November 5, 2023
We're pleased to share one of our latest projects - Wagon Woods - The railway-themed, immersive outdoor adventure playground based on the Brusselton Incline at Hopetown Darlington.
It's part of Hopetown Darlington, an all-new visitor attraction opening in summer 2024. The name is a reference to the historic Hope Town Foundry and Hopetown Carriage Works and will celebrate the rich rail heritage of Darlington’s Northgate area.
The attraction will encompass both purpose-built and heritage buildings – including the former Head of Steam Museum – into a major family attraction which includes Wagon Woods.
Wagon Woods will be built into the existing trees and natural clearings onsite and will be a great addition to the attraction for all the family. It will feature walkways, bridges, slides, a multi-level play structure and lots of neat, themed features.
The play has been designed in consultation with staff and pupils from Reid Street Primary School and Beaumont Hill Academy.
Accessibility is always important to both ourselves and the team from Hopetown, so the design includes an accessible incline track with interactive features and a companion slide suitable for wheelchair users.
The aim of the play is to inspire children to be curious and courageous while enjoying the benefits of outdoor play. Let your little ones and their imaginations run wild alongside their parents or guardians, whilst they relive their youth.
Play of this type allows visitors to understand and assess risk. The big slide from the top is a good example of this as it may take a few visits for the slightly more timid to conquer their trepidation and take it on!