Big Backyard product reviews

One of my husband's workmates had been telling him about her coffee group's regular visits to Big Backyard. She recommended that we take our two girls (3 and 4.5). It is in Cambridge which is only a short drive for us from Hamilton and since one of our indoor playgrounds had recently closed we thought we would give it a try.

It is only a small place with one staff member while we were there. She was very friendly and helpful. My youngest had a wee accident and she cleaned it up quickly and without fuss. After she came over to my daughter and said to her "Don't worry you weren't the first and you certainly won't be the last." I really appreciate how she dealt with it hygienically and so we didn't feel embarrassed.

In the cafe area there is a playhouse and a dress up box. This is where my eldest spent the majority of her time. She was in her element. It was great that the parents could sit and enjoy a drink or read one of the magazines on the table while the children played. You could see into the other room from there too.

The cafe is very basic with a coffee machine, drinks fridge and a few packaged cookies. There was no pressure to buy anything and most of the adults didn't. I also saw a few kids walk in with water bottles and that wasn't frowned upon like some places do.

The main playroom had three bouncy castles. There was one that was designed for the littlies which my girls weren't too interested in. There was one that had a slide and another that had things to climb on. Parents often joined the kids on them and had as much fun as them.

This room also had a freestanding rock wall, climbing frame which was very popular with all the kids. There were some baby toys, toddler ride ons, and a few books. There were also couches in there for the parents to relax on.

The whole atmosphere was very relaxed and an enjoyable way for our active kids to stretch their legs on a wet day. Both my husband and I are keen to take the girls back.