This year, BeWILDerwood turns 18! That’s 18 whole years of magic, tree-top adventures, and brilliant memories made in the wonky woods. From the very first day we opened the gates in Norfolk, to the launch of our second site in Cheshire, and even welcoming Christmas magic into the woods – it’s been quite the journey. Let’s take a wander down memory lane.
The Beginning of the BeWILDerwood Story
BeWILDerwood first opened in 2007 in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, springing to life from the pages of A Boggle at BeWILDerwood, the enchanting book by creator, Tom Blofeld. Inspired by Tom’s tales of Swampy the Marsh Boggle and his adventures with Twiggles, Crocklebogs, and more, the park was designed to be a place where families could step straight into a storybook – one that celebrated imagination and outdoor play.
I’m so delighted that BeWILDerwood Norfolk has been providing families with enjoyment, through fun and imaginative play for the last 18 years. Millions of visitors have walked in the footsteps of Swampy and really believe in the magic of BeWILDerwood. We thank every single visitor for becoming part of the BeWILDerwood story.
Tom Blofeld
Reaching New Heights: Towering Treetop Tangles
In May 2019, the magic grew even higher with the launch of Towering Treetop Tangles in Norfolk. Scramble and climb to the top of the trees in this impressive play structure, designed especially for more adventurous kids (and grown-ups too!) With climbing challenges and fantastic views, it quickly became a favourite for fearless explorers.
Growing the Woods: BeWILDerwood Cheshire
As our story grew, so did our woods! From early plans in 2016, to navigating a few pandemic-induced delays, we finally opened the gates to BeWILDerwood Cheshire in 2021.
From the moment visitors pass through the Grubbles Greeting Gates, they step into a world built from the imagination of the BeWILDerwood books – brought to life with towering play structures, slippery slides, and storytelling shows all nestled in natural woodland. Just like Norfolk, Cheshire quickly became the place where both children and grown-ups could let their imaginations run WILD.
A Touch of Christmas Magic
And then came something truly special: Christmas arrived at BeWILDerwood! In 2022, we hosted our very first festive event – transforming the woods into a glowing wonderland filled with snowmen, lantern-lit pathways, twinkling lights, storytelling magic, and of course, a visit from Father Christmas himself.
Since then, BeWILDerwood Presents Christmas - A Sparkly Light & Panto Trail has become a beloved tradition, bringing even more sparkle to the woods and creating new memories for families returning year after year.
Whether it’s your fist visit or your fiftieth, whether you’ve explored the woods in sunshine or snow – every visitor becomes part of the BeWILDerwood story.
Here’s to the next chapter!
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