Works commenced in January 2026 and were completed by the end of March 2026, delivering an extraordinary destination play space crafted predominantly from naturally rot-resistant Robinia timber that blends seamlessly into the forest environment.
The Challenge
Forestry England required a play area that would do far more than simply entertain. The brief called for a space that:
- Harmonised with the natural woodland surroundings of Delamere Forest
- Celebrated the archaeological significance of the nearby Eddisbury Iron Age Hillfort
- Delivered genuine inclusivity for children of all abilities
- Created a landmark destination that would draw visitors and encourage repeat visits
- Provided diverse play value — physical, sensory, cognitive and social-emotional
The Solution
eibe's design team responded with an immersive Iron Age themed play landscape that transforms the hillside into a living, breathing piece of history.
The Gateway Climbing Unit forms the dramatic centrepiece — three tall towers offering panoramic views across Delamere Forest, connected by a solid wooden bridge and a thrilling wobbly bridge. Children can climb via rung ladders or criss-cross beams, then descend via a large slide or fireman's pole, with rich role-play opportunities at ground level.
The Roundhouse Play Unit, inspired by the thatched-roof villages of the Iron Age era, invites children to navigate stepping posts and balancing beams before enjoying a 360-degree view from the platform and sliding down to the forest floor.
Supporting structures include:
- Market Stall & Town House Play Units — fostering storytelling and social-emotional role-play inspired by ancient marketplaces
- Sheep and Horse Spring Rockers — beautifully crafted Robinia wood rockers offering calming, rhythmic sensory input
- Tarja Platform and Wide Embankment Slide — delivering a thrilling shared sliding experience
- Oskar Hill Ramp and Trim Trail — a circuit of stepping posts and ramps building balance, coordination and body awareness
Inclusivity is embedded throughout the design. An accessible Satellite Carousel provides essential back support and vestibular stimulation for children with sensory processing needs, while an Emotions Communication Panel supports non-verbal communication, ensuring every child can fully participate.
Safety surfacing uses high-quality, permeable grass matting — a natural aesthetic that meets strict fall-height standards and remains fully usable year-round.
The Outcome
The new play landscape at Delamere Forest is already set to become one of the region's premier family destinations. It successfully honours the historical significance of Eddisbury Hillfort while delivering a modern, inclusive and sustainable play space that encourages physical resilience, improves well-being and builds a lasting connection to local heritage.
"eibe is incredibly proud to support Forestry England in bringing this exceptional new play area to life. By anchoring the design in the fascinating Iron Age history of Delamere Forest, we have created a captivating space where children can remain engaged for hours. Our partnership ensures a long-term, multi-sensory and physically active asset that will bring joyful exploration to families of all ages and abilities for years to come."
Brendan Reilly, Play and Sport Consultant, eibe
