Huge warehouse on the easily found Team Valley trading Estate, this has been opened a few years now, and is usually busy…one of those places to go to when it's raining and you need something to amuse the kids.
The whole area is divided into sections for under 2s, which is basically ball pools and Little vehicles to drive in a specially enclosed area, an area for under 5s, which is more of the same but with some slides and climbing frames added, and then there is the real "I am" things. These include a giant slide 3 storey climbing frame, as many nets and tunnels as you can negotiate, basketball area (there are coaching nights), PS2 and x box areas complete with some of the latest games and a mini village with small road system. Definitely something for everything if nerves can
take it!!
PARTIES
We have. Over the years, had a few parties here…takes the pressure off parents and carers. All you do is chose the themed room you want (Sea World, The Den, Castle or Disco) pay your money and the rest is done for you.
Our recent parties for little miss have been in the Castle Room and Disco Room, and these are well laid out, and you do get the feel of whatever theme your in. parties cost £7.95 per child, and include 60 mins play in the main area, food in the party room, party bags, invitations, birthday card, photo and a party coordinator. So, it seems a lot of money at the start but when you consider what you pay for food and party bags, then it's not too bad… all you have to provide are the guests, the party person and the cake.
OPENING TIMES AND PRICES
The play area is open 10am-7.30pm Monday to Friday, 9am-7.30pm Saturday and 9am-7pm on Sundays.
Monday to Friday is classed as off peak times so is a bit cheaper during term time… £2.50 for under 2s (ie 1 year olds because under 1's always go free) and £3.95 for children over the age of 2. During school holidays and at weekends, this goes up to £3 for under 2's (under 1 year old still free) and £4.40 for over 2s.
I think the prices are a bit steep, especially if you have 2 or 3 children, all wanting drinks bought. Remember, the prices are for 90 minutes, and when you go in, they write the name of the child, time of entry and if you over stay your welcome, they will call you to leave!
ADDRESS AND CONTACT
377 Princesway, Team Valley Trading Estate Gateshead
Tel: 0191 4874677
WHAT I THINK OF IT
For a rainy afternoon when little people are clamouring for something to do, this is almost certainly guaranteed to please them. Lots of activities and they get the chance to let off steam while you have a cup of coffee at one of the tables situated around the edges. That's the idea but in reality, I find I am almost constantly on the look out for little miss and whichever friend we have at the time. Because the climbing areas are quite high (very safe though), there is a tendency to get neck ache from looking up, and because the area is so large, you do tend to walk round in circles before you find children. It's no good shouting because they won't hear over the general din. Yes, this place is almost always bust, although after school during the week is generally quieter…wet weekends are the worst.
I do think it's a tad pricey for the length of time they get to play…90 minutes and then out. What would happen if you wanted to eat after your allotted 90minutes? Would you get thrown out? I have never been brave enough to try it as the staff can sometimes get a bit fierce.
Parties here are really good, and mean you don't have to do anything except turn up, and for something to do, it's great fun, but as I said before, do all the visiting out of school holidays and through the week.
One thing I like about it is that when you go in, the name and age of the child(ren) you are with are taken along with their shoes, and then to enter the main area, there is a security door. This door involves pressing a high green button whilst simultaneously pushing open wooden doors, so this is well out of the reach of all but the most determined children. Also, when you leave, you can leave only with your allotted children…however, I do think they should start to take signatures.
There are child friendly toilets, and often face painters (at a cost) and overall, plenty to keep the average lively child amused for an hour or so.
I'll probably be there again soon now that the weather is changing for the worst.
Thanks for reading.
Daniela xx
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giants den
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Aug 25th, 2006
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