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Go Play Kids - Wellingborough

Looking for a fun, safe and affordable way to keep little ones entertained, and enjoy a coffee or spot of lunch? Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or carer, Go Play Kids in Wellingborough offers the perfect space for children to learn through play while the grown-ups catch up, relax and connect!

Inside Wellingborough’s Swansgate Shopping Centre is a magical world where imagination runs wild, creativity blossoms, and children are free to explore, play and learn. Go Play Kids is a soft play and educational centre for children aged 0 to 9, lovingly created by local mum, Shaf.

After relocating to Wellingborough from London with 16 years’ experience working in retail, running an online business, and completing my degree, I decided to step away from the corporate world and make the bold move of setting up my own business.

With three children of my own – aged 9, 7, and 1 – I knew there was a gap in the market for somewhere fun, safe and educational for little ones to play, and somewhere that gave parents a chance to relax, socialise, and enjoy quality time. It was hard to find that when my older children were growing up, and after having my youngest son, I wanted to spend more time with him. With a new life in Wellingborough away from the hustle and bustle of London, the time felt right to set up Go Play Kids, and I’m so happy I went for it!

I have a caring nature, and I love working with children – they are incredible! I love seeing their development both socially and educationally. They never fail to amaze me. The children love it here, they all know me and often bring things in to show me, which makes me so proud.

I have worked hard to create a calming space with neutral colours, and I designed every detail with children’s development and creativity in mind. Inside, you'll find beautifully designed role play pods including a shopkeeper pod, digger pod and house pod, alongside a calming sensory room, LEGO area, a dedicated under-2s soft play zone, ball pits, a craft space, and a cosy café serving homemade cakes, lunches, and hot drinks.

We are accessible to all and breastfeeding-friendly, and we also offer quiet play sessions for children with special educational needs.

Two months on, and it’s going well, we are welcoming customers from across the town and surrounding areas.

What makes Go Play Kids so special is the love and care behind it, it’s a true family affair! My husband is very supportive, and my older children have been involved from day one, with my daughter even coming up with the name, telling me it was obvious! They’ve helped shape the space, create social media content, and they love lending a hand – from helping tidy up to welcoming visitors.

Together we have created a safe and fun play space with community at its heart. It’s a great place to meet friends, for grandparents to visit, and we’re seeing more and more dads coming in too.

Alongside the play sessions, we have regular parties, seasonal events, themed weeks, and competitions to keep things fresh and fun.

It still feels surreal running my own business, but I’m proud of what I’ve created and grateful for the support from the local community, including my small business neighbours Sarah’s Sweet Tooth, Cozy Creations, and Beth’s Bakery. Wellingborough is full of great places and parking is free, which makes it even easier for families to visit!”Shaf from Go Play Kids

Go Play Kids sessions last two hours and you can book online or pop in on the day. Whether you're looking for a fun outing, a chance to meet other parents, or simply to enjoy a well-earned coffee while your child plays, Go Play Kids is the perfect spot.

Find Go Play Kids inside at the Swansgate Shopping Centre, Wellingborough. 

Support Go Play Kids by:

• liking the Go Play Kids Facebook and Go Play Kids Instagram pages
• visiting the Go Pay Kids website

Last updated 07 May 2025