Local mum and blogger Sharon Wallace (designmum.com) puts forward three of her favourite adventure play experiences for under 5s in Surrey come rain or shine (let's be honest, we're in England it's probably going to be rain)
Bocketts Farm – Fetcham
Nestled down in the beautiful Surrey countryside, Bocketts is a real working family farm, with a whole load of added fun for the kids. We drive down the track to a very well laid out car park and are quickly ushered to a parking space by attendants. There are no marked bays so parking feels quite generous - A big plus when plucking young ones from car seats and setting up double pram/buggy combos.
As we toddle down the pedestrian walkway (she wants to walk) to the entrance of the farm. We can already hear animals neighing and mooing, announcements over the tannoy for various activities and the screeches and whelps of children excitedly playing.
The indoor play barn is a hive of activity with a racetrack immediately in front of us with push along bikes and tractors for young drivers. I see children bouncing on trampolines and an impressive two level soft play area complete with giant 4 lane astroslides. As we walk through the barn we come to ‘Little Hoppington’, the small animal village with rabbits, guinea pigs, chipmunks and more.
Outside, the large animal barn and extensive play areas will keep young ones entertained for hours. Jammed with fun and exciting structures, climbing frames and slides, there is so much to discover. There are two large inflatable jumping pillows for older and younger children, sandpits, a maze and a large pedal go-kart track.
Other activities include panning for gold, tractor and trailer rides, pony rides and pig racing.
There really is something here for all ages and with so much to see and explore you’ll want to come back again and again.
The Magic Garden – Hampton Court
Only recently opened last month, The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace is already a popular family hangout. With mythical creatures, hideouts, aerial walkways and towers to climb, this magical kingdom is sure to ignite kids’ imaginations.
There is definitely a ‘wow’ moment as you first walk into the garden and the inner child in me couldn’t wait to explore every inch of this truly magical garden.
First stop for us was the large amphitheatre where families are picnicking on rugs and children are rolling and sliding down the sloping sides. The grass is actually artificial so my immediate worry about grass stains was averted.
Pathways run all around the garden, which made it fairly easy for me to get around with the pram whilst keeping a watchful eye on a roaming toddler. There is also an area to park up prams and buggies, although this isn’t under cover.
Younger kids will enjoy the sand and wet play feature, where water flows from giant pumps into streams and pools. A word of warning, take a change of clothes. Needless to say we weren’t prepared for this.
Surrounded by lush topiary and palms, the park has a very relaxing feel to it and it is very easy to forget the world outside for a moment. There is a café area serving drinks and ice-creams and a limited number of tables and chairs.
Don’t forget to pack the sunscreen on sunny days, as there isn’t much shaded area.
Bushy Park Playground
What greater way to wear off some of that excess energy than a visit to the park? And what’s more, it’s free! Bushy Park is the second largest of the Royal Parks and home to around 320 roaming deer. As we slowly drive up Chestnut Avenue towards the striking Diana Fountain I take a relaxing deep breath. Ahhh! There’s something very calming about being surrounded by all the trees and open space.
Situated near the Hampton Court Gate entrance is the large, enclosed, children’s playground.
Recently refurbished, there is plenty here to keep the little ones entertained. It has all the usual play equipment you’d expect as well as balance beams, a timber climbing frame, boulders to climb on and a large basket swing. Younger ones will enjoy the turtle drum, see-saw and cradle swings. The extra large sandpit is a big draw for kids, so don’t forget to bring a bucket and spade and expect sandy feet and clothes for the car journey home.
There is plenty of seating around the park, although this goes quickly on sunny days, and a large undercover area, perfect for feeding baby in the shade or sheltering from a downpour. The purpose built toilets are handily situated just next door.
And after all that exertion, why not take a stroll through the avenue of trees to the large pond where you will find ducks and maybe a heron. Or grab a drink and a snack from the mini café located in the Diana car park.
You can check out more of Sharon's blog on designmum.com
Check out our Kids & Schools section for more great family pieces, like our round up of the best independent senior schools in SW London
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