Thorpe Forest - Forest Life Brochure 2022

Forest LifeWINTER//SPRING A guide to finding your #ForestFeeling Breathe in Inside innatthue rfoerest Everything you need to know about your stay Image: Deerpark, Cornwall Staycation essentials with Cotswold Outdoor Tell us about your first impressions. Page 4 Scan to give us your feedback. Nature walk inspiration with Muddy Puddles Page 7 Explore with The Snowman™ and Peter Rabbit™ Page 14 & 15

You don’t just visit thyeoufofereel sitt. Image: Ardgartan, Loch Long The forest is much more than a Share your #ForestFeeling place. It’s an attitude, a state of with us on social media mind, a feeling. It’s what makes our holidays so special. You feel it in the morning sun breaking through the treetops, the birdsong on the breeze and walks filled with butterflies and bumblebees. You feel it swooping down hills on a mountain bike and you feel it gazing up at the night sky from the warmth of your hot tub. Everyone has a #ForestFeeling. What will yours be? 2 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE

WELCOME // THORPE FOREST Hi there! OUR PROMISE TO YOU We promise your cabin Welcome will be in a peaceful to Thorpe environment, well- Forest, maintained, clean and Norfolk with everything in good working order. It’s harder Now you’re on a Forest Holiday for our team to help if you can take some time. issues aren’t raised with Time to discover the beauty of us at the time. If we the forest. Time to reconnect with haven’t delivered on loved ones. Time to explore as far our promise, let us know as you want and time to just… be. straight away and we’ll Let the forest take the weight off, take care of it. and relax. WE’RE HAPPY TO HELP! Ed Catton, Most things you need to General Manager, know can be found on Thorpe Forest page 5 or on the TV in [email protected] your cabin. This includes information about Share your first impressions your cabin and how to We know you’ve just got here but we’re order in-cabin delivery. excited to hear what you think! To give us If you can’t find what your feedback, talk to our team or scan you need, visit us at the the QR code on the front of this magazine. Forest Retreat. WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 3

Make the most of the outdoors BRAND PARTNER Our friends at Cotswold Outdoor are just as passionate as us about spending time in nature. And one thing’s for sure, they know a thing or two about adventures and clothing. Here’s their list of top kit essentials for your adventure... Be ready for any weather FOOTWEAR INSULATION with a little help from When choosing walking A durable and warm Cotswold Outdoor boots or approach shoes, mid-layer is a staple as look out for a waterproof the weather gets colder, 15% and breathable material especially if you’re spending or membrane (crucial for any length of time outdoors. off keeping your feet dry). An insulated jacket or lightweight fleece is ideal for EXCLUSIVE OFFER PACK keeping out the chills. Forest Holidays guests Day hiking packs are great can enjoy 15% discount for short walks in the hills HAT AND GLOVES at Cotswold Outdoor, and forests. Choose one with A durable hat and gloves set Runners Need and different compartments to will never let you down. Look Snow+Rock. Simply use allow you to keep your kit for touchscreen-compatible the code AF-FOHO-C8. organised. gloves that don’t have to be sacrificed every time you get Valid to 31.12.22. T&Cs apply. WATERPROOF JACKET a notification on your phone. Go for a lightweight option 4 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE that packs down to fit in your AND FINALLY, GO GREEN! rucksack when you’re not Cotswold Outdoor’s Our using it, and breathability is a Planet range features great feature for keeping you extensive kit from the very cool and comfortable whilst best sustainable brands on the move. so you can make the right choice and a world of difference when it comes to looking after our planet.

USEFUL INFORMATION // THORPE FOREST Useful OPENING TIMES information The Forest Retreat is open every day from 9am - 8pm. HOT TUB WASTE Relax, unwind and enjoy your private hot tub Help us in our efforts to be eco-friendly by during your stay. Don’t worry if you see one of using the correct bags for your waste and the team lifting the lid on your hot tub. We’re please use the bins outside your cabin. On the just doing our daily checks to ensure it’s safe to day of your departure, make sure all rubbish is use. Remember to check our hot tub guidance removed from your cabin and placed in the on your TV before you take the plunge. correct bin.  NOISE CHECK-OUT We want you to make the most of your stay, but On the day of your departure, check-out time we ask that you keep noise very low after 10pm. is 10am. Subject to availability, you can add This is for the benefit of our other guests and a late check-out to your break at any time our local wildlife. Sounds carry surprisingly far in during your stay (from £30, subject to change). the forest. At the end of your break, please leave your cabin in a clean condition. Charges from £50 TV may apply if your cabin isn’t left clean and tidy.  Use your TV to browse activities, find out about food options and of course, enjoy a movie (or IN-CABIN DELIVERY two). This is also where you’ll find the wifi code See page 8 to find out how to order meals and an option to report any issues. and groceries to your cabin doorstep. Whether you want fresh baked goods for KITCHEN breakfast or a takeaway for dinner, we’ve Instructions for kitchen appliances are in the made ordering easy. cutlery drawer, and pots and pans are in the pull-out drawer below the oven. WATER SAFETY Contact us Respect the water and stay in the know with handy resources from the RNLI and RLSS. If you need to speak to us during rnli.org/safety your stay, call us on rlss.org.uk 01842 824 840. We’re available over the phone 8:30am - 8pm DOGS ON LOCATION every day. When you dine-in at the Forest Retreat your dog can come too! Just remember to keep For emergencies out of these them on a lead around the cabins, near water hours, please call 07488 324 276. and in the forest. Enjoy your stay! WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 5

Forest Ranger adventures for everyone. FOREST RANGER Want to make the most of your time in the forest? Book a session with our Forest Rangers. They’re our resident forest guardians and know all there is to know about the natural world. Whether you want to explore the forest at night, get up close and personal with some native wildlife or learn more about surviving the great outdoors, we’ve got an incredible Did you know?range of experiences ideal for every age. Forest Rangers help to look after the forest for future generations. You might see them out and about working with local wildlife trusts, supporting conservation projects and helping with ecology monitoring. If you ask them, they’ll tell you they’ve got the best job in the world. And don’t forget to give them a friendly wave, they’re always happy to chat. 6 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE

BRAND PARTNER // THORPE FOREST Ways to make your forest walk even more fun! The forest is the perfect place to explore with your children whatever the weather; a natural playground where adventure is waiting for you. Need some ideas for making your forest walk even more fun? Our friends at Muddy Puddles have revealed some of their favourite activities... Build a den Listen to the sounds Be an artist in the Find a spot, gather twigs of the forest! forest! and sticks and let your The tweeting birds, Let your young artist little ones build their very the rustling leaves, the loose in the forest. own hideaway! breeze rushing past Give them each an area you, what can you hear? and task them with Go on a wild beast hunt making ‘wild art’ from Take on the role of a real Make up a story sticks, moss and more. detective and seek out A bit of imagination, a some creepy crawlies. glorious setting and a Why not draw some of budding storyteller is the minibeasts when all you need for a fun you get home? afternoon. 15% Exclusive discount for guests off We’re excited to partner with Muddy Puddles for our Mini Forest Ranger activity. Muddy Puddles are children’s outerwear experts. Their mission is to inspire and enable thousands of children and families to enjoy the natural world around them and spend more time outdoors whatever the weather. That sounds good to us. Save 15%* at Muddy Puddles using the discount code FOREST15. *Offer ends 31.12.22 WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 7

FOOD // THORPE FOREST FOOD In-cabin delivery service Tryeoaut rself Cosy nights in call for our handy in-cabin delivery service. Tuck into curry or a burger and fries after a long day exploring the forest. Enjoy movie night treats and pizza under the stars. Or sample the best of British with locally sourced craft beer, gin and groceries. Yum. What can I order for delivery? Freshly baked bread & pastries Groceries & essentials Hot food & desserts Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks GET YOUR ORDER IN Jkunsot wso... you You should get a pre-order form on check in. Fill it out and hand to our team. Or use the TV in your cabin. We tend to get busy so For essentials and groceries, order directly through the it’s best to pre-order early. TV. For food, scan the QR code on the TV to access the Check meal service times Feast & Fodder menu and place your order. and menu options using the TV in your cabin (these 8 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE are subject to change and availability). And make sure you’ve pre-authorised a payment card with us at the Forest Retreat before you order. Thanks!

Dine-in at the Forest Retreat Ease into holiday mode at the Forest Retreat - your shop, eatery, bar and reception desk rolled into one. Drop by for a hearty breakfast, delicious dinner or a quick tipple. And don’t forget to bring your dog, they’re welcome too. Just what you need to make your self- catering stay a total breeze. Paws welcome Last orders to dine-in 7pm Dine-in at the Forest Retreat 9am till 8pm every day. In-cabin delivery available 9am till 8pm (last orders 7:30pm). WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 9

LOCATION MAP // THORPE FOREST LOCATION MAP Thorpe Forest Our promise Help look after our green spaces by following the Forest Code and the Countryside Code. Our promise to you is that your cabin will be well- Thank you maintained, clean, with everything in good working order and in a peaceful environment. 10 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE

LOCATION MAP // THORPE FOREST Key to cabins Key to icons Electric car Golden Oak charging Treehouse point Bike hire Golden Oak Park Golden Oak Hideaway Parking Silver Birch No entry Silver Birch wheelchair adapted WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 11

ACTIVITIES // THORPE FOREST hYooyouluirdr awya,y. Activities at FTohroerspte Go wild! Get stuck into wild adventures or enjoy indulgent experiences with a range of activities designed to help you get that #ForestFeeling. CANOEING Make a splash surrounded by stunning scenery, native wildlife and open skies. The ultimate outdoor adventure for the explorer-at-heart. Available on location. ARCHERY Eyes peeled, arrows drawn! Our archery instructors will ensure you’re hitting the target by the end of the session. Family-friendly fun for budding Robin Hoods. CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING Experience an exhilarating lesson with 30 clays at a shooting school in the Suffolk countryside (just a 20 minute drive away). All equipment included. BIKE HIRE Explore acres of woodland and discover idyllic views on two wheels. Hire adult, child bikes and family accessories (helmet and bike lock included) and hit the trails. 12 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE

EXTRAS // THORPE FOREST Nights in at Forest Holidays MOVIE NIGHT TREATS LOCAL CRAFT GIN AND BEERS Tuck into a huge chocolate slab, a tub of Discover new favourites and sample local ice cream, sweet popcorn and spicy tortilla flavours with gin or chilled craft beer chips. Order on our app using the TV in your delivered to your cabin. Order on our app cabin. using the TV in your cabin. ADD ON IN-CABIN ENTERTAINMENT Don’t miss Advanced Watch the match or a movie with a handy out... booking premium entertainment & wifi package. essential Great for rainy afternoons and cosy nights in. Stay connected with unlimited wifi and Fill out your activity sheet or pop into enjoy unlimited access to new-release the Forest Retreat to book. movies, tv and sky channels. *In-cabin entertainment is available for an extra Use the TV in your cabin to access our app where you can order pizzas, fee, speak to a member of the team to add to your cocktails, barbecue supplies and more. break. Unlimited wifi internet connection includes access to the internet from your laptop, mobile or You can also use your TV to find out tablet device. Unlimited movies include a selection what’s on. And don’t forget, our team of new release films. Unlimited TV and Sky channels can let you know about the best local include: Sky Sports Main event, Sky Sports Premier attractions, events and hidden gems League, Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Cricket. nearby. Subject to change & availability. * Activities, products and extras are subject to change and availability. Time to get cosy! WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 13

THE SNOWMAN™ // THORPE FOREST Dmiasgcoicver moments... © Snowdog Enterprises Ltd 2021 A prize for every with Penguin Random House Children’s UK completed Explore In Partnership with Penguin Ventures trail (part of Penguin Random House THE SNOWMAN™ AND Children’s) most beloved characters, THE SNOWDOG SELF we’ve created some unforgettable LED TRAIL forest experiences for you and your Wrap up warm and mini explorers. wander through the forest on this trail Advanced inspired by the magical booking story of The Snowman™ essential and The Snowdog. During the festive season, follow the map and answer clues to reveal a special prize. Look out for wildlife and let your imagination run free. thesnowman.com THEMED AFTERNOON TEA Eat Tuck into afternoon tea at the Forest Retreat. This tasty meal features classic treats alongside scrumptious sandwiches, scones, cakes, a selection of teas. Plus a small bottle of prosecco each if you fancy it. Perfect for a proper catch up with the ones you love in the heart of the forest. * Prosecco for guests 18+ only Fianmthielyfofruesnt 14 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE

PETER RABBIT™ // THORPE FOREST Trail The ultimate outdoor fun! starts January © Frederick 2022 Warne & Co., 2021 Explore THE PETER RABBIT™ DISCOVERY TRAIL Join Peter Rabbit and his friends on an adventure! The forest is the perfect background for The Peter Rabbit™ Discovery Trail. It’s full of life, full of fun and full of possibilities. Explore our woodland trails using the map, follow clues and enjoy activities and puzzles as you go. Great fun for mischief makers. Qiunatlhiteyfotriemst e Create Advanced How to book booking essential Drop by the Forest Retreat to find out about all activities and PETER RABBIT™ CRAFT TIME extras (including self-led trails and Bring the whole family together and get stuck craft sessions). Just a heads up – into some Peter Rabbit inspired arts and crafts. demand is super-high right now so it’s best to pre-book to avoid Paint your very own piece of Peter Rabbit pottery, missing out. enjoy all sorts of colouring and crafts and take that little bit of Peter Rabbit magic home with * Activities and extras are subject to you. change and availability. * Children need to be accompanied by an adult. WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 15 peterrabbit.com

JOHN ADAMS BOARD GAMES Let a board game bring you together As the nights draw in, it’s the perfect excuse to get comfy, put some logs on the fire and bring out the board games. Here are a few reasons why our friends at John Adams believe the retro board game deserves a revival while you’re with us... BOARD GAMES BRING US TOGETHER THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! The mighty board game world has something Board games come in all shapes and sizes. that will be fun for every generation. There’ll Play is an essential part of human nature at any also be games you can work together on as time of life. It strengthens the bonds between a team; a skill we should encourage in our us, relaxes or excites us, sparks our imagination, children when we can. and helps keep us sane. Whatever the mood is in the cabin, there’ll be a game that will work PUT DOWN YOUR PHONE for you. It’s that lull after supper with everyone sat on the sofa. Everyone has their head buried in their NOTHING LIKE A BIT OF HEALTHY phone. Board games help bring us back into COMPETITION the real world and disconnect from the digital Something remarkable happens when friends world for a while. and family gather face to face around the table to share the same experience. It’s good for us YOU’RE CREATING MEMORIES THEY to win and lose every now and then! WON’T FORGET You’ll laugh, you’ll shout! You’ll always Great for cosy evenings remember that board game where you were all snuggled round in your cosy cabin for years to come. That’s what holidays are all about, creating memories. 16 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE

SENSORY SCAVENGER HUNT // THORPE FOREST Wwioldnldifeers Head out on a sensory Tick the scavenger hunt and take lots boxes as of photos along the way. you find them Look for Listen for Smell Shooting stars Morning bird song Tree blossom Shadows from the trees Wind in the trees Bark A lichen covered twig Crunchy leaves Fresh forest air An insect crawling Buzzing insects Pine needles Feel Bring the forest to lifeCold snow Prickly pine needles Rough tree bark Smooth stone Did you know? Early flowering plants to look out for include snowdrops and primroses. These are very important early sources of nectar and pollen for pollinators like bees. Send us your discoveries on social media What’s given you your #ForestFeeling today? Whether its crunchy leaves, icicle covered branches, quirky cloud shapes or a special visitor on your decking, we’d love to see. Tag us in your wildlife wonder snaps on social media and we’ll share them with our followers. @forestholidays WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 17

OUR LOCATIONS // DISCOVER Where will you discover next? Forest Holidays take you somewhere else, somewhere away from the everyday. To a place where your alarm clock is birdsong, your neighbours are squirrels, your playground is the trees, and your backdrop is a starry sky. Tick all 12 Forest Holidays locations off your travel wish list and get ready to find adventure in Britain’s most beautiful forests. Did you know? When you take a forest holiday, you help create a brighter future for Britain’s woodlands by supporting local rural economies, people and wildlife. 18 • WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE

DISCOVER We hope to see you at another location very soon! WINTER // SPRING • FOREST LIFE • 19

We hope to welcome you back to the forest again soon. Before you go, here are a few ways you can stay connected with us when you’re back at home: SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE Leave us a review on TripAdvisor so we can see what you thought about your holiday and your experience with us. We can’t wait to hear from you. GET SOCIAL WITH US Tell us about your favourite forest moments or get creative and share your photos with us @forestholidays or by using our hashtag #ForestFeeling. STAY IN TOUCH! Our newsletters are filled with all sorts of lovely things. From the latest forest news to hand-picked offers just for you. Forest Feeling delivered straight to your inbox. Scan to subscribe.