Hoppity Poppits Outdoor Nature Play Review | A Hidden Gem Near Tewkesbury

As both a mum and a family photographer, I spend a lot of time looking for places where children can simply be children.

Recently, my toddler and I spent the morning at Hoppity Poppits Outdoor Nature Play near Tewkesbury and I quickly understood why so many local families love it. If you're looking for somewhere that feels a little bit magical, Hoppity might just be one of Gloucestershire's best-kept secrets.

Set across a spacious outdoor site filled with woodland play, imaginative activities and open-ended exploration, it feels very different from a traditional indoor play centre. Instead of rushing from one activity to the next, children are encouraged to slow down, explore and follow their own interests.

I also loved the little touches that make the experience enjoyable for parents too. Tea and coffee are included, and there were delicious brownies and cakes available for just £1 each. It's the sort of place where you can genuinely relax while the children play, rather than constantly feeling like you're on the clock.

The Space

One of the first things I noticed was just how much space there is.

Even with plenty of families visiting, the site never felt crowded. Children could run, explore and discover different areas without constantly being on top of one another.

For parents, it creates the kind of atmosphere that's becoming increasingly rare. Children are free to get completely lost in play, while you can slow down, enjoy a hot drink and simply watch their imaginations take over.

The Variety

What impressed me most was the sheer variety of activities available.

One moment my toddler was transporting trains through a wooden crane yard. The next he was investigating sensory trays, exploring woodland dens, discovering hidden fairy villages and examining dinosaurs tucked amongst the trees.

There are construction areas, ride-on vehicles, sensory stations, busy boards, small world play, water activities and imaginative setups scattered throughout the site.

The activities feel thoughtfully designed while still allowing children to direct their own play.

The Woods

The woodland area was probably my favourite part. It genuinely feels magical.

Small fairy doors appear amongst tree roots. Hidden pathways lead to tiny discoveries. Dinosaurs and woodland creatures seem to emerge from unexpected places.

Watching my toddler disappear into the trees to investigate something he'd spotted felt like stepping into the sort of childhood adventure many of us remember from our own childhoods.

It's the kind of environment that encourages imagination without needing flashing lights or screens.

Why We Loved It

What stayed with me most wasn't any single activity. It was the atmosphere.

Watching my toddler happily move between all of his favourite things; diggers, cars, ribbons, water play and endless opportunities to explore, while I sat with a hot drink in hand felt pretty close to the perfect morning.

And my favourite part as an adult? The woodland setting. There is something genuinely magical about it. Dappled sunlight through the trees, winding paths and hidden corners make it feel as though you've stumbled across a secret world designed entirely for children.

The ultimate seal of approval came at the end of the session when it was time to leave. My toddler wasn't ready to go. In fact, he was already asking to stay longer and find out what else was around the next corner.

As a parent, that's usually the best review a place can get.

Outdoor Activities for Toddlers Near Tewkesbury

If you're looking for outdoor activities for toddlers near Tewkesbury, Hoppity Poppits is well worth a visit.

Whether your child loves construction vehicles, sensory play, woodland adventures, imaginative role play or simply having space to roam, there's something here for every kind of explorer.

We'll certainly be back.

I will be hosting Minis at Hoppity in July and August. Please follow the link for more info.

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Looking for Family Photography in Worcestershire?

I specialise in natural maternity, newborn and family photography across Worcestershire and the surrounding areas.

If you're looking to capture this chapter of family life, whether you're expecting your first baby or preparing to welcome another little one into the family, I'd love to hear from you.

Inside a Holding Mumma Event: Supporting Mothers Across the Cotswolds

One of the things I wish more people talked about when becoming a parent is how important community is.

As wonderful as motherhood can be, it can also feel isolating at times. Having other parents around who understand what you're going through can make a huge difference.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a Holding Mumma event in Stroud as the event photographer, capturing the connections, conversations and moments shared throughout the morning.

What is Holding Mumma?

Holding Mumma is a community created to support mothers through pregnancy, postpartum and beyond.

With events held across the Cotswolds and surrounding areas, Holding Mumma brings together women at all stages of motherhood, creating a welcoming space where mums can connect, share experiences and build friendships.

Whether you're expecting your first baby, adjusting to life with a newborn or navigating the challenges of raising young children, these events offer an opportunity to meet other local mums who truly understand the realities of parenthood.

My Experience at the Stroud Event

One of the things that stood out to me was how thoughtfully the event had been put together.

Alongside the opportunity for mums to connect with one another, there were local businesses and professionals there to support families throughout the morning. Tractor Tots Gloucestershire provided a fantastic play setup for the little ones, giving toddlers plenty to explore while mums enjoyed some time to chat and relax.

Grace from Cotswold Lactation Consultant was also on hand throughout the event, offering support and reassurance around breastfeeding, bottle feeding, combination feeding and weaning. It was lovely to see mums able to ask questions in such an informal and welcoming environment.

Mums were even treated to relaxing hand massages during the morning, creating a rare opportunity to slow down and enjoy a moment of self-care. As any parent knows, finding time for yourself can be difficult, so it was lovely to see those small moments of relaxation woven into the event.

By the end of the morning, many of the women who had arrived not knowing anyone were chatting like old friends. There were babies being cuddled, toddlers playing together, conversations flowing over hot drinks and a genuine sense of support throughout the room.

What struck me most was how much courage it can take to walk into a room full of strangers as a new mum. Yet within a couple of hours, the atmosphere had completely transformed. Watching those connections form was probably my favourite part of the day.

Supporting Families Across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds

Although I'm based in Worcestershire, I regularly meet families from across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds through family photography sessions and local events.

One of the things I love most about my job is getting to meet families at all different stages of their journey, from pregnancy and newborn days through to the wonderful chaos of life with toddlers and older children.

Events like Holding Mumma are a reminder of just how important those communities can be.

Looking for Family Photography in Worcestershire?

I specialise in natural maternity, newborn and family photography across Worcestershire and the surrounding areas.

If you're looking to capture this chapter of family life, whether you're expecting your first baby or preparing to welcome another little one into the family, I'd love to hear from you.

And if you're looking for a supportive community of local mums, Holding Mumma is well worth exploring.