Royal Park Nature Playground, Gatehouse Street, Parkville
A fantastic new playground with natural play elements including an area of high rope traverses, large climbing structure made from logs and ropes, water play area and landscaped areas.
In the centre of an amphitheatre with rock step sides is a wonderful ropes course with rope traverses, elevated horizontal logs and ladder and rope net. The elements are at different heights but some of the course is high enough to give Mum a few nervous twitches. On the sides of this amphitheatre are three metal slides - one slide is steep, fast and twisty, another slide is shorter but very steep and the third slide is wide with a gentler pace. Located above this area are six swings (some with safety chains) and overlooking the whole playground is a steep grassy hill which provides endless fun rolling down the side of the hill.
There is a lovely water play area with hand pumps, a couple of water sprays and channels to control the flow of water down to the sandpit below.
At the lower part of the playground is a huge log and rope climbing structure, another (dry) sandpit since it is separate from the water play area, birds nest swing and metal skeleton of a dinosaur. Other elements include a metal and tree branch hut, lots of natural play elements such as huge rocks and logs and a large area landscaped with native and indigenous plants and bushes with paths winding through them.
The playground is most suited to older kids (at least five years old).
There are two areas with picnic tables, water taps and BBQs plus unshaded seats scattered about. There are no shelters or shade and toilets have now been added.
Parking can be a bit problematic during the week but is free and more available on Saturday afternoons and Sundays. The surrounding areas have one or two hour parking during the week.
The playground is located immediately to the east of the Royal Children's Hospital and provides a wonderful resource for patients and visitors to the hospital.
Photos:
Location
Cnr Gatehouse Street and Story Street, Parkville 3052 Map
Web Links
→ 100 Free Water Play Spaces in Melbourne and Regional Victoria
