Ready to venture beyond your local area? Bridges Hill Park Playground in Cessnock is a must-visit for Hunter families. This hilltop gem features a massive climbing tower and giant slide for big kids, plus nature play for toddlers. With shade, BBQs, and great views, it’s the perfect spot to pack a picnic and make a day of it.
On arrival, you will find ample parking space. You can access Bridges Hill Park via sandstone steps or wheelchair/stroller accessible ramps.
If you are entering via the right side of the car park, you’ll notice several sheltered picnic tables as well as barbeques.
One unique feature about this playground is the half-sized basketball court which includes fencing around the sides that ensures no balls roll away or get lost.
The half-court has a brick wall which features a beautiful Aboriginal Dreamtime mural.
Amongst the abundance of footpaths, you will find multiple different timber style play zones.
The smaller zone has a platform on either end with a woven rope beam connecting the platforms. Also in this area are “tree stump” stepping stones that the kids can use to test their balancing skills.
The second timber play zone is a larger one which includes an impressive play structure with rock climbing walls, “fireman poles”, stairs and slides.
An elevated platform connects these structures.
Another feature sure to impress is the enclosed metal slide that runs down the slope from one level to the next. Sandstone blocks surround the slide, adding a fun and modern element.
Be sure to pack the scooters and helmets! There’s a fantastic children’s bike area designed to look like real roads, featuring miniature traffic signs to help little riders practice their skills.
Our favourite feature in this part of the park was the adorable fuel pump where the little ones can stop, have a chat and fill up their “cars” before heading around the track again (and again!)
The centrepiece of equipment in this park is the massive blue and purple themed play structure. This large structure includes around 10 metres of climbing netting which leads to a sizeable platform.
The next step after this platform is a sturdy tunnel that runs diagonally upwards towards an even larger and higher platform.
On this platform is a very impressive and enclosed metal slide.
Warning: the only way out of this high tower is down the slide or back through the tunnel, which can be tough for little ones when there’s a line of kids behind them. Make sure your children are confident with the heights, or you might be making the climb yourself!
The wide footpaths, concrete pathways, Yarning Circle, sandstone retaining walls and vast green spaces surrounding the playground all combine to set Bridges Hill Park apart from your standard playground.
From the top of the park, the views across Cessnock to the Brokenback Ranges are really beautiful and provide a picturesque backdrop.
Bridges Hill Park Playground be a lovely spot for a play date or family catch up, with picnic tables, barbecue facilities, amenities block and shade sails all available to make for a relaxed gathering.
Good To Know
Bridges Hill is suitable for children of all ages.
The park is located at the end of Yango Street, Cessnock, NSW.
Yes. There are modern public toilets on-site, including accessible facilities.
Yes. Drinking water fountains and refill stations are available within the park.
Yes. The park has been designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring wide, paved paths that are pram and wheelchair friendly. There is an accessible carousel, sensory play elements at lower levels, and accessible toilets. While the park is set on a hill, the main paths provide good access between the different play zones.
Yes. The park is well-equipped with several covered picnic tables and benches scattered throughout the play areas.
Yes. There are electric BBQ facilities available.
Yes. There is a dedicated on-site car park with several accessible parking spots. If the main lot is full, there is usually additional street parking on Yango Street.
Yes. While there isn’t a café inside the park itself, the East Cessnock Bowling Club is right across the road for a bistro meal. You are also just a 2-minute drive from the Cessnock CBD, where you’ll find plenty of options like Arthur’s Pantry or Delish Cafe.
Find on Map
Want more things to do around the Hunter Valley area? Here’s some inspiration:
- 15+ Things to Do in Hunter Valley with Kids
- Visit the Hunter Valley’s Best Kid-Friendly Wineries
- Where to Bike in Cessnock & Hunter Valley: Cycle Paths & Trails to Enjoy With Your Family
- Hunter Valley Wildlife Park: Everything You Need to Know For a Great Day Out
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