Located in Christchurch just right next to the Hurn Airport the location of Discovery Village might be very familiar if you have been a longtime resident of BCP. Another part of the Adventure Wonderland grounds has been taken over and given a brand new lease of life. You might not find any more rides or Alice inspired musical shows in the old theatre but prepare yourself for something very unique, amazing and might I say magical which will let every child (and even adult) eyes shine brighter!
The front foyer has been turned into 2 large buggy parks with plenty of space to park your little ones ride. Once inside you are welcomed by a member of staff who will either check you in if you have booked in advance online or show you the way to the cafe till where you can pay for your session.
Discovery Village offers a one of a kind indoor play experience. Watch your children thrive as they engage in imaginative play and social interaction in the captivating role play village, complete with make believe shops and services. The talented performers turn each play session into an adventure, acting out the enchanted story of the day and encouraging everyone to take part through song, dance, movement and play. Children become a part of the excitement by joining the villagers, all whilst making new friends.
Discovery Village was created for three reasons. Firstly as an exciting safe space where children of all abilities can learn through play. Secondly to give children an exciting insight into the world of performing arts. Finally as a community hub where children and their grown-ups can spend quality time together, making lasting memories.
With over 20 years experience working in the theatre and events industry they created the theatrical role play village to excite their visitors and give them the opportunity to explore and grow at a pace that is right for them. This twinned with creative story-telling, singing and dancing creates a magical experience that boosts confidence, encourages development and makes children happy.
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I recently took Mini Mumbler (10) and her friend (7) to Discovery Village and they had such a great time. They loved dressing up and putting on a show in the Theatre, playing doctors at the vets and checking over all the poorly animals as well as go shopping in the farm shop! They loved the songs and the task of finding all the lost kittens for Jett the Vet and us Mum’s enjoyed a nice catch up with some delicious milky and creamy hot chocolate and a fresh out of the oven warm pastry! This is such a great place for little ones imagination to blossom and enjoy a fantastic time with their friends!
Term time play sessions
Monday-Thursday & Saturday Sunday 09:30-11:30 | 12:00-14:00
Friday after school session 16:00-18:00
Saturday & Sunday 14:30-16:30
School Holiday play sessions
Daily additional 14:30-16:30 session
There is a small section with a soft mat and plenty of sensory wooden toys to play with for babies/little ones right outside the Poorly Paws Vets centre. And 3 out of the 4 toilets have a baby changing tray.
The Village Cafe is a cozy spot where you can enjoy food & drinks (from tasty treats to breakfast, lunches and light bites as well as hot & cold drinks and kids meal deals – We can highly recommend the delicious hot chocolate it gets the Mumbler stamp off approval) while watching over your children as they play in the role play village. You can relax knowing your little one is safe and having fun. Plus there is free WiFi and even a bottle heating station.
There is plenty of free parking right outside but dont’ forget to add your Car registration number on the entrance screen.
Weekday & Term Time | Weekend & School Holiday
Babies in arms (non-crawlers) Free
Crawling Children £7.25 | £9.75
Walking Children £9.25 | £12.45
Adults (up to two) £2.50 | £2.50
Additional Adults (maximum of two) £5.45 | £5.45
Discovery Village does accept walk in’s but to avoid disappointment it’s recommenced to book your play session online in advance. Play session times are subject to change depending on private bookings.
Head to Discovery Village booking page to book a 2 hour session – click here. Don’t forget to bring socks for your little one and yourself!
Check out some of the review Discovery Village has received already from visitors:
Our 5 and 2 year old had the best time at Discovery Village today.
This is not your average softplay/role play centre.
The attention to detail in every single aspect of the centre is outstanding.
The cafe serves tasty food and coffee, and my husband and I felt completely safe leaving our little ones whilst we sat and ate as the activity area is in clear view. I say this; however, we wanted to personally participate more as the areas are so much fun.
I am particularly safety-conscious and was reassured by the security.
A new, firm favourite of all of ours! – Maria L.Cannot rate this place highly enough. The attention to detail is incredible, so immersive and engaging, as well as educational! The smiles and dancing that continued back to the car means a huge thumbs up from all of us. Can’t wait to come back again! – Rosie V.
We visited today for the 12-2 session. The place is very clean and well presented. My son was initially very cautious of the actress and became very shy. The actress was amazing with him & by the end he was following her around everywhere! Very good for imaginative play! Will definitely be visiting again. – Molly G.
There are two celebration packages you can choose from:
Gold birthday party package for up to 15 children as part of our role play session.
Platinum Exclusive use party package for 30+ children.
Each of our parties is two hours long and include access to our role play village, immersive play guided by our talented performers a buffet with unlimited squash for children and a cup cake tower.
To book or enquire about a party date & pricing please click here.
Location
Discovery Village at Adventure Wonderland
Merritown Lane
Christchurch
BH23 6BA
Discovery Village will be running some fun events during the school holidays so check out their socials on Facebook & Instagram to keep up to date.
Thanks to the lovely folks at Discovery Village we are running a competition for you to be in for a chance win a visit to check out the Role Place Centre for yourself – Enter now!
T&C’s:
Competition closes at 5pm on Tuesday 1st October 2024.
The winner will be selected at random from all entries received.
If the winner is not contactable or doesn’t respond to us by Sunday 6th October then we reserve the right to choose a new winner.
The prize is a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children to visit Discovery Village.
There is no cash alternative.
