Bradgate Park, a stunning 830-acre countryside near Leicester City Centre, offers a wild and rugged landscape that is perfect for an outdoors family adventure. This park is a veritable playground for children, with hundreds of acres of open spaces, bracken slopes, rocks, and streams, creating a paradise for kids to explore and enjoy.
The Bradgate Park Play Area
The Bradgate Park play area is a well-equipped and expansive outdoor playground that caters to children of all ages. Located in the lower part of the park, near the Deer Barn and visitor centre, the play area features a variety of engaging and challenging equipment, including:
- Climbing frames and towers
- Swings (including accessible swings)
- Slides
- Seesaws
- Roundabouts
- Balancing equipment
- Sandpit
The play area is surrounded by grassy areas, perfect for picnics and relaxation, and is easily accessible from the main car park. The park’s natural landscape, with its rocky outcrops and winding paths, also provides ample opportunities for children to explore and engage in imaginative play.
Accessibility and Facilities
Bradgate Park is committed to ensuring that the play area is accessible to all visitors. The play equipment includes accessible swings, and the surrounding paths are well-maintained and suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
In addition to the play area, the park offers a range of other facilities to enhance your visit:
- Toilets (including accessible facilities)
- Picnic areas
- Deer Barn and visitor centre
- Café and refreshment kiosks
- Walking trails and guided tours
Safety and Supervision
The Bradgate Park play area is designed with safety in mind, with soft-fall surfaces and well-maintained equipment. However, as with any outdoor play area, parental supervision is recommended to ensure the safety and enjoyment of your children.
Exploring the Wider Park
While the play area is a highlight for families, Bradgate Park offers much more to explore. Visitors can enjoy:
- Hiking and walking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes
- Spotting the park’s resident deer herd, with around 550 animals
- Discovering the historic Bradgate House, the childhood home of Lady Jane Grey
- Admiring the ancient oak trees and geological features, such as the rocky outcrops
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to Bradgate Park and its play area, consider the following tips:
- Check the park’s opening times and plan your visit accordingly
- Pack a picnic or snacks to enjoy in the park’s scenic surroundings
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the outdoor environment
- Bring sun protection and rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable
- Familiarize yourself with the park’s layout and facilities before your visit
Conclusion
Bradgate Park’s play area is a true gem for families seeking an outdoor adventure. With its diverse range of equipment, stunning natural surroundings, and excellent facilities, it offers a perfect day out for children and adults alike. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the area, the Bradgate Park play area is a must-visit destination for state park touring enthusiasts.