Birdworld’s eagerly anticipated 17,000 sq ft indoor Play Barn has swooped into Farnham. 

Marking the second phase of the UK’s largest bird park’s multi-million-pound redevelopment, the impressive indoor play area and adjoining café have opened just in time for the Christmas holidays. 

Celebrating the launch on December 19 at the official ribbon-cutting ceremony were Councillor Graham Hill and his consort, Mrs Britt Hill; the Deputy Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Graham White; and MP for East Hampshire, Conservative Damien Hinds – each proud supporters of Birdworld and its exciting journey to date. 

Another notable guest was Penguin – Birdworld’s beloved mascot – fresh from his visit to Farnham Rugby Club, who recently partnered with Birdworld ahead of the launch. 

Penguin, who has been a hit with children and adults alike, posed with stakeholders for photos before the group – along with other key stakeholders and their children – entered the new Play Barn, which boasts all-year-round facilities under the banner of nature, fun and education. 

The immersive play area, designed by leisure attraction experts Greenspan, is home to a colourful woodland world filled with rope bridges, slides, secret hideaways and a large bounce net. 

The theming is tied together by the ‘Spriglets’, a charming group of loveable creatures who bring Birdworld’s “Naturally Playful” ethos to the forefront, and features inclusive elements and step-free access throughout to ensure every child can join in the fun. 

The Play Barn also includes three bright, welcoming party rooms, giving families a dedicated place to celebrate birthdays and special occasions throughout the year. 

Guests at the pre-booked two-hour play sessions can order from the Play Barn café, which will be serving hot and cold food designed to appeal to even the pickiest toddler palates. Food is ordered via a QR code, with staff delivering meals straight to your table.  

Matt Hill, Director of Birdworld, said: “Opening our indoor Play Barn marks another exciting step in our redevelopment journey and reinforces our commitment to offering year-round, Naturally Playful experiences for families. As well as giving children a brilliant space to explore, it creates more opportunities for visitors to discover and appreciate the incredible birds and conservation work that make Birdworld so special. 

“We want Birdworld to be a place where children of all ages can explore, learn and let their imaginations run wild – whatever the weather. We’re delighted to have opened this side of the Christmas holidays, and we will even be open on Boxing Day for the first time in the Park’s history.” 

Matt added: “This new space adds a vibrant new chapter to Birdworld’s story and strengthens our ambition to remain one of the region’s most loved family attractions. With more improvements planned throughout 2026, this is only just the beginning.”