Challenge

The Duchess of Northumberland wanted to create a world class play area that pushed the boundaries both in terms of challenge and in meeting the needs of people with special needs to add to the already hugely impressive Alnwick Gardens attraction.

The concept was to allow all children, regardless of ability, access to the highest parts of the play area.

Solution

After intensive discussions with the team at Alnwick, which comprised an ex-SAS soldier and conqueror of Mount Everest, Brummie Stokes as well as the Duchess, Timberplay developed a walkway design that allowed children and parents of all abilities to move up amongst the tree canopy.

The aerial walkways, which surround the treehouse restaurant, serve as a creative access route and firing the imagination of the children. There are two technically complex wheelchair accessible suspension bridges included in the walkway.

Outcome

Although Alnwick is a garden of great quality, children are not necessarily interested in this. The Duchess viewed the walkways as a way of inspiring children to enjoy the garden and nature without compromising the horticulturalist visitor.

The ongoing plans for the development of natural play within the site will enable the younger generations to appreciate the nature which surrounds them.

Further development plans include using the existing towers to add many more challenging and sensory activities.