In recent years more and more attention has been given to the design and purpose of outdoor play areas. Local authorities and schools hope to provide interesting, safe playgrounds, with bespoke playground equipment often with an educational theme. As you would expect London has some of the best examples of modern state of the art playgrounds and here we look at three of the best that you and your children can enjoy in fantastic settings.
Toffee Park Adventure Playground
30 Ironmonger Row, Islington, London EC1V 3QS
Toffee Park welcomes children of all ages, but may be better suited for children 6-13 years old. The park is free of charge, but all children must be registered to play.
Photo Credit: Image Playgrounds Ltd who design and build bespoke playground euipment for schools and parks
Toffee Park is an expansive park that offers many wooden structures that can offer hours of fun. There are playwork staff that supervise the equipment, though children under 6 are to be supervised by their parent/guardian. There are indoor and outdoor spaces available with equipment that will physically test your children while also giving them the opportunity to express themselves creatively. Public safety management is a a key concern at this park and you can rest assured that your kids will be looked after, yet they will have the freedom to take to risks and challenge themselves with the various pieces of equipment the park has to offer. Definitely a good choice for your youngster that has endless energy!
Diana Memorial Playground
Kensington Gardens, London W2 2UH
The obvious number one pick for playgrounds in The Royal Parks. Diana Memorial Playground has it all and is free of charge. All children must be accompanied by an adult and will be buzzed in by a guard. Adults, keep in mind that you must be accompanied by a child to get in also!
Opening in June of 2000, this elaborate park was built as a tribute to the late Princess. The centerpiece of the park is a large wooden pirate ship that you’re certain not to miss. Each year approximately 750,000 children visit the playground each year. Key features include a sensory trail, teepees, and a beach around the pirate ship including various toys and play sculptures.
Image: Telegraph London Outdoors
There are also wooden fort areas, little houses and of course, a safe water play area. Please keep in mind that the park is closed from 13-17 May 2013 for their annual shutdown. The park will re-open the following day. Do yourself a favor and be sure to make this one of the parks that you don’t miss this spring and summer!
Bushy Park Playground
Hampton Court Rd, Middlesex TW12 2EJ
Of The Royal Parks, we feel that the Bushy Park Playground is the clear runner up in regards to what it has to offer for you and your kids. There is no admission fee to the park.
Recently refurbished, Bushy Park features a large sandpit, timber climbing tree, balance beams, basket swing, cradle swings and a dry river feature with climbing rocks. The appeal of this park is that it will offer something to everyone in the family. Your kids can take advantage of the newly refurbished park while you check out the famous Arethusa “Diana” Fountain which serves as the centerpiece to Chestnut Avenue, which is equally as famous. The park itself is linked to Hampton Court Palace which sits just to the south. With a rich history, beautiful architecture and the playground to boot, we feel that you would love to spend a day at Bushy Park.
Image: JustLuxe Playground Feature
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