Monkey Bizness – Rochford Rochford ★★★★★ 4.6 Year-round (summer outdoor extension) Soft play centre, 0–13 yrs, from £5/child
Monkey Bizness Rochford is a family-owned soft play powerhouse in the Aviation Trading Estate, a 4,000 sq ft wonderland since 2005 with a towering 3-level frame, trampoline zone, and separate toddler corner that’s kept generations of Rochford kids entertained. The main structure has spiral slides, cargo nets, and a ball cannon, while under-5s get gentle tunnels and padded blocks. Sessions are 90 minutes, grippy socks required (£1.50), and capacity is limited to 100 for breathing room.
The café serves full meals – kids’ nuggets and chips (£5), adult paninis (£6) – with fresh coffee and cakes from local bakers. Parties are legendary (£175 for 12 kids, including entertainer), and they run baby classes and SEN sessions weekly.
5 minutes from Rochford station with free parking, it’s a Southend-area staple.
Pros
- Huge frame keeps kids busy for full session
- Family-run warmth and clean standards
- Strong party packages
- Good food options beyond snacks
Cons
- Estate location, no views
- Socks extra if forgotten