Center Parcs slammed by parents for £300 ‘elf visits’ this Christmas
CENTER Parcs has been blasted for offering a 45-minute Christmas activity – which costs an extra £300 per family.
The “Twilight Elf Visit” involves two members of staff in elf costumes visiting a family in their lodge for less than an hour.
The visitors will tell stories and share “festive surprises” and “magical moments”, including making a wish for Santa, posing with the elves and receiving keepsakes including a festive ribbon and bauble.
The activity is now available to book in November and December across all locations – but for a very steep price.
For one child, the cost is around £300 while for two it’s £350, with the price rising by £50 for every extra child – up to £550 for six kids.
It’s not clear if these prices will change as Christmas approaches.
Read more on Center Parcs
One said on a Facebook post: “Wow. That’s crazy money.”
Another added: “It’s only 45 mins! It’s a shocking price.”
A third moaned: “What in the name of Scrooge is this? Surely those prices can’t be correct?”
But some families said they would go for it, with one explaining: “Ooh my child (adhd/autistic) would have ADORED this as they loved the elves etc and we’d have happily paid it as they struggled in most settings.
“I think it sounds great!”
The activity description states: “When dusk begins to settle over the forest, a very special Christmas adventure awaits.
“Gather in the comfort of your lodge as two magical elves arrive with an enchanting tale to tell.
“Through personalised storytelling, festive surprises and magical moments, you’ll discover the secret connection between the forest and the North Pole, and the important role Christmas wishes play in keeping that magic alive.
“Together, you’ll create a special Christmas wish, enjoy thoughtful keepsakes and share magical moments designed to capture the wonder and belief of the season.
“With personalised touches throughout, it’s a truly memorable way to spend an evening together, creating festive family moments you’ll treasure for years to come.”
The cost comes on top of the holiday itself – we’ve found four-night stays on December 7 for £779, in a basic Woodland Lodge in Sherwood Forest (or £859 for Longleat).
Center Parcs has also revealed the return of its Winter Wonderland from November 6 until January 4.
Taking place every Wednesday and Saturday at 5pm, Santa’s Parade sees his sleigh glide through the village accompanied by a festive cast of entertainers.
Meanwhile, the Enchanted Light Garden invites guests into twinkling light displays, where storybook characters come to life daily from 4pm to 9pm.
Children can also enjoy Elf Playtime, collect their Elf Explorer Passport, and dance along at the Elf Disc.
Lee Carpenter, Head of Leisure at Center Parcs, said: “We’re passionate about creating memorable experiences for families, especially during the festive season.
“As we look ahead to Winter Wonderland this year, we want to continue building on our incredible offers to create something truly immersive and unique, and the Twilight Elf experience brings that vision to life.
“Together with the return of guest favourites and a selection of newly enhanced activities, it offers even more opportunities for families to embrace the magic of Christmas and enjoy a festive break they’ll never forget.”