White Platts Recreation Ground

Description

White Platts Recreation Ground is a central, extensive park in the heart of Ambleside, widely considered one of the best things to do with kids in Ambleside. It offers a variety of leisure activities that make it a perfect educational day out for families, balancing sporty fun with the scenic beauty of the Lake District. Managed by the Lakes Parish Council, it serves as a vibrant community space that caters to everyone from toddlers to seniors.

Access to the general grounds is free, though specific activities like mini golf and tennis require payment. The park is known for providing high-value entertainment for a modest budget. Visitors can hire all necessary equipment from the on-site ticket office, where they can also pick up snacks and ice cream.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines fresh air with active play, White Platts is a top choice. It is particularly famous for having some of the best mini golf in the Lakes, offering a rare mix of three different golf courses in one location. Whether you have an hour or a full afternoon, the diverse facilities ensure a memorable experience for the whole family.

Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

What makes White Platts Recreation Ground unique?

The recreation ground is unique because it offers an unusually high concentration of outdoor activities in a central town location. It features three distinct types of golf—mini golf, crazy golf, and a putting green—which is a rare combination for a public park. The setting provides an educational day out where children can learn sportsmanship and coordination while surrounded by stunning fells.

Top 5 Highlights for Families

  • 9-Hole Mini Golf Course: Features a challenging 90-metre hole, widely cited as the best of its kind in the Lake District.
  • Crazy Golf: A fun-filled course perfect for younger children and families looking for a less serious game.
  • Tennis Courts: Three full-size courts are available for budding sports stars to practice their skills.
  • Infant Play Area: A dedicated space for the youngest visitors featuring a slide and climbing frame, well-placed near seating for parents.
  • Crown Green Bowling: A large, smart green that offers a slower-paced activity for those looking for a gentle afternoon.

Beyond the Main Attraction: Near the park, families can visit Rothay Park, which features a superb jungle-themed playground and open space for football. The RockShop is another popular nearby indoor experience where kids can dig for gems. For a different adventure, Ambleside Climbing Wall offers taster sessions for children aged 4 and up.

Facilities

  • Toilets & Changing: Toilet facilities are available on-site, with baby changing located nearby in the town centre.
  • Food & Drink: The ticket office sells snacks, coffee, and ice cream; plenty of picnic benches are available for those bringing their own food.
  • Equipment Hire: All necessary gear for golf, tennis, and bowling can be hired directly from the ticket office.
  • Accessibility: The park is generally flat and accessible, with plenty of seating throughout for those needing to rest.

What to see

What Visitors Love

  • Central Location: Parents appreciate being able to stop for a game of golf without having to drive out of town.
  • Variety for All Ages: Families love that they can entertain a toddler on the slide while older kids play mini golf.
  • Cleanliness and Views: The park is frequently praised for being well-kept and offering beautiful mountain views while you play.

What Visitors Don't Like

  • Limited Wet Weather Options: As an entirely outdoor venue, there are few places to shelter if the Lake District weather takes a turn.
  • Equipment Wait Times: During school holiday peaks, there can occasionally be a wait for golf clubs or tennis racquets.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is White Platts worth it for toddlers?: Yes, it is very toddler-friendly due to the dedicated infant play area and the gentle putting greens. The paths are flat, making it easy to navigate with a buggy.
  • How long does a visit take?: Most families spend between one and three hours. This allows enough time for a round of mini golf, a visit to the play area, and an ice cream break.
  • Where is the best place to park?: The Rydal Road Car Park is the best option for longer visits as it is the second largest in town and very close to the park. For a quick visit, try the King Street Car Park.

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

  • April to May: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • June to August: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
  • September: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM

Address: Compston Road, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9DJ, England

Post Code: LA22 9DJ

Council: Westmorland and Furn

County: Cumbria

  • By Car: Located on Compston Road (A591). Use postcode LA22 9DJ.
  • Parking: The nearest public car parks are King Street (short stay) and Rydal Road (long stay).
  • By Bus: Local services to Ambleside stop frequently within a 5-minute walk of the park.

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