Center Parcs, a renowned family staycation destination with five parks set in woodland locations like Longleat, Whinfell, and Woburn forests, has gained significant popularity since its establishment in the late 1980s.
Known for attractions such as the Subtropical Swimming Paradise and the Aqua Sana Forest Spa, along with a wide range of activities for children, over two million British families opted for a Center Parcs holiday in 2024, resulting in a 97% booking rate throughout the year.
While a stay at Center Parcs can come at a considerable cost, often running into thousands of pounds for a family of four, opinions vary on the working environment at the parks. Some current and former employees commend the company and its job perks, like park access, while others raise concerns about a perceived ‘toxic’ atmosphere and overwhelming workloads.
Employee reviews on Indeed, as reported by the Daily Mail, indicate an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 for Center Parcs, considering factors like work-life balance, compensation, job security, management, and workplace culture.
Notably, workers at Center Parcs receive wages above the minimum standard, starting from approximately £12.40 per hour, in addition to opportunities for day passes and discounts on services within the villages.
However, criticisms have surfaced regarding working conditions, with reports of extreme heat in staff areas at certain locations, leading to discomfort for employees. Some reviews describe the work environment as ‘degrading,’ ‘stressful,’ and ‘toxic,’ pointing to challenges faced by employees in their roles.
While some former employees share positive experiences, highlighting a supportive and collaborative team environment, others recount negative encounters, citing feelings of being undervalued and stressed on a daily basis.
Despite varying perspectives, Center Parcs remains open to feedback and improvement, encouraging current and former employees to communicate concerns to the HR department for further discussion.