The Magic Burrow

Bringing the magic back to childhood

Swap the chaos for a little magic.
Fairy lights, cosy corners and meaningful play in a calm, inclusive space where every child belongs.
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✨ Protecting Childhood
Keeping the magic alive for as long as possible.🌿 Calm by Design
Thoughtfully created for children who need a gentler pace.🤍 Everyone Belongs
No judgement. No pressure. Just a place to be yourself.

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🚋 Public Transport LinksDroylsden Metrolink: 1-minute walk
Buses: 7, 216, 230 & 231 — less than 2-minute walkDirect routes connect Droylsden with Manchester, Ashton-under-Lyne, Stockport and surrounding areas.

Want a sneak peak before you visit?

Check out our gallery below

Protecting Childhood

Where it all began

Every magical place has a story. This is ours.
(2 minute read)

More Than Just a Play CentrePeople often ask me why I created The Magic Burrow. They expect the answer to be my degree, my career or starting a business at 21. But the truth is...It all started with a little girl who loved stories.---It Started With a StorySome of my happiest childhood memories were spent writing stories with my Grandad. As I got older, writing became our way of staying connected. We'd dream up magical worlds together, filled with fairies, hidden places and impossible adventures.Years later, after designing The Magic Burrow, I went to visit him to tell him all about my plans.He smiled.Without saying a word, he walked over to a cupboard and pulled out a folder I'd completely forgotten existed.Inside was every handwritten story I'd ever given him as a child.He looked at me and said,"This idea sounds familiar."Together, we turned the pages until we found one story. It was about a magical tree burrow that children climbed inside to escape into a world of fairies, wonder and imagination.I just sat there staring at it.Without ever realising it... I'd built my childhood dream.---Somewhere Along The Way...As I grew up, I stopped writing stories and started working with children.As a 1:1 support worker, and later as a Short Breaks Provider with Endorphins in Salford, I met children who changed the way I saw the world. Alongside this, I completed a First Class degree in Childhood, Youth and Early Childhood, researching why so many children feel they have to hide parts of themselves just to fit in.But it wasn't my degree that taught me the most.It was the children.Because I kept seeing the same thing.Children shrinking themselves to fit the world around them. Parents worrying whether somewhere would be too loud, too busy or too overwhelming. Children believing they were "too old" to play.And I couldn't stop asking myself...Why are we asking children to grow up so quickly?---Childhood Deserves Protecting
One of my favourite moments happens almost every week.An older child walks through the door with a younger sibling. "I'll just watch" they say.You can tell they want to join in. But they've learnt that they're supposed to stand back now.That they're too old for dolls. Too old for dressing up. Too old for magic.Then something wonderful happens.Someone hands them a wand. They wander into the fairy village. They start making potions.And before long, they're laughing, playing and completely lost in their own little world. Not because they've forgotten how to grow up. Because they've remembered how to be a child.That's why The Magic Burrow exists.We believe childhood doesn't have an expiry date. We believe neurodivergent children shouldn't have to wait for a special session to feel included. We believe no child should ever feel embarrassed for the things that bring them joy.Whether you're five or fifteen, autistic or neurotypical, loud or quiet, obsessed with dragons or still carrying your favourite doll...You belong here.Not because you fit in.Because you never have to.---Our PromiseThe Magic Burrow isn't here to tell children who they should be. It's here to remind them who they already are.- Curious.
- Imaginative.
- Playful.
-Wonder-filled.Exactly as they should be.Because every child deserves a place where they can make the kind of magical memories they'll still be smiling about when they're grown up.Just like I am.

Q) What is the age limit?*
A) The Magic Burrow is for any child or young person who will enjoy it. We don't believe in unnecessary barriers to play.Whether your child is a baby, teenager, needs extra support or just enjoys things aimed at younger children, they are welcome here. There is no judgement—just a safe, inclusive space where children and young people can be themselves.
----------Q) Is it suitable for children with SEN?
A) Yes! Our space has been specifically designed with SEN in mind. From our securely locked entrance to our warm lights and lower capacity, it is a safe, judgement free space. Our staff are experienced and understanding and always on hand to support where needed. If you have any specific concerns or enquiries regarding our space's suitability, we encourage you to contact us directly prior to your visit.
----------Q) Is it wheelchair accessible
A) We've done our best to make The Magic Burrow accessible. There is a ramped entrance, ramped access to the sensory room, an accessible toilet, and the main play space is generally easy to navigate.Due to the size of the building, some areas are not wheelchair accessible. We are not a Changing Places facility and do not have hoists, but we can provide a cushioned changing mat in the bathroom if needed.If you have specific accessibility requirements, please get in touch and we'll do our best to help.
----------Q) Where can I park?
A)
- You can park at The Lazy Toad Pub Car Park. This is across the road from the centre. (Please note: This car park is no longer in use and has uneven ground).- You can also park in the main Droylsden Shopping Centre Car Park near JD Gym (less than 5 minutes walk).- Blue Badge Holders: There are some quiet back streets you may be able to park on just behind the centre near Giovannis Restaurant.

Parties/ Private Hire

Celebrate in a magical space with exclusive use of The Magic Burrow. From first birthdays and family celebrations to adult craft nights and special events, we can help make it memorable.Our standard children's party packages are below but if you're looking for something a little different, just get in touch — custom packages are available!Enquiries: [email protected]-----------------------------------------------DIY Mini - £150
1.5 hours | Up to 10 kids & 10 adults
Exclusive private hire
Dedicated party host & cleanup
Free hot drinks station for adults
Bring your own food & drinks
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Magic Birthday - £225 (BEST VALUE)
2 hours | Up to 10 kids & 10 adults
- Snack box included for every child
- Table cloths & banners set up
- Birthday gift
- Photos/videos captured by staff
- Dedicated party host & cleanup
- Free hot drinks station for adults
-----------------------------------------------Ultimate VIP catering - £380
2 hours | Up to 14 kids (Max) & 14 adults
- Fresh cafe buffet catered for all kids
- Staff-hosted pass the parcel
- Party Bags included
- Dedicated host & hot drinks station
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Fancy a night off?

Adults Events

Did you know we also host adults social and craft nights at The Magic Burrow? From Tote Bag Painting to Board Games, these sober events are the perfect opportunity to make friends, get out of the house and enjoy some quiet time in a small, calming group. Check out our latest events via our booking page. Open to all ages (18+).

Contact us:
Email: [email protected]
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