If you've ever read the blog, 10 Ways Birthday Parties Suck by Scary Mommy, you'll appreciate how tough it can be hosting a kid's party. James Roche takes the stress out of the occasion with five awesome children's party venues.
Odeon Whiteleys
Source: contactdir.uk
Everyone loves a trip to the movies, so why not take your children's birthday party to Odeon Whiteleys 'The Lounge'?
Spacious, comfortable and inviting, this venue features three superb theatre-lounge spaces. What better way to deal with fidgety, fired up kids than with fine food and a fantastic film or two? It's a classy, original children's party venue guaranteed to impress all in attendance.
Peggy Jay Centre
Source: qcca.org.uk
Let's be honest - some homes aren't designed to host a motley crew of rampaging kids pepped up on red cordial and Skittles. You don't have to worry about the suitability of our next venue - as a full-time creche, the Peggy Jay Centre is more than equipped to deal with your next children's party.
Located at the bottom of the picturesque Hampstead Heath, the Peggy Jay Centre offers sensational indoor and outdoor facilities. Play equipment is also provided, meaning you won't have to worry about a thing!
Namco Funscape
Source: dayoutwiththekids.co.uk
From casual drinks to rowdy karaoke nights, from techno bowling to bumper cars, the Namco Funscape at County Hall has it all. But it's not just the adults having all the fun at this terrific events space.
One of London's most unique entertainment centres, it also provides the ideal children's party venue. Namco's specialist party team will help you with anything you need. And forget your average bags - these guys will ensure every kid goes home with their very own special gift. With entertainment options aplenty, we not only guarantee a great day out, but a great night's sleep as well!
YMCA Hawker Centre
Source: dayoutwiththekids.co.uk
If you've only been on the planet a few years and your number one party trick is picking your nose AND sucking your thumb at the same time, there's a good chance your birthday party won't be overflowing with mates of the same vintage. Luckily for you (and unluckily for your parents), there is almost always an abundance of family and friends looking to share in your big moment.
Rest easy, Mum and Dad - the YMCA Hawker Centre is the answer to your problems. Located right on the River Thames, the Hawker Centre offers unparalleled family and community facilities. Bar, restaurant, terrace, BBQ and outdoor play area - this venue has all based covered and is as grown-up friendly as it is suitable for little ones.
WWT London Wetland Centre
Source: wwt.org.uk
Kids love open spaces and adults certainly don't mind a good view with their glass of wine. So how about the Water's Edge Room at WWT London Wetland Centre for your next party? The Water's Edge Room is a beautiful, spacious and versatile room, with flexible seating arrangements, superb natural lighting and magnificent views across the reserve.
Best of all, by holding your event at the WWT Wetland Centre, a registered charity, you will be directly contributing to the global conservation of wildlife and wetland's habitats.
As James has shown, organising a children's party isn't all hard work - there's a lot of fun to be had by the adults as well. For more information on these or any of our other fantastic spaces, check out the website.