If you are looking for an indoor day out in Kent that actually keeps kids entertained without spending loads, Explorers Escape soft play at Maidstone Leisure Centre is definitely one to know about.
My daughter said it was the best soft play she has ever been to, and of course the lava slides were her absolute favourite. The combination of both makes this feel like more than just a standard soft play visit.
What Is Explorers Escape Soft Play?
Explorers Escape is a purpose-built three-storey soft play designed for children aged up to 12 years.
It is much bigger than your average soft play and has loads going on. Inside, you will find features like the Boulder Chase Challenge, Mine Cart Racing open slide, Climbing Volcano, Tree Trunk inclined crawl tube, Temple Maze and the lava slides, which are subject to availability.
The lava slides are what really make this stand out. They are fast, fun and perfect for kids who want something a bit more exciting alongside soft play.
There is also a dedicated under 5s area, complete with a ball pit and toys, making it a great option for toddlers as well. Overall, it is a really good space for kids to burn energy in a safe and interactive environment.
Opening Times
Explorers Escape soft play hours are:
Weekdays and school holidays: 10am to 4pm
Weekends: 11am to 2pm
It is always best to check availability and book in advance, especially during busier periods.
How Much Does It Cost?
We paid £11.15 for a 90-minute session, which included both the lava slides and soft play. Adults do not need to pay or book, so you are only paying for the children, which makes this a really affordable option for families. Considering everything that is included, it feels like very good value.
Important Things To Know Before You Go
- Children must be at least 1 metre tall to ride the lava slides.
- Bookings are required for children only. Adults do not need to book.
- Sessions are timed, so arriving on time is important.
- Soft play is included in the price, so there are no extra charges.
Parking and Getting There
Parking is available on site at Maidstone Leisure Centre, making it easy if you are driving. If you are coming from London, you can get the train to Maidstone East, which takes just over an hour, making it a very doable day trip.
Address: Maidstone Leisure Centre
Mote Park, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7RN
Make It A Full Day Out
It is not far from London, but if you are travelling all the way there, it is worth turning it into a full day out.
A great option is to combine it with the Totem Splash Pad in the Lagoon Pool. This water play area includes slides, water cannons and interactive features, giving kids something completely different after soft play. You can book this as part of a family fun swim or just for the splash pad.
Prices start from £7.45, and the centre operates an adult to child ratio of 1 adult to 2 children under the age of 8.
Our Experience
We focused mainly on the lava slides and soft play during our visit, and that alone kept my daughter fully entertained for the entire session.
The slides are definitely the highlight, but having soft play included means there is always something to do. Kids can climb, run around and go straight back onto the slides again.
It is one of those places where the time goes quickly because they never get bored. We did not try the splash pad this time, but it is something we would definitely add next time.
Is It Worth Visiting?
If your child enjoys soft play but wants something a bit more exciting, Explorers Escape is a really good option.
The fact that adults do not pay and both soft play and lava slides are included makes it a very affordable day out. If you are travelling from London or further out, it is worth combining it with other activities nearby to make the most of your trip.
Overall, it is a great value indoor day out in Kent and one we would definitely do again.
