If you’re after a Peak District break with a bit of everything, Darwin Forest should be right at the top of your list. Sandwiched between Matlock and Bakewell, this award-winning park is tucked away in beautiful woodland and right on the edge of the superb Peak District National Park. Whether you’re here for walks, waterfalls, or to just sneak in a hot tub session and call it “wellness”, it’s all covered.
There’s plenty of space to roam and actual woodland to explore, not to mention some top activities on-site for the whole family. Get stuck into things like tennis, mini-golf, body zorbing, archery, and even SeaScooters in the pool. Grab a bike and hit the dedicated trails, or just potter amongst the trees, spotting squirrels.
Little ones are sorted at the multi-level Little Monkeys indoor play centre while older kids (and teens) will disappear into the Activity Den, complete with its pool tables, air hockey and classic arcade games. And if you want something really exciting that they'll love, the Trim Trak obstacle course and orienteering keep everyone moving. There's always a good old fashioned woodland walk too...
Darwin Forest doesn’t skimp on the chill out factor either. The Evolution Health and Fitness centre includes a heated indoor pool, a grown-ups-only spa, a fully-fledged gym, plus beauty treatments if serious pampering is on your holiday list. We absolutely recommend booking a spa treatment in advance as they get snapped up quickly!
Venture outside the park and you’ve got the full Peak District experience on tap. Bring the adrenaline at Alton Towers, wander stately Chatsworth House or take on the popular Monsal Trail. Take a cable car at the Heights of Abraham or mighty hikes up Mam Tor. Basically, if you’re after woodland lodge holidays in Derbyshire, there’s nowhere better to base yourself.
One last thing... dogs go free on select bookings if you book early enough, so your four-legged mate can get in on the adventure as well. Just make sure you add them at the start of your booking and check the official terms if you fancy it. For a proper Derbyshire lodge break that delivers the goods for everyone, Darwin Forest is a straight-up win.
The Elite Vogue lodges offer luxurious, spacious accommodation with open-plan living, wooden floors, and full-length windows that fill the space with natural light. Patio doors open to a private deck with outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture. These well-equipped lodges feature modern appliances, contemporary fixtures, and comfortable furnishings, including a formal dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming.
Unwind in absolute opulence in our contemporary lodge, where luxury knows no bounds. Indulge in the lavish comfort of a king-size double bed, complete with a flat-screen TV for your entertainment. Pamper yourself in the en suite spa bath, and revel in the serenity of a separate shower cubicle.
The contemporary and luxurious Elite Vogue lodges offer light, spacious living with open-plan layouts, wooden floors, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. Patio doors open to a deck with outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture. The lodges are fully equipped with modern appliances including a washing machine, contemporary fixtures, and comfortable furnishings, ensuring a superb stay.
The contemporary and luxurious Elite Vogue lodges offer light, spacious living with open-plan layouts, wooden floors, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. Patio doors open to a deck with outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture. The lodges are fully equipped with modern appliances including a washing machine, contemporary fixtures, and comfortable furnishings, ensuring a superb stay.
The Elite Vogue lodges offer spacious and light open-plan living with wooden floors, full-length windows, and patio doors leading to a decking area with hot tub and outdoor dining furniture. These contemporary lodges are well-equipped with modern appliances including a washing machine, stylish furnishings, and ample space. The living area includes a dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming.
The luxurious Elite Vogue lodges offer spacious, light-filled accommodation with an open-plan living area, wooden floors, and full-length windows that lead to a deck with outdoor dining furniture and a hot tub. These lodges are well-equipped with modern appliances, contemporary fixtures, and comfortable furnishings. The living area features a dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming. The lodge includes one double bedroom with a flat-screen TV and one twin bedroom.
The contemporary Elite Vogue lodges offer spacious, light-filled living areas with open-plan designs, wooden floors, and large windows that lead to a gated deck with outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture. These lodges are fully equipped with modern appliances including a washing machine, stylish fixtures, and comfortable furnishings, providing excellent accommodation. The living area includes a dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming.
The contemporary and luxurious Elite Vogue Plus lodges offer spacious and light living accommodation, thanks to the open plan layout, wooden floors, and the natural light streaming in through full-length windows and patio doors that lead onto the decking with outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture. The lodges are equipped with modern appliances including contemporary fixtures, and comfortable furnishings to provide superb accommodation. The living area includes a dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming.
The Glade Exclusive 2 Spa is a luxurious woodland lodge nestled in the prestigious ‘Glade’ development, perfect for couples. The master bedroom features a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, dressing area and a lavish ensuite with a freestanding bath, sauna, integrated wall TV, and separate shower. Bedroom two offers twin beds, a flat-screen TV, dressing area, and an ensuite with a large shower.
The Glade Exclusive 3 Spa is a luxurious woodland lodge located in the prestigious ‘Glade’ development. It features a master bedroom with a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, dressing area and an ensuite with a freestanding bath, integrated wall TV, and separate shower. The other bedrooms include twin beds, flat-screen TVs, dressing areas, and en-suites with large showers.
The Glade Exclusive 4 Spa is a luxurious woodland lodge, ideal for large families or groups. It features an open-plan central living space with a high-quality kitchen, including a washing machine, coffee machine and a wine cooler. The spacious lounge boasts a large flatscreen TV with Chromecast for streaming and wireless audio connectivity.
The Glade Exclusive 2 Spa is a luxurious woodland lodge situated within the prestigious ‘Glade’ development, perfect for couples and small families. The master bedroom features a king-size bed, a flat-screen TV, a dressing area and an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, integrated wall TV, and a separate shower. The second bedroom includes twin beds, a flat-screen TV, a dressing area, and an ensuite with a large shower. The stylish living space includes a high-quality kitchen with an island, washing machine, coffee machine, wine cooler, fridge freezer, dishwasher, and washing machine.
The Classic Vogue lodges offer a light and airy open-plan living space with contemporary furnishings, wooden floors, and patio doors leading to a deck with outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture. The living area includes a dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming. Kitchen includes modern appliances and a washing machine.
Step into the lap of modern luxury with our exquisite lodge, where comfort meets style in a harmonious embrace. Indulge in the warmth of a well-appointed double bedroom, designed for both relaxation and sophistication. The cosy twin room adds a touch of charm, creating a perfect retreat for you and your loved ones.
The Classic Vogue lodges offer a light and airy open-plan living space with contemporary furnishings, wooden floors, and patio doors leading to a deck with outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture. The living area includes a dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming. Kitchen includes modern appliances and a washing machine.
The Classic Vogue lodges offer a modern, open-plan living space with a light, airy feel. Featuring contemporary furnishings, wooden floors, and patio doors that open to a gated decking area with outdoor hot tub and private seating, these lodges provide a comfortable setting for groups, families, or friends. Fully equippped kitchen with washing machine.
The Classic Vogue lodges feature an open-plan living space with a light and airy feel. With contemporary furnishings, wooden floors, and patio doors leading to a deck with an outdoor hot tub and private dining furniture, these lodges provide a comfortable retreat. The living area includes a dining table, comfy sofas, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming.
Step into the lap of modern luxury with our exquisite lodge, where comfort meets style in a harmonious embrace. Indulge in the warmth of a well-appointed double bedroom, designed for both relaxation and sophistication. The cosy twin room adds a touch of charm, creating a perfect retreat for you and your loved ones.
The luxurious Horizon Spa lodge is ideally located on an exclusive meadow, nestled in a secluded area of the park alongside just two other lodges. Surrounded by stunning woodland and a serene meadow at the back, it offers a tranquil and private retreat. The lodge features a central living space with large patio doors that allow you to enjoy the beautiful views. The modern living area includes a TV with Chromecast for streaming, relaxing sofas, and a cosy feature fire.
The Meadow Exclusive 1 Spa Pet Lodge has been thoughtfully designed with outdoor living in mind. Step outside onto the spacious veranda complete with stylish pergola where you can unwind in your own private outdoor sauna and covered hot tub. Spend quality time relaxing in the comfortable seating area or enjoy eating al fresco at the outdoor dining table. Inside, the stylish fully equipped kitchen features a coffee machine, wine cooler, fridge with freezer compartment and dishwasher — perfect for everything from lazy breakfasts to evening entertaining.
The Meadow Exclusive 3 Spa Pet Lodges have been thoughtfully designed for exceptional outdoor living, offering a perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Each lodge features a spacious veranda complete with a private outdoor sauna, covered bubbling hot tub, comfy seating area and an outdoor dining space—ideal for relaxing or entertaining whatever the weather. Inside, the fully equipped stylish kitchen caters to every need, boasting a coffee machine, wine cooler, fridge, freezer and dishwasher. The open-plan living area is both spacious and inviting, with a formal dining table, plush sofa, large flat-screen TV with Chromecast for streaming from your personal device, a soundbar and a PlayStation 5 for added entertainment. A dedicated dog-friendly utility room includes a washing machine, tumble dryer and ample space for pet beds, ensuring comfort for every member of the family.
The Meadow Exclusive 2 Spa Pet Lodges have been thoughtfully designed with outdoor living in mind. Each lodge features a large covered and gated veranda complete with a private outdoor sauna and hot tub, alongside a relaxing seating area and outdoor dining table — the perfect setting for unwinding in comfort, whatever the weather. Inside, the stylish fully equipped kitchen includes a coffee machine, wine cooler, fridge, freezer and dishwasher, providing everything needed for a relaxing self-catering escape. The spacious living space offers a formal dining area, plush sofas and a large flat-screen TV with Chromecast for streaming from your personal device, complemented by a soundbar and PlayStation 5 games console for added entertainment. Ideal for dog-friendly holidays, the dedicated utility room includes a washing machine, tumble dryer and space for dog beds, helping make stays with your four-legged companions effortless.
Nestled in a secluded area of the park, the luxurious New England Lodge offers a serene escape, surrounded by stunning woodland and a meadow. This modern, well-appointed lodge features a spacious living area with large patio doors, comfortable sofas, a feature fire, and a TV with Chromecast. The fully equipped kitchen includes a feature island, washing machine, coffee machine, and wine cooler.
The Skyline View Spa lodge offers luxury and seclusion, nestled in an exclusive meadow with stunning woodland views. This modern lodge features a spacious living area with large patio doors, relaxing sofas, a feature fire, and a TV with Chromecast for streaming. The fully equipped kitchen includes a range of appliances, including a washing machine, coffee machine and a wine cooler.
The Spinney Pet Spa lodge offers a luxurious escape with a large master bedroom featuring a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, and double doors leading to a stunning ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bath, separate shower and sauna. The fully equipped kitchen includes a coffee machine and a wine cooler. The spacious living area boasts a formal dining table, comfy sofas, a large flat-screen TV, and Chromecast for streaming, all set against large windows that offer beautiful woodland views.
The Spinney 3 Spa lodge features a spacious master bedroom with a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, and an ensuite shower room. There are two twin bedrooms, each with a flat-screen TV, plus a luxurious family bathroom with a freestanding bath and separate shower. The fully equipped kitchen includes a washing machine, coffee machine and a wine cooler.
The Spinney 4 Spa lodge offers luxurious accommodation with two master bedrooms, each with a king-size bed and a flatscreen TV, and two twin bedrooms, also with flatscreen TVs. It features a family bathroom with a freestanding bath and separate shower, plus an additional shower room with a generous shower enclosure. The fully equipped kitchen includes a washing machine, coffee machine and a wine cooler.
This romantic woodland lodge, set within the exclusive ‘Spinney’ development, is perfect for romantic breaks and special occasions year-round. Featuring a large master bedroom with a king-size bed, and a flat-screen TV. Double doors lead into an ensuite bathroom, complete with a freestanding bath, integrated wall TV, separate shower, and a sauna for ultimate relaxation.
The Spinney Exclusive 3 Spa is a luxurious woodland lodge located in the prestigious ‘Spinney’ development. It features a master bedroom with a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, dressing area and a luxurious ensuite with a freestanding bath, integrated wall TV, and separate shower. The additional bedrooms have twin beds, flat-screen TVs, dressing areas, and en-suites with large showers.
The Spinney Exclusive 2 Spa is a stunning woodland lodge located within the prestigious ‘Spinney’ development, offering a luxurious and serene retreat. The master bedroom features a king-size bed, a flat-screen TV, a dressing area and a luxurious ensuite with a freestanding bath, integrated wall TV, and a separate shower. The second bedroom includes twin beds, a flat-screen TV, a dressing area, and an ensuite with a large shower. The stylish living space is designed with high-quality finishes, featuring a modern kitchen complete with an island, washing machine, coffee machine and a wine cooler.
The Spinney 2 Pet Spa lodge offers exceptional accommodation in a peaceful woodland setting, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The large master bedroom features a king-size bed, a flat-screen TV, and an ensuite shower room. The luxurious family bathroom includes a freestanding bath and separate shower.
The Coppice Pet Spa offers exceptional accommodation in a serene woodland setting, designed with pets and muddy boots in mind. Each lodge features a gated, spacious veranda with quality outdoor dining furniture, two sun loungers, and an indulgent hot tub. For pet owners, the lodge includes an outdoor warm water supply and a pet-friendly utility area, complete with a doggie shower, hairdryer, towels, and space for your pet’s bed and feeding bowls.
The Coppice Pet Spa offers exceptional woodland accommodation designed with pets and muddy boots in mind. Each lodge features a gated veranda with outdoor dining furniture, sun loungers, and a luxurious hot tub. A pet-friendly utility area with washing machine includes a doggie shower, towels, and space for your pet’s bed and feeding bowls.
The Coppice 2 Pet Spa is a luxurious woodland lodge designed with both pets and muddy boots in mind, offering exceptional accommodation for guests looking for a tranquil retreat. The lodge features a gated, spacious veranda with outdoor dining furniture, two sun loungers, and an indulgent outdoor hot tub, perfect for relaxation. An outdoor warm water supply and a pet-friendly utility area are provided, complete with a doggie shower, hairdryer, towels, and space for your pet’s bed and feeding bowls.
The Woodlands Spa is a beautifully appointed stone cottage located within the grounds of Darwin Forest, featuring a private garden, sun terrace, and indulgent hot tub. Perfect for groups of friends or multiple families, the cottage offers two king-size double bedrooms (one with a TV) and two twin bedrooms. It has two luxurious bathrooms, each with a bath and separate shower cubicle.
28 reviews from guests who stayed at Darwin Forest Lodges
"Overall very good equipped lodge..A few points to mention..TV too high on wall..crooked neck!.TV reception was very poor..Bathroom/shower very tight. Instructions for oven and microwave would be helpful.."
"The lodge was perfect for our dogs especially having the dog wash which made cleaning the dog's a joy."
"Lodge was very good the only thing the couch wasn't very comfortable maybe needs new seat cushions"
"Only downside was our toddler in every cupboard so locks would have been useful but appreciate not everyone would want this."
"Our Darwin Forest Lodges review: Great lodge/ handy to have a washing machine with a dryer on site.Spacious rooms and comfy beds"
"Excellent location."
"Lively clean spacious lodge We were 6 adults a child and 2 under 2 years and there was plenty of room"
"Beautiful place, my kids really enjoyed all the facilities. We all had such a lovely time."
"Very clean and appeared brand new. Nicely situated amongst trees and near facilities with woodland walks nearby. Included everything we needed for a relaxing break."
"We loved our holiday at Darwin Forest from start to finish. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the accommodation was clean, cosy, and well-appointed. It was peaceful, yet conveniently located near local amenities.Perfect for families.Our son had a fantastic time in the swimming pool and soft play area, while we enjoyed relaxing in the hot tub and indulging in a rejuvenating massage. It was a wonderful break in a beautiful setting, and wed gladly return. Highly recommended!"
"Nothing to fault with the lodge at all"
"Lovely park great facilities."
"Beautiful cabin"
"Beautiful lodge to high standards."
"One warning about the lodge which needs to be addressed - water comes out scalding hot not sure why there are no warning signs. Also needs air conditioning."
"Great holiday at Darwin Forrest."
"We had a fabulous time at Darwin Forest celebrating my Mothers 95th birthday, with 4 generations of the family. On arrival the staff were most welcoming. Any problems we had were instantly dealt with. The lodges were very clean, and well equipped. We loved the decking area, and the hot tub. There was plenty to do on the site, and we had no reason to leave it. The lodges are set a nice distance apart, with plenty of parking outside the door of the lodge.We did not try the restaurant, but it looked lovely. We would love to return, and will be definitely recommending it to our friends."
"Fab lodge, with all amenities available - dishwasher, washing machine, oven, microwave. Easily accessible with parking for 2 cars."
"The cabin was well equipped, very clean, compact and comfortable. The WiFi was included in the price and worked well enough. There were complementary toiletries and on arrival we were given a voucher for a bottle of milk. The beds were comfy and there was a nice bath as well as showers. The kitchen was well laid out with plenty of crockery and cutlery. The hot tub was ready to use on arrival and very private. Wish it had, had a roof over but we had pretty decent weather so werent really impacted."
"The only reason for the 4 stars was because the window blind slats in our bedroon only sloped downwards, which meant that when it got light outside, it shone into the room and woke us up. The other 3 rooms were fine. When I reported it to reception, they sent someone to have a look, but did not fix it, they instead gave us a blackout cover, which worked ok."
"One of the older lodges but still had everything in it that was needed. Very clean and well kept, the floors creaked somewhat but a minor issue. The lodge contained everything you needed for a self catering holiday just bri g yourself, clothes and food and blankets and toys for your pup of course a and you are away. Overall very happy."
"Beautiful setting, lovely lodge."
"Immaculate lodge with excellent facilities. Everything you could need. Quiet location and very relaxing. Own decking and site immaculate. Very dog friendly"
"Well presented lodge with good range of kitchen utensils and equipment. Lounge seating was a bit tired but comfortable enough for the short time we were there. Beds comfortable but softer than we are used to (just personal preference).Slightly disappointed that our lodge didnt have a washing machine after reading it would have on the lodge descriptor prior to booking. The on-site launderette only has one washing machine and one dryer so this could present a problem if you were staying longer than a few days."
"All great. Only slight problem with poor quality duvet."
"this is a very comfortable, spacy lodge, modern, lovely and warm and spotlessly clean, fully equipped, with one of the best showers i have had."
"Great week away in Darwin forest. Accommodation was clean and spacious. Lots off activities to do on the park, also nice places to visit in the local area. Staff we're polite and friendly. Would like to return in the future."
"Lovely lodge, would definitely go again."
The best-known attractions within an easy drive of Darwin Forest Lodges, with real driving times.
Sat nav: DE4 3PE
A hillside family theme park on the edge of the Peak District, with big views and rides for younger children.
Gulliver's Kingdom is a theme park in Matlock Bath, aimed at children aged 3-13. It sits on a hillside on the edge of the Peak District National Park, so many of the rides come with views over the Derwent Valley. The Crows Nest Quest is there to climb, and the log flume runs high above the valley.
Tip: Leaving the car behind? Matlock Bath station is a 10-15 minute walk away, and a valid public transport ticket can bring a discount on entry.
Sat nav: ST10 4DB
Staffordshire's big-name theme park, with over 40 rides, a waterpark and gardens on a 500-acre estate.
Alton Towers is one of the UK's largest and most popular theme parks, set in over 500 acres of Staffordshire countryside. The rides range from big rollercoasters such as Wicker Man, Nemesis Reborn, The Smiler and Oblivion to gentler family rides, and there are over 40 rides and attractions in all. There's also a waterpark, mini golf and landscaped gardens.
Tip: Pre-book your ticket online before you go, as everyone needs one and sold-out dates can't be bought on the day.
Sat nav: DE45 1PP
A Derbyshire stately home with 105 acres of garden and a farmyard with playground.
Chatsworth is a Grade I listed stately home in the Derbyshire Dales, home to the Devonshire family for 17 generations. Inside, over 25 rooms show art and artefacts spanning 4,000 years, including the Painted Hall, the State Rooms and the Sculpture Gallery. Some rooms close for annual conservation, so not every one is always open.
Tip: Book online in advance for free parking. Prams and rucksack-style baby carriers aren't allowed in the house, but there is left luggage near the entrance.
Sat nav: DE4 3RQ
Visit Richard Arkwright's Grade I listed mill, the world's first water-powered cotton spinning mill.
Cromford Mills is where Richard Arkwright developed the world's first water-powered cotton spinning mill in 1771. The Grade I listed site is the centrepiece of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is a multi-use visitor centre with shops, galleries, restaurants and cafes.
Sat nav: DE45 1LA
A Grade I listed medieval and Tudor manor house on the River Wye, close to Bakewell.
Haddon Hall is an English country house on the River Wye near Bakewell in Derbyshire, and a former seat of the Dukes of Rutland. Its origins go back to the 11th century, with major building carried out between the 13th and 16th centuries. It has been described as "the most complete and most interesting house of [its] period".
Sat nav: DE4 5DP
Ride vintage trams through a recreated period village and out into Derwent Valley countryside.
The National Tramway Museum in Crich is an open-air museum with a working tramway. Its collection of trams is officially designated as nationally important. Vintage trams run along a recreated period street, complete with a pub, shops and a sweetshop, then head out into open countryside with views over the Derwent Valley. Tram rides are included in the ticket.
Tip: Book online at least 24 hours ahead for a slightly lower price, though you can also pay on arrival.
Sat nav: S44 5QJ
An Elizabethan masterpiece with huge windows, formal gardens and 2,500 acres of parkland to explore.
Hardwick Hall is an Elizabethan country house built between 1590 and 1597 for Bess of Hardwick, once the richest woman in England after Queen Elizabeth I. It is famous for its enormous windows, which gave rise to the saying "Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall".
Tip: No advance booking is needed, and parking is included with a ticket. Set your sat nav to S44 5RW to reach the correct entrance.
Sat nav: DN9 3QY
A walk-through wildlife park near Doncaster with polar bears, big cats, giraffes and African penguins.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park is a zoo and conservation centre on the outskirts of Doncaster, South Yorkshire. You explore on foot, with three walk-through animal reserves and themed lands that recreate habitats from around the world.
Tip: Booking tickets in advance is cheaper than buying on the day, and Planet Putt next to the entrance is a good wet-weather add-on.
Full guide to days out near Darwin Forest Lodges »
Drive times are typical times by car with no traffic. Check opening times and book tickets on each attraction's own website before you go.
