Darwin Forest - Matlock

Darwin Forest, located in Two Dales, Matlock DE4 5PL, United Kingdom, is a holiday park that specializes in self-catering accommodation. The park offers a variety of lodges, each equipped with modern amenities and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Peak District National Park.

One of the key features of Darwin Forest is its dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment. The park has won several awards for its eco-friendly practices, including the David Bellamy Conservation Award at its highest gold level. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with a range of activities, such as walking, cycling, and birdwatching.

The lodges at Darwin Forest are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Each lodge has a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, and one or more bedrooms. Some lodges also have hot tubs, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the Peak District. Visitors can choose from a variety of lodges, ranging from cozy cabins to spacious villas.

Darwin Forest is conveniently located near several popular tourist destinations, including Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, and the Heights of Abraham. The park is also close to several towns and cities, including Matlock, Bakewell, and Sheffield. Visitors can easily access public transportation or rent a car to explore the surrounding area.

According to Google My Business, Darwin Forest has received 1335 reviews with an average rating of 4.7/5. Many reviewers have praised the park's beautiful surroundings, comfortable lodges, and friendly staff. Some have also highlighted the park's eco-friendly practices and range of activities.

Reviews of Darwin Forest

Jo S

We had a brilliant 4 days at Darwin Forest. 4 adults and 3 kids. We had lodge number 42 and it was perfect! Spotlessly clean, plenty of space and an amazing hot tub which we all loved! Crazy golf, soft play, the footy pitch, swimming pool and lovely woodland walks were all a massive hit! We didn’t bring our dog but I would definitely bring her if it is possible to have a lodge that is dog friendly and has a hot tub. The place is so dog friendly and the staff couldn’t be more friendly and helpful. We had a lovely roast dinner in the restaurant and we really liked the laid back feel of the whole place. Thank you Darwin Forest, we had an amazing Autumn break!

kiki n

First time at Darwin Forest, in the peak district at all for that matter and it was amazing. We stayed in lodge 12 through cloudy, misty and a sunny day too, can confirm it was fabulous regardless - we decided to designate a lazy day on site to relax and enjoy just how well equipped the lodge and facilities were! Lots of local attractions nearby (country houses, farms/shops, amazing walks). Visited the beauty rooms at evolution (really big thank you to Sophia & Sophie ? ). Everyone we got the chance to speak with was so kind ? , I cannot fault the condition of the lodge at all, huge respect for the maintenance teams and everyone really, we keep sending out recommendations to family and friends (as long as they take us, of course). The inventory list for the lodge is perfectly updated and really helpful for planning, there's also a small but well equipped and very well kept shop on site, each lodge has space for 2 cars to park just outside, but you can also register more for the main car park i think, and you can order delivery (though phone signal is weak in the area - its a forest - each lodge has strong wifi). Information packs both on the website and in the lodge were really useful. Hot tub? my god i miss it. Overall clean, comfortable, private and peaceful, feel like it would be great for all ages to visit. Also the gently wood smell of the lodge? Adore it, eau de darwin forest.

Dean H

We had the most amazing week, we even extended to 10 days as we were enjoying it so much. This is our second time this year and we love it so much we’ve already booked our next stay for next year. Lodges are beautiful, grounds are well maintained, people are friendly and smile a lot. Upon our arrival, check in was swift, nice and friendly receptionists who gave really good recommendations of what we could do and see whilst away. ||We had a bit of a dilemma whilst away and Diane from reception (sooo lovely) and Shane (Warden with a really cute cat) went above and beyond to help us, it honestly meant the world to us. Diane couldn’t have done more for us, she was our little fairy god mother whilst we were there. Thank you! ||There is a small arcades, activities, swimming pool, amazing restaurant (which we thoroughly enjoyed meals there), a little shop which caters to your needs and mini golf. Not forgetting the forest walks and nature all round. ||Bar is dog friendly and a lovely waitress (sorry I didn’t get the name) makes a mean espresso martini! ||Basically, one of the best places to stay if you want to chill out and relax. ||See you soon Darwin Forest!

Clare A

Lovely place, very well kept grounds with great facilities. The staff are so welcoming and friendly - a real credit to the business and something which is amiss at other parks. Makes a great base for exploring the Peak District with Bakewell just a short 15 min drive away and Castleton approx 45 mins. Lots of walks from the doorstep too. Good food and ambience in the Forresters Restaurant too. Would love to stay here again.

Amy T

I stayed at Darwin Forest with my husband and 2 sons (5months & 3) we couldn’t have asked for more from our stay. The lodge was clean and comfortable with everything we needed. There is plenty to do on site. The free swimming is a great bonus. All facilities were just as expected and the staff were all friendly. It was lovely and peaceful and the forest walk was great too. We can’t wait to come back again.

Angela d

We have just returned from a long weekend and attended with our family of 7 adults and two little boys. Superb facilities , absolutely spotlessly clean and so well maintained. The lodge was well designed we had ample room despite there being so many of us. We had a fantastic time exploring and there was lots to do for the little ones. We had lunch and dinner in the onsite restaurant and although a little in the pricey side, it was delicious! The pool was great too although could have been a little warmer, as the little ones got cold very quickly. All in all we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and am sure we will be returning!

Claire R

We stayed with family ages 8-78 and all were equally impressed by Darwin Forest. My daughter loved the soft play and pool. I loved the organised emails pre arrival - we knew exactly what we needed to bring. The onsite restaurant was delicious and great value. Great location near to lots of other attractions. Thanks to reception for sorting our tickets to heights of Abaraham, we had a lovely day out. The only thing prohibiting a return visit could be price (in school holidays) but will keep checking for an off peak slot!

Allison Hedley

5/5

A truly beautiful holiday park with plenty of well-kept amenities. We believe it's a much better destination than Center Parcs. There's plenty to do at the park for all ages & is set in a great place for sightseeing for both families & couples alike.