Center Parcs runs five sites, which it terms “villages,” in England for short activity vacations at forest locations, typically sited by a lake.
In a statement posted on its official website, the company said: “Following the announcement of the date of the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, we have made the decision to close all our UK villages on Monday 19 September as a mark of respect and to allow as many of our colleagues as possible to be part of this historic moment.
“Guests who were due to arrive on Monday 19 September should not travel on this day, though we will reopen on Tuesday 20 September and be ready to welcome our guests then. We hope our guests will understand our decision to support our Queen on her final journey.”
Guests who had been due to arrive on Monday are requested to come on Tuesday, while, according to the BBC, those vacationing at the sites will be required to leave at 10.00 a.m. local time on Monday.
Those losing part of their vacation will be given an automatic discount, with the option to cancel entirely for a full refund.
A Center Parcs representative told Newsweek: “Like many businesses, we have taken the decision to close all our UK villages on Monday 19th September.
“We have contacted all the guests due to arrive on Monday 19th September and offered them a number of different options. Our villages will be open to welcome guests on Tuesday 20th September.”
However, the decision left vacationers venting their frustration on social media.
Replying to Center Parcs on Facebook, Tracy Groome wrote: “We were 5 related families getting together for our annual family holiday - with two small children and two dogs, 3 hours from home! Where the hell are we supposed to go for one night?!
“It’s that or cancel some or all of the much anticipated holiday! Sorry, but this is an awful, awful decision that has left us devastated. By all means close the restaurants and activities, but let us stay on the park!!”
Natalie Adele posted: “As much as I love Center Parcs and think they’ve made many sensible decisions, I’m not sure if this is the right one. Close attractions in the parks for the day but let families stay in their lodges, so many people will have to change plans now.
“I really don’t think the Queen would have wanted families missing out on time together. I definitely think Monday is a day to be respectful to the Queen but I think closing is extreme for the families that are there on the Monday.”
Catriona MacGregor wrote: “Centerparcs, this is a PR disaster for you. This might be the last booking for a lot of people. Look at the messages people are posting, read the mood! Still not too late to reverse this poor decision.”
Queen Elizabeth II passed away on Thursday aged 96 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.
Mourners in London have been leaving flowers and toy Paddington Bears in Green Park by Buckingham Palace, in tribute to a BBC TV skit the queen did in June to mark 70 years of ruling on her Diamond Jubilee.
Charles III, 73, is the new king of the United Kingdom, and 14 other countries, although the date for his formal coronation is yet to be announced.
Do you have a question about Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III or their family that you would like our experienced royal correspondents to answer? Email royals@newsweek.com. We’d love to hear from you.
