CENTER Parcs is introducing new rules when it comes to bookings at their resorts.
The policy change means all guests will now have to pay £5 per person to reserve restaurant bookings, in a bid to to prevent no-shows.
The new rules are being introduced on all holidays from November 16.
The rule change has been praised by families who say they hope it opens up more bookings.
One customer said: “I’m glad they are bringing this back as it stops people making unnecessary reservations.
“I’ve really struggled to book what I wanted this year whereas previous years with the deposit there has been plenty of choice.”
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Another added: “Too many people not showing up and leaving restaurants empty. This ties you in unless you can afford to lose it.”
A third former guest pointed out the policy had previously been in place at Center Parcs in recent years, and he had appreciated the chance to spread the cost of the meal.
He said: “Great news, I loved paying the deposit, once the bill came it had £25 off… felt like I was winning.”
If a guest cancels 48 hours before the time of the booking they can get their deposit back, although some people felt the notice period should be less than two days.
Center Parcs has a broad range of restaurants across its five UK villages, including Huck’s American Bar & Grill (all sites), Rajinda Pradesh (all sites), The Pancake House (all sites) and Foresters’ Inn, at Longleat and Elveden.
It is also possible to just turn up and hope a table is available, although there are no guarantees.
Some have raised issues with the new charge, in that not all of the restaurant menus shown online have prices displayed on them.
Many are arguing they should know the cost of a meal if they were partly paying in advance.
A commenter said: “Surely you can’t take a deposit which is non-refundable on the day/day before if you don’t publish the prices of the meals?”
Center Parcs announced on its website: “To help us provide the best possible experience for our guests and make sure our restaurants are available for as many guests as possible, all restaurant bookings now require a deposit at the time of booking.
“This will come into effect for all breaks starting from 16th November 2026 onwards.
“If your plans change, you can cancel more than 48 hours before your reservation, and we’ll refund your deposit in full. If you cancel within 48 hours of your reservation, the deposit is non-refundable.
“Please note that restaurant bookings have their own cancellation terms, which are different from those for activity bookings.”
Sun Travel has contacted Center Parcs for additional comment.
Other new rules have been rolled out in recent months, including the scrapping of its creche service earlier this year.
Last summer it also changed its pool opening hours from 9am to 10am, while closing at 8pm instead of 10pm.
Check in times also changed last summer, depending on your lodge time – here is everything you need to know.