Soft play that is actually worth the money
Days Out Rainy day
Soft play prices vary wildly for much the same thing. These are the questions worth asking before you pay.
Check the session length
Some centres sell a two hour slot, others let you stay all day for the same money. On a wet Saturday the all day ticket is usually better value, but only if your child will actually last that long. For most under threes, ninety minutes is the honest limit.
Check whether adults pay
A family of two adults and two children can cost nearly double at a site that charges for grown ups. Many places let one adult in free per child, so it is worth a quick look at the price list before you drive over.
Look for a separate under twos area
This is the single thing that makes a visit relaxing. A fenced off area for babies and toddlers means you are not following a small child around a frame built for eight year olds.
Things that quietly add up
- Grip socks, which many sites insist on and sell at the door.
- Hot drinks and snacks, often no outside food allowed.
- Parking, if the centre sits in a retail park.
Frequently asked questions
Is a membership worth it?
Only if you would genuinely go twice a month or more. Work out the break even number of visits and be honest about how many you will make in term time.
What is the best time to go?
Weekday mornings in term time are the quietest by a long way. Weekend afternoons are the busiest and the least fun for small children.
Do I need to book?
In school holidays, usually yes. Out of them most sites take walk ins, but a quick check saves a wasted journey.
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