Hays Paddock Playground, Longstaff Street, Kew East
Closed for an upgrade until mid 2024.
This is the original all-abilities playground in Melbourne. Great for young, old, disabled and able-bodied kids. A large enclosed area full of discovery. This has been feted as one of the best playgrounds in Melbourne for a number of years. It is a beautifully crafted Play Space rather than an Adventure Playground. It is adventure with a little a - certainly if you equate Adventure with adrenaline. Nevertheless it packs a lot of punch - many slides and swings including an expression swing where parents and child sit opposite each other, large butterflies flying above, large see-saw, ring of toadstools to jump across, springers, large rope climbing frame, large hammocks to swing back and forth, big sandpit and other additions.
One good aspect is that most landing zones have a soft springy base - landing on this was like being Neil Armstrong bouncing on the moon in zero gravity.
There is partial shade over the main climbing area from a butterfly roof structure and mature trees.
The playground area is fenced with safety gates. Outside is a wetlands area with a bird hide overlooking this area inside the playground. There is a also a learner's bike circuit. There are toilets outside the playground area. There are picnic tables and BBQs.
The playground can get very busy at times which spoils your ability to really enjoy it properly (and makes you irritated trying to find a car parking spot).
Access for Dogs:
Hays Paddock is a dog off leash area.
Photos:
Location
Longstaff Street, Kew East 3102 Map
