Review: Wangal Reserve Playground
In late 2020, Wangal Reserveโs $1.7m upgrade was completed and it opened to the public. We had the pleasure of checking it out recently and itโs well worth a visit, pleasing both children and parents alike!
Wangal Reserve is located at Mortlake, at the end of Hilly Street and has so much to offer. Itโs set along the Parramatta River and in addition to offering stunning (panoramic) water views, it also offers sandy beaches, open green space, pathways for scooting, and the highlight โ a fantastic new nature-themed playground.
[Above: Adventure climbing fort at Wangal Reserve]
The nature play area is made from beautiful, solid timber and features an adventure climbing structure, swings, a timber boat, slides, water play, musical instruments and climbing/balancing logs as well as a merry-go-round (which is at the time of writing, out of action).
[Above: Play equipment at Wangal Reserve]
Throughout the playground, there is a mix soft bark and soft fall. The reserve is also pram and wheelchair friendly.
[Above: Wangal Reserve walkways]
Whilst it might not be the biggest playground, it is a great day out with the kids and the waterfront views are simply idyllic. There is a great mix of equipment that younger and bigger kids will love and there is ample room for a group picnic.
[Above: Shell climbing structure & flying fox at Wangal Reserve]
At the tip of the reserve and away from the rest of the play equipment, is a fabulous flying fox. Which we found can also take the weight of at least an average, fun-loving adult! There is also a unique climbing โshellโ for the kids to discover too.
There are sheltered picnic areas and BBQ facilities next to the playground complete with bar stools. The toilet facilities are easily accessible and located right next to the playground and the reserve entrance.
[Above: Picnic shelter & beach at Wangal Reserve]
For some sandcastle building and some stunning city views, there are several sandy beach areas next to the walkways.
Top tip: although there is some natural shade around the reserve, be sure to pack your sunscreen and hats as the playground itself is in full sun.
Parking and getting there
There are only a few car spaces at the reserve itself, however there is street parking along Hilly Street, which may require a short walk to the reserve.ย You might also like to try the free Mortlake car ferry, which operates from Putney to Mortlake.
There arenโt any cafes in close proximity to the park but there are plenty to choose from in Mortlake.
The reserve is well-equipped for a great family outing and is a terrific venue for a BBQ or picnic. My enthusiastic five year old scored the new playground โ โ100 out of 10โ. So I guess weโll be back ๐
Features:
- Nature-based playground
- Flying fox
- Pram and wheelchair friendly
- Small beach areas
- Water views
- Car ferry
- Street parking
- BBQ facilities
- Toilet facilities
Address:ย 38A Hilly St, Mortlake
Photos by Anna Jameson
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