Play World Eston (Now Closed): Our Visit, Review and The Best Soft Play Alternatives

If you've landed here because you've been searching for Play World Eston, Eston soft play or Play World at Eston Leisure Centre, I've got a little update before we dive in. Unfortunately, Play World at Eston Leisure Centre is now permanently closed. It's always a shame when somewhere that's created so many happy memories for local families closes its doors. We visited back in 2021 when it was still open, and rather than deleting this post, I've decided to leave our original experience here because I know lots of people are still searching for it. I've also added some alternative places to visit if you're looking for somewhere to burn off some energy with the kids. So, if you're wondering whether Play World is still open, the answer is no. But if you're looking for the next best thing, keep reading because there are some brilliant options across Teesside.

What is Play World?

Play World is an all action, fun filled multi-tiered soft play zone for children up to twelve years old.

The indoor soft play centre is much bigger than others in the area and is split into five different play zones. For older children there is a multi-tiered soft play zone which contains climbing walls, multiple slides, monkey bars and so many more obstacles to keep them busy. Opposite is a toddler zone dedicated to younger children. This has a ball pit, a smaller slide and various tunnels to crawl through. In between is an imaginative area with three different play scenes. A vets practice, a car garage and shop will fire your little ones imagination. There is also a turfed area with both football and basketball nets. Finally tucked away in the corner is a small race track with cars the children can hire and race around in.

There's also a cafe within the centre which serves hot food and drinks. Perfect for occupying the adults whilst the play zones occupy the kids.

Where is Play World?

The address for Play World at Eston leisure centre is: Normanby Road, South Bank, Middlesbrough, TS6 9AE.

You can find Play World just tucked behind the main leisure centre in Eston. There is a free car park as soon as you pull in from Normanby Road which offers plenty of parking. From here Play World is a short 2 minute walk passed the leisure centre. It's really easily sign posted, you can't miss the huge mural welcoming you into the centre.

How Much Is Soft Play At Play World Eston?

• Under 1's - Free
• Under 5's - £4.50
• 5 years + - £5.50
• Adults - £0.50

Our Review Of Play World Eston

First Impressions

Walking through the doors for the first time, I remember being genuinely surprised by just how big the place was. Photos online never quite did it justice. The ceilings were high, there was plenty of natural light and, despite being a soft play centre, it didn't feel cramped or claustrophobic. If you've ever been somewhere that's so noisy and packed you start counting down the minutes until it's time to leave, you'll know exactly what I mean. Play World somehow managed to avoid that feeling. It felt busy without feeling overwhelming.

Our daughter was just a few months short of turning three when we visited, and she happily moved between the toddler area and the larger play frame throughout our session. There was enough challenge to keep her interested without us feeling she was completely out of her depth. Although... I'll admit I was just as tempted to climb around the bigger play frame myself. Surely I'm not the only parent who's looked at soft play and thought, "I'd absolutely have loved this as a kid."

Was It Clean?

One thing that really stood out was how well maintained everything was. We visited post-covid when cleanliness was understandably a huge priority, but even so, I remember commenting on how spotless everything looked. Considering hundreds of children were climbing, crawling and sliding around every day, it was impressive. Let's face it, the words children and spotless don't usually belong in the same sentence. The seating areas were tidy, the equipment looked well cared for and the whole place felt looked after. As a parent, that's something you notice straight away.

The Cafe

Every good soft play needs somewhere parents can retreat with a hot drink, and Play World had its own café overlooking the play area. It wasn't somewhere you'd visit purely for the food, but I don't think that's really the point. The menu covered all the basics you'd expect. There were breakfasts, sandwiches, jacket potatoes, children's meals, drinks and plenty of cakes and sweet treats for anyone who'd earned one after chasing little legs around all morning. The prices were reasonable too, which is always appreciated when you've already paid for admission. Sometimes all you really need is a decent coffee and ten peaceful minutes watching your children wear themselves out.

Why Do People Still Search For Play World Eston?

Even though Play World has now closed, thousands of local people still remember it fondly. Whether they're looking for old reviews, wondering if it's reopened or simply trying to remember what it was called, the searches continue. If that's you, hopefully this article has answered the biggest question.

Sadly, Play World isn't reopening, but there are still plenty of fantastic soft play centres across Teesside that offer a brilliant day out.

The Best Alternatives To Play World Eston

Although it's disappointing that Play World is no longer here, we're definitely not short of places to let the kids burn off some energy. These are a few I'd recommend looking at instead.

The Nook, Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Perfect for younger children who love role play. Rather than climbing frames, The Nook is filled with beautifully designed imaginitive play set ups where children can pretend to be shopkeepers, vets, firefighters and more. It's especially lovely for toddlers and preschoolers.

Fun Shack, Stockton

If your children love enormous climbing frames, giant slides and endless soft play equipment, Fun Shack is probably one of the closest experiences to Play World. It's ideal for older children with lots of energy.

Planet Kidz, Redcar

Planet Kidz is another great choice if you're looking for an alternative to Play World Eston. With separate play areas for different ages, plenty of climbing, sliding and exploring to keep little ones busy, it's a fantastic option for burning off some energy on a rainy day. Not to mention Gabrielle's ice-cream shop underneath! You can make it a full day out.

Air Trail Adventure Park

If you're looking for something a little different, Air Trail combines indoor and outdoor adventure activities with climbing courses and plenty of opportunities to challenge confident children. It's great if your family enjoys something more active than traditional soft play.

Play Factory, Thornaby

Another popular choice with local families. There's a good mix of equipment for different age groups, making it ideal if you're visiting with siblings of different ages.

More Family Days Out Around Teesside

One thing I love about living in this part of the world is how many family attractions we have within a short drive. Whether you're looking for indoor activities on rainy days or somewhere outdoors when the sun decides to make an appearance, there's always somewhere new to explore.

If you've found this post while planning a family day out, have a look at some of my other Teesside adventures too. I've shared lots of honest reviews over the years, all based on our own visits, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Play World Eston still open?

No. Unfortunately Play World at Eston Leisure Centre has permanently closed.

2. Where was Play World located?

It was situated behind Eston Leisure Centre on Normanby Road in South Bank, near Middlesbrough.

3. Why did Play World close?

At the time of updating this article, the facility has closed permanently. If any further official information becomes available, I'll update this post.

4. What is the best alternative to Play World Eston?

That depends on your children's ages. If they love traditional soft play, Fun Shack is a great choice. For younger children who enjoy imaginative play, The Nook is fantastic.