Center Parcs enthusiasts are expressing disappointment following the announcement of a revised refund policy by the popular holiday destination. Effective October, all bookings for spa treatments and activities must be canceled at least seven days in advance to receive a full refund, as opposed to the previous 12-hour cancellation window. Failure to cancel within the specified time frame will result in a 50% cancellation fee. Center Parcs operates in five locations across the UK.
According to information on the Center Parcs website, prices for half-term breaks start at £799, while bookings for summer school holidays start at £949.
Customers have voiced their dissatisfaction with the new policy. One individual shared on social media, “I find this change to be unjust. We will now wait until arrival to book any activities.” Another commented, “This is unacceptable. It will likely lead to a significant decrease in activity bookings, if any at all.” A third person expressed, “It is disappointing and unfair, especially considering the already high costs at the venue.”
A Center Parcs spokesperson explained, “We have updated our activity and Aqua Sana Forest Spa cancellation policy for guests staying at Center Parcs starting Monday, October 12, 2026. Guests can now modify or cancel bookings up to seven days before the scheduled start time to receive a full refund. Cancellations made within seven days will incur a 50% fee. This adjustment aims to provide guests with a clear cancellation deadline ahead of their visit, reducing last-minute cancellations and ensuring maximum utilization of popular activities and spa experiences.”
In other news, Center Parcs is preparing to launch its inaugural resort in Scotland by the summer of 2029, a move that is anticipated to generate 1,200 employment opportunities. The new site is projected to boost tourism in the area by 38%, contributing £87 million annually to the Scottish economy.
During a recent visit to the site, First Minister John Swinney emphasized the importance of equitable economic growth, stating, “Investing in the south of Scotland through this initiative underscores our commitment to fostering economic development across all regions of Scotland. The project is a deliberate effort to address regional disparities and provide real opportunities for young individuals, with 30% of the new jobs allocated for 16 to 24-year-olds. I am honored to be here today alongside local school children as we kick off the tree planting for the site and eagerly anticipate the project’s progress leading up to the resort’s opening in 2029.”