Forest Hill Recreation Ground
We discovered this fantastic playground and playing fields on the way back from our fox skull walk (if you know, you know). It’s pretty hidden and easy to drive straight past; something I must have done many, many times given that we only live 5 minutes away! I’m especially eagle eyed for playgrounds and green footpath signs at the moment and just happened to spot the park as we drove through Forest Hill village. We returned the next day and the boys couldn’t believe their luck! We’ve been to the same local playgrounds on a loop for what feels like forever so finding a new one feels like a big win for the kids; playground fatigue is real!
So, lets get down to the details of what this gem has: no doubt the star of the show is the big wooden structure. It looks new and no part of it has been left without use: nets, a ramp and ladder to climb up to the raised and covered platform, monkey bars, tunnel, (fast!) slide, a little den with seating and a climbing wall section on both the front and back. For the smalls, the colourful pirate ship will appeal, complete with crossbones flags! They can steer one of two ship’s wheels and stand at the helm to spot treasure. The tall pymarid climbing rope structure was a hit too, although my boys did complain that it was windy up there, it is quite exposed in Forest Hill so do wrap up warm! The spinner bowls and standing up spinners are pretty nausea-inducing but magnets for the children, be ready to catch dizzy stumblers. All the other usual playground fare were present and correct too: swings for big and littles, zip wire, spring rockers and hamster wheel. Bring a ball for a kickabout as there are a few goalposts in the paying fields, or opt for a kite or frisbee on a windy day.
There are lots of green footpath signs crying out to be explored in Forest Hill; we ventured into the next field behind the playground but the routes across the road looked more inviting. Make sure you bring your wellies though as these are usually pretty muddy this time of year, even on established paths.
💴 Free
✅ Wheelchair and pushchair accessible
🚾 No toilets
🐶 Dogs welcome in playing fields
🅿️ Unrestricted roadside parking on Stanton Rd or Mickle Way
🚗 5 minutes from Headington roundabout
🗺 Forest Hill Recreation Ground, Stanton Rd, Forest Hill OX33 1DT
ℹ️ The playgroud is just before Mickle Way if you are coming from Stanton St. John, or just after if you are coming from Forest Hill village. The Forest Hill turning off the A40 is currently flooded so avoid.
⭐️ If this playground is not local to you, please enjoy it after lockdown⭐️
⭐️Please stay socially distanced from others⭐️
