Take the stress out of hosting a birthday and book a venue that will host it for you!
- Indoor Play Centres: The obvious… local soft play venues are great for younger children. Do you have anything close by that can cater for the older children too?
- Outdoor Parks: Local parks are often equipped with playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces for outdoor games and activities. Whilst this kind of venue is strictly weather dependent, if you have a summer born child this could be the perfect low-cost option.
- Trampoline Parks: Bounce venues are great for all ages. Parents might also want to join in and most have younger areas for your littlest guests.
- Bowling Alleys: Bowling alleys have lightweight balls, gutter guards, rolling ramps and interactive games/features suitable for kids’ parties. Perhaps for the slightly older children but most bowling alleys will have a party option. If not, book two or three lanes next to each other and create your own party!
- Aquariums: Educational and entertaining settings where children can explore marine life and aquatic exhibits. Do you have an ocean obsessed little one? A small guest list might do well with an aquarium visit. Reach out to a venue near you to see what they might offer the birthday child.
- Zoos: Like aquarium loving children, zoos are the perfect venue for those into animals. Most zoos will have special packages and ‘meet the animals’ options for special occasions.
- Children’s Museums: Interactive museums tailored to kids’ learning through hands-on exhibits and educational activities. The Postal Museum in London and Eureka! In West Yorkshire are great examples.
- Art Studios: Creative spaces where children can engage in painting, pottery, and other artistic activities guided by professionals. Small studios might be willing to close for private parties and means you get the whole venue to yourself.
- Climbing centres: Clip and Climb all the way to the top. Older children can clip themselves and spend an hour or so conquering the limits. Most centres have soft play areas to keep younger siblings happy at the same time.
- Sports Centres: Facilities offering a variety of sports activities like soccer, basketball, and more, often with coaching and game options. Let the kids run wild in a large and safe environment.
- Indoor Swimming Pools: Perfect for swimming, water play and themed pool parties. Whilst public swimming pools might not give you a private swim time, check out private swimming pools which may be smaller but more usually bookable by the hour.
- Farm Parks: Farms with petting zoos, tractor rides, and outdoor play areas for a rustic and enjoyable experience. Again, this is going to be based on the weather but be sure to ask if they have an indoor barn area you could use in case the heavens open.
- Adventure Parks: Locations featuring zip lines, rope courses, and outdoor adventure activities for older kids. Think GoApe…
- Ice Skating Rinks: Ice skating is not just for Christmas – promise! Indoor rinks are great to blow off steam whilst keeping cool. Rinks have skating aids to help those who aren’t so stable on the skates. Be sure to book the seals and penguins in advance.
- Cinema/Theatre: Movie theatres or local theatres offering private screenings or live performances for entertainment. Looking for a quieter option for your child’s birthday? Venues with children’s screens will keep it fun at the same time. Plan your own film crew party with Showcase!
- Restaurants with Play Areas: Family-friendly eateries with designated play areas or entertainment zones for kids. If you’re having a party with extended family or inviting adults, this would be the perfect option. Search for pub/restaurant chains such as Brewers Fayre and Greene King in the UK.
- Gaming Arcades: Arcade venues with video games, air hockey, and other fun amusements. For the slightly older gaming obsessed children amongst them. Venues offer private bookings by the hour with unlimited game play. Be sure to check out the catering options when enquiring.
- Magician or Performers: Venues where professional entertainers can perform magic shows, puppetry, or interactive performances. Local arts centres would be a good place to start if you are looking for circus style performing parties.
- Beach or Lake Picnic Areas: Natural settings where you can host outdoor picnics, sandcastle building, and water activities. If you’re feeling adventurous and your guest list isn’t too active then let them out in the wild. There is lots to keep them busy in the great outdoors. You could do a nature hunt, bird watching…can we come?
- Cooking Studios: Cooking schools or studios where children can engage in fun cooking or baking activities.Whilst you might not want them wrecking your kitchen, let them cook their own party food!
Have you done any of these birthday parties? If you have comments or any more great party event ideas, why not let us know below!
