Play at Delamere Forest

Until now there has been no formal play facilities at Delamere Forest. We are always looking at ways to improve and develop Delamere Forest to keep it a fun and memorable day out for everyone so we are creating a play area close to the café and toilet facilities in the visitor centre area by the main car park. Work started at the end of January and we are hoping that the build and safety inspections will all be completed by early March. Until then the area will be fenced off and out of bounds so that we can keep everyone safe. 

Working with our partners Earth Wrights, we are bringing an inclusive play area to Delamere Forest to allow people of all different access requirements and abilities to be able to play together. 

This will include:

• Self-binding gravel surface to provide a durable and accessible pathway, perfect for wheelchairs and mobility aids. It's also low maintenance and environmentally friendly.
• Carefully thought out planting to add colour, texture and interest to the play space. It also helps create a calming and natural environment with a sense of enclosure.
• A sandpit offering endless opportunities for sensory exploration, creative play and social interaction. There is also an accessible sand table suitable for children of all abilities. The raised deck and pulley system make it easy for children in wheelchairs to access and enjoy the sand. 
• Adventurous elements like a balance trail which encourages physical activity, balance and co-ordination.
• Comfortable benches to provide a welcoming space for children to rest, socialise, and observe the play. The back and arm rests offer additional support.
• An accessible boardwalk providing a sensory experience whether on foot or in a wheelchair. It's a fun and inclusive way to explore the play space.
• An inclusive basket swing for children of all abilities. The rocking motion can be calming or exciting and its open design encourages social interaction. The surface underneath will be wood fibre to provide a safe and accessible play environment for all children, including those with mobility challenges. It's soft and durable material cushions falls, reduces noise, and offers wheelchair accessibility. 
• Extra large chimes adding a soothing and sensory element to the space and an active and social experience.
• An accessible woodland cabin as a cosy and inviting space for children to role-play, socialise and engage in imaginative play. Inside is a table and chair to provide opportunities for creative activities and quiet moments.
• A deck, tucked away from the rest of the playground acts as a quiet space to take some time out from the noise and excitement of the playground. A carving of a dragonfly adds a high contrast visual element and links to the history of Delamere Forest as the place where the white-faced darter dragonfly was successfully reintroduced a few years ago. 
• A multi-level tower with a variety of ways to climb, slide and explore. The different access points cater to children with diverse abilities, encouraging physical activity and problem-solving.