Free Adventures – Toddle Doddle https://toddledoddle.com Find Your Next Adventure Tue, 28 May 2024 12:38:44 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 102446132 Storm the Fortress at Municipal Gardens, Aldershot https://toddledoddle.com/municipal-gardens-aldershot/ https://toddledoddle.com/municipal-gardens-aldershot/#respond Thu, 17 Aug 2023 08:09:23 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=56643 Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, Hampshire

Municipal Gardens and Play Area, Aldershot, HampshireMunicipal Gardens Play Area is a place to let your imaginations run free.

Can you sail your pirate ship past seals, sharks and an octopus to a kingdom with a village, a hilltop fortress and a pumpkin-shaped, horse-drawn carriage? 

No prizes for guessing who might live here!

 

Municipal Gardens and Play Area, Aldershot, HampshireCan you scale the fortress and clamber your way through to the tunnel slide?

 

 

 

 

Municipal Gardens and Play Area, Aldershot, HampshireWhat role will you play in the little village?

 

 

It can be busy, but we love it.

 

Municipal Gardens and Play Area, Aldershot, HampshireMunicipal Gardens has a range of newly refurbished equipment that provides a challenge for children of all ages but is only recommended to the age of 12 years. It includes:

  • a fortress climbing frame with a tube slide, climbing walls, bridges, poles and nets
  • a games area with anagrams, four in a row and reversi as well as a kitchen hob and kaleidoscope
  • a second slide for younger children
  • a network of houses for smaller children to climb around and play in
  • toddler swings
  • double swings
  • swings
  • a rope swing
  • Municipal Gardens and Play Area, Aldershot, Hampshirea tyre swing
  • a balance course
  • a roundabout
  • a spinning disc
  • a wobbly pirate ship with a steering wheel
  • sea creature springers
  • a seal seesaw
  • a Cinderella seesaw
  • a picnic table and
  • seats for adults.

 

Municipal Gardens and Play Area in Aldershot, HampshireMunicipal Gardens has a multi-use games area and you can play basketball, football, hockey and cricket. There is also a skateboarding area and an outdoor gym.

There are also gardens and open areas to walk through and picnic in.

List Play Equipment

 

Visit the Municipal Gardens website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Aldershot
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU11 3EP

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None.

How Long We Spent There: 1.5 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There no car park but you can usually find a space on one of the nearby residential roads. Be sure to find one that does not have parking restrictions. We try Cargate Avenue (GU11 3EP), Upper Elms Road (GU11 3ES), Cargate Hill (GU11 3AA), The Warren (GU11 3AB) and Lansdowne Road (GU11 3ER).
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: June 2017
Information Checked: August 2023

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Municipal Gardens Play Area in Aldershot is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
5.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/municipal-gardens-aldershot/feed/ 0 56643 Pond Dip at Fox Corner Wildlife Area, Near Guildford https://toddledoddle.com/fox-corner-community-wildlife-area/ https://toddledoddle.com/fox-corner-community-wildlife-area/#respond Mon, 24 Oct 2016 06:31:23 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=24991 Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area

Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area is a tranquil, 14-acre wildlife area with a pond, meadow, woods and two brooks well as bridges, boardwalks and a pond dipping area.

 

The Streams

Fox Corner Community Wildlife AreaThere is something magical about the twists and turns of the streams. 

 

 

 

 

The Wildlife

Fox Corner Community Wildlife AreaIn the spring and summer months there are mice, roe deer, birds, butterflies and stag beetles as well as lots of pond life.

 

 

 

Fox Corner Community Wildlife AreaWhat we did see were lots of fabulous fungus, beautiful autumn colours and a low flying pheasant that suddenly crashed across our path.

 

 

 

The Paths

Fox Corner Community Wildlife AreaThe paths were easy to push a buggy along. 

 

 

 

Read More

 

Visit the Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Fox Corner
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU3 3PP

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket. 
Facilities: None.

How Long We Spent There: Two hours.
Buggies: We used an all-terrain buggy without any problems.

Parking: There is no car park. The Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area website suggests parking on Berry Lane (GU3 3PU).
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Pheasants, mice, roe deer, birds, butterflies and stag beetles as well as lots of pond life.

Information Written: October 2016

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Fox Corner Community Wildlife Area in Guildford is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
3.3
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/fox-corner-community-wildlife-area/feed/ 0 24991 Meet Old Father Thames at St John’s Lock, Lechdale https://toddledoddle.com/st-johns-lock-river-thames-lechdale/ https://toddledoddle.com/st-johns-lock-river-thames-lechdale/#respond Sat, 23 Sep 2023 13:22:28 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/buscot-village-play-area-faringdon-copy/ Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Father Thames at St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire Buscot Village Play Area in Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshire

Our challenge was to find the Source of the Thames. We began at Buscot Lock, walking upstream to the river’s last lock and the statue of Old Father Thames, which used to mark the source.   

 

Buscot Lock

Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshirePicturesque Buscot Lock is a working lock with a weir, bridges and swans.

 

 

 

 

Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireThe lock keepers we met were very friendly and showed my children how the manual lock works, much to their delight. 

 

 

 

 

The Thames Path

Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireWalking from Buscot Lock to St John’s Lock took us about an hour and the paths were easy to walk along.  

 

 

 

 

Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireWe followed this circular path from the National Trust’s website. 

 

 

 

 

Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireYou walk from Buscot Village, past Buscot Lock, along the Thames Path, staying close to the river.  

 

 

 

 

Buscot Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireWhen you reach the bridge you are almost at St Johns Lock.  

 

 

 

 

 

St John’s Lock

St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireSt John’s Lock is the highest lock on the River Thames.

 

 

 

 

St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireIt has toilets, a small picnic area and a statue of Old Father Thames. 

 

 

 

 

 

Old Father Thames 

Father Thames at St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireOriginally carved for Crystal Palace in 1854, Old Father Thames was moved to the source of the Thames in Trewsbury Mead in 1936.  

 

 

 

Source of the River Thames in Kemble, OxfordshireSadly, it was vandalised and moved again to St John’s Lock.

The source of the Thames is now marked with a simple stone.  

 

 

 

The Trout Inn

St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireWe had lunch right next to the river at The Trout Inn,

 

 

 

 

St John's Lock on the River Thames, Buscot, near Faringdon, Oxfordshirewhich has a large garden and lots of tables. 

 

 

 

 

 

Buscot Play Area

Buscot Village Play Area in Buscot, near Faringdon, OxfordshireBuscot Village Play Area has a long obstacle course.  

It is conveniently located next to the Buscot Village National Trust car park and is a good place to play at the end your walk.

Read More

 

Visit the Buscot Lock website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Buscot, near Faringdon
County: Oxfordshire 
Nearest Postcode: SN7 8DA

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic, eat at Buscot Village Tea-Rooms (SN7 8DA) or eat at The Trout Inn (GL7 3HA).
Facilities: There are toilets for customers at the Tea-Rooms and Trout Inn. There are public toilets at both locks.

How Long We Spent There: 4 hours
Buggies: The paths are fairly flat and easy to walk on.  You could take an all-terrain buggy if you don’t mind bumping up and down some stairs. 

Parking: Pay and display car park at Buscot Lock or The Trout Inn’s car park at St John’s Lock. 
Cost of Parking: Parking at Buscot Lock is free for National Trust members; from £2 for two hours for non-members. Parking at The Trout Inn is free. 

Information Written: August 2023

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Buscot Lock near Faringdon and St John’s Lock near Lechdale is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
4.3
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/st-johns-lock-river-thames-lechdale/feed/ 0 75677 Search for Sculptures at Tout Quarries, Portland https://toddledoddle.com/tout-quarries-portland-dorset/ https://toddledoddle.com/tout-quarries-portland-dorset/#respond Thu, 06 May 2021 20:27:02 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/bordon-inclosure-copy/ Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorset

At Tout Quarries, sculptures are hiding around every corner – and when I say hiding, I mean hiding! We have visited twice and still haven’t found every sculpture.

Tout Quarries

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, DorsetThis area was once a Portland stone quarry that has now been turned into an open-air sculpture park and workshop with spectacular views across Chesil Beach and Portland Harbour.

 

 

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, DorsetAnd if you are really lucky, you may even see a sculptor at work! 

 

 

 

 

 

The Sculptures 

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, DorsetThere are over 60 sculptures around the quarry. Some are enormous and others are much smaller and harder to spot.

 

 

 

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, DorsetThere is a map of the sculptures on the information board in the car park.

 

 

 

 

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, DorsetWe took a photo of it and used it to play Find the Sculpture. 

 

 

 

 

 

Quarry Remnants

Tout Quarry was worked as a limestone quarry from about the 1750s to the 1980s. You can look for signs of these quarry workings as you walk around. There are:

 

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorsetold tramways

 

 

 

 

 

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorsettunnel entrances and hidden shelters

 

 

 

 

 

Tout Quarries Nature Reserve, Portland, Dorsetdry stone walls and archways.

 

 

Read More

 

Visit the Tout Quarries website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Portland, Weymouth 
County: Dorset
Nearest Postcode: DT5 2LN

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and blanket.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: You can use a buggy on the main paths but most of the side paths are narrow and uneven in places and some also have steps.  

Parking: There is a small car park.
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Butterflies and insects.

Information Written: April 2021

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Tout Quarries in Weymouth is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
4.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/tout-quarries-portland-dorset/feed/ 0 68536 Commemorate the Struggle for Freedom at Runnymede https://toddledoddle.com/runnymede-old-windsor/ https://toddledoddle.com/runnymede-old-windsor/#respond Sat, 29 May 2021 14:00:09 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/waverley-abbey-copy/ Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Play Area and Splash Pad, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Play Area and Splash Pad, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Play Area and Splash Pad, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surrey

The water-meadows of Runnymede are where King John sealed Magna Carta in 1215, taking a step towards freedom and modern democracy. They are also home to a number of interesting memorials, boat rides along the River Thames, views towards London and Runnymede Pleasure Grounds. 

 

The Statues

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, SurreyThere are a number of statues in the water-meadows, including twelve juror chairs

 

 

 

 

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surreythat each commemorate key moments in the fight for freedom,

 

 

 

 

 

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surreya memorial to the founding principles of democracy

 

 

 

 

 

 

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surreythat has principles from Magna Carta reflected in the water,

 

 

 

 

 

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surreya memorial to JFK

 

 

 

 

 

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surreyand a memorial to the sealing of Magna Carta. 

 

 

 

 

 

The Paths

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, SurreyThe path along the River Thames is beautiful but bumpy and uneven in places and can be muddy.

 

 

 

 

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, SurreyTo reach the memorials you have to cross a meadow.

 

 

 

 

 

Runnymede, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, SurreyThere are steps up to the JFK Memorial and the view point.

 

 

 

 

 

Runnymede Pleasure Grounds

Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Play Area and Splash Pad, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, SurreyRunnymede Pleasure Grounds is on the banks of the River Thames, next to the Runnymede memorials.

It has a play area,

 

 

 

Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Play Area and Splash Pad, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surreya splash pad, amusements,

 

 

 

 

 

Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Play Area and Splash Pad, Runnymede Pleasure Grounds, Old Windsor, Surreyboat trips and a cafe.

 

 

Read More

 

Visit the Runnymede website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Old Windsor, Egham
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: TW20 0AE

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or eat at one of the cafes. 
Facilities: There is a cafe at the National Trust car park with toilets and accessible toilets. Picnic area, toilets, accessible toilets, cafe, ice creams are all also available at Runnymede Pleasure Grounds.

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Not really buggy friendly.

Parking: The largest is at Runnymede Pleasure Grounds and the National Trust’s car park is at the other end of the meadows.
Cost of Parking: Pay and display car parks. The National Trust car park is free for members. 

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks, swans, geese and butterflies.

Information Written: May 2021

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Runnymede in Egham is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
4.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/runnymede-old-windsor/feed/ 0 69304 Beachcomb at Littlehampton West Beach, Littlehampton https://toddledoddle.com/littlehampton-west-beach/ https://toddledoddle.com/littlehampton-west-beach/#respond Tue, 08 Aug 2017 05:15:05 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=52449 Littlehampton West Beach Fossil Hunting, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach Fossil Hunting, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach Fossil Hunting, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach, West Sussex Littlehampton West Beach, West Sussex

Littlehampton West Beach, West SussexLittlehampton West Beach feels wild – an uninterrupted stretch of sand extending as far as the eye can see, flanked by sand dunes and turquoise waters. 

 

 

Sand Lizards

Littlehampton West Beach Fossil Hunting, West SussexIf you are lucky you might spot a sand lizard in the sand dunes or fossils in the stones. Fossils can either be found in the pebbles on the beach or in the chalk and flint pebbles exposed at low tide.

 

 

Fossils

Littlehampton West Beach Fossil Hunting, West SussexMany of the larger pebbles, and most complete fossils, can be found at the end of the beach nearest the car park – no long walks required!

 

 

 

Littlehampton West Beach, West SussexWe found this fossil, which we think is a flint cast of the inside of an ancient sea urchin (but would be happy to hear otherwise).

It is about 2 inches in diameter and has clear markings. The children were delighted.

 

 

Beachcombing

Littlehampton West Beach, West SussexIt is not surprising that Littlehampton West Beach is a protected Nature Reserve. We found all sorts of treasures from sharks’ egg cases to cuttlebones. We even saw a little egret wading in the shallows.

 

 

Littlehampton Fort

After leaving we discovered that behind the car park is Littlehampton Fort, which is over 150 years old and was built to protect the entrance to the River Arun from attack.

 

The Cafe

Littlehampton West Beach, West Sussex

Next to the car park are public toilets and West Beach Cafe, which serves refreshments and also has breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.

From here you can see the River Arun and the contrasting Littlehampton East Beach, with its theme park, promenade and amusements.

 

Access

Littlehampton West Beach Fossil Hunting, West SussexThe beach is only a short walk from the car park but to reach the sea you have to climb down a steep, stoney slope. 

 

Read More

 

Visit the Littlehampton West Beach website

Visit the Discovering Fossils website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Littlehampton
County: West Sussex
Nearest Postcode: BN17 5DL

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or try the West Beach Cafe. 
Facilities: Ice creams, snacks, toilets and accessible toilets.

How Long We Spent There: We spent about five hours at West Beach.
Buggies: There is a steep slope down to the sea but I used an all terrain buggy without any issues.

Parking: Good-sized car park
Cost of Parking: From £0.60 in the winter and £1.50 in the summer.

Wildlife You Might See: Sea life, seabirds and sand lizards.

Information Written: June 2017

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Littlehampton West Beach is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
5.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/littlehampton-west-beach/feed/ 0 52449 Play Areas, Arts and Orienteering at South Hill Park, Bracknell https://toddledoddle.com/south-hill-park/ https://toddledoddle.com/south-hill-park/#respond Thu, 17 Nov 2016 19:18:47 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=24898 South Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire Toddlers' Play Area South Hill Park, Bracknell South Lake, South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire South Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire South Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire Hedgehog Play Area, South Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire South Hill Road Play Area, North Lake, South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire North Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire South Lake, South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshire

South Hill Park is a grand stately home turned arts venue, which is surrounded by gardens, lakes, woods, and three very different play areas.

The grounds divide into two areas – South Lake and North Lake. Each has a lake, marked trails, an orienteering course, and play areas.

 

South Lake

South Lake South Hill Park BracknellA walk around South Lake’s landscaped gardens takes you past the lake with its fountain, bridge, and ducks

 

 

 

South Lake, South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshireand through a wooded area with an amphitheatre, story telling seat, and hidden pet cemetery.

 

 

 

Toddlers' Play Area South Hill Park BracknellSouth Lake has two play areas: the Toddlers’ Play Area with its musical stepping stones,

 

 

 

Hedgehog Play Area, South Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshireand the fun Hedgehog Park with its long slide.

 

 

 

 

North Lake

North Lake South Hill Park BracknellNorth Lake is wilder, with woodland, a long lake, a boardwalk over a small marsh

 

 

 

South Hill Road Play Area, North Lake, South Hill Park, Bracknell, Berkshireand South Hill Road Play Area, a large adventure play area with zip wires, climbing nets and a balance course.

 

 

 

Orienteering

South Lake South Hill Park, Bracknell, BerkshireThere are two orienteering courses available at South Hill Park. One leads you around South Lake and the other around North Lake.

Visit South Hill Park’s website to find these maps and answers.

 

Arts Venue

South Lake South Hill Park BracknellThe house itself is now an arts venue with sculptures, a gallery, the Wilde Theatre, a cinema and a cafe.

It hosts child friendly classes, and child friendly theatre productions.

 

Read More

 

Visit the South Hill Park website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Bracknell
County: Berkshire
Nearest Postcode: RG12 7PA

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or eat in the cafe. 
Facilities: Picnic tables, cafe, snacks, ice cream, toilets, accessible toilets. 

How Long We Spent There: 2.5 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a good-sized car park.
Cost of Parking: Free

Animals You Might See: Ducks, swans, geese, squirrels and herons.

Information Written: November 2016

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to South Hill Park in Bracknell is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
5.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/south-hill-park/feed/ 0 24898 Discover the Delights of Pond Dipping, Rowan Field, Ash https://toddledoddle.com/rowan-field-ash/ https://toddledoddle.com/rowan-field-ash/#respond Mon, 27 May 2024 06:00:18 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=38579  

Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Blackwater Valley Path Section 3 Shawfields to Hollybush Pits Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey River Blackwater and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, Hampshire Rowan Field in Ash, Surrey Shawfields and the River Blackwater and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, Hampshire River Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 from Pea Bridge in Aldershot to Shawfields in Ash, Surrey River Blackwater and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, Hampshire Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, Hampshire

Rowan Field is unusual – a nature reserve split in half by the A331.  On the other side of the dual carriageway is Shawfields, an area of ancient meadow.

 

Rowan Field

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyRowan Field has open grassland

 

 

 

 

Rowan Field in Ash, Surreya pond and 

 

 

 

 

Rowan Field, Ash

the Blackwater River running along one edge. 

 

 

 

 

Rowan Field, AshThe field also has benches, a small seating area and a path around the outside.

 

 

 

 

The A331

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyThe A331 dual carriageway splits Rowan Field in two so there is a continuous rumble of traffic.

 

 

 

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyThese two parts of the field are joined by a footbridge, which we enjoyed crossing to watch the traffic whizzing underneath.

 

 

 

 

Shawfields

Shawfields and the River Blackwater and Blackwater Valley Path Section 2 at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, HampshireOn the other side of the dual carriageway is Shawfields.

 

 

 

 

 

Other Things to Try

From Rowan Field you can try three different things: 

 

Shawfield Recreation Ground

Shawfield Recreation Ground, AshTo find Shawfield Recreation Ground from Rowan Field, walk down Shawfield Lane and turn left onto the unsurfaced road on your left.

Follow this road until you come to a little path on your right. This will take you to Shawfield Rec. 

 

Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area 

Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area in North Town in Aldershot, HampshireTo find Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area from Rowan Field, turn left and walk up the bridge over the dual carriageway.

At the end of the bridge, turn left and when you read the field, cross to the right. Ivy Road is on the other side of the river.  

 

The Blackwater Valley Path

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyYou could also have a walk along the Blackwater Valley Path.

Section 2 of the Blackwater Valley Path runs past Rowan Field and is surfaced so you can cycle and scooter too. 

 

 

The Paths

Rowan Field, AshThe path around Rowan Field and also Shawfield is not surfaced and can be muddy.

 

 

 

 

Rowan Field in Ash, SurreyThe field can also be muddy and boggy in places so you may need wellies when you visit. 

 

 

 

 

Parking

Rowan Field, AshThere are two car parks you can use. The first is on Shawfield Lane in Ash (GU12 6QY) but it was chained shut when we visited.

There are a couple of spaces near the gate and you could also try to park on Shawfield Lane itself.

The second car park is at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area (GU12 4XG), which has several spaces.

Read More

 

No website found. 

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Ash, near Aldershot
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU12 6QY or GU12 4XG (see above for parking details)

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: Picnic table.

How Long We Spent There: 1 hour
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There are two car parks you can use – please see above. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks and other birds, butterflies and other insects. 

Information Written: March 2017
Information Checked: May 2024

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Rowan Field in Ash, near Aldershot, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
3.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/rowan-field-ash/feed/ 0 38579 Swing Around at Four Marks Playground, Near Alton https://toddledoddle.com/four-marks-recreation-ground-and-playground/ https://toddledoddle.com/four-marks-recreation-ground-and-playground/#respond Tue, 28 Jun 2016 11:13:05 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=9364 Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground

Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground is great play area to drop into. It has a wide variety of equipment, in great condition and the location is spacious with a rural feel.

We spent a fun-packed couple of hours here, climbing, swinging and exploring.

 

Four Marks Recreation Ground and PlaygroundWhen we visited the equipment included:

  • swings
  • toddler swings
  • two climbing frames
  • a small climbing wall
  • a spinner
  • a seesaw
  • a zip wire
  • a basket swing
  • a roundabout
  • a couple of springers
  • Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playgrounda balance beam
  • a multiplay unit with a toddler slide and easy to climb stairs
  • ladders
  • a cargo net
  • monkey bars
  • a rope bridge
  • a second multiplay with a double toddler slide.

 

Four Marks Recreation Ground and PlaygroundThe play area is built on a large, grassy area, surrounded by countryside.

It has picnic tables, outdoor gym equipment and a number of sports grounds, including football, basketball and tennis.

 

List Play Equipment

 

Visit the Four Marks Recreation Ground and Play Area website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Four Marks
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU34 5AF

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: Picnic area.

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: Car park
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: June 2016

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Four Marks Recreation Ground and Playground in Four Marks is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
4.0
Sending
User Rating 0 (0 votes)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

]]> https://toddledoddle.com/four-marks-recreation-ground-and-playground/feed/ 0 9364 Discover Medieval Warfare at Corfe Castle, Wareham https://toddledoddle.com/corfe-castle/ https://toddledoddle.com/corfe-castle/#respond Sat, 27 Jan 2024 11:24:53 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/swanage-railway-copy/ Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorset Swanage Railway in Dorset Swanage Railway in Dorset

Sitting high on a hill, Corfe Castle guards a gap in the Purbeck Hills, and is a fun castle to explore. 

 

Corfe Castle

Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, DorsetCorfe Castle dates back to about 1066 and the Norman invasion of England.  

 

 

 

 

Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, DorsetIt has plenty of history to enjoy, including arrow slits, oubliette dungeons and soaring walls,

 

 

 

 

Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorsetmedieval warfare equipment for children to try out 

 

 

 

 

Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, Dorsetand also a 1,000 year old murder mystery – who killed King Edward?

 

 

 

 

 

Swanage Railway

Corfe Castle in Wareham, near Swanage, DorsetCorfe Castle sits next to the Swanage Railway line and you can see the trains steam past.

 

 

 

Swanage Railway in DorsetThis full-size heritage railway operates a range of steam and diesel locomotives, as well as historic carriages.

 

Read More

 

Visit the Corfe Castle website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Corfe Castle, near Wareham
County: Dorset
Nearest Postcode: BH20 5EZ

Adult Cost Range: Free with National Trust membership. Various prices for non-members. Please see their website for details. 
Child Cost Range: Free with National Trust membership. Various prices for non-members. Please see their website for details. 
Free if: Under 5 years or with National Trust membership.

Opens: Various times throughout the year. Please see their website for details.

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic, try the cafe or one eat at one of the nearby pubs.
Facilities: Cafe, shop, snacks, ice cream, picnic area, toilets and accessible toilets. 

How Long We Spent There: 1 hour.
Buggies: Some of the castle is buggy-friendly but there are also slopes, steps and narrow walkways in some areas.  

Parking: There are a few car parks to choose from, including a National Trust car park, as well as a few parking spaces in the village.
Cost of Parking: Varies depending on the car park you choose. The National Trust car park is free for members.  

Information Written: June 2022

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Corfe Castle in Swanage is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

 

  • Fun
  • Condition
  • Value
  • Would We Go Back
4.0
Sending
User Rating 5 (1 vote)
Comments Rating 0 (0 reviews)

 

Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.

 

 

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