A huge thank you to Sam Buckley, who reviewed the brand new AirSpace trampoline park in Stevenage for Mrs Mummypenny whilst we were on holiday. As you will see and read, she done a fantastic job and had a great time at the launch day. Over to Sam.
Indoor trampoline parks are popping up everywhere, and I really wanted to know what all the fuss was about. I was expecting a good fun hour for the 8 and 5-year-old, and I could leisurely have a cup of tea (and possibly cake) and watch them have fun.
I was expecting a good fun hour for the 8 and 5-year-old, and I could leisurely have a cup of tea (and possibly cake) and watch them have fun.
On Arrival
As you walk into reception, you have to fill in a couple of forms. The friendly staff make sure you have read the safety notices, as well as signing to confirm you’ve read them for yourself and any children you have with you – they also ask you for your age, yep, even mum’s!
More about safety
We all get a pair of bright Orange socks, and taken through to the safety video (yes, I know I’m going to sit down and have a cup of tea, but I’ve picked up the socks just in case I change my mind). It’s only a couple of minutes long, and it’s a repeat of what I’d just read at reception, but to be fair, I’d already forgotten that, so this wasn’t such a bad idea.
The 8-year-old is sort of listening….and the 5-year-old is more interested in her slush puppy, so in terms of the impact of the actual video, I’m not sure if anything was really taken in, but I can tell that these guys really are serious about keeping you safe and following the rules. The scariest part was when we were tested with a couple of questions at the end. I really should pay more attention!
So what’s it all about?
There are a number of sections within the huge warehouse of trampolines – including:
- Basketball – A strip of trampoline leading to a basketball hoop (only one of these, so not sure what it will be like when busy)
- Dodgeball/volleyball – this is a netted off area and the only space where you can end up being on the same trampoline as others
- A performance wall with trampolines – more of a place for the older kids to learn techniques and tricks
- Airbag space – two strips of trampoline leading to a huge airbag.
- The main trampoline section – with over 50 trampolines – as well as wall trampolines.
Now that’s a lot of bouncing!
Both the 8 and 5-year-old were excited, but a little reluctant at first and wanted to just try the main trampolines – building their confidence through different bounces. After a while, they warmed
up and started bouncing against the walls and seeing how fast they could bounce.
Favourites
They both loved the long trampoline at first – seeing how quickly they could bounce. However once they both mastered the airbags, this was the definite favourite! Even after the actual bounce, trying to crawl off the airbag was half the fun.
The performance wall was a little much for them, so they ignored that, maybe next time….
Other bits…
They have lockers within the toilet areas and near the trampolines, so no worries about storing your stuff, and they also have a balcony area, so if you really do want just a cup of tea, you can watch from up there and keep an eye on things.
No under 5’s allowed
I’d seen on Facebook that there was some criticism about 5-year-olds not being allowed to take part. I did think that was a little unfair however after seeing how boisterous it can get, and how serious they are about safety, I can see why they would want to err on the side of caution. My 5-year-old is on the smaller side, and she did struggle with the wide gaps between each trampoline.
Is it for grown-ups?
I loved it! Although I was a lot more cautious than the kids and I ended up taking longer to try the different stages long after either of mine did (I seem to get scared of more things as I get older…) However one surprise was, 10 minutes trampoline is the same as a 30-minute run! They are going to start exercise classes soon, and will be around 45-60 minutes long. I’ll be keeping an eye out for sure. Just a word of warning to mummies…try and practice those pelvic floor muscles before you go!
Of course you could invest in your own trampoline at home. Its such great exercise and I know from experience that children love having one in the garden.
What’s the verdict?
You only get an hour entrance on the trampolines. But it really does tire the kids out and they have a huge amount of fun. The staff are friendly, encouraging and they’re there to help you keep safe but also to have fun. If you want to wear the kids out this summer, Air Space really will help you out. The cost is £9.95 per child for an hour. This initially feels like a lot of money until you compare it to places like 360 play which are similarly priced.
Next time, I’ll make sure I’m in my sports gear, hair tied back and Tena lady ready!
To see exactly what its all about check out this YouTube video. And to book tickets click here
One last thank you to Sam Buckley for writing this review and attending the opening day of Air Space trampoline park with her children. We have both received tickets to Air Space free of charge for our families.
2 Responses
The trampoline park is so wonderful. I will take my kids here asap. How much for the ticket? Thanks for sharing!
I think its £10.95 for entry at Air Space, but they often have 10% off if you subscribe to their newsletter