Why finding an inclusive soft play space is important…
Finding an inclusive soft play centre that truly understands neurodiverse children can be life-changing for families. We’ve curated 17 standout UK centres that go above and beyond for children with autism, ADHD, sensory needs, and physical disabilities. From dedicated ‘quiet hours’ to sensory zones and trained staff, these spaces offer joy without overwhelm – because every child deserves playtime that works for them.
1.-9. Oxygen Activeplay
With colourful ball pits, slides, foam pit and multi-level climbing frames, the soft play area for children aged 0-5 is the perfect place to keep babies and toddlers entertained and active.
Little ones can have fun, explore and interact with other children in a safe space away from the ‘big’ kids. They can also improve gross and fine motor skills with the wide range of activities such as stepping stones, rollers, rope ladders and many more.
Their SEN peaceful play
Their SEN Peaceful Play sessions offer a gentle, welcoming environment for children and adults with Special Educational Needs (SEN). With reduced numbers and a quieter atmosphere, the park is made exclusively available to individuals with special educational needs and disabilities, designed with sensory needs in mind.
Find out more details and session times here
Natalie who attended the MediaCity branch in Manchester writes “Fantastic place, staff are friendly and helpful and can’t do enough. Highly recommend a visit here, they do peaceful play sessions for those with sensory/auditory needs great for anyone with additional needs. They do mini competitions throughout the sessions and even have a night of neon once a month too with lights and a disco. Facilities are kept clean and tidy and they have an area for parties as well as a cafe. Required to wear grippy socks to go in. Easy to get to as opposite the Vue cinema upstairs”. Google Reviews March 2025
Locations include:
The 02 Centre in London, Derby in Derbyshire, Raleigh and Romford in Essex, Wilmslow in Cheshire, Acton and Croydon in London, York in Yorkshire, Salford, Greater Manchester.
10. Rainbows Soft Play in Seaham, Durham.
Rainbows is a multi sensory centre, specifically designed to cater for children, young people and adults with special needs, their families and carers, schools and groups. They use a combination of light, sound, touch and smell to provide a unique sensory experience for stimulation, de-escalation or relaxation purposes. Among the facilities they provide is a sensory room and a play frame.
Find out more details and session times here
One parent writes: “Excellent space, owner is lovely and incredibly approachable and knowledgeable. Took our two kids here and they loved it. Myself, my partner and our children are all Autistic so the smaller, quieter atmosphere and amazing staff really helped us to get out and have a good time”
11. Funky Warehouse in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.
Funky Warehouse is Gloucestershire’s ultimate indoor trampoline, assault course and soft play centre with various activities and something for all ages. The soft play has 3 slides, a cargo net, wall climb, zip line & much more. They have regular SEN sessions every Monday 4-6pm, we recommend confirming directly.
Find out more details and session times here
12. Ocean Adventurers in Cheddar, Somerset.
Ocean Adventurers Indoor Play centre in Cheddar is run by a multi-award winning company dedicated to providing an interactive and immersive environment for children up to the age of 12 to set their imaginations free. With three individually dedicated areas based upon age, from 0-2, 2-4 and 5-12 years old, our centre provides amazing features all with an exciting and out-of-this-world theme..
Their Sen Sessions
SEN exclusive sessions are held on the 3rd Friday of every month 4-6pm. During this session they turn off music, lower lighting and have very low numbers in our centre. They also run one off events and sessions.
Their staff have been trained in accessibility training with many having undergone basic Makaton training.
Find out more details and session times here
13. Space Adventurers in Taunton, Somerset.
Space Adventurers Indoor Play centre in Taunton is newest addition to the Adventurers family! Providing an interactive and immersive environment for children up to the age of 12 to set their imaginations free.
With three individually dedicated areas based upon age, from 0-2, 2-4 and 5-12 years old, our centre provides amazing features all with an exciting and out-of-this-world theme.
SEN exclusive sessions are scheduled every 3rd Sunday of every month 4.30pm – 7pm run by Makathon trained staff.
Find out more details and session times here
14. All Thrive, Leyland, Lancashire.
A multi-sensory, inclusive play space where you and your child can explore and have fun whilst engaging the senses! There are 4 rooms to explore including a sensory gym, play room, sensory room and Zen den. Each room has a video which can be viewed before attending. SEN sessions also available.
Find out more details and session times here
Tanya writes ” This wonderful place is where we fetch our 2.5 year daughter who has additional needs and high sensory needs at least once a week.
She uses Makaton and squeals with excitement when she sees where we are. There’s so much exploration and opportunity for her to engage her sensory needs and some of the things we now have at home like her peanut and fish spinner. Truly great and wonderful place and Deana and her staff are just so lovely, we want to thank you so much and this is also from Little Florence.
Tanya & Estella
Abi Rose Conway “What an amazing place! I feel so fortunate to have a place like AllThrive on my doorstep so much so we almost come weekly! I have a 4 year old with ASD and a 20 month old so things can be challenging at times.
I was finding more and more that my son would struggle in traditional soft play and would hide in the toilets. There are so many opportunities at Allthrive and he leaves feeling happy and regulated. Both boys love to lie on the the swing together it’s a lovely bonding activity. My 20 month old is an adrenaline junkie and loves jumping in the ball pool.
I really appreciate the kind staff who always go above and beyond, you get a free drink and a loyalty card and proper changing facilities. The place is also very clean, my son is immune compromised so I always look for this. The owner, Deana, has even specifically put activities out my son really enjoys like magnetic tiles. My son loves the staff, he regularly asks to go to “Deana’s house”
It can feel a little isolating when you have a child with additional needs as you can be more restricted as to where you can go. But now we have Allthrive I can actually relax when I’m out in public, knowing that my son is safe and happy. Thank you Deana and the staff for everything.
15. – 17. Snakes & Ladders
with locations in
Abbingdon, Oxford
Brentford, Middlesex
Dunstable, Bedfordshire
At Snakes & Ladders, they are committed to providing truly inclusive play experiences for all youngsters. They say “We understand especially those with special educational needs or disabilities, the hustle and bustle of a busy soft play environment can sometimes feel overwhelming. That is why we have introduced specially designed sessions that create a calmer, more relaxed setting where children can feel comfortable and confident to enjoy themselves”.
Their carefully planned facilities are designed to inspire children to play, explore, and test their limits at a pace that suits them. Every element is created to be fun, safe, and supportive, ensuring that children feel encouraged rather than rushed.
These sessions, dedicated exclusively to children aged 0–12 years with special educational needs or disabilities, provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere where families can enjoy quality time together and connect with others.
Find out more details and session times here
Conclusion
Whether your child thrives in sensory-rich environments or needs a calmer space to explore at their own pace, these centres prove that inclusive play is possible across the UK. Remember to check individual websites for the latest session times. Have a favourite we have missed? Do let us know… go to www.softplayuk.com