It was time for a new review and two people in the last week suggested Harestock Playground, and I am so glad they did because we loved our trip there. This playground is a bit further out of town but it was a delight and the girls loved it.

Age Group
All ages could find something to do here.

Getting there and parking
The playground is located in a quiet residential part of Winchester called Harestock, there is a bus that stops immediately outside. There seemed to be some parking spaces around but best to check, we walked to the playground which was rather pleasant on the day we went.

Equipment
Got to be honest, the equipment is slightly dated but seemed to me to be in good condition and there is a lot of it. So much in fact, I am not going to attempt do a list, I’d surely miss something out. Have a look at some of the treasures you will find in the 18 photos displayed below.
This playground is under the Harestock and Littleton parish council and I don’t know if they check their play areas weekly like Winchester does (if you know, please do send me an email), I didn’t see any glaring safety issues.

Watch Out For
It is a vast space with the playground equipment spread all over, and if your child is a runner, this playground probably would not be enjoyable, you will need to stick by them to not lose them! For older kids though, who want to go and have a bit of independence, it is excellent.

Shading
There are a few trees providing some shade, but the playground is spread out so obviously not everywhere was in shade and neither of the benches were. I imagine it is very sunny in the summer with not much shade, so you will need hats and suncreams with you.

Picnic Area
One table with benches attached, various bits of grass where you could lay a blanket and have a picnic. There are 2 standalone benches too.

Coffee
There is a pub around the corner, called the March Hare and a Tescos extra where you could pick up snacks. Also if you drive over to Stockbridge Rd and towards town you will find a Costa Coffee.

Toilets
No public toilets according to the locals I asked, if you know otherwise, do let me know. You could use the pub or go back to where Aldi and Costa are on Stockbridge Rd.

The View and Atmosphere
This triangular shaped park is line with high bushes on one side, low bushes on another and a road on the third side with a secure looking high fence. The road is a really quite one and we only saw the occasional bus and car go by, so no concerns about noise or pollution. We were there in school time and there were a few other families with young children, it was very peaceful.

There was a lovely sign up designed by local children I think, to remind visitors to take care of the park, it was nice to see local children be allowed to take ownership of their playground and makes me think it must be a lovely community to be in.

We really loved this playground, but considering how long it took us to walk here, I’d have to budget in a cafe trip next time to make sure we can use their loos.

About the Author:
I (Evie Winter) am a local Mum, photographer and blogger as well as a former childcare professional.
I passionately believe all children should be given access to safe, good quality playgrounds, and with that in mind I have been reviewing local Winchester playgrounds to encourage people to visit them. I have been going in my spare time with my young children, and I’ve done my best to research and give the correct information. If you have any suggestions or corrections, please send a polite email to hello@eviewinter.com.
Many Thanks. Evie

Harestock Playground Review