The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre - Image 1

The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre

Hatfield, United Kingdom•4.5(221)•Soft Play Center

Enjoy indoor soft play at Freddie's Den, a popular children's activity venue within The Hive community leisure facility in South Hatfield.

The Hive, located at Hill Top in South Hatfield, is a large leisure facility that has evolved into a vibrant community hub since opening in 1990 as the Jim McDonald Centre. Renamed The Hive in 2020 to celebrate its 30th anniversary, the centre reflects the popularity and buzz of all activities happening within its walls. The venue houses Freddie's Den, a popular soft play area open every day, offering affordable entry for children and childminders. With entry priced at £4.20 per child and £2.80 per childminder, Freddie's Den provides an accessible indoor play option for families. The Hive also offers multiple spaces available to hire for various indoor sports and children's activities, making it a comprehensive facility for family entertainment. Beyond soft play, The Hive serves as a multifunctional community space, home to Footsteps 123 Nursery and offering diverse children's party options. The facility caters to local residents, community groups, and charities, making it an ideal destination for families seeking quality indoor entertainment and activities for children aged 6-12 and younger.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 09:00 – 22:00
Tuesday: 09:00 – 22:00
Wednesday: 09:00 – 22:00
Thursday: 09:00 – 22:00
Friday: 09:00 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 18:00
Sunday: 09:00 – 18:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

6 years – 12 years

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.5(221 reviews)
J
Jacqui Smith

Jacqui Smith

7 months ago

Extremely difficult to get a parking space and the spaces are painted for small narrow cars, not for the lorries and big wide cars that park there. The venue does not offer showers or changing rooms which is unpleasant when you have used the sports hall for active exercise.

T
Tim Smalley

Tim Smalley

a year ago

I visit twice weekly with my son for his Kumon tuition after school. As someone who nearly lost both legs to sepsis last year, the facilities are somewhat wanting. We frequently have to park away from the car park as the disabled bays are always taken, and then gingerly walk down the steep hill at the entrance of the car park. I cannot get out of the car without a struggle in the normal bays. The walk down is not much fun with legs that buckle unannounced, even with crutches - and especially during winter months where it’s likely to be very slippy. Secondly, there is frequently nowhere to sit. And today, I went to sit in the corner of the lounge while my son was attending his class and was told to leave by 5 or 6 people sitting in one corner of the large lounge. So I had to stand in the corridor, hanging off my crutch while waiting for my son to finish. Not great for a proudly plasters “A centre for everyone” across its walls. Not great. Edit: after 20 minutes a nice lady offered me her seat.

F
Fiona Wallace

Fiona Wallace

2 years ago

Really great venue. We hired it for a party and was great value for a soft play hire for little ones. Coffee bar in soft play was nice and good value too. Staff were all fantastic, totally recommend for a party for under 5s

R
Ramachandran Subramanian

Ramachandran Subramanian

2 years ago

We recently had a wonderful celebration for our daughter's birthday at a fantastic venue. The room provided was clean and ready on time, despite having been used by the previous party. Additionally, the bouncy castle area was immaculate, and the children had a fantastic time playing there.

N
Nalini Raman

Nalini Raman

8 years ago

A great place to have a kids birthday or christening. The place really transforms once you have tablecloths and chair covers on. Can easily accommodate 70-80 people. You can also have grown up parties here. The staff is excellent. Phil the caretaker goes out of his way to helpful. I'm a party planner and would highly recommend this place as a venue - Party Genie.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre

Is The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre free to visit?

The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

What ages is The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre suitable for?

The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre is best for children aged 6 to 12.

Is The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre.

Is there parking at The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre?

The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre?

The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre pushchair-friendly?

The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre.

How do I get to The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre by public transport?

The Hive @ The Jim McDonald Centre is well-served by public transport.
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