Young adventurers in East Sussex now have a new attraction to explore, as Knockhatch Adventure Park in Hailsham has officially unveiled the Magical Wood, an immersive play area designed specifically for children under 12. The new attraction promises a unique sensory experience aimed at engaging young minds while encouraging physical activity.
The Magical Wood was officially opened by influencer Lena Nolan, who runs the popular Instagram account @themummydiaryuk. With a focus on encouraging parents to take their children on outings across the South East, Lena, a mother of two deaf boys, highlighted the importance of accessible play spaces. Her eldest son, Morgan, has a cochlear implant, a device that assists those who are profoundly deaf or severely hard of hearing.
Lena expressed her excitement about the new play area, stating, “We have visited so many play areas with the children, which usually are overwhelming for them. The Magical Wood really is different. Morgan has shown real delight with the lights and has been exploring all the walkways and trying to catch the fairies.”
The play area was developed in collaboration with UK-based companies Interactive 365 and Flights of Fantasy. It features gentle indoor lighting and calming music to create a soothing atmosphere, while intricately crafted trees, pathways, and hidden nooks form a whimsical landscape. A standout feature is a giant interactive video wall that animates the woodland environment. With a simple touch, playful fairies flit among the trees, owls hoot their greetings, and toads croak their songs. The interactive scene changes throughout the day, immersing children in the dynamic moods of the forest.
Brett Giles, Park Manager at Knockhatch, expressed enthusiasm for the new installation: “We’re thrilled to unveil the Magical Wood. It’s a unique space where families can explore, learn, and create lasting memories. Whether they’re scaling the heights of a hollowed tree, embarking on a pretend adventure, or simply enjoying the music, our visitors are telling us that the Magical Wood offers a great play experience.”
The park aims to provide a safe and engaging environment that stimulates creativity and encourages children to engage with nature. The Magical Wood aligns with Knockhatch’s commitment to providing innovative play spaces that cater to all abilities.
As families begin to explore the new area, feedback has already been overwhelmingly positive. Parents are particularly pleased with the thoughtful design, which caters to children with various needs, making it an inclusive space for all.
With the opening of the Magical Wood, Knockhatch Adventure Park continues to solidify its reputation as a leading destination for family-friendly activities in the region. As more families visit the park, the hope is that the new play area will become a beloved spot for creating cherished childhood memories.
