Discover Bracknell's Look Out Discovery Centre and Playground

Exterior view of The Look Out Discovery Centre building with colourful panels, surrounded by pine trees in bright sunlight.

Nestled in the heart of Bracknell Forest, the Look Out Discovery Centre is one of Berkshire's most popular family attractions.

Combining interactive learning with outdoor adventure, it's the perfect place for children to explore, play and discover through hands-on experiences.

Whether you're planning a family holiday, looking for a fun day out, or staying nearby at Easthampstead Park Hotel, this discovery centre in Bracknell offers plenty to keep children entertained both indoors and outdoors.

Read on to discover everything you need to know before your visit, including tickets, what to expect and how to plan your day.

LOCATION AND OPENING TIMES

Location: Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW.

Opening Times: Opening hours can vary throughout the year, so it's best to check the official website for the latest information.

Tickets: Advance booking is recommended during weekends, school holidays and special events.

What To Expect At The Look Out Discovery Centre In Bracknell

The Look Out Discovery Centre has been inspiring curious minds for years with its collection of hands-on science experiences designed for children and families.

Inside the centre in Bracknell, you'll find over 90 hands-on activities and interactive exhibits that encourage exploration through play.

The attraction is primarily aimed at primary school aged children, although younger and older visitors will also find plenty to enjoy.

Expect to discover:

More than 90 hands-on science and discovery activities.

Interactive science and nature exhibits covering light, sound, forces and energy.

An exciting science exhibition featuring experiments and problem-solving challenges.

The chance to launch a rocket or set off a hot air balloon demonstration.

Exhibits where children can learn the mysteries of the human body and brain, including the body and perception zone by testing speed and reflex.

Interactive exhibits that encourage teamwork, imaginative thinking and solving puzzles.

The popular Look Out Construction Crew zone, where children can join the Look Out Construction Crew in the build area to create and experiment.

Most families spend a couple of hours exploring the indoor exhibits before heading outside for even more adventure.

Adventure Playground & Outdoor Play Area

Image of playground at Bracknell's Look Out Discovery Centre

One of the biggest highlights is the playground outside, where outdoors there's an adventure playground surrounded by beautiful woodland.

The outdoor play area includes:

A large adventure playground with climbing frames and slides.

A dedicated infant play trail is ideal for ages 3-6, featuring a massive fort in the middle.

Woodland and water play features within the woodland and water zone.

Plenty of open space for exploration and imaginative play.

Picnic benches and a spacious picnic area.

Forest surroundings offering plenty of shade and seating.

Children can climb the impressive fort, follow the woodland trail, and enjoy a fantastic outdoor play area while parents relax nearby on one of the many seats.

If your family enjoys being outdoors, you're also perfectly placed to explore Swinley Forest, where forest walks and nature trails are perfect to explore by bike or foot.

Preparing For Your Visit To The Look Out Discovery Centre

A little preparation helps everyone enjoy the day.

Before you go:

  • Wear comfortable clothing suitable for both indoor exhibits and outdoor adventure.
  • Bring waterproofs if you're planning to explore the surrounding woodland.
  • Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch in the cafe.
  • Allow at least a couple of hours to experience both the indoor exhibits and the playground.
  • Consider combining your visit with nearby forest walks and nature trails.

With so many interactive exhibits, activities and outdoor adventures, many families choose to spend most of the day here.

FAQs About The Look Out Discovery Centre

How many activities are there?

There are over 90 hands-on activities to entertain children, with interactive science exhibits covering a wide variety of topics.

What age is the Look Out Discovery Centre suitable for?

The attraction is mainly aimed at primary school aged children, although younger children can enjoy the infant play trail designed for ages 3-6.

Is there an outdoor playground?

Yes. The playground includes an impressive adventure play area, climbing equipment, woodland trails and dedicated play spaces for younger children.

Can I book tickets in advance?

Yes. It's recommended to book tickets online, particularly during weekends and school holidays.

Is there food available?

Yes. The attraction has both a cafe and coffee shop, along with picnic facilities if you'd rather bring your own food.

Is it accessible?

Yes. The Look Out Discovery Centre offers good accessibility across much of the site, although some woodland trails may have uneven surfaces.

Is it worth visiting?

Absolutely.

Families consistently rate it as a fantastic day out thanks to its blend of hands-on science, outdoor adventure and woodland surroundings.