Timbuktu Adventure Playground - Image 1

Timbuktu Adventure Playground

London, United Kingdom•4.6(26)•Playground

Explore an award-winning adventure playground featuring climbing structures, fire pits, arts and crafts, and sensory gardens for children aged 6+.

Timbuktu Adventure Playground is a cherished community space in Islington with a rich history dating back to the 1970s. Originally established by local residents without a permanent building—even operating from a laundry and double decker bus—it has evolved into a vibrant recreational hub. Voted London's Coolest Adventure Playground in 2019, Timbuktu offers a diverse range of activities and facilities designed to inspire creativity and outdoor exploration. The playground features an impressive array of attractions including climbing structures, a fire pit, sand pit, drop slide, border swings, climbing trees, and a building climbing net. Indoor facilities are equally comprehensive with a Main Hall offering arts and crafts activities, reading areas, and chill-out spaces. Music programs and a pond with ecology sensory garden provide additional engagement opportunities. A football pitch and accessible facilities round out the offerings. Timbuktu is run by the Islington Play Association (charity) and welcomes children aged 6 and upwards. Opening hours vary seasonally, with afternoon sessions during term time (3:30-6:30 Tuesday-Friday) and extended hours during school holidays (10:30-5:30 Monday-Friday). Family Days are held on Saturdays from 12-5pm, making it accessible for families with varying schedules. The playground serves generations of local children and remains an integral part of the Islington community.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:30 – 17:30
Wednesday: 10:30 – 17:30
Thursday: 10:30 – 17:30
Friday: 10:30 – 17:30
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

6 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

4.6(26 reviews)
J
Julie Tomlinson

Julie Tomlinson

3 years ago

Timbuktu is infinity plus infinity plus infinity plus infinity and beyond, fantastic and brilliant,best fun ever. They are the words from my grandchildren 8yrs and 6yrs. They loved making new friends,all the activities,arts n crafts,an outing,BBQ, water slide,sandpit,all the things to ride and climb on and games. All the staff are amazing,so welcoming,friendly and caring for each child's needs. Healthy lunches given and plenty to drink to keep them hydrated. I recommend Timbuktu to any parent or grandparents who are looking for a fun,safe environment for our energetic kids. Thankyou Timbuktu. JULIE TOMLINSON.XXX

T
T “Road trip” D

T “Road trip” D

4 years ago

Great place my daughter enjoyed every minute of it 😁

E
Ewelina Sadlowska

Ewelina Sadlowska

6 years ago

Great laid back atmosphere. Professional staff on site with positive attitude. Children are encouraged to play freely and explore and are given opportunities make decisions and take positive risk under supervision. Family like atmosphere.

C
Class Rockets

Class Rockets

7 years ago

My children, aged 7 and 9 (a boy and a girl); have been going to Timbuktu for the past year. They absolutely love going there. It is one of the few activities they do which always gets a thumbs up. In the holidays they can go every day and I keep expecting them to say they want to do something different but they keep wanting to go every day!! Part of that is the exciting activities planned each day, like Easter egg hunting, slime making, go-kart making, the disco. There is a big outdoor play area, with sand and water play, swings, slide and climbing frames . It is absolutely fantastic for them to go there in the evening, where they get lots of exercise and social interaction, compared to sitting at home on their phones or watching telly. They would even rather go there than the park with me because their friends are there and there are more activities. The staff are absolutely lovely, caring people who I feel completely confident to trust my children's well being with. I feel so lucky to have Timbuktu nearby as it provides everything children need for healthy physical, emotional, social and even brain development. This is especially needed in today's environment of fear about letting children play outside by themselves with their friends. Here they can play with their friends in a safe and stimulating environment. Brilliant!

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Nisha Morgan

Nisha Morgan

7 years ago

My son and I attend the Saturday family days on a regular basis, it is a great friendly environment with so much to do from amazing crafts, activities inside and lets not forget the amazing playground. There is so much to do we stay there from start to finish. The staff there are so helpful, amazing and involve everyone in all activities. the other children who attend are so friendly, kind and caring and are always willing to help. The best thing about Timbuktu is how children can explore and learn in a safe place and how the centre has a massive community feel which is entirely child lead. my only regret about Timbuktu is not finding it sooner.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Timbuktu Adventure Playground

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Timbuktu Adventure Playground

Is Timbuktu Adventure Playground free to visit?

Entry to Timbuktu Adventure Playground is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Timbuktu Adventure Playground suitable for?

Timbuktu Adventure Playground is best for children aged 6 and up.

Is Timbuktu Adventure Playground dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Timbuktu Adventure Playground.

Is there parking at Timbuktu Adventure Playground?

Timbuktu Adventure Playground doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at Timbuktu Adventure Playground?

Timbuktu Adventure Playground doesn't have food on site — bring snacks or grab something nearby.

Is Timbuktu Adventure Playground pushchair-friendly?

Timbuktu Adventure Playground 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 Timbuktu Adventure Playground?

Timbuktu Adventure Playground is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Timbuktu Adventure Playground by public transport?

Timbuktu Adventure Playground is well-served by public transport.
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