Half-term Trip to Alexandra Park
Having recently moved to Disley we are enjoying discovering new places on our doorstep and the areas we felt were too far away when we lived in Gatley. Predictably, the expenses of moving house meant that we were faced with half term on a shoestring. We were determined nevertheless to get out and see as much of our new local area as possible. Our original idea of a trip to Buxton Park was postponed as a leaky ceiling and another tradesman visit meant we couldn’t get out until after lunchtime. However, Alexandra Park was recommended by a friend as a nearby park, and we were not disappointed.
The seemingly never ending rain had stopped and we wrapped up ready to enjoy a crisp sunny afternoon of outdoor play. The park has a free car park and we got a space easily and headed to the ramps. We were promised scooter ramps a plenty, and there certainly is no doubting that.
There were tots with helmets and balance bikes through to teens with bikes, skateboards and scooters. It could have appeared overwhelming to a 5 and 7 year old, but the children playing were so welcoming and everyone took time to allow for turns and ‘ramp clearance’. In between goes, we were kept busy watching the teens performing stunts and tricks on the higher ramps they were brilliant!
We spent a good 45 minutes on the ramps before heading to the main play area. All the equipment was in good, clean condition, no litter and not too spread out; it was fairly easy to keep an eye on them both. Spider-climbing frames, slides, roundabouts and swings kept them busy and smiling for ages.
We later met our friends with a toddler and there was plenty for him too, as well as time for quieter play with some traditional noughts and crosses on the play frame.
Whilst the sun stayed out, we ventured down to the lake to see the geese and watch some fishing. It was lovely to explore the surrounding wildlife, appreciate the autumn colours and plants in a quieter setting, and catch up on news of school and family with our friends. With all that fresh air and those rosy cheeks, we were delighted to see the ice cream van had returned at the exit of the park. We were even more pleased that a ‘99’ really was as described: ice-cream, sherbet, sauce and marshmallows for £1 – what a bargain and perfect end to our afternoon. We will be sure to return and use the park again!
