Heatherton World of Activities is an award-winning sport and leisure attraction that offers a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities. It is still open for visitors and operates a unique “pay-as-you-play” model, meaning entry to the park is free, and you only pay for the specific activities you choose to do.
Location
The park is located in St Florence, near Tenby, Pembrokeshire (SA70 8RJ). It is approximately 3 miles or a 5-minute drive from the popular coastal towns of Tenby and Saundersfoot.
Activities and Experiences
Visitors can choose from over 30 different activities divided into various zones:
Adrenaline Zone: High-speed go-karts (reaching up to 55mph for seniors), paintball, and the Tree Tops Trail high-ropes course.
Family Fun Zone: Activities like adventure golf, archery, bumper boats, laser clay shooting, and giant jumping pillows.
Play Zone: Specifically for younger children, featuring Indiana’s Soft Play, a driving school, and a medieval-themed play area.
Other Unique Features: Three themed Escape Rooms (The Wizard’s Lair, Captain’s Treasure Room, and Tenby Asylum), pistol shooting, and a dog agility course for those visiting with pets.
Duration of Visit
On average, visitors spend 2 to 3 hours at the park, though many families choose to make a full day of it, especially if they are participating in multiple credit-based activities or using the shared family passes over several hours.
Who Will Enjoy it Most
The park is ideal for:
Families with mixed-age children: Since there are activities ranging from soft play for toddlers to high-adrenaline karts for teens and adults, it caters to everyone.
Dog Owners: It is a highly dog-friendly attraction, offering a dedicated dog agility course and allowing pets in most areas.
Groups and Team Building: The variety of competitive activities like paintball and escape rooms makes it a popular choice for corporate away days or parties.
Suitability and Limitations
While the park aims to be inclusive, some visitors may have a limited experience:
Height and Age Restrictions: Certain high-adrenaline activities like the senior go-karts (14+) and Tree Tops Trail have strict age and height requirements.
Weather Dependency: Although some activities are undercover, many are outdoors. During heavy rain, some outdoor activities may close for safety.
Accessibility: The park provides wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, but the nature of some physical activities (like high ropes or certain rough terrains) may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
Best Time to Visit
For Quiet and Short Queues: Visiting during term time (weekdays) is significantly quieter. Sunday mornings and evenings also tend to be less busy.
For Fun and Atmosphere: Weekends and school holidays are the liveliest, though this is when queues for popular activities like the zip line can reach up to an hour.
For Weather: Dry, sunny days are best for outdoor activities, but the undercover driving range and indoor bowls make it a viable “all-weather” destination.
Unique Selling Points
What makes Heatherton different from nearby attractions like Folly Farm or Manor Wildlife Park is its flexible pricing and focus on active participation. Unlike many theme parks that charge a large flat entry fee, Heatherton allows you to enter for free and only spend money on the specific hobbies or thrills you enjoy.
Offers and Budgeting Advice
For those on a tight budget:
Free Attractions: Take advantage of the free outdoor play area, sand diggers, giant floor games, and traverse climbing wall.
Credit Passes: Instead of paying for activities individually, buying a Credit Pass (6, 8, or 10 credits) or a Family/Group Pass (30, 40, or 100 credits) offers much better value.
Multi-Day Use: Shared Family/Group passes are valid for 6 months, allowing you to use some credits one day and return weeks later to finish them without paying for entry again.
Membership and Frequent Visitors
While the park does not traditional “annual memberships” like a zoo, the long-term validity of the Group Credit Passes acts as a benefit for frequent visitors. Families can buy a large 100-credit pass and use it across multiple visits throughout the season, significantly lowering the “per-activity” cost.
Practical Visitor Advice
Clothing: Wear closed-toe shoes (required for go-karts and Tree Tops). Bring waterproofs just in case, as most activities are outdoors.
Food: There are onsite cafes and a restaurant, but they can be expensive. Many visitors choose to bring a picnic to save money, as there is plenty of outdoor seating.
Parking: There is a large free car park available for all visitors.
Booking: It is essential to book online during school holidays as the park regularly reaches its daily visitor capacity.