Kennet Heath Play Area & Open Space

Locals with young kids know this one well, and for good reason. The equipment — slides, swings, a climbing structure, and a sandbox — covers enough ground that siblings of different ages can actually all find something to do at the same time. The open grass field gives older kids room to run off energy while parents settle in for a bit, and the parking situation means you’re not circling the streets with a tired toddler in tow. It’s kept in good shape too, which isn’t something you can say about every play area around Thatcham.