Ages 4 to 6 – Toddle Doddle https://toddledoddle.com Find Your Next Adventure Sun, 11 Feb 2024 21:01:47 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 102446132 Gaze into the Deep at Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth https://toddledoddle.com/blue-reef-aquarium-portsmouth/ https://toddledoddle.com/blue-reef-aquarium-portsmouth/#respond Thu, 17 Mar 2016 14:02:38 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=9178 Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth

Waving rays, graceful seahorses and glowing jellyfish were just some of the creatures that greeted us on a visit to the Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth.

 

The Inhabitants

Blue Reef Aquarium PortsmouthInside, a winding walkway led us past rays, sharks, jellyfish, starfish, otters, small crocodiles, iguanas, frogs, clownfish, anemones, piranhas, turtles, coral and seahorses.

 

 

 

Blue Reef Aquarium PortsmouthThe highlights of our visit were watching rays waving as they glide by

 

 

 

 

Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouthseeing sharks slip silently through the deep and

 

 

 

 

Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouthgazing out from an underwater tunnel.

 

 

 

 

 

Blue Reef Aquarium PortsmouthIt took about half an hour to walk through the aquarium (without including a stop at the play area).

 

 

 

 

 

The Blue Reef Café

Blue Reef Aquarium PortsmouthNext to the aquarium is the Blue Reef Café – a small café with a sea view. 

 

 

Read More

 

The Play Area

Along the way, there is an outdoor play area with play equipment that includes:

  • a play ship
  • a whale springer
  • a motorbike springer
  • a spinning disc
  • a sandpit
  • some wooden puzzles
  • picnic tables. 

The springers and ship were for children from 18 months to 6 years old.

 

List Play Equipment

 

Visit the Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Portsmouth
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: PO5 3PB

Opens: Daily

Adult Cost Range: £5 to £14.99
Child Cost Range: £5 to £9.99
Free if: Under 3

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or eat at the Blue Reef cafe. 
Facilities: Cafe, snacks, ice cream, picnic area, toilets, and accessible toilets. 

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

Parking: There are parking spaces along the seafront and next to the aquarium.
Cost of Parking: Free

Animals You Might See: Tropical and salt water fish, small crocodiles, sharks, rays, turtles, frogs, iguana, lizards, otters, jellyfish, crabs and lobsters.

Information Written: March 2016

Visitor information

 

Ratings

Our visit to the Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth 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/blue-reef-aquarium-portsmouth/feed/ 0 9178 Build an Epic Adventure at LEGOLAND® Windsor https://toddledoddle.com/legoland-windsor-resort/ https://toddledoddle.com/legoland-windsor-resort/#respond Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:09:41 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=25027 LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, Berkshire

A trip to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort is a fun-packed adventure into a kingdom full of play areas, splash pads, rides, shows and LEGO® brick models.

 

Epic Fun

LEGOLAND® Windsor ResortLEGOLAND® is a LEGO® brick theme park complete with epic music, shows, models, crowds and queues.

 

 

 

 

Themed Lands

LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, BerkshireLEGOLAND® is divided into action-packed themed lands, which combine LEGO® brick models with rides, water fun, live shows and adventure.

 

 

 

 

Drench Towers

LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, BerkshireThere is also an enormous water play area called Drench Towers and Splash Safari that has Duplo® animals (including the polar bear, giraffe and elephant) and interactive water features like water cannons, water slides and fountains.

 

 

 

Miniland

LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, BerkshireMiniland features LEGO® brick models of cities like London, Amsterdam and Paris as well as models of the space shuttle and remote controlled boats.

 

 

 

LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Windsor, BerkshireLegal notice: LEGO®, DUPLO® and LEGOLAND® are trademarks of the LEGO Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse this site.

Read More

 

For full details please see the LEGOLAND® website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Windsor
County: Berkshire
Nearest Postcode: SL4 4AY

Opens: Various times throughout the year

Adult Cost Range: Various
Child Cost Range: Various
Free if: Under 90cm tall

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or eat at one of the cafes. 
Facilities: Cafes, drinks, snacks, ice creams, picnic areas, toilets, accessible toilets.

How Long We Spent There: We spent a full day at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort and still didn’t manage to see everything!
Buggies: Buggy friendly.

Parking: There is a massive car park.
Cost of Parking: From £8

Information Written: October 2016
Information Checked: December 2023

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort in Windsor 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/legoland-windsor-resort/feed/ 0 25027 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 Climb Dragon Hill, St Catherine’s Hill, Guildford https://toddledoddle.com/st-catherines-hill-guildford/ https://toddledoddle.com/st-catherines-hill-guildford/#respond Thu, 25 Jan 2024 14:05:44 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/normandy-common-and-play-area-copy/ Shalford Park and St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Park and St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Park and St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Ferry Road Scred Spring, St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Ferry Road Scred Spring, St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Ferry Road Scred Spring, St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Ferry Road, St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Lock in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Lock in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Lock in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Lock in Guildford, Surrey River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Lock in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey River Wey at Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey River Wey at Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey Shalford Water Meadows in Guildford, Surrey

A walk to St Catherine’s Hill involves the River Wey, bridges, a lock, a sacred spring and water meadows. 

 

St Catherine’s Hill

River Wey Navigations at St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, SurreySt Catherine’s Hill used to be called Drakehull (or Dragon Hill) and is  a sacred site that dates back thousands of years to the Stone Age.

 

 

 

St Catherine's Hill in Guildford, SurreyIn the 14th century a chapel was built here, which now lies in ruins.

 

 

 

 

 

Sacred Spring

At the bottom of St Catherine’s Hill by the River Wey is a sacred spring that was believed to cure sore eyes. 

 

 

 

 

Next to it is a little plaque and a poem:

“Your upward path, my downward flow

Are fixed by law divine,

My task is to refresh your soul,

Yours to discover mine”

 

 

River Wey Navigations 

The River Wey flows past St Catherine’s Hill.

 

 

 

 

You can follow the River Wey Navigations footpath along the river (if you are looking at the river then follow the path to the right)

 

 

 

and on to St Catherine’s Lock.  

 

 

 

 

 

St Catherine’s Lock

When at the lock, you can either turn around and go back to the car park the same way you have come or cross the river 

 

 

 

and follow the footpath back to Shalford Park,

 

 

 

 

passing St Mary’s Church, Shalford.

 

 

 

 

 

This route is wilder than the path along the river, with obstacles like fallen trees

 

 

 

 

and streams. 

 

 

 

 

 

Finding St Catherine’s Hill

As you leave Shalford Park car park, head to the line of trees on your right

 

 

 

 

and follow the footpath that leads through the trees and on to the River Wey.

 

 

 

 

Once at the river, cross the bridge

 

 

 

 

 

walk past the spring and up Ferry Lane to the main road.

 

 

 

 

St Catherine’s Hill is on your left and will take you up to the church.

 

Read More

 

Visit the St Catherine’s Hill website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Guildford 
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU3 1LJ is the nearest postcode but parking is on the other side of the River Wey at GU4 8AA.

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

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

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Generally buggy friendly but some of the paths can be narrow.

Parking: There is a car park at Shalford Park (GU4 8AA).
Cost of Parking: £4 per day. 

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

Information Written: July 2022

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to St Catherine’s Hill and St Catherine’s Lock 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
3.8
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-catherines-hill-guildford/feed/ 0 76533 Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Farnham https://toddledoddle.com/hollowdene-recreation-ground-frensham/ https://toddledoddle.com/hollowdene-recreation-ground-frensham/#respond Sat, 05 Jun 2021 07:40:10 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/oak-hanger-play-area-oakhanger-bordon-copy/ Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surrey Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Farnham Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Farnham Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Farnham

Hollowdene Recreation Ground has a small play area with equipment for use by children under the age of 14 years. 

The play equipment includes:

  • Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Farnhamswings
  • toddler swings
  • a pirate boat
  • a seesaw
  • a roundabout
  • a multiplay with a bridge, bars and a slide with a ladder
  • a second slide with easy to climb stairs
  • a balance course
  • two springers
  • Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, Near Farnham, Surreya hopscotch board
  • a covered seating area
  • an outdoor gym
  • a picnic table
  • a table tennis table 
  • seats for adults.

 

Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, FarnhamNext to the play area is a very large sports field with a football pitch and a cricket pitch. 

 

List Play Equipment

 

Hollowdene Recreation Ground, Frensham, FarnhamIf you walk down past the playing fields you come to a footpath through the trees.

This leads to a bridge over a little stream and some fields where we spotted some ducks and rabbits.

 

 

Visit the Hollowdene Recreation Ground Play Area website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Frensham
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU10 3BJ

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: There is village shop next to the play area, a pub nearby and you can bring a picnic.
Facilities: A shop and a picnic area.

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

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

Animals You Might See: Ducks, insects and rabbits.

Information Written: February 2020
Information Checked: June 2021

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Hollowdene Recreation Ground and Play Area in Farnham 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/hollowdene-recreation-ground-frensham/feed/ 0 66486 Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, Surrey Hills https://toddledoddle.com/abinger-hammer-play-area/ https://toddledoddle.com/abinger-hammer-play-area/#respond Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:08:53 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/abinger-hammer-playground-copy/ Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills

Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area, River Tillingbourne Paddling at Abinger Hammer, Surrey HillsAbinger Hammer Play Area is a small, wooden play area next to the River Tillingbourne and Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground. 

When we visited the river was shallow, slow flowing and ideal for paddling, playing and splashing. 

 

The play area equipment includes:

  • a wooden climbing frame with a slide, climbing walls, nets and a fireman’s pole
  • a swing
  • a toddler swing
  • Abinger Hammer Playground, Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hillsa seesaw
  • a springer
  • some balance beams
  • a wooden house
  • a tunnel
  • a rope wall.

Together these last four items can be used as a mini obstacle course.

List Play Equipment

 

No website found. 

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6QP

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None but opposite the green is a tea room and shop that sells nets, coffees, sandwiches, snacks etc. 

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: Parking is tricky. There is a small car park with about 8 spaces on Felday Road. It can be very busy during warm weather. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: June 2017
Information Checked: August 2023

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground, the River Tillingbourne and the Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area in the Surrey Hills 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
4.5
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/abinger-hammer-play-area/feed/ 0 69505 Gaze at the Views from Denbies Hillside, Dorking https://toddledoddle.com/denbies-hillside-dorking/ https://toddledoddle.com/denbies-hillside-dorking/#respond Thu, 29 Dec 2016 17:23:08 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=29513 Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking Denbies Hillside, Dorking

Denbies Hillside’s panoramic views sweep up and down the valley and across to Leith Hill Tower. The car park is at the top of the hill so you can see the views and have a picnic without any need to walk! 

 

Steers Field

Denbies Hillside, DorkingSteers Field is at the top of the hill next to the car park.

It is a spectacular place to have a picnic and enjoy the view.

 

 

 

The Denbies Hillside Nature Walk

Denbies Hillside, DorkingWe spent about an hour and a half walking the circular nature walk (full details are available on the National Trust website).

We found it well signed and easy to follow. 

 

 

 

 

The Nature Walk Paths

Denbies Hillside, DorkingSome parts of the paths were narrow, steep and muddy.

Be careful if you are visiting when the paths are wet – we met some walkers who had found it too slippery and decided to turn back.

 

Read More

 

Visit the Denbies Hillside website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Dorking
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6SR

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

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

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: Choose a buggy that can handle stony paths.

Parking: There is a car park. 
Cost of Parking: From £1.50 per hour or free with National Trust membership.

Wildlife You Might See: Birds and insects.

Information Written: December 2016

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Denbies Hillside in Dorking 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/denbies-hillside-dorking/feed/ 0 29513 Splash, Paddle and Wade at Ober Corner, New Forest https://toddledoddle.com/ober-corner-new-forest/ https://toddledoddle.com/ober-corner-new-forest/#respond Sun, 22 May 2022 17:19:29 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/balmer-lawn-new-forest-copy/ Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshire

Ober Corner is the most enchanting part of the New Forest I have found so far. Here the Ober Water meanders through the trees, past wildflowers and ponies and on to a bridge, where it becomes the Lymington River. 

 

Pond Dipping and Paddling

Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, HampshireThis bridge is a picturesque spot to splash around the river, try your luck at pond dipping,

 

 

 

Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, Hampshiretackle some log bridges or stop and have a picnic. 

 

 

 

 

Finding the Bridge

Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, HampshireTo find the bridge, follow the stony path from the car park, which will lead you past heathland, into the woods and then to the bridge.  

The walk takes about fifteen to twenty minutes.

 

 

Finding the Car Park

Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, HampshireTo find the Ober Corner car park, use SO42 7QD and follow the road all the way to the end.

You will pass Beechern Wood Car Park and Aldridge Hill camp site on the way. 

 

 

Deep Water 

Ober Corner Paddling, Lymington River, Brockenhurst, New Forest, HampshireNote that the brook by the car park is shallow in some places but deep in others and there are warning signs.  

 

Read More

 

Visit the Ober Corner website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Brockenhurst
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SO42 7QD

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

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

How Long We Spent There: 2.5 hours
Buggies: Choose a buggy that can handle stony paths.

Parking: There is a small car park next to the river but this can be very busy. 
Cost of Parking: Free.

Wildlife You Might See: Ponies, fish, butterflies and other insects, rabbits and birds.

Information Written: May 2022

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Ober Corner in the New Forest 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/ober-corner-new-forest/feed/ 0 70843 Chineham Library, Chineham Town Centre, Basingstoke https://toddledoddle.com/chineham-library-basingstoke/ https://toddledoddle.com/chineham-library-basingstoke/#respond Sat, 01 Apr 2017 05:56:54 +0000 http://toddledoddle.com/?p=37522 Chineham Library, Basingstoke Chineham Library, Basingstoke Chineham Library, Basingstoke Chineham Library, Basingstoke Chineham Library, Basingstoke

Chineham Library has a welcoming children’s section, plenty of activities and is also the first stop on the Story Trail quest to find Great Binfield the Giant. 

 

A Story Trail

Great Binfield Copse Story Trail, BasingstokeWe visited Chineham to quest along the Great Binfield Copse Story Trail. This is one of Hampshire County Council’s Story Trails* and is called “Great Binfield, the Giant of Basingstoke“.

 

 

Chineham Library

Chineham Library, BasingstokeThe first marker on the trail is outside Chineham Library, so we went inside to have a look.

 

 

 

 

The Children’s Section

Chineham Library, BasingstokeThis welcoming area has little sofas, a small table and low boxes full of picture and board books that children can look through. 

 

 

 

Chineham Library, BasingstokeThe staff member we met was friendly and helpful and gave me some useful advice on choosing reading books.

 

 

 

 

Chineham Library, BasingstokeWhen we visited the library was running various sessions like rhymetime and story telling parties, as well as book groups.

 

 

 

Hampshire County Council’s Story Trails

The Dragon of Butser Hill - The Queen Elizabeth Country Park Story Trail, Waterlooville*These are basically walks with interactive stories to read along the way, as told by a cute character called the Story Snail.

Each Story Trail is about one mile long and is divided into numbered sections that you read out as you reach number markers along the trail.

 

Getting the Story Trail

Fleet Pond Story TrailTo follow the Story Trail you need a free pack that you can either borrow from a specified place (with a Hampshire Library card and a £20 returnable deposit) or download the story trail from the internet in written or audio form.  

Each pack has a map to follow and the trail itself is marked with arrows and/or pictures of the Story Snail.

Read More

 

Visit the Chineham Library website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Basingstoke
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: RG24 8BQ

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Eat in one of the nearby cafes or bing a picnic and a blanket. 
Facilities: Cafe, ice creams, snacks, drinks, toilets. 

How Long We Spent There: About 30 minutes.
Buggies: Buggy friendly.

Parking: We parked near the library in Chineham Shopping Centre South car park. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: March 2017

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Chineham Library in Basingstoke 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
3.8
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/chineham-library-basingstoke/feed/ 0 37522 Meander Through Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester https://toddledoddle.com/winnall-moors-nature-reserve-winchester/ https://toddledoddle.com/winnall-moors-nature-reserve-winchester/#respond Wed, 04 Aug 2021 15:46:30 +0000 https://toddledoddle.com/winnall-moors-nature-reserve-story-trail-winchester-copy/ Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire The Water Vole Trail to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire The Water Vole Trail to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire The Water Vole Trail to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire

Winnall Moors is a nature reserve near the centre of Winchester that is home to otters, water voles and kingfishers, as well as meadows, reedbeds, the River Itchen and an interactive story trail called “The Adventure of Winnall Moors“ which takes you on a quest to save King Fisher.

 

Winnall Moors

Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, HampshireWinnall Moors is a nature reserve in the centre of Winchester.

 

 

 

 

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, HampshireWith bridges, a boardwalk and the glorious River Itchen, it is one not to be missed. 

 

 

 

 

The Water Vole Trail

The Water Vole Trail to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, HampshireA fun way to reach Winnall Moors is to follow the Water Vole Trail from Winchester town centre, along the River Itchen, and to the gates of the nature reserve.

 

 

 

The Water Vole Trail to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, HampshireThe trail is marked by little metal markers on the floor

 

 

 

 

The Water Vole Trail to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshireand information boards. 

 

 

 

 

 

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire

As you follow the trail, keep an eye out for water voles or listen out for the ‘plop’ they make as they drop into the water.

 

 

 

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, HampshireThe Water Vole trail is 500 metres long and took us about 20 minutes at a child’s pace. 

For further details, please visit the Water Vole Trail website.

 

 

 

The Adventure of Winnall Moors

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, Hampshire

The Winnall Moors Story Trail begins with a search for the Roadway, which is invisible unless you know the secret password…

 

 

 

Winnall Moors Story Trail, Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, HampshireAlong the way you’ll meet a cast of characters, including Samuel Slipper, the Toad Emperor, Super Slug, and eventually, King-Fisher himself.

 

 

 

The Paths

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, Winchester, HampshireThe paths are flat and easy to walk along. 

 

Read More

 

Visit the Winnall Moors Nature Reserve website

 

Further Information

Nearest Town: Winchester
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SO23 8DX

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Eat at a cafe in Winchester or bring a picnic.
Facilities: Picnic area in the nature reserve and there are cafes in Winchester. 

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy-friendly.

Parking: There are several different car parks nearby. We parked in Chesil Street Multi Storey Pay and Display Car Park (SO23 0HU), which meant we could follow the Water Vole Trail to Winnall Moors. 
Cost of Parking: Varies by car park.

Wildlife You Might See: Butterflies, damselflies and other insects; ducks, swans, kingfishers and other birds; otters; brown trout and other fish.

Information Written: June 2021

Visitor Information

 

Ratings

Our visit to Winnall Moors Nature Reserve and the Winnall Moors Nature Reserve Story Trail in Winchester 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/winnall-moors-nature-reserve-winchester/feed/ 0 70230