Flip Out Ashford

Description

If you ever find yourself in Ashford looking for the perfect day out with kids, or even just seeking a fun way to burn off some energy yourself, I can wholeheartedly recommend Flip Out Ashford. Tucked away in the St. James Business Park, this indoor adventure park has become a regular fixture for my family’s weekends, especially when the weather isn’t playing nice. Flip Out Ashford isn’t just your run-of-the-mill trampoline park – it’s a high-energy indoor playground, complete with a full-blown amusement area and even a classic video arcade. The whole space buzzes with excitement the moment you step in.

What makes Flip Out Ashford especially appealing is its massive range of activities. It doesn’t matter if you’re five or fifty, there really are loads of things to get stuck into, from tumbling across interconnected trampolines to tackling their ninja obstacle course. They haven’t missed a beat combining soft play for toddlers, adrenaline-pumping ninja tag for teens, and unique extras like slamball and dedicated stunt zones (for both adults and littler jumpers). You’ll spot plenty of grown-ups having as much fun as the kids – believe me, I’ve been right there, trying to keep up!

If you need a break between activities, the on-site café is a sweet addition. Their hot and cold food options mean you never have to worry about grumbling tummies, and grabbing a slush or a coffee mid-session hits the spot. I’ve also seen loads of birthday groups here, and judging by the noise level (and the huge smiles), Flip Out Ashford really knows how to throw a great birthday bash. What’s handy is that access is all on one level, with wheelchair-friendly entrances and parking, so everyone feels genuinely welcome.

Key Features

Trampoline Zones: A sprawling area filled with interconnected trampolines, suitable for kids and adults to bounce to their heart’s content.
Stunt Zones: Separate areas for children and adults to practice flips, soft landings into foam pits, and maybe even their very first somersault.
Ninja Obstacle Course: Inspired by TV obstacle shows, this area is packed with climbing frames, balance beams, swinging ropes, and surprise challenges.
Ninja Tag: Like laser tag – but with a ninja twist! It’s an action-packed experience that adds a competitive edge, and it’s a huge hit during birthday events.
Slamball Court: Basketball meets trampolining for some gravity-defying slam dunks (and a fair few laughs at missed shots!).
Soft Play Area: Specially designed for under-5s, so the little ones have a safe space to climb, slide, and crawl.
Video Arcade: Classic and modern games for when you fancy a breather or a quick dash of nostalgia.
Café: Serves hot and cold food, drinks, treats, and (my favourite) ice-cold slushies.
Membership Option: For £9.50 per month, kids can enjoy a 1-hour session every single day – perfect if you’re local.
Birthday Parties: Two different party packages that turn a regular birthday into a high-octane celebration.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, with staff on hand to help.
Facilities: Modern restrooms and plenty of seating for supervising adults.
Payments: They accept credit/debit cards and mobile payments for convenience.

Best Time to Visit

Over the years, I’ve found that timing your visit to Flip Out Ashford can make a big difference in your experience. Weekends and school holidays are, unsurprisingly, the busiest times. The energy is electric, with lots of birthday parties happening and a real buzz around the whole place – it’s great if your kids thrive on excitement and new friends. However, if you’re after a quieter experience with more space to explore each area, weekday afternoons or early evenings tend to be more relaxed. My personal favourite time is late afternoon on a Friday: you dodge the school groups but still catch the weekend spirit starting to build.

If you want to use their monthly membership plan or just get your money’s worth, consider making regular short visits rather than marathoning through every activity in one go. Seasonal events (like Halloween or Christmas-themed ninja runs) are well worth checking for, as they often bring out special decorations and a few fun surprises you wouldn’t see at other times of the year.

How to Get There

Finding Flip Out Ashford is straightforward, especially once you know your way around the Henwood Industrial Estate. If you’re coming by car, set your satnav for 1, Henwood, Ashford TN24 8DH – there’s plenty of parking, including wheelchair-accessible spaces, and I’ve never once struggled to find a slot, even during busy sessions. The main entrance is easy to spot with bright signage. From central Ashford, it’s just a couple of minutes’ drive, so even a taxi or rideshare is affordable.

Public transport is also doable. If you’re arriving by train to Ashford International, the park is about a 20-minute walk or a five-minute taxi ride away. Local buses run to nearby stops (Henwood or St. James Business Park are your landmarks), and from there it’s a quick stroll through the industrial estate. Be prepared for a bit of navigating through business units – it feels a little tucked away, but the map apps lead you right up to the door.

Tips for Visiting

Book Online: Sessions can and do sell out, especially at weekends or during school breaks. Booking online guarantees your spot and typically streamlines check-in.
Arrive Early: Plan to turn up at least 15 minutes before your slot – there’s a waiver to sign for first-time visitors, and kids always seem to need a last-minute bathroom trip before the fun starts.
Wear Comfortable Clothes: Sportswear and socks with grips (they sell these at reception if you don’t have any) are best. Leave jewelry and loose accessories at home.
Bring Water Bottles: Jumping and running around can get sweaty – fill up before you hit the trampoline floor, though the café is always nearby for snacks and drinks.
Don’t Miss the Cafe: Seriously, their hot chocolate is a winner after a winter session, and the range of light meals will keep even picky eaters happy.
Check Age/Height Restrictions: Most activities are open to all, but certain zones and sessions may have minimum age or height requirements. Younger kids should stick to the soft play and children’s areas.
Plan for Parties: If you’re celebrating, give their party team a call in advance – they’re nowhere near as “cookie-cutter” as many party venues, and the party room is private but just close enough to the action.
Go Cashless: With contactless and mobile payments accepted everywhere in the park, you don’t need to carry lots of change – which is one less thing to lose in the foam pit!
Accessibility: It’s one of the more accessible adventure parks I’ve visited, but if you need assistance, staff are more than happy to help with entry or getting settled.
Membership Value: Consider the monthly membership if you’re local – for kids who love to jump, it more than pays for itself and keeps the after-school routine fresh and fun.

When it comes down to it, Flip Out Ashford is my go-to for active, screen-free fun in Ashford. Whether you’re planning a day trip, organizing a birthday, or just want to reward the kids (or yourself!) with something a little different, you’ll walk out tired, happy, and probably already planning your next visit.