Center Parcs is bringing its popular gastropub, The Dozing Duck, to more UK villages after its success at Sherwood Forest. The holiday company plans to open a new venue at Longford Forest, followed by Elveden Forest in Suffolk in 2027.
Elveden Forest transformation
At Elveden Forest, the existing Foresters’ Inn will be transformed into The Dozing Duck. Plans have been submitted to West Suffolk Council to extend and refurbish the pub, adding a new dining space, indoor and outdoor play areas, shuffleboard, and crazy pool. A new lobby and an extended terrace with four dining pods and a buggy park are also proposed.
Blueprint for success
A Center Parcs spokesperson said The Dozing Duck has “gone from strength to strength” since opening and is now “the blueprint” for other villages. The spokesperson added: “Our guests were clear in their feedback to us – they were willing to pay more for a premium experience and environment.” Each new gastropub will have bespoke theming reflecting local heritage.
Mixed reviews
Despite the company’s enthusiasm, The Dozing Duck has a rating of 2.9 out of 5 on Tripadvisor. Guest reviews vary, with some calling the food “lovely” and “delicious”, while others describe it as “school dinner quality”, “overpriced”, and “average”. The menu includes pub classics like toasted sandwiches, black pudding scotch eggs, fish and chips, burgers, sausage and mash, and apple crumble.
More changes coming
Center Parcs is also rolling out The Entertainment Hive to other villages. This concept, which first launched at Woburn Forest in 2025, features immersive gaming experiences such as The Bat Cage and The Arena. A second Hive opened at Whinfell Forest in late 2025, and the concept has generated over £1 million in revenue, with The Arena achieving an average daily occupancy of 95%.
