Indoor Playground at Barnsley Metrodome, Designed for Every Age

Barnsley Metrodome, one of South Yorkshire’s busiest leisure centers, wanted to give local families a reason to spend the whole day, not just an afternoon. Dave Gibson, the Facilities Manager, said, “There was a real gap for a modern, high-quality indoor play space that could cater to children of all ages, abilities, and interests under one roof.”

Greenspan handled the full playground design and transformed the center’s former bowling alley into a vibrant indoor play area for all ages and abilities.

Indoor Playground Design for Every Age

Adventure Reef brings a series of age-specific zones together under a single under-the-sea theme, so every child can find activities made for them:

• A toddler zone for under-fives, with low slides, scramble nets, and soft play structures.
• A central play structure for older children, with nets, rollers, tunnels, and slides in sustainably sourced Robinia wood.
• A sensory room for neurodivergent children, with calmer lighting and tactile play, set away from the busier floor.
• A games room for pre-teens, with electronic darts, retro gaming, and pool.
• An activity court with an interactive screen for active play across ages.

Playground Design That Activates the Whole Venue

Adventure Reef was built to engage children of all ages, keeping them occupied while their parents relax in the cafe, turning a short visit into a full-day outing. These longer visits increase spending on food and drinks, and families are more likely to return for such an immersive experience.

Its impact extends beyond the play area. By encouraging families to stay longer, it increases traffic and spending throughout the venue. For any leisure center or venue considering an indoor play area design, whether themed, natural, or adventure-focused, this is the real value.

Adventure Reef opened to the public in October 2025. For similar projects, check out: How Playground Design Transformed a Seasonal Wildlife Park into Year-Round Family Destination