Lollipop's Playland and Cafe Preston

Lollipop's Playland and Cafe in Preston is a vibrant indoor play centre designed to let kids burn off some serious energy in a fun, contained environment. It’s essentially a large warehouse space filled with a multi-level climbing structure that features slides, tunnels, a ball pit, and various obstacles. For the younger crowd, there's a dedicated, fenced-off toddler area. A major draw for parents is the on-site café, which allows you to relax with a coffee while the little ones play, all within a secure setting that uses a unique wristband system to ensure children can only leave with the adult they arrived with.

Age Appropriateness

This place really hits the sweet spot for kids aged about 2 to 8. The main play structure is fantastic for primary school-aged children who can confidently climb, slide, and navigate the maze-like levels on their own. For the little ones, there's a dedicated and fully enclosed toddler area. This section is designed for children under three and features smaller, softer equipment, including a mini slide and interactive panels, keeping them safely away from the chaos of the bigger kids. While older kids (say, 9 or 10) might still have some fun, they could find the main attractions a bit less challenging and might get bored more quickly than the younger ones.

The Highlights (Pros)

The biggest pro is the sheer variety of play equipment packed into the main structure, which keeps the kids engaged for hours. A major highlight for many is the giant multi-lane slide that lets kids (and adventurous parents!) race to the bottom. The dedicated toddler area is a huge plus, offering a safe and stimulating space for the smallest visitors without the fear of them being overwhelmed by older children. The security system is another standout feature; the matching wristbands for parents and children provide genuine peace of mind, knowing your child can't wander out on their own. The café is also a significant advantage, serving decent coffee and a good range of snacks and light meals, making it easy to spend a whole morning or afternoon there.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

Like most popular play centres, it can get incredibly busy, especially on weekends and during school holidays. This leads to high noise levels and can feel a bit chaotic and overwhelming, both for kids and adults. When it's packed, finding a table near the play area can be a real challenge. While the play equipment is generally well-maintained, the sheer volume of people means that cleanliness in the eating areas and restrooms can sometimes slip during peak periods. The café, while convenient, can be on the pricey side, and bringing your own food and drink is not permitted.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Go early or on a weekday: To avoid the biggest crowds and have a more relaxed experience, try to visit on a weekday morning right when they open.
• Parking can be tricky: The on-site car park at 23 Bell Street is not huge and fills up quickly. Be prepared to look for street parking in the surrounding area, which can be limited.
• Wear socks: It’s a strict rule that everyone (kids and adults) entering the play areas must wear socks for hygiene reasons. Remember to pack them for everyone, or you’ll have to purchase them there.
• Dress kids in bright colours: The play structure is a maze of tunnels and levels. Dressing your child in a brightly coloured top makes them much easier to spot from the café area.
• Supervise actively: While the space is secure, it's still large and busy. It’s wise to keep a close eye on your children, especially if they are on the younger side and venturing into the main play structure.