Here at Diggerland, we put an incredible amount of focus onto sensory play. We know that when you’re planning a family trip, such as a sensory day out in Durham, it’s helpful to find a space that is inclusive to all children. That’s why we provide a sensory room in our park at Diggerland Durham, as a safe space for children with Special Educational Needs.
Accessible sensory play is incredibly important for early childhood development, as well as their wellbeing in a potentially overwhelming environment. To learn more about the importance of accessible sensory play for young children, keep reading.


What is sensory play?
Sensory play is any kind of activity that stimulates our senses; seeing, hearing, touching, smelling and tasting. Engaging in sensory fun plays an important role in a child’s learning and development. Most importantly, sensory day out in Durham can be really beneficial for children with Special Educational Needs, such as autism or Down’s syndrome.


Some of the benefits
If we were to list all of the amazing benefits of sensory play, we could write a post as long as War and Peace.
Making use of an environment that encourages us to use our senses helps with a child’s brain development. This includes enhancing memory, problem solving skills and other complex tasks.
It will also enhance a child’s memory and observational skills, as well as encouraging creative and independent thinking. Children can also develop fine motor skills through tactful play.
Most importantly, a sensory area will provide emotional regulation for children, helping to ease feelings of anxiousness or anger.
The Diggerland Durham sensory room
At Diggerland Durham, we understand that our machines can get very loud and the outside atmosphere can be overwhelming for children. That’s why we have a sensory room inside our JCB Theatre, for you to take some time out.
Our sensory room is a safe space with dimmed lighting and fairy lights on the ceiling. Other sensory objects, like our wall of colour changing sequins, can be found around the room. There are plenty of bean bags and large cushions on the floor, so the area is comfortable. Most importantly, there is no limit on the length of time you can spend in our sensory room. Feel free to come and go as you please.
Included in your ticket price
One of the best things about our amazing sensory room is that it is included in the price of your admissions ticket. Make sure you pre-book your tickets online to save over £6 per person when you visit Diggerland Durham.
Make sure you’re aware of the changes we’ve made to our pricing structure; children under 100cm now get into the park for free! The rest of our prices are as follows:
- £25.95pp for anyone over 100cm tall
- £12.97pp for anyone over the age of 65
- Free entry for carers with any paying visitor who is registered as disabled
We hope you make the most out of all of the facilities we have available at our Diggerland parks and hopefully you enjoy a sensory day out in Durham soon.
prebook your diggerland tickets today!All information correct as of: 14/02/2023