Cambridge, with its abundance of greenspaces and parks, is spoilt for choice when it comes to finding somewhere for children to play for hours. Most playgrounds are well equipped and in residential neighbourhoods. Many of them have something for kids of all ages, including climbing frames and flying foxes. Some have cycle paths for the younger children to practice their biking skills.
All the playgrounds have space for families to gather for picnics and celebrations, check out the options below…
St Kilda Playground - Kaniera Terrace, St Kilda
Adjacent to the St Kilda St Cafe & Bistro, you can sip on your wine whilst watching the kids as they play. St Kilda’s playground is comprised of classic swings, slides and play gyms along with an awesome full size basketball court and paved circuit for the little ones to practice their cycling and scooting skills.
You can also take a stroll around the St Kilda wetland, or cycle in from town on the dedicated cycle path and make an afternoon of it!
Lake Te Koo Utu playground, Thornton Road
This popular spot is above Lake Te Koo Utu and very central to town. The Senior and Junior playground were upgraded in 2022 and feature multiple play modules including a large lagoon play unit, a basket swing, jungle ropes, a double mega swing and a spinner alongside an in-ground trampoline and timber trail that connects the junior and senior spaces. To complement the new area, a new drinking fountain and seating has been installed, lawn and garden areas reinstated and pathways upgraded. There is also an adjacent exercise area with fitness equipment for adults and access to the lake nearby via the steps beside the Flowform eco structure.
Thompson street playground, Thompson Street, Leamington
This new park has sunshades, picnic tables, a sealed bike loop, swings, climbing frames, huts and a Flying Fox. It is also adjacent to the town belt walking track – so you can walk or cycle there.
A Pop-up Edible Garden is located near the garden (one of a number around the town)
Velodrome Children’s Playground & Bike Track, 15 Hanlin Road, St Peters
The Grassroots Trust Velodrome is a world-class facility with a purpose built 250m wooden cycling velodrome, and is host to a range of other high performance sport and community facilities. Just outside you will find a children’s playground, sealed pump track, Gallagher bike skills park, and connection to the Te Awa River Ride! With so much activity you can rest and recharge at “The Bikery” cafe and take a walk around teh top of the velodrome and you might just see some Olympians training!
Leamington Domain, Wordsworth Street, Leamington
The domain is a large space with lots of options! There is a good playground – slides, swings, obstacle course, monkey bars. Miniature trains also run on Sundays, weather permitting, including a tunnel and steam, as well as diesel, engines. Great for train enthusiasts big and small! There are toilets onsite near the train and playground. Supervision required for younger kids as it is beside a busy road. The Domain also provides lovely open spaces for families, and it has facilities for types of games, including netball, tennis, croquet, lawn bowls and roller skating. It’s a great place to fly a kite or take a family picnic.
Waipuke Park, 953 Maungatautari Road
Pack your picnic hamper, bring your friends and family and enjoy some time at this recreation area next to the glistening Lake Karāpiro. Situated not far beyond the Mighty River Domain (when travelling from Cambridge). The park is located 1.3km off the road. Gates are locked from 9pm to 7am during summer (daylight savings period), and from 7pm to 7am in winter. There are toilets and dogs are allowed on lead. The playground features climbing equipment and swings, plus lots of open space for games, and access to the water for swimming and kayaking.
Mighty River Domain, Maungatautari Road
Mighty River Domain is on the shores of Lake Karapiro and has outstanding outdoor recreation facilities that are not only popular with schools, but also with businesses for team building and confidence activities. The play ground over looks the Lake and is beside the beach volleyball ground, ropes area, and the very popular Podium Café. Come and enjoy a coffee, something to eat, relax and enjoy the views.
