Knockhatch Adventure Park, located in Hailsham, East Sussex, is a beloved destination for families seeking outdoor fun and adventure. With a wide range of attractions, including thrilling rides, animal encounters, and interactive play areas, Knockhatch offers something for everyone, regardless of age or ability. This article will explore the park’s history, attractions, and what makes it a top choice for family outings.

History and Background

Knockhatch Adventure Park was established in 1980 and has since grown into one of the largest family attractions in East Sussex. The park’s name, “Knockhatch,” is derived from the Old English words “knock” (hill) and “hatch” (gate), reflecting its location on a hill with a gate. Over the years, Knockhatch has expanded its offerings to include a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, making it a year-round destination for visitors.

Attractions and Activities

Knockhatch Adventure Park boasts a diverse array of attractions and activities that cater to different interests and age groups. Some of the highlights include:

The Lost World Playbarn: An indoor soft play area with slides, climbing frames, and interactive play equipment.

Dragon Castle Adventure Playground: An outdoor adventure playground featuring climbing walls, zip lines, and obstacle courses.

Wave Rider Water Slide: A thrilling water slide that provides a refreshing escape on hot days.

Jungle Kingdom Zoo: A zoo that houses a variety of animals, including meerkats, owls, llamas, and wallabies.

Sherlock Holmes Experience: An interactive experience where visitors can solve mysteries and test their detective skills.

Boating Lake: A serene spot for boating and picnicking, perfect for a relaxing break.

Chestnut Wood Adventure Play: An outdoor play area with treehouses, tunnels, and climbing structures.

Animal Encounters

One of the standout features of Knockhatch Adventure Park is its animal encounters. Visitors can meet and interact with a variety of animals, including meerkats, owls, llamas, and wallabies. The park also offers educational talks and feeding sessions, providing a unique opportunity to learn about different species and their habitats.

Events and Special Offers

Knockhatch Adventure Park hosts a range of events and special offers throughout the year. These include seasonal events, themed days, and special promotions that make visits even more exciting. For example, the park often hosts Christmas-themed events, Easter egg hunts, and Halloween parties, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Accessibility and Facilities

Knockhatch Adventure Park is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors. The park offers accessible facilities, including wheelchair-accessible paths, ramps, and restrooms. Additionally, there are designated parking spaces and assistance available for visitors with disabilities.

Food and Drink

Visitors to Knockhatch Adventure Park can enjoy a variety of food and drink options. The park features several cafes and snack bars offering a range of refreshments, from hot meals to ice cream and beverages. There are also picnic areas where families can enjoy their own food in a scenic setting.

Visitor Reviews and Ratings

Knockhatch Adventure Park has received positive reviews from visitors, with many praising its variety of attractions and family-friendly atmosphere. The park has a rating of 4.3 stars on Facebook, based on over 6,000 reviews. Visitors appreciate the park’s cleanliness, friendly staff, and the wide range of activities available for children and adults alike.

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of your visit to Knockhatch Adventure Park, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. The park is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, 361 days a year, and tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Booking in advance can help you save money and ensure entry, especially during peak times. It’s also important to check the park’s website for information on what’s open and any special events or offers.

FAQs 

What are the main attractions at Knockhatch Adventure Park?

Knockhatch offers a range of indoor and outdoor activities, such as the Lost World Playbarn, a massive indoor playground with giant slides and soft play areas, ideal for younger visitors. Outdoors, the Wave Runner (due to be replaced by the new “Wave Runner 2” in 2025) and the Dragon’s Lair offer thrilling slide experiences. Animal lovers will enjoy Jungle Kingdom, which has close-up encounters with animals like meerkats, coatis, and prairie dogs. Additionally, there’s the Owl Sanctuary with daily owl displays, and the Quadapillar Barrel Rides offer a unique outdoor experience for families.

What are the ticket prices, and are there discounts?

Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and the type of ticket you choose. Knockhatch offers discounts for online bookings made at least 24 hours in advance, so it’s often cheaper to pre-book tickets through their website. The park also has annual pass options for regular visitors, which grant unlimited access throughout the year. Special group rates and birthday party packages are available for larger gatherings.

Are there age or clothing restrictions for certain attractions?

Yes, some attractions have age and clothing requirements. For example, in the Lost World Playbarn, visitors are required to wear at least a sleeved t-shirt, knee-length shorts, and socks for safety reasons. Specific activities like the Wave Runner and Dragon’s Lair also have height and age restrictions to ensure safety for all guests.

Can we interact with the animals?

While Jungle Kingdom allows close-up viewing of various animals, touching or feeding them is prohibited. The animals are on specialized diets, and feeding them anything else could be harmful. However, Knockhatch offers unique animal experiences, including opportunities to watch daily owl displays and to book “keeper experiences” for more personalized encounters with certain animals.

Are food and drink options available inside the park?

Yes, Knockhatch has multiple food and drink outlets, including cafés that offer a range of options suitable for families. Outside food is also allowed, and there are picnic areas throughout the park. However, eating or drinking is not permitted in certain areas, such as the Jungle Kingdom, for both hygiene and animal safety reasons.

Conclusion

Knockhatch Adventure Park is a fantastic destination for families looking for a day of fun and adventure. With its diverse range of attractions, animal encounters, and special events, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to climb, slide, or simply relax, Knockhatch has it all. Plan your visit today and experience the magic of Knockhatch Adventure Park!

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