On the South side of Warrington, it took us about half an hour, though for Baby's friends, who don't live as close to the motorway as we do, it took about 40 minutes, so it's not exactly around the corner. Sat nav took us straight there, though it did take us through the crematorium, which was signposted as no through traffic, presumably because sat nav has a tendency to direct people that way.
The car park was large, and rather empty when we arrived just before 10.30am, but jam packed when we left around 2pm. Parking was a flat rate of £3 for weekdays, and £4 on weekends.
Walking past the ice cream van, we immediately encountered a very helpful map of the park. We were aiming for the play area and zoo, but also intended to visit the cafe for lunch. There was also an adventure golf course, plus a pitch n putt area, as well as large green spaces, and formal gardens.
The play area was fantastic; I was so impressed. It was huge, with lots of play equipment, and seemed in very good condition. Unlike some parks, there was plenty of space between the difference pieces of equipment, so even when it got busy later on, it still didn't feel too chaotic.
The usual pieces of play equipment were present: four baby swings, four normal swings, a see saw, a roundabout, climbing frames and slides. The single slide was set amongst several teletubby style hills, and there were a range of musical tubes. However, what really set this park apart was its suitability for toddlers.
The main play area was described as suitable for children aged 3-7, with a separate, well equipped, area for bigger children aged 7-11, meaning that there were fewer older children tearing around the play area knocking into smaller children, which often happens at other parks. The roundabout had four enclosed seats, similar to those used for baby swings, and there was a separate climbing structure with just a couple of steps up, well placed handrails and small slides, that was perfect for toddlers.
Because the park was relatively quiet when we arrived, our babies were able to go on the slightly bigger climbing frame, with its taller slides, too, though they struggled to get up the steps or lower themselves onto the slides, independently.
The play area for older children was in a separate fenced area, so we didn't investigate it, but the kids in there were having a whale of a time.
The Children's Zoo was just past the playground. For a free zoo, it was really impressive. The enclosures were pretty large, and while the animals weren't particularly exotic, there was plenty for the babies to took at. It was quite a mix, with squirrels and rabbits alongside ferrets and chickens, in addition to farmyard staples such as horses, goats, donkeys and pigs. Adding something a little different, the main enclosure housed three llamas. Of all things, the babies loved looking at the chickens, presumably because they moved a lot.
When tummies started to rumble, we headed for the Heritage Cafe. It was bigger than expected, with a reasonable variety of toasties, panini, and sandwiches. There were also hot sausage rolls and pasties, and children's lunch bags ready made up, featuring sandwiches, yoghurts and jelly pouches. Three sandwiches and two drinks cost around £14, so the food prices were very reasonable.
All in all, a very successful day out. The free zoo was a lovely addition to the park, and the play area was excellent. We'll definitely be back.
Key Facts
Month of visit:
April
Weather for visit:
Overcast but dry.
Is it pushchair friendly?
Very, paths are wide and flat.
How are the baby changing facilities?
There are toilets next to the play area, and near the cafe. We used the baby changing in the female toilets near the cafe. They were acceptably clean but very cold.
What about somewhere to feed?
Plenty of benches around the park, and the cafe had some comfortable chairs.
Is it worth a visit?
Definitely.
Baby's highlight?
The swings.
Walton Hall and Gardens,
Walton Lea Road,
Higher Walton,
Warrington,
Cheshire,
WA4 6SN
https://www.warrington.gov.uk/waltongardens
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