The Staycation Hack: Why Smart Families are “Buddying Up” for Summer Holidays

Let’s be honest: planning a summer holiday that keeps everyone happy is getting harder. Between coordinating school holiday schedules, finding a place that genuinely welcomes dogs, and managing a vacation budget, the stress can mount before you’ve even packed a single suitcase.

That is why a major new travel trend is taking off this summer: The Multi-Family “Buddy-Up” Staycation.

Instead of booking three separate, cramped hotel rooms or generic holiday cottages, smart friend groups and extended families are pooling their budgets to take over premium, large-capacity properties. When you split the cost of a premium 5-bedroom lodge three ways, you suddenly unlock an estate-level holiday for a fraction of the price.

If you and your favorite families are ready to escape together without ever feeling like you are living on top of each other, The East Wing at Rufford Park Lodge is engineered for the ultimate shared getaway.

The Secret to Sharing Space: Zero Compromise

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The Ultimate Family Reunion at Rufford Park Lodge: How to Plan the Perfect 10-Person Getaway in Sherwood Forest

There is something deeply special about getting multiple generations or lifelong friends together under one roof. Milestone birthdays, long-overdue catch-ups, and annual family traditions are the moments we remember forever.

However, anyone who has ever volunteered to organize a large group holiday knows it can quickly feel like herding cats.

From finding a large family holiday cottage in Nottinghamshire that actually fits everyone, to coordinating schedules and cooking for a small army, the logistics can get overwhelming. The biggest bottleneck? Finding the right space. Too often, “sleeps 10” properties mean squeezing onto mismatched sofas or splitting up into separate houses when it’s time to eat.

If you are looking for premium group accommodation in Sherwood Forest where your whole party can relax, celebrate, and stay together comfortably, The East Wing at Rufford Park Lodge was built for exactly this.

Designed for Groups: Space to Gather, Space to Breathe

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A Dog Owner’s Guide to Sherwood Forest: The Best Walks, Pubs & Stays for You and Your Four-Legged Friend

There is nothing quite like watching your dog bound through a sea of golden leaves, nose to the ground, tail wagging at a mile a minute. If you are planning a UK break with your canine companion, here’s why you should consider the legendary home of Robin Hood.

Sherwood Forest isn’t just steeped in folklore—it is an absolute paradise for four-legged adventurers. From ancient woodlands with centuries of scents to discover, to cozy pubs that welcome muddy paws with open arms, this corner of Nottinghamshire is built for dog lovers.

Here is your ultimate guide to exploring Sherwood Forest with your dog, along with the perfect place to put your paws up at the end of the day.

Why Sherwood Forest is a Dog Paradise

While some UK holiday destinations limit where your dog can roam, Sherwood Forest opens its ancient canopy to pets. The region boasts thousands of acres of pristine woodland, open heathlands, and well-maintained trails. Whether your dog prefers a gentle, sniffing stroll or a high-energy trek through the trees, the sheer variety of terrain means they will never get bored. Plus, the dense forest canopy provides excellent shade during warmer months, keeping your pup cool on their adventures.

Top Dog-Friendly Walks in Sherwood Forest

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Plan Your Ultimate Family Adventure at The East Wing at Rufford Park Lodge

Looking for the perfect family getaway that combines adventure, comfort, and relaxation? The East Wing at Rufford Park Lodge is a stunning retreat nestled in the heart of Rufford, Nottinghamshire (NG22). This spacious lodge is designed to create unforgettable memories for families, offering ample room and a cozy atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration.

A Spacious Haven for Families

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Gateway To Sherwood Forest – The New Visitor Centre

New Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre Opens In Edwinstowe

Around ten minutes drive from our self-catering holiday home, the new Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre is the perfect place to start exploring the ancient woodlands and RSPB nature reserve.

With maps, trail guides for cycling and walking, birdwatching journals and information on all the local area has to offer, this modern facility also includes a cafe, shop and accessible toilets and showers.

If you have come to see Robin Hood’s Major Oak, it is well signposted from the start of the trails across the road from the car park.

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Hot Tub Getaways At Sherwood Forest Holiday Cottage

Sherwood Forest Hot Tub Holiday Cottage

The East Wing at Rufford Park Lodge is a holiday cottage in the heart of Sherwood Forest in Newark, Nottinghamshire which sleeps up to ten adults and features a premium hot tub which is professionally cleaned and maintained between bookings.

Situated in Deer Park, near Rufford Abbey and Country Park, the accommodation is suitable for groups and families of up to ten plus an infant, and you can bring a pet or two with you to save on kennels. It is popular with families celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, groups of couples, reunions, cycling groups,  golf parties, groups of friends, wedding guests, families with dogs, walkers, ramblers, twitchers and fun seekers.

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Welcome!

Welcome to Rufford Park Lodge, situated in Sherwood Forest and within what used to be the grounds of the historic Rufford Abbey Estate where it served as a Hunting Lodge for the head gamekeeper. 

Located in the centre of an historical area with something for everyone and enough to keep even the most active of people busy, no matter how long your stay. There are many sites of historical interest, great parks that can be appreciated on foot or bike, attractions for all ages, inns with reputations for great food, and some excellent restaurants.

Accommodation comprises a double en-suite bedroom on the ground floor , two double bedrooms, two twin bedrooms and two bathrooms on the first floor. There are two reception rooms on the ground floor – a dining room with an extendable oak table that seats up to ten people, and a lounge with reclining leather sofas, a Sony 42″ Flat Screen TV with surround sound, and Sky+ HD. Wifi is also provided for your convenience.