The play centre ‘like a living room’ with relaxed parents and hundreds of toys

Having two children under the age of two doesn’t make life easy, even at the best of times. While one might be happy being spoon-fed at the kitchen table, the other can be crying their eyes out or, worse, running after the cat in the next room.

I wouldn’t swap them for the world, but let’s face it, parenting can be tough. So when my day with my pair comes up each week - usually a Thursday - I search out things to do in a bid to avoid boredom and any tearful drama.

So when I heard about the brilliantly-named Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful play hub in Longwell Green, I had to give it a try - and boy, will I be going back.

Having arrived already quite worn out after a long walk, I parked up outside the play centre. To be honest, if I hadn’t had the address, I’d have never guessed it was there given its shop front style entrance and location next to a Vets 4 Pets and Connells estate agents.

Walking inside, with the youngest in the pram and the oldest holding my hand, I was greeted with that familiar noise of happy children playing. There was a seating area in front of me along with a service desk where you checked in. At the rear was the play hub - a large area split into themed sections with seating and all manner of toys spread across the floor.

I gave my name to the friendly woman behind the desk having already booked ourselves in to the hour-and-a-half slot in the afternoon (booking is advised, I’m told). I also bought a can of coke and some crisps before unstrapping my youngest from the pram. Looking around, the atmosphere was very social, and, more importantly, relaxed.

Mothers and fathers lounged in comfy living room-style sofas while their children played happily on the floor. In one corner there was a sand pit, which was particularly popular with the children when I arrive. There was also a covered story-time area with plenty of books and a corner filled with child-friendly kitchen utencils (a big hit with my young two).

On the venue’s website, I’m told the toys are ‘designed to encourage curiosity with creative and imaginative play’ - I’d go with that. As my children went from station to station, I also got talking to other parents. ‘How old is she?’, ‘Isn’t she lovely’, ‘Gorgeous smile’ - everyone was really friendly.

The hour and a half went by very quickly and soon it was time to clear up and go. We were among the last to leave. ‘Again,’ my eldest said as we pushed open the door. ‘Don’t worry’ I replied, ‘we’ll be back’.

Parents can either turn up for one-hour-and-a-half sessions priced at £2 per adult, £4 per child and £2.50 per sibling after. There are also regular activity events like ‘Creatively Curious’ priced at £5 and ‘Mother and Baby Fitness’ courses.

Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful Play Hub, 129, 133 Bath Rd, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 9DD