If you’re looking for a unique play experience for your little one that enhances their development and is a safe, friendly space, then the Discovery Village is a must-visit.
Offering two-hour play sessions for 7 years and under. Children will have a thrilling experience as they enter the enchanting village. They can shop at the Farm Shop, get a manicure at Bethany’s Beauty Salon, or perform at the Theatre—the possibilities are endless.
With their imaginations, they can transform into anything—that’s the beauty of the Discovery Village.
A fun bonus to the experience is that children can also meet a member of the village and join them on an adventure whilst singing, dancing and playing games.
Here’s what to expect when visiting.
Nestled in Christchurch with free parking available, the Discovery Village offers an immersive indoor role-play experience.
There, you’ll find 9 areas representing a traditional British village.
After booking your session, you’ll be warmly welcomed upon arrival and captivated by the village’s charm.
You’ll explore a fire station, farm shop, post office, beauty salon, veterinary clinic, theatre, school, pizza shop, BBQ/picnic area, and a building and construction zone.
There’s also a special area designed for babies and younger children seeking a quieter place to play.
To prevent overcrowding and ensure your little ones get the very best experience, the sessions have a limited number of people and offer children lots of space to play.
There is so much on offer, and everything is well thought out.
Children have access to toys, costumes, activities, and plenty of props—ideal for acting out real-life scenarios while letting their imaginations run wild.
You’ll find firefighters working at the vets or princesses making pizza; it’ll bring so much joy to the children and parents as they play make-believe.
Role play plays an important role in children’s development, it helps with their social and emotional skills, builds empathy and can enhance their communication skills.
Children thrive when they’re together and they can learn through doing and build their confidence, all whilst having lots of fun.
The Discovery Village gives you a chance to forget about your busy lives and your to-do list and spend some time with your little one.
Being a parent is full-on, and sometimes, we can be left feeling a little guilty about not being able to sit back to enjoy the little things.
The village is the perfect place to forget everything and play with your child.
If your child is more independent and wants to play alone, the cafe area is a great spot to sit back and relax.
The attention to detail in the Discovery Village offers a truly unique experience and is unlike other play areas in Dorset.
The Post Office offers lots of parcels for you to sort, weigh them and dress up in uniform to deliver the mail around the village.
Stepping inside the beauty salon, you’ll be amazed by the items on offer. Doll heads are ready to be styled, and a manicure table is prepared for clients.
The shampoo, conditioner, computer and other items have the salon logo and show how much care and thought have gone into creating a brilliant space.
The fire station, complete with fireman’s pole, fire truck and all the accessories you need, is available.
A construction site complete with tools, bricks, and a wheelbarrow gives little ones a chance to use their creative skills to build a den or a house.
What sets the Discovery Village apart is the talented performers who greet your children and get them involved in an adventure that keeps them engaged and entertained.
An example is ‘Jet the Vet’ left the vet’s back door open, and the animals escaped.
Can the children help her find all the animals?
Whilst the children are looking, they’ll act out the search in the style of ‘We’re going on a bear hunt’. This is great fun for all; the children use their social skills and learn to problem solve all whilst warming to Jet the Vet and the game.
Adding members of the village and watching how well they perform for the children is an entertaining spin on your play date. Other adventures and scenarios play out, keeping it captivating for the young ones.
The vet’s is a big hit with the little ones, with lots of animals and accessories to use. They’ll enjoy feeding, washing and giving medicine to the fluffy toys.
The theatre is excellent for your little extrovert and offers a stage complete with crazy hats, costumes and instruments, giving children the opportunity to showcase their acting, singing and dancing.
The interiors have been considered and are fitting to each area. The Farm Shop has an abundance of produce; the items are healthy, which is a great way to educate children whilst making it fun. Tills, bank cards and baskets add to the shopping experience.
Although everything is built for the children’s height, the areas have been catered for adults walking in and out.
There’s no crouching down on all fours here (unless you’re role-playing, of course). You can freely walk around without banging your head or feeling like a giant.
A corner spot is perfect for babies, and they can bang, shake, and thread on the wooden toys. It’s a calmer area and the perfect spot to sit, play and relax.
The café is a relaxing spot, offering a range of light bites, cakes, sandwiches, as well as breakfast and lunch options, with both hot and cold drinks available.
It features a child-friendly menu, along with highchairs, bottle-warming services, and baby-changing facilities.
It’s the perfect place to unwind while your children play.
Keep in mind that after each session, the village closes briefly to refresh and reset for the next group, so plan accordingly if you’d like to order food.
Events throughout the year are held at the Discovery Village, such as SEND play sessions, Halloween and Christmas sessions.
The Discovery Village is a joy to visit, and little ones will have lots of fun. Everything is bright, fresh and clean, ensuring you get the best experience.
The staff are fantastic with children; it’s refreshing to see staff engaging with the young ones and enhancing their development through play, creating a happy atmosphere where children thrive.
To find out more about the Discovery Village, visit the website here.
Have fun!
📍 Discovery Village at Adventure Wonderland, Merritown Lane, Christchurch, BH23 6BA
