Finally got to check out the reopened playground at Edward Bennett Oval, this one’s been fenced off for renovations for what felt like forever, so when it finally reopened we made a special trip over.
Worth being clear on this one, it’s not a brand new playground, it’s a much loved local favourite that’s just had a big upgrade and reopened, officially, on Friday 14 August this year. The biggest change for parents is that the whole play space is now fully fenced, no more chasing a toddler who’s spotted the car park and made a break for it. There’s also a new amenities building with public toilets, which honestly changes the whole calculation on how long you can stay out.
The climbing tower
The centrepiece now is a huge multi level climbing tower, plenty to scramble up and through, and it’s the kind of thing that’ll wear out even the most energetic kid given enough time.
Swings, monkey bars and trampolines
Five swings in a row so you’re not stuck waiting your turn forever, monkey bars for the slightly older ones, in ground trampolines, and even a hammock tucked in somewhere, a nice slower spot for a kid who needs a break from all the climbing.
Slides for every age
There’s a slide for the little ones and a bigger one for kids who’ve outgrown the toddler equipment, so younger and older siblings both have something that actually suits them instead of everyone fighting over the one slide.
Shade, seating and somewhere to sit down
A shade sail covers part of the playground and more trees are going in, picnic shelters and accessible seating are dotted around, so there’s somewhere to sit whether you’ve brought a picnic or just need five minutes off your feet.
The oval and walking circuit around it
The whole of Edward Bennett Oval’s had work done alongside the playground, new pathways now link straight through to the oval’s walking circuit, plus some stormwater and landscaping work around the northern mound. Good for a lap with the pram after the kids have worn themselves out, or if you’ve brought a footy or a kite, the oval itself is still wide open for that.
Good for families around Cherrybrook, Castle Hill, Dural and Pennant Hills
Sits right in the middle of that cluster of suburbs, so it’s an easy add to the weekend rotation if you’re local to any of them. It’s at Edward Bennett Oval, Edward Bennett Drive, Cherrybrook, free to get into, no bookings needed.
Going in the school holidays
Free, fenced and shaded, a solid pick for the break if you want somewhere the kids can run around without you hovering the whole time. The NSW spring school holidays run 28 September to 9 October this year. For more free options nearby have a look through our playground reviews.