Wheelgate Park Superhero Half Term Review
Wheelgate Park
Superhero Half Term
Reviewed by Deborah Girling
We went to Wheelgate Park, the all-action family theme park, during February half term when the theme was ‘Superheroes’. Our party consisted of 3 adults, a 7 year old, a 4 year old, 16 month old twins and an 8 month old baby.
The excitement mounted as soon as we were through the gates. 3 Superheroes greeted us enthusiastically and there was a great photo opportunity. We were handed maps and information sheets with details of all events happening through the day. We were impressed with the range and variety. There were various animal/reptile handling sessions, lamb feeding and different activities linked to the Superheroes theme. Some of the popular sessions were run several times through the day, which we thought was good.
We were spoilt for choice for what to do first! Finally, the children decided on the carousel, the bumpy slide and the small roller coaster, all of which were big hits! On all rides, it clearly stated the height/age requirements and the staff were very thorough in checking this before allowing children to ride. The staff were friendly and helped the children on and off the rides where necessary.
We then headed inside to one of the huge play areas. This is where Wheelgate really comes into itself. A huge covered play area with a good under 5’s section (not escapable by my climbing-enthusiast twins!) and a massive tiered play area for the older children, fantastic if you happen to get caught out by the rain. The 4 year old in our group required (by the rules) that he needed an adult to accompany him, however he was soon off by himself. There were staff situated in the play area itself, checking heights for the various slides and keeping good order amongst the children. What I liked about this play area, was that there was plenty for children aged 8+ to enjoy when usually they have long grown out of traditional ‘soft play’ areas. While the older children played, we were able to sit and eat our picnic. In this indoor play area, there were no catering facilities but there was a cafe next door. There were also plenty of picnic benches/areas (covered and uncovered) throughout the park.
After lunch, we headed for the driving school. This was an extra £2.95 per car. Although I dislike paying for extras in theme parks, the children really enjoyed themselves.
After that, we enjoyed some of the outdoor play areas, of which there are several. The children had good fun on the huge inflatable pillow and the pirate themed climbing frame. I liked the fact that each play area was aimed at a different age so lots for all to enjoy. My daughter particularly enjoyed the assault course. Although we didn’t use it, there was a great sandpit with diggers and buckets for the children to use.
We then decided to venture into the other huge indoor play area. Again, this didn’t disappoint with plenty for children of all ages to do. I was very happy and relieved to see another great Under 5’s area (again non-escapable!) while the older children were able to take themselves off to play. This play area did have catering facilities, serving drinks, snack and meals. They were very reasonable in price and the portions looked to be of a good size.
Wheelgate, I feel, is best suited to 3-8 year olds although there are some aspects that children slightly older and younger will enjoy. The park looks a little worn and ‘tired’ in parts but it was clean and well maintained. There was plenty to do to fill our day, in fact we didn’t get time to see and do everything. A great excuse to come back another time! All in all we had a great day.
From the 15 February to 2 March Wheelgate have Superhero Half Term. If all the people in your party turn up wearing pants over their trousers, just like a superhero, you can get 1 days free admission to their sister park Twinlakes in Melton Mowbray (click here for full details).
Rating: 4/5
Save money by booking online. For more information and to book tickets visit www.wheelgatepark.com.
