Looking for a play cafe near Exeter? Tickety-Boo could be your answer

As I said in a very early blog, Exeter is a bit lacking in places to take the kids in rainy weather. But, there’s good news… if you have access to a car, Ottery St Mary is just a short drive away and could provide the perfect solution with its play cafe, Tickety-Boo.

While most people associate Ottery St Mary with the Flaming Tar Barrels, it also offers a lovely haven right on the high street offering creative play for younger children.

Tickety-Boo opened in 2016, with the aim of providing somewhere fun for families with young children to go. It combines a coffee shop with a play area, with plenty of seating and a family-friendly attitude.

The play kingdom was hand-built by local craftspeople – this isn’t your typical play zone with ball pits. There’s a castle and tree house to climb up to and race around on, and a sweetshop with games and children’s books supplied by the neighbouring Otter Bookshop. A custom-made secure soft play area is perfect for the tinies, and there are several baby bouncers available.

A second play area proudly boasts a beautiful wooden pirate ship, the ‘Tickety-Pearl’ which gives lots of opportunities for adventures of the imagination.

The coffee shop offers a wide range of well-priced homemade meals, snacks and some of the lushest cakes around. Baker Lesley Sheppard is always trying out new treats and there’s bound to be something to tempt not just the children but the grown-ups too. The savoury choices are delicious too, with weekly specials available. Tickety-Boo also sells Otter Valley Dairy ice creams in cones or tubs, perfect for cooling down after energetic play.

Most dietary requirements are catered for, but the Tickety-Boo team suggests calling ahead to make sure they can meet any particular need.

Getting practical, there are three large loos all with baby-changing facilities. Access for parents with buggies is easiest from the rear entrance, just opposite Sainsbury’s car park which offers up to two hours of free parking. There’s a secure parent-operated door and gate and a buggy park.

Prices are very reasonable: 1 – 5 years: £2.50, 6 – 11 years: £3.00, under 12 months: FOC

You can also get free entry on your next visit for one child when you spend £15 on food and drink or for two children when you spend £25 – just ask at the counter for details.

For more information head to their website or call them on 01404 812559.