Families are flocking to a new attraction at Planters Brookfields in Mapperley after the garden centre turned part of its sales area into an indoor beach for the school holidays. With bedding plant season winding down, organisers say there is room to lay down around eight tonnes of sand between the geraniums and petunias, and the feature has proved popular since it opened.
What the attraction offers
The undercover space contains buckets, spades, inflatable balls and other toys supplied for children to play with. Being inside means visitors can use the beach regardless of the weather, avoiding the usual worries about getting wet or sunburnt that come with a traditional seaside visit.
- Free access to the sand play area for children.
- Provided play equipment including buckets, spades and inflatables.
- Café and seating nearby so parents can supervise while they have refreshments.
Local reaction
The attraction has been welcomed by local parents who say it provides easy activities close to home. A mother from Calverton brought three children specifically to use the beach, saying it keeps youngsters occupied and is a useful option when seaside trips are impractical.
"I think it's a very good idea. It keeps the kids busy. There's not much to do around here."
Another parent, also from Calverton, praised the environment for children to be creative with sandcastles and noted the convenience of the coffee shop while they watch. Staff at the centre say the beach has increased visitors to the catering area.
"It's definitely brought more trade to us. It's handy for the community to come, the dads and the grandmas, they all bring the little ones and it gets really busy."
How long will it run?
Planters Brookfields has operated the indoor beach in previous years and adjusted dates according to demand and weather. Last year, because of popularity and continuing poor weather, the centre allowed the feature to remain until early October. While the intention is typically to pack the sand away after the school holidays, organisers say they have been flexible in the past.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Planters Brookfields, Mapperley Plains |
| Sand | Approximately eight tonnes |
| Cost | Free access |
| Facilities | Play equipment, café seating |
Practical points for visitors
Parents planning a visit should note that the attraction is indoors, making it suitable in all weathers, and that seating in the adjoining café provides a place to supervise. The centre has considered adding more bench seating near the sand following high demand. As with any public play area, visitors are advised to supervise children closely and check direct with the centre for opening times and any seasonal changes.
The indoor beach at Planters Brookfields is positioned as an accessible local alternative for families who cannot get to the coast during the holidays, providing a simple, community-focused leisure option within Nottinghamshire.
