The Westmorland Family Group has been operating the UK’s only family run motorway service centres for decades and, as part of a redevelopment at both their southern and northern Gloucester service stations on the M5, Flights of Fantasy were asked to create indoor play areas for them.
The Brief: To Create Two Natural, Indoor Play Areas, Maximising Available Space
We had two indoor spaces, separated by six lanes of the M5, in which to create two natural indoor play areas. Both spaces were relatively small, but we used our years of experience to offer as much play potential as possible, whilst creating natural looking play areas that incorporated untreated timbers. Although the two indoor play areas were not accessible from the same site, we decided to make two different play areas, rather than simply making clones, meaning that children get a different play experience depending upon which direction they are travelling.
Small Space, Big Ideas
By positioning play equipment carefully in the space, and by making use of split levels to create a larger play area, we were able to create a bigger play area than the location allowed. The play area can safely fit 25 children and, despite making use of every inch of space available, still feels open.
Locally Themed
Taking inspiration from the Gloucester countryside, we themed many of the activities on the local landscape and its wildlife. The toddler play area includes activities themed on local flora and fauna.
A Maze And An Outdoor Playground
In addition to building two indoor play areas, one at each site, we also built two outdoor play structures. One is a maze and the other features a ‘bird nest’ and climbing apparatus. You can read more about the Westmorland Gloucester Services Outdoor Playground and Maze here.
Visitor Feedback
The following comments are publicly posted TripAdvisor reviews:
- “What a treat – fantastic quality wooden play area with a mini castle, slide, tunnels to hide in” Amy A
- “The indoor play area for the children was fantastic and I’m sure my two would have spent the whole day, if allowed.” norman r
- “The play area is great for any little ones” Charlotte T
- “The play area was very impressive. Our grandson had a nice little play after sitting in the car for a few hours” sandra H
- “We have 2 small children with us who loved the play areas” sknightjones
- “amazing playing corner for kids” Pavel D
- “excellent children’s play area” Andrew081
- “Great children’s play area” debbie2618
- “beautiful wooden children’s play area” Flutterby1981
Designing Your Indoor Play Area
These indoor play areas, even though shielded from the elements, have been made with the same durability considerations as our outdoor counterparts. Coupled with a design that makes good use of the small space available, we’re proud to have created a small space play area that meets the Westmorland Group’s high standards of quality. Use these themed, indoor play areas as inspiration for your own project, but don’t be afraid to push the boundaries in whatever way you want. Add extra features, incorporate interesting themes, and do whatever else you can think of to challenge us to make you the best indoor play area possible. Please get in touch with us to discuss your idea and we will walk you through the design process. Please also take a look at our other indoor play areas and outdoor play areas for further inspiration.
For pricing information, please refer to our pricing page or get in contact with us to make an enquiry and discuss a potential project.
You can also take a look at Gloucester Services Website 
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