Makeshift Playroom At EICA: Ratho

The EICA climbing centre at Ratho normally has a soft play room called Scrambles (we've never actually been to this), which is closed for refurbishment at the moment and so, in an inspired move, they've decided to open a temporary playroom upstairs which they've filled with ex-creche toys and a bouncy castle. It's massive, has EVERY toy you could imagine a toddler wanting to play with and still only costs £1.50 for an hour's play.
Areas include a reading corner, art tables, a mini basketball net, trikes, tents and tunnels, and a soft play area too. The bouncy castle was a real hit and it was Belle's first time on one ( I was almost crying with laughter at her falling over and struggling to her feet only to fall over again- she was too).
They're hoping to have the soft play opened again by February, but I kind of like this place the way it is and I think we'll be back soon!

Belle reading Hello magazine in the book corner

Vogrie Park

Vogrie is a good day out, all year round. We've been there on scorching Summer's days for a play in the park and lunch in the cafe but we've also been on chilly Autumn days, to collect leaves and cones. 

It has two good play parks that appeal to all ages although I think that the one next to the car park has more in it for toddlers, whilst the large one at the bottom of the hill has something to keep everyone amused. 

There's a couple of ponds to explore too. One of our favourite visits coincided with the frog spawning season in Spring, when the noise of the frogs' croaking was so loud it sounded like motorbikes revving their engines in the distance. They were really interesting to watch and kept Belle amused for ages.

There's lots to do here. We've been to a 1st birthday barbecue, rolled our Easter eggs down the  hill, and played in the soft play next to The Cedar Tree Cafe. There is more- we've never caught the miniature railway and have never managed to climb the giant chair and bike sculptures yet but I'm sure we will one day if Isabel has anything to do with it!

Egg Rolling

Soft Play

Giant Bike Sculpture