Our Top Rated Soft Plays in the UK

TRAVELTOYS, BOOKS & VALUES

9/14/20252 min read

boy in yellow shirt and black shorts sitting on black round trampoline
boy in yellow shirt and black shorts sitting on black round trampoline
Kidspace (Croydon & Romford, Greater London)

Often described as “the Rolls‑Royce of play areas”, Kidspace features one of the largest indoor soft‑play frames in the world, a climbing wall, go‑kart track, toddler village, interactive sandpit, soft ball arena, and more. Spacious, meticulously maintained, and able to entertain a wide age range, it's a go‑to for design‑conscious families.

Gambado Chelsea (London)

This iconic family venue offers a massive play frame, bumper cars, carousel, sensory rooms, tiger slides, and a well‑regarded café. It's an inclusive, inspiring play space that feels generous without being overwhelming.

Hullabaloo at The Sherriff Centre (West Hampstead, London)

Housed inside a beautifully converted Victorian church, Hullabaloo blends architectural calm with creative soft play: tunnels, slides, foam pits, and a café tucked under soaring arches. The setting makes it uniquely peaceful and memorable.

Mudlarks at Museum of London Docklands

A sensory-rich play space inside a museum that uses storytelling and tactile play to support learning and exploration. Thoughtfully designed, it engages toddlers while offering parents a stimulating museum setting. Great for half-day visits.

Play Factore (Trafford, Greater Manchester)

Home to the largest soft‑play frame in the UK, Play Factore includes huge slides, trampolines, VR elements, dance‑platform games, and more. Expect bold design, kinetic fun, and real size scale.

Head Over Heels (Chorlton & Wilmslow, Greater Manchester)

Two stylish sites combining art installations, interactive floors, sport courts in the clouds, sensory play zones, toddler‑specific areas, and quiet spaces. Designed with older and younger siblings in mind.

Castaway Play (Cheshire)

A magical, nature‑inspired play space designed to spark imaginative learning. Frequently voted best soft‑play in Cheshire, it emphasises clean lines, open space, and playfulness rooted in story.

Things to Keep in Mind
  • Age suitability: Some centres, like Kidspace and Play Factore, cater to a wide range of ages, while others like Mudlarks and Hullabaloo are better suited for toddlers under five.

  • Cleanliness matters: As highlighted by local parent reviewers at Eddie Bears in Farnworth and similar centres, cleanliness and visible upkeep can make or break the soft‑play experience.

  • Parental space: Many of these centres include cafes with good coffee or soft seating—important for turns at resting or working mindset.