elveden and Longleat — not Woburn.

Laser Combat: Team-based laser tag in the forest — works brilliantly for groups of teenagers and is consistently one of the most booked activities. Minimum age 12. Available at Whinfell, Sherwood, Elveden and Longleat — not Woburn.

Segway Experience: Not as easy as it looks, which is exactly what makes it appealing. Minimum age 12. Available at all villages.

Archery: Field archery in the forest with proper instruction. Minimum age 10. Available at all villages.

Watersports: Kayaking is available at all villages (minimum age 8). Paddle boarding is available at Whinfell, Sherwood, Elveden and Longleat in spring and summer only. Cable water skiing is available exclusively at Elveden Forest and is worth booking well in advance.

Silent Disco: Two switchable music channels held every Thursday and Sunday at 8:30pm in the Leisure Bowl. At £3 per person it’s one of the best value evening activities on offer. Available at all villages.

Practical Tips For Visiting With Teens

Give them space: One of the underrated aspects of Center Parcs is the ability to split up. Having a loose plan — a couple of shared activities, some free time, a group dinner — tends to work better than trying to programme every hour.

Accommodation: If budget allows, giving teenagers their own room — ideally with an ensuite — makes a significant difference to how the trip feels for everyone.

Book activities early: Aerial Tree Trekking, Laser Combat and quad biking are some of the most popular activities. The activity booking window opens 12 weeks before arrival so I recommend booking in advance.

Hire bikes for the duration: Teenagers tend to enjoy having their own bikes for the break and pre-booking bike hire saves money compared to hiring on the day.

Plan the evenings: The Silent Disco and Ten Pin Bowling are available at all villages — both go down well with teenagers and fill the evening without feeling forced.