While we Brits are famous for our ability to soldier on through drizzle, wind, and general meteorological mischief (often with nothing more than a resigned tut and a cup of tea), even we have to admit the weather seems to be getting more dramatic lately. Take Storm Eowyn, currently battering Ireland and Scotland with red weather alerts – it's just the latest in what feels like an endless conga line of named storms! What can you expect if a weather warning happens on your break?
Recent Impact: Storm Darragh
Let's look at what happened in a recent named storm. We saw first-hand during Storm Darragh in December 2024, when Center Parcs Longleat Forest had to take the difficult decision to close all facilities and ask guests to remain in their lodges for safety.
It's magical staying in the forrest but those same majestic trees that make Center Parcs so magical can pose risks during severe weather. And that's where Center Parcs' commitment to guest safety really shines.
When the Weather Takes a Turn
Center Parcs has a robust system in place for handling extreme weather events:
- Activity Cancellations: High winds, lightning, or severe rain might mean your aerial adventure or boat hire needs rescheduling. Center Parcs will typically contact you proactively about this.
- Facility Closures: In more serious cases, outdoor pools, lakes, and even the Subtropical Swimming Paradise might need to close temporarily.
- Full Site Response: In extreme cases, as we saw during Storm Darragh, Center Parcs might need to close significant portions of their facilities to ensure guest safety. They've been known to offer compensation or refunds in these situations. NB this is not a guarantee they will offer refunds in future but Center Parcs have a good track record.
Staying Informed
To make sure you're not caught out by weather disruptions:
- Keep an Eye on Your Inbox: Center Parcs will email you about any significant disruptions
- Bookmark the Important Pages: the Center Parcs' official website news section and news section for the village you are visiting are worth keeping an eye on for updates. Also look at social media, the Center Parcs Twitter and Facebook accounts are used for real-time updates
- Check Before You Travel: During severe weather warnings, it's worth confirming your activities are still running
Silver Linings
Remember, even if some outdoor activities are cancelled, Center Parcs has plenty of indoor alternatives. From spa sessions to indoor sports, pottery painting to restaurants, there's always something to do. And let's be honest – there's something quite cosy about watching a storm roll through the forest from the comfort of your lodge, perhaps with a hot chocolate in hand and the fire crackling away.
Top Tips for Weather-Watch at Center Parcs
- Pack for all weather possibilities (yes, even in summer!)
- Keep an eye on weather forecasts before and during your stay
- Don't be disappointed if some activities need to be rescheduled – Center Parcs' staff are experts at helping you rejig your itinerary
- Remember that the forest is beautiful in all weather – just make sure you're experiencing it safely
Center Parcs has decades of experience managing their villages through all types of weather, and their priority is always guest safety. So while we might be used to braving the elements with traditional British stoicism, it's reassuring to know that when things get properly wild out there, Center Parcs has got your back!
