Smithills Open Farm

Case Study: Smithills Open Farm

Client: Smithills Open Farm

Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester

Smithills Open Farm provides a wonderful family outing on a real working farm. In addition to typical farm animals, you’ll see more exotic animals like llamas, emus, meerkats, wallabies, raccoons and even snakes.

The existing (Playdale) playground, was so popular that they didn’t want to demolish it; instead, they wanted to relocate it. The central junior tower unit (shown in green and red below) was installed over 15 years ago and was part of our previous ‘Jukebox’ range. The unit, which was still in excellent condition, was relocated to another area of the farm to continue providing hours of entertainment—proof of our equipment’s longevity and durability.

The playground’s integration into the surrounding environment was of the utmost importance. Our equipment was chosen because it met all the customers’ requirements– exciting and stimulating with incredible play value for all ages – while also being sympathetic to the 70 acres of rolling countryside within the grounds of Smithills Hall.

All the new playground equipment complements the park’s natural surroundings and has created a true focal point that will appeal to many visiting families. The playground now has a customised Mountain Tower Plus, a Giddy Green Plus from our Little Hamlets Plus range, a Play Tractor, and Trailer, Wiggles from our toddler Caterpillar range, a PlayClean Hand Sanitiser Station, and not one, but seven slides. A fantastic range of equipment for children from 9 months to 14 years!

The play area has been well received by visitors, many of whom are regular or return visitors to the farm. “The new park is fantastic; the kids are having a great time. There is something for all ages, including younger and older children, with a variety of slides and activities to keep them entertained. Smithills has always been a wonderful place for us to visit, and the addition of the new play area is fantastic.”

Whatever your industry, investing in a play area can significantly improve and enrich your customer experience, as well as increase loyalty and repeat business. If you believe your leisure business could benefit from a new or improved play area, browse our latest catalogue for ideas and request a copy today.