OXFORD ISLAND

COME ON IN AND PLAY WILD AT OXFORD ISLAND’S NEW WORLD EXCLUSIVE PLAY PARK!

A brand new, state-of-the-art, bespoke and truly unique play park has been created at Oxford Island – and it has to be seen to be believed! The conservation-inspired facility is completely bespoke to Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, and in that way is a genuine one-of-a-kind. From the design and materials used to the inclusivity aspects and artistic additions, this play park is a marvel and overlooks the stunning Lough Neagh while blending into the beauty of the forest surroundings.

Each piece of equipment gives a ‘nod’ to life on the island – whether the birds, the animals, the flowers, the trees or the fish. Nature combines with play to bring about a whole new experience for children, as well as parents, grandparents and carers. You will find the traditional pieces of equipment including swings, slides and roundabout as well as multi feature wooden beams, mounds to climb, clamber stacks, bridges, rope climbing, sliding poles, lower level trampolines, stepping stones, tunnels, interactive panels and so much more. The ground looks like a forest floor while a local artist has hand painted original features throughout the park to the exact colourings of life on Oxford Island.

In the centre of the playground is a ramp – the first of its kind in Northern Ireland – that brings children in wheelchairs right into the heart of play and to a completely different level of the park, allowing them to truly be immersed in the fun and action.

Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife and walking trails allow visitors to explore a range of habitats from woodlands to reedbeds, unique boglands to rich wildflower strewn meadows, discovering wildlife ponds and bird watching hides while becoming immersed in the panoramic views of this stunning setting and the sounds and sights of nature. Designed for all abilities of mobility, the trails can lead onto further branching footpaths just off the beaten track, venturing deeper but safely into the nature reserve.

Enjoy a snack at the Loughside Café with picturesque scenery from its amazing situation on the shores of Lough Neagh. The café is located in Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, also home to a Tourist Information Centre with friendly, helpful staff, a gift shop and trio of conference rooms with views across the nature reserve. Freshly baked scones, soup, traybakes and kids’ meals are on the menu! The café is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am-4pm (inclusive throughout winter).

Check out our new Communication Board here at Oxford Island. It is a board with pictures that can be used to share messages. The board in Oxford Island has pictures of things in the play park, action words, feelings, and words that can be used to request, like ‘more’.

We are using everything in our communication toolbox, including pictures, gestures, signs, and words, to get our message across. Everyone should have a go at using our new communication boards and experience this new way to share messages!

Click HERE for further details on how to use. Enjoy!