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Best Places to Take the Kids in West Sussex

West Sussex is a beautiful county offering a mix of stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and a variety of family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids, an educational adventure, or just a place to relax, West Sussex has something for everyone.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to take the kids in West Sussex, with a special highlight on Out of Bounds—a one-stop destination for all-day family fun.

1. Out of Bounds: The Ultimate Family Fun Destination

When it comes to finding the perfect place to take the kids in West Sussex, Out of Bounds should be at the top of your list. Located in Angmering, Out of Bounds is more than just an activity centre—it’s a complete entertainment hub offering a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities suitable for children of all ages.

Whether you’re planning a day out during the school holidays, celebrating a birthday, or just looking for a way to keep the kids entertained, Out of Bounds has everything you need for an unforgettable experience.

Why Out of Bounds Stands Out:

• Variety of Activities: One of the main reasons Out of Bounds is a top choice for families is the sheer variety of activities available. From adventure golf and high ropes to Clip ‘n Climb and laser tag, there’s something to suit every child’s interests. Younger children can enjoy the soft play area, while older kids (and adults) can take on the challenge of the high ropes or test their skills on the climbing walls. This variety ensures that every member of the family can find something fun to do, making it easy to plan a full day of activities without having to leave the site.

• Clip ‘n Climb: This indoor climbing experience is one of the most popular attractions at Out of Bounds. With a range of colorful climbing walls and challenges, including the exhilarating Leap of Faith, Clip ‘n Climb is perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s a fun and safe way for children to test their climbing skills, build confidence, and have a great time.

• Adventure Golf: If you’re looking for a more laid-back activity that the whole family can enjoy together, Out of Bounds’ adventure golf course is the perfect option. The creatively themed safari course offers fun challenges and is beautifully landscaped, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone.

• Soft Play: For younger children, the soft play area provides a safe and exciting environment to explore. With padded climbing frames, slides, and tunnels, it’s the ideal spot for toddlers and preschoolers to burn off some energy while parents relax nearby.

• Family-Friendly Environment: Out of Bounds is designed with families in mind. The staff are friendly and helpful, the facilities are clean and well-maintained, and there’s a café on-site offering a variety of snacks, meals, and drinks. Whether you’re planning a quick visit or a full day out (check out our Day Tickets!), Out of Bounds has everything you need to keep the whole family happy.

2. West Wittering Beach

If you’re looking for a classic day out by the sea, West Wittering Beach is one of the best spots in West Sussex. This beautiful sandy beach is perfect for families who want to enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with plenty of space for children to play, build sandcastles, and splash in the shallow waters.

Why West Wittering Beach is Worth a Visit:

• Natural Beauty: West Wittering Beach is known for its natural beauty, with soft golden sands and clear, shallow waters that are safe for children to paddle in. The surrounding sand dunes and grassy areas provide a scenic backdrop, making it a great place for a family picnic.

• Facilities: The beach offers a range of facilities, including parking, toilets, and a café serving refreshments. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, adding an extra layer of safety for families with young children.

• Activities: While the main attraction is the beach itself, there are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, including swimming, kite flying, and beach games. The nearby Chichester Harbour is also a great place to explore, with opportunities for crabbing and birdwatching.

West Wittering Beach is a fantastic place to spend a sunny day with the family, offering a more relaxed and natural experience compared to more structured activity centers.

3. Arundel Wetland Centre

For families who love nature and wildlife, the Arundel Wetland Centre is a wonderful place to explore. Managed by the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, this centre offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich biodiversity of wetlands, with activities that both educate and entertain children.

Why Arundel Wetland Centre is Special:

• Wildlife Encounters: The Arundel Wetland Centre is home to a variety of bird species, as well as other wildlife like otters and dragonflies. Children will enjoy spotting these animals in their natural habitats, and there are plenty of bird hides where they can quietly observe the wildlife.

• Boat Safaris: One of the highlights of a visit to the Arundel Wetland Centre is the boat safari. This guided tour takes you through the wetlands, offering a close-up view of the animals and plants that live there. It’s a peaceful and educational experience that kids will love.

• Interactive Learning: The center offers a range of interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to teach children about the importance of wetland ecosystems. Seasonal events and activities, such as pond dipping and nature trails, provide hands-on learning opportunities.

Arundel Wetland Centre is a great destination for families looking to combine outdoor adventure with environmental education. It’s a place where children can connect with nature and learn about the importance of conservation in a fun and engaging way.

4. Arundel Castle and Gardens

For families interested in history and culture, Arundel Castle is a must-visit destination in West Sussex. This stunning medieval castle, set in beautiful gardens, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and plenty of space for kids to explore.

Why Arundel Castle is a Family Favorite:

• Historic Exploration: Children will love exploring the castle’s towers, dungeons, and grand halls. The castle’s history is brought to life with interactive exhibits, costumed guides, and special events throughout the year.

• Beautiful Gardens: The castle’s gardens are a highlight, with beautifully landscaped grounds that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. The gardens also feature a children’s play area and seasonal displays that add to the experience.

• Family Events: Arundel Castle hosts a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, including medieval reenactments, treasure hunts, and educational workshops. These events make history fun and engaging for children of all ages.

Arundel Castle offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor beauty, making it a fantastic destination for families looking to learn and explore together.

5. Tilgate Park and Nature Centre

Tilgate Park in Crawley is a wonderful place for a family day out, combining beautiful parkland with a variety of attractions that will appeal to both kids and adults.

Why Tilgate Park is a Great Choice:

• Nature and Wildlife: The park is home to Tilgate Nature Centre, where kids can learn about and see a variety of animals, from reptiles and birds to farm animals and exotic species. The park’s lakes and woodlands are also ideal for a nature walk or a family picnic.

• Adventure Playgrounds: Tilgate Park features several adventure playgrounds, including a large play area with climbing frames, slides, and swings.

• Boating and Fishing: The park’s lakes offer opportunities for boating and fishing, adding an extra element of fun to your visit. Rowboats and pedal boats are available for hire, making it a perfect activity for families to enjoy together.

Tilgate Park is an excellent option for families who enjoy outdoor activities and nature. With plenty of space to roam and explore, it’s a place where kids can burn off energy while enjoying the beauty of the natural world.

Conclusion

West Sussex offers a wealth of options for family days out, from the action-packed excitement of Out of Bounds to the serene beauty of West Wittering Beach and the educational fun of Arundel Castle and Wetland Centre. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there’s something in West Sussex for every family to enjoy.

For the ultimate day of fun, Out of Bounds stands out as the top choice, offering a variety of activities that will keep kids entertained and engaged all day long. So why not plan your next family outing today and discover all the fantastic experiences West Sussex has to offer?

How Adventure Nets Assist Physical Development in Children

Physical activity is crucial for children’s development. It enhances their physical health, boosts mental well-being, and fosters social skills. One innovative way to promote physical activity is through adventure nets, a popular feature at many adventure parks, including Out of Bounds. Adventure nets offer numerous benefits that can significantly contribute to the physical development of children. In this blog, we’ll delve into how these engaging structures help children grow stronger, healthier, and more coordinated.

What Are Adventure Nets?

Adventure nets are expansive, web-like structures suspended above the ground, designed for climbing, bouncing, and exploring. They provide a unique environment where children can move freely, challenge themselves, and have fun. The adventure nets at Out of Bounds are specifically designed to be safe, engaging, and suitable for children of all ages, making them an excellent choice for promoting physical activity.

Adventure Nets Benefits: Enhancing Physical Development

Adventure nets are not just a source of fun; they are a powerful tool for physical development. Here are some key ways they contribute to children’s growth and well-being:

1. Improving Gross Motor Skills

Gross motor skills involve the large muscles of the body used for activities such as running, jumping, and climbing. Adventure nets provide a perfect playground for children to enhance these skills. Climbing the nets requires strength and coordination, which helps in the development of muscles in the arms, legs, and core. The varied movements involved in navigating the nets, such as pulling, pushing, and balancing, are excellent for building these essential skills.

2. Boosting Strength and Endurance

Regular use of adventure nets can significantly boost children’s physical strength and endurance. Climbing, balancing, and swinging require considerable muscle effort, which helps in strengthening the muscles. As children engage in these activities regularly, their endurance levels also improve, enabling them to play for longer periods without getting tired. This increased stamina is beneficial not only for physical activities but also for their overall health and well-being.

3. Enhancing Balance and Coordination

Adventure nets are an excellent way to improve balance and coordination. Navigating the nets requires children to maintain their balance while moving across a flexible, often unstable surface. This challenges their vestibular system (the sensory system that contributes to balance and spatial orientation) and helps improve their overall coordination. Enhanced balance and coordination are crucial for various physical activities and can also prevent injuries during sports and play.

4. Promoting Flexibility and Agility

Flexibility and agility are vital components of physical fitness. The dynamic nature of adventure nets, which involves climbing, twisting, and turning, promotes flexibility in children. These activities stretch their muscles and improve their range of motion. Additionally, the need to quickly change directions and move through the nets enhances their agility. These attributes are beneficial for overall physical fitness and can improve performance in various sports and physical activities.

5. Supporting Bone Health

Weight-bearing activities, such as climbing and jumping, are essential for developing strong and healthy bones. Adventure nets provide an excellent platform for these activities, contributing to bone density and overall skeletal health. Engaging in such activities from a young age can help build a robust skeletal structure, reducing the risk of bone-related issues later in life.

6. Encouraging Cardiovascular Health

Physical activities that get the heart rate up are crucial for cardiovascular health. Climbing, bouncing, and navigating adventure nets are excellent forms of cardiovascular exercise. They get the blood pumping and improve heart and lung function. Regular cardiovascular activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, improve lung capacity, and promote overall cardiovascular health.

Adventure Nets Benefits: Beyond Physical Development

While the physical benefits of adventure nets are substantial, their impact extends beyond just physical development. Here are a few additional benefits:

1. Boosting Mental Health

Physical activity is closely linked to mental health. Engaging in fun and challenging activities like adventure nets can boost children’s mood and reduce anxiety and stress. The sense of achievement they feel after navigating the nets successfully can also enhance their self-esteem and confidence.

2. Fostering Social Skills

Adventure nets often require children to navigate through them together, promoting teamwork and social interaction. Children learn to communicate, cooperate, and support each other while playing. These social interactions are crucial for developing social skills and building friendships.

3. Encouraging Problem-Solving and Creativity

Adventure nets present children with various challenges that require problem-solving skills and creativity. They need to figure out the best way to navigate the nets, which route to take, and how to overcome obstacles. This encourages critical thinking and enhances their problem-solving abilities.

4. Connecting with Nature

Many adventure nets are located in outdoor settings, allowing children to connect with nature. Spending time outdoors has numerous benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting overall well-being. The natural setting can make the physical activity even more enjoyable and beneficial.

Out of Bounds: The Perfect Place for Adventure Nets

Out of Bounds is an excellent destination for children to experience the benefits of adventure nets. Located conveniently in Rustington, it is easily accessible from nearby towns, making it a popular choice for families looking for a fun and engaging activity center. At Out of Bounds, we offer a safe and supervised environment where children can explore our adventure nets and enjoy a variety of other activities, including:

• Adventure Golf: A safari-themed 18-hole course perfect for family fun.
• Clip ‘n Climb: Thrilling climbing walls suitable for all skill levels.
• Laser Tag: An exciting, high-energy game that kids love.
• Ten Pin Bowling: A classic activity that’s perfect for all ages.
• Soft Play: A multi-level play area designed for younger children.

Our adventure nets are designed to be safe and engaging, with plenty of challenges to keep children entertained and active. We prioritize safety and ensure that all our equipment is regularly maintained and inspected.

Conclusion

Adventure nets offer a fun and engaging way for children to develop their physical skills. From improving gross motor skills and strength to enhancing balance, coordination, and flexibility, the benefits are numerous. Additionally, adventure nets provide mental health benefits, foster social skills, and encourage problem-solving and creativity.

At Out of Bounds, we are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment where children can reap these benefits. Our adventure nets, along with our other exciting activities, make us the perfect destination for family fun and physical development.

If you’re looking to boost your child’s physical development in a fun and engaging way, visit us at Out of Bounds and experience the adventure nets benefits firsthand. Book your visit today and let your child embark on a journey of growth and excitement!

For more information and to plan your visit, check out our Adventure Nets page.