Challenge

Massey & Harris was contracted to design, manufacture and install the new play provision at the new RHS Bridgewater site in 2021, the RHS’s fifth national garden and its first in the North West.

The aim was to create an exciting wild adventure play space set within the woodland glades. It was imperative that onsite material was utilised and that a handcrafted approach was used.

Solution

Massey & Harris created the 'Play Wild' mantra for the project. The intention was that children can take over the area and create their own play opportunities in the forest. The play area is set in Middle Wood, and is an inspiring adventure play space that champions all aspects of 'wild play'.

The company designed various pieces of equipment and merged these into the surrounding areas. Low ropes course were designed amongst the sycamores, a hide and seek trail around the rhododendrons and beech trees, while basket swings and clambering frames were added in the open spaces.

Result

The result is an amazing play area set in gorgeous surroundings. There’s plenty of play options that are sympathetic to their surroundings. The play area changes throughout the seasons due to the considered planting through the area.

The play provision isn’t defined in one area, but spread over a wide space offering the opportunity for children to play in a quiet space or share play with other children on the feature play pieces.