The last time I went to Center Parcs was when everyone was wearing shoulder pads and legwarmers and into high-impact aerobics (or watching Jane Fonda doing it, anyway). Yes, it was the 1980's before we all chucked out the Chintz and Ikea had made us into true Europeans.

Back then, the Center Parcs concept was new and brave and bold and ever-so-slightly odd. People said it was Butlins for the Middle Classes - and I suppose, to a certain extent, it was, with bunker-style chalets and a slightly-too-cold swimming pool.

So it was with great curiosity that I packed the car for a weekend at the Sherwood Forest Centre with 3 over-excited children in tow and joined the Easter traffic of the M1. Arriving late, hassled and in cold wet drizzle, I was beginning to wonder if it was all worthwhile. But on checking into our villa (nestled snugly into a now mature pine forest), I was struck by the welcoming ambiance. Low-key and inoffensive from the outside, our home for the next two days was warm, comfortable and well layed out. Each room had its own bathroom (including spa bath for the grown-ups!) and the children were particularly excited to find TV's in all the bedrooms. For those with younger children, everything had been well thought through - cots and highchairs were supplied as standard and staff seemed happy to meet other requirements if needed.

Once unpacked, the drill is that you drive your car back to a central parking area on the outskirts of the village and then either walk or cycle around the complex. We decided to hire bikes and as was our experience throughout the trip, found the service to be fast, efficient and friendly. There are cycles for all age-ranges, tastes and combinations. Young children can either ride on 'tandem' bikes or in child seats, while babies ride safely in trailers. Buggies, backpacks, helmets and other attachments are all also available. Cycling around the extensive grounds was one of the simplest pleasures for me. To be traffic-free and in a beautiful setting - albeit artificially created - gave a sense of freedom, and it was great to watch my 6-year-old daughter gaining in confidence and enjoyment on her bike.

The amount of sport and leisure activities on offer was extensive and we soon realised why you are sent a booklet of choices to peruse and pre-book before your arrival. However, they can be expensive and add a lot onto the basic cost of your holiday. My advice would be to choose before you go and stick to your budget. It is very tempting to give in to 'Please Mummy' pressure but I found that there is more than enough to enjoy without breaking the bank. My daughter, Jasmine was delighted with the amount of wildlife on our doorstep - rabbits, squirrels and ducks came right up to our villa door - whilst the boys, were completely satisfied with the vast swimming pool complex (included in your booking fee) with its waves, 'beach' area, rapids, and of course the latest 'Grand Cascade' attraction - 600 feet of water slide which you ride down on a circular raft!

Besides this, the children selected one main activity each and I accompanied my youngest on a delightful pony carriage ride out through Sherwood Forest, whilst the older ones (aged 8 and 9) were well catered for with a computer activity where they made and came away with their own CD of music.

However if it's a break from the kids you're after, well, Center Parcs has it all worked out. For a minimal payment, you can leave your little darlings at a fully-equipped and staffed centre called the Time Out Zone where there are a host of activities for them to do while you go off for some adult relaxation. I would be lying if I didn't admit that my highlight of the weekend was a luxurious 2 hours spent in their terrific spa centre culminating in a relaxing massage…

I think the only thing that, for us did not reach the obviously high standards the company sets itself, was the quality of the food. There are several cafes and restaurants on site offering a wide selection of food, so that if you don't fancy cooking you can eat out. However, despite again, very good service and child-friendly venues, there seemed little on offer besides fast food style menus and it is an area which could certainly be improved. Next time around I think I'd opt for taking our own food. And yes, I'm certain there'll be a next time. The children haven't stopped talking about it, and are planning a future venture with friends. Even a whacked-out Mum could have done with a bit longer there and there is truly something for everyone on offer.

Suffice to say that I have now joined the host of other families who have chalked up a visit to Center Parcs as a great child-friendly, 'must-do' event. I may have 'matured' a little since my last visit - but like the company, I'm still young at heart!

I visited Center Parcs, Sherwood Forest for the weekend of Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th April.

I stayed in an Executive 3 bedroom villa

For full details of all the Center Parcs centres and details of what's on offer, visit their website at www.centerparcs.co.uk

Sera Lefroy-Owen is a freelance writer and producer. She currently contributes articles to many publications as well as making features and documentaries for BBC R4. She is married with two children.