Popular Forest of Dean visitor attraction, Dean Heritage Centre in Soudley, has revealed a brand-new look for its children's play area, just in time for February half term.
Upgraded to entice playful kids of all ages, the new playground is part of wider plans to expand the outdoor entertainment offering at the centre, which tells the history of the Forest of Dean through its interactive museum, outdoor exhibits and regular heritage events.
Children can test their footing on the new balancing trail, wobble along the ropeways and swing about on the basket swing – all made from sustainable timber, drawing inspiration from the local area with its rustic forest theme.
There's also a new Mill Wheel climber and slide; a nod to the mill building's waterwheel, which families can spot on their adventures around Dean Heritage Centre's five-acre site.
The woodland play area is still in the same location at the end of the Gruffalo trail, which takes visitors through the trees on a hunt for hand-carved sculptures of Julia Donaldson's popular storybook characters.
Tying in with the launch of its new playground, Dean Heritage Centre is also hosting a number of play-themed activities throughout February half term, from Saturday 18 to Sunday 26 February 2023. From play trails through the museum galleries to crafty toy-making workshops, find all the details in SoGlos's Gloucestershire February half term guide.
With so much more to discover, including the replica Victorian schoolroom and reconstructed forester's cottage, Dean Heritage Centre is open from 10am to 6pm every day during February half term, then from Thursday to Sunday during term time.
Tickets don't need to be booked in advance and cost from £7.20 for adults, £5.40 for children aged three to 16-years-old and are free for children under three – while Gruffalo trail only tickets are available for £3 per person and still give little ones the chance to try out the new play area.
