We’ve been to Pensthorpe a couple of times now and we always enjoy our time here.
We used to drive past the signs on the way to Waverley several times a year, and never gave it much thought. However, when we asked a local for ideas of things to do, he said the best place locally was Pensthorpe. We replied that it looked a bit pricey for a visit to a wetlands centre. He smiled and then said that there is much more there than seeing a few birds!
And he was right. There are some lovely walks through varying landscapes (we actually found a whole new loop we have completely missed on previous trips). There are ample places to stop and have a picnic, to take in the wildlife and take things down a gear or two. There is a flock(?) of flamingoes which are always a favourite with our children, plus lots of other water fowl to see in various settings.
And once you are relaxed and have had your fill of the wildlife, it is time to head round to the adventure playground. This is a nature playground with swings, slides, sand area and obstacle courses which will keep the children amused for hours (especially the helter-skelter slides).
Unfortunately, on this visit, the indoor play area was closed (due to covid) but normally we would make a beeline for it. Do not mistake this for soft play – it is so much better than that! Chunky wooden climbing frames, a huge bumpy slide, rope walks and ball pits (plus a dedicated section for toddlers) only begins to describe this place. Because of its popularity, you normally have to book a timed slot, but it is well worth it!
The only slight disappointment was our trip to the cafe, where the cake and coffee were “nothing special”. It may be because it was the end of the day, or perhaps Covid regulations had interfered with their normal offerings. Either way, we were a little disappointed. But it did not detract from the enjoyment of the rest of our visit.
As always, we had an amazing day at Pensthorpe – the children were completely worn out at the end of their day here!
More Info
SAT NAV: NR21 0LN URL: https://www.pensthorpe.com/