Saltwell Park is a fantastic local resource, with 55 acres of open space and woodland, lake, dene, three playground areas, pet’s corner, mini hedge maze, cafe and Thomas the Tank Engine road train running at peak times. I spent so much time there with my first little boy (including showing off how embarrassingly unfit I am at Go Gateshead Active Mums exercise class!). It’s been a while since our last visit – since little brother became mobile it’s harder keeping track of two tiny tearaways when out & about! We’re just about ready to venture out again, and when I heard the playground was getting a makeover I couldn’t wait to see the results!
The play areas re-opened on 13 February 2020 after being closed for refurbishments for almost 3 months. If it’s been too cold to pay a visit yet, here’s a quick summary and a sneak peak at a few photos of the new look.
Junior Playground: the overall layout is the same with a main climbing frame and a toddler frame, both are brand new and are at a lower level than previously and very accessible to young children. There’s a new seesaw, and as well as regular swings there are two new ‘seesaw style’ double swings (which were a big hit during our visit!). The sandpit remains unchanged.
Senior playgrounds: the large climbing frame has been relocated to the field by the lake, and the rocket climbing frame with tunnel slide has been removed.
Pet’s corner: there is a new garden area with pond, and the bunnies and birds even have a fun new home!
Of course, you can still have fun spotting the graceful swans and cheeky squirrels (especially in the Rose Garden), and riding the Thomas train!
