Lollipops Play Cafe occupies a converted church hall in the middle of Westbourne and caters for the smallest visitors of all: babies and children up to about 7 years old. The old church's tall vaulted ceiling leaves room for a three-storey play frame full of slides, platforms, steps and bridges, and parents and carers can take a seat in the coffee shop next to it.
The play frame and the café
Most people come for the play frame, whose separate levels let toddlers and older children climb and explore while being watched. Next door, the café cooks a homemade menu of freshly prepared sandwiches, toasties, paninis, weaning platters and pouches of baby food, so the trip can stand in for lunch out with little ones. Children of 8 and above may come in, though they are not allowed on the play equipment.
Hours, prices and parties
Drop-in soft play sessions take place Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm (starting at 10am on Tuesdays), with no booking needed; at weekends the venue is given over to private party hire. Entry prices depend on age, from nothing for the youngest babies up to £5.50 for children between 12 months and 7 years, paid by card only. Baby and toddler classes also run here, and birthday parties can be booked with exclusive use of the building, party food and a small disco thrown in.
For families with small children staying in or near Westbourne, it's a useful fallback on a rainy day. More family-friendly suggestions are in our guide to things to do in Bournemouth.