I love Playtrain in High Wycombe. It is the best soft play centre I have ever visited. It not massive, but the facilities are excellent and they have all bases covered. Personally that fact it isn’t massive is a big bonus to me as it means you can sit down and not have to keep getting up to try to find out where your child is. It is definitely a parent/carer friendly venue with its great cafe area and small shopping area at the reception.
Atmosphere; I love the relaxed environment and think it is the most organised and well thought out soft play centre I have visited. There are even screens up on the wall that show corners and areas of the play frame that are not fully visible if you are sitting in the cafe area. I have always found the staff to be friendly and helpful.
Play Facilities; The main play frame is clean and looks in good condition. In addition to that there is a craft area, a library area computer games and a moving bus ride (additional charge for this). There are also some other activities like a play shop area, large connect four and small ball pool. I really think there is something to entertain every child here. There is even a small outside play area that the children can use in the summer. There is also a small area for the smaller children which has seating by it for you to watch over your little ones!
Cafe; The cafe offers a good menu with lots of healthy options. The coffee is good quality and there is a children’s meal deal option. I feel the price is moderate to high, but I don’t mind paying the price as it is good quality fresh food. They also sell ice creams which is great for the kids in the summer.
Retail area; This is the only play centre I have been to that have incorporated a small shop area into the business. It is in the entrance area and sells pocket-money toys, Magazines, Nappies through to a lovely selection of wooden toys and mobiles. The also regularly have local businesses come in that sell. These range from Dace painters to Osbourne Books to Fingerprint Jewellery.
Parking; For me this is the only thing that lets the centre down in any way. There is a car park, but it isn’t that big and if there are parties taking place it fills up very quickly. You can park on the main road, but it is the main road that runs through the industrial estate so is very busy. At weekends you can park in the bays outside the opposite unit, but you do need to cross the main road then. Even the parking isn’t ideal it isn’t enough of an issue to put me off going or recommending the centre.
Price; I think the under 1 and under 4 pricing is fair, but do think £6.10 for an over 4 is a little on the high side. However, they do offer an annual member ship for £99 for the first child and then only £25 per sibling which is great value if you plan to be a regular visitor.
Parties; I have not had a party or been to a party at this venue. However, I have been there while parties are taking place and the food that goes into the party rooms always looks really fresh and healthy and they seem to be very organised at preparing the rooms.
For anyone who is looking for a softplay centre in the Bucks area I would highly recommend Playtrain and my children and I would go as far as to say it is the best centre in the area.
Mum Juggling Life! 