Brand new city centre pop-up play area to open in York this summer

Families in York this summer will have a brand-new place to play, with the opening of The Tempest, an imaginative pop-up children’s play area on Parliament Street.

Opening on Tuesday 21st July, this new free temporary attraction, brought to the city by York BID, has been inspired by York-born scientist and volcanologist Tempest Anderson, blending exciting play features with local heritage to create a unique experience for children and families in the city centre.

The pop-up installation, which will be open 9am-6pm every day, includes climbing and balancing equipment, sensory play features, bridges, interactive elements and accessible play equipment, and areas that introduce visitors to Tempest Anderson’s remarkable life and work.

Designed to encourage children to be active while helping families spend more time enjoying York city centre, the pop-up play area forms part of York BID’s commitment to making the city even more welcoming for residents and visitors.

Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID, said: “We’re incredibly excited to open The Tempest. From the survey we did with local people last year, we know families are always looking for free, high-quality activities when they visit the city centre. It’s a really distinctive summer addition to York – combining play with local history, creating something that’s fun, educational and completely unique to the city.”

The project has been delivered by York BID in partnership with Playscheme, Make It York, Thors and York Civic Trust, with funding from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, through the York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Vibrant & Sustainable High Streets Fund. York Civic Trust has worked with the project team to develop the educational elements, helping bring Tempest Anderson’s story to life for a new generation.

David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “Our high streets are where our communities come together. That’s why I’m backing creative ideas from the people who know their area best with my High Street Fund. By supporting The Tempest Play Area, we’re helping to create a family-friendly space that brings local history to life and encourages more people to visit the city centre.

“This is one of 66 projects we’ve supported across York and North Yorkshire helping to transform our high streets into vibrant destinations that residents and visitors will want to return to again and again.”

The Tempest features sensory panels, mirrored elements, a wheelchair-friendly rumble strip, spaces for social and independent play, and seating around the perimeter so families can comfortably enjoy the space together.

The play area is free to use throughout the summer and has been designed to be safe, accessible and welcoming, with daily inspections, CCTV monitoring and regular maintenance.