Harold Gregson Reserve is one of Maitland’s best playgrounds for families, thanks to a major redevelopment that brought a mix of play equipment for all ages. The centrepiece is a 6 metre play tower with a slide, alongside a basketball court, skate park and plenty of natural play elements like balance beams and a rope bridge.
What makes this reserve stand out is the range of things to do in one spot. You can bring kids of different ages and everyone has something to explore, from the wooden play structure with soft fall flooring for younger children, to the basketball court and skate park for older kids and teens. A clear line of sight across the play area also makes it easy to supervise kids in different zones at once.
The Play Tower and Main Playground
The play area is best suited to kids under 8. It’s built around a wooden play structure with a 6 metre play tower, slide, rope net and ladder.
There’s steps to access the play structure and soft fall flooring allows little ones to explore with ease.
Near to this is a baby swing and group nest swing.
There is a spinning roundabout, which was popular with the kids. It’s level to the ground and on softfall.
Natural Play and Balance Beams
For kids who like to test their balancing skills, there’s a section under the trees with balance beams, tree stumps and a rope bridge.
This area is a bit more natural with mulch, rocks and dirt.
Also located nearby is a musical pipes station where kids can make different sounds.
Basketball Court and Skate Park
Next to the playground is a full-sized basketball court with plenty of sandstone seating beside it.
Also nearby is the skate park.
This was a popular spot for those with scooters and skateboards.
What’s great about this play space is that families can bring kids of different ages and find things to do. What we also like is that there is a clean line of sight across the play area, so you can supervise younger kids on the playground and yet turn around and see your other kids on the basketball court or skatepark.
Harold Gregson Reserve has no fences (so keep an eye on your little ones) but it is hugged by a wide path that can be used for prams, scooters, or wheelchairs.
Trees, Open Space and Picnic Areas
As you come up the path from the carpark, you’ll notice a tree that’s popular with kids. Its branches are low to the ground and naturally kids want to climb it.
There is ample shaded grassland for running around, throwing a frisbee or kicking a ball.
There is a covered BBQ as well as plenty of grassed areas for a picnic. Bring chairs and / or a picnic blanket.
For those wondering about the toilet situation, there is a large amenities block located near the playspace.
Good to know
Address: 174 High St, Maitland NSW
Getting there: You can drive to the playground. You can also take the train from Newcastle (which is what we did) and get off at High Street Station. Combine a trip to Harold Gregson Reserve with a drop in at Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
Parking: Park in car park
Public Toilets: Yes in amenities block
Water Fountain: There are a few of them around Harold Gregson Reserve
Picnic Facilities: We didn’t spot any picnic tables. There are benches and sandstone blocks to sit on.
Bins: Yes
BBQ: Yes – a electric BBQ
Café Nearby: Seraphine Cafe at Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
Accessibility: Disabled parking and sealed paths to the playground and toilets.
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