Darwin Forest

The Peak District

A family-friendly woodland escape with luxury lodges, soft play, indoor pool, hot tubs and forest trails, all close to Bakewell, Chatsworth and Peak District days out.

  • roomUnits 137
  • person Sleeps 2 - 8
  • bed Bedrooms 1 - 4
  • petPets Yes
  • mobilityMobility Yes
  • Babies
  • Toddlers
  • Older Kids
  • Teens
From £639/week
Enquire Now
Darwin Forest is 47 acres of fresh air, forest paths and easy family time. Come for a quick break or a full multi-gen holiday — the lodges give you space to spread out, cook, relax and properly switch off. Kids head straight for the soft play, warm pool and trails; grown-ups enjoy the calm, the fresh air and, yes, the hot tub. Bakewell, Chatsworth and the Peak District are close by, and there are dog-friendly lodges too.

About this place

Best bits

  • The woodland setting feels truly peaceful — you’re surrounded by tall trees and quiet paths, making it feel like a proper escape even though facilities are close by.
  • Little Monkeys soft play is a lifesaver for rainy days, offering kids a proper energy-burning space while adults grab a coffee.
  • The pool is warm, well-kept and genuinely family-friendly, with sessions that don’t feel chaotic.

Top tips

  • Book Spa lodges and pet-friendly options well in advance, as these are the first to sell out—especially for school holidays and multi-family stays.
  • Take extra towels for swimming and hot-tub lovers, as lodge towels quickly get damp when used on repeat. Two robes are provided in hot tub lodges.
  • Pack outdoor boots and indoor cosy wear, because little feet move fast between muddy paths and sofa snuggles.

Plan your stay

What are the facilities like? Where can you eat? What can you do?

Swimming pool
Hot tubs
Wifi
Outdoor play equipment
Bar
Restaurant
Darwin Forest - rooms

Rooms

Eat

Darwin Forest - eat
Darwin Forest - activities

Activities

Accessibility

Location & local area

About the owners

The Grayson Family

Listed since December 2025

Darwin Forest has been owned by the Grayson Family for 30 years.

Owner recommendations

  • Curbar Edge for breathtaking views that are easily accessible and family friendly.

  • Matlock Bath for riverside walks, fish and chips, arcades and great attractions such as the Heights of Abraham, Gulliver’s Kingdom or the Peak District Mining Museum.

  • Monsal Trail for miles of off-road cycling through stunning landscapes

  • A trip to Bakewell to try the famous pudding and visit independent shops and cafes.

  • Chatsworth House is a great family day out with the Adventure Playground and Farmyard a hit with the kids. 

Plan your stay at Darwin Forest

Ask the owners a question

Other properties in the area…

Have a look at what it's like here.

Holiday park cottages in Derbyshire
Relaxed family camping fun in the Peak District, Derbyshire