The Weston Play Zone – Imperial War Museum Duxford

Delivered by The Nursery & School Renovation Company, Designed by Davies White Landscape Architects

The Weston Play Zone at the Imperial War Museum (IWM) Duxford is a bold and inclusive aviation-themed adventure playground, officially opened on 27 July 2024. This unique outdoor space was expertly constructed by The Nursery & School Renovation Company and designed by award-winning Davies White Landscape Architects, renowned for their innovative, child-led, and nature-based play environments.

Set against the backdrop of the UK’s largest aviation museum, the playground is part of IWM Duxford’s commitment to family engagement and accessible learning through play.

Lauren Moore, IWM Duxford project manager, said: “After years of research and planning, it is fantastic to see our vision for a new state-of-the-art play area at IWM Duxford brought to life. “Every little detail has been meticulously researched and considered in line with feedback from parents and, the harshest critics of all, children. “The result is an inclusive and highly varied play zone which will ignite little imaginations while embracing the history which makes IWM Duxford such a unique and special place to visit.”

Aviation-Themed Adventure Play

Inspired by Duxford’s flying heritage, the Weston Play Zone offers:

• Playful Plane: A large bespoke aircraft-themed climbing structure with interactive sound panels and control-themed puzzles, encouraging role play and problem solving.
• Cloud Walkway: An elevated climbing path mimicking the vapour trails of aircraft, complete with challenging rope walks, sensory textures, and a tubular slide.
• Inclusive Toddler Zone: Swings, sound wheels, wobble dishes, and a sensory-rich mini climbing loom—all designed for early years exploration.
• Accessible Play Equipment: A wheelchair-accessible seesaw, in-ground trampolines, and a rotating carousel ensure all children can join in the fun.
• Sensory & Quiet Areas: Calm, shaded areas with natural planting and tactile elements, offering quieter experiences for children who may be overwhelmed by more active spaces.

Inclusive, Sustainable & Community-Led Design

The project was developed with direct input from families and children, including those supported by the charity Little Miracles, ensuring that the space meets the needs of children with disabilities and additional needs.

The project was generously funded by the Garfield Weston Foundation and forms part of the museum’s wider Transforming IWM Duxford initiative.

IWM Duxford worked closely with families from the charity, Little Miracles, to make the Weston Play Zone inclusive for children with disabilities and additional needs. The charity’s guidance greatly influenced the design process, leading to the inclusion of features such as quieter sheltered areas, wheelchair-accessible ramps, ground-level trampolines, and roundabouts.

Davies White’s thoughtful design, paired with The Nursery & School Renovation Company’s specialist build expertise in educational and inclusive environments, has delivered a landmark space that is safe, imaginative, and enriching.

A Family Destination in the East of England

Located beside the Armoury Café, the Weston Play Zone is free to access with general admission and has become a major attraction for families visiting the East of England. It merges education, heritage, and physical activity in a way that reflects both the history of the site and the needs of today’s learners.