Hoppity Poppits Outdoor Nature Play Review | A Hidden Gem Near Tewkesbury
Looking for a magical outdoor play experience near Tewkesbury? Join us for a morning at Hoppity Poppits Outdoor Nature Play, where woodland adventures, imaginative play and endless opportunities for exploration kept my toddler happily entertained for hours.
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.
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.
