Frequently asked questions
Planning a visit to Into the Wild? Whether you're coming for a family day out, a woodland walk, a bushcraft experience or a special celebration, you'll find answers to our most frequently asked questions below.
Visiting Into the Wild
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Into the Wild is a woodland adventure venue located in Ashley, Cheshire, near Altrincham, Greater Manchester.
Address: Into the Wild, Ashley Mill Lane, Ashley, Altrincham, Cheshire.
The venue has no direct vehicle access, so visitors must park at the designated car park (where available) and follow the walking directions to reach the woods. Please check our Plan Your Visit page before travelling.
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Into the Wild is open every day, but individual activities and facilities operate at different times.
Our self-serve coffee station is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can enjoy a coffee whenever you visit.
Wild Play generally operates from 9am to 4:30pm on weekends and during advertised school holiday sessions. The Coffee Shack and wood-fired pizza have separate opening hours, generally Thursday to Sunday. Workshops, private bookings and seasonal events run at scheduled times.
Please check the relevant page or our social media channels for the latest opening hours before setting off.
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You do not necessarily need to book simply to visit the woodland, subject to the access arrangements for your intended visit. However, Wild Play sessions, bushcraft workshops and organised events may require advance booking.
If you want to use Wild Play, we recommend booking online before travelling. If tickets are unavailable for your preferred date, the session may be fully booked.
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Yes. You can visit the woodland without booking Wild Play, subject to the venue's access arrangements and any event-specific restrictions.
You can enjoy the natural surroundings and use the self-serve coffee station, which is available 24/7. Other facilities, including the Coffee Shack, wood-fired pizza and play areas, have their own opening hours.
If you use the venue's seating or other facilities, please support the site by purchasing food or drink where applicable.
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Yes. Into the Wild offers experiences for adults and children, from outdoor play and woodland exploration to bushcraft workshops, food and drink, and private events.
Adults can enjoy a coffee, spend time outdoors or use the woodland as a change of scenery. Some activities have age restrictions or require advance booking, so check the details of your chosen experience before visiting.
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Yes, Wi-Fi is available at Into the Wild. This can be useful if you want to spend time in the woodland while staying connected.
Mobile phone signal may be unreliable in some areas, so we recommend checking essential travel information and walking directions before arriving.
Location, parking and walking routes
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There is no vehicle access or parking directly at Into the Wild. Visitors must use the designated parking arrangements and walk to the venue.
Parking for Wild Play customers may be available at Bowdon Church School, Grange Road, Bowdon, Altrincham, Cheshire, WA14 3EX, on advertised days. Please check the current parking instructions before travelling, as arrangements can vary.
Where the school car park is in use, vehicles must be removed before the gates close at 5pm. Please follow the published walking directions and do not park on Ashley Mill Lane or block access to neighbouring properties.
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The walk from Bowdon Church School to Into the Wild usually takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace.
The walk is part of the adventure, but paths can be uneven or muddy, particularly after rain. Wear suitable footwear and allow enough time to reach the venue.
You can follow the route on Komoot: https://www.komoot.com/tour/2599160661
Please check the latest Plan Your Visit information for current route and parking instructions.
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There is no direct vehicle access to the venue. Visitors should use the designated parking arrangements and follow the walking directions.
Please do not stop on Ashley Mill Lane or obstruct the private track, farm access or neighbouring properties.
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Pushchair suitability depends on the route, weather and type of pushchair. Some sections may be uneven, muddy or difficult to navigate.
A baby or child carrier is recommended, particularly for younger children. Please review the walking route before setting off, as not all routes are suitable for pushchairs.
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Access can be challenging because the venue is reached on foot via outdoor paths and uneven terrain. There is no parking directly at the woodland site.
If you have specific mobility or access requirements, please contact us before visiting so we can discuss the current access arrangements. We cannot guarantee that all routes or areas will be suitable for every visitor.
Wild Play and children's activities
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Wild Play is our outdoor children's play area set within the Cheshire woodland. It gives children space to explore, play and enjoy an active day outdoors.
Activities include zip lines, climbing frames, boat swings, pedal go-karts, crazy golf, tree nets, sand pits, diggers, a games room, a sensory room and activities in our tipi.
Wild Play operates during designated sessions rather than whenever the wider venue is accessible.
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Wild Play generally opens from 9am to 4:30pm on weekends and during advertised school holiday sessions.
Please check the online booking calendar for available dates and times. Opening arrangements may change for seasonal activities, special events and other circumstances.
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Children aged 2–14: £11 per person.
Visitors aged 15 and over: £5 per person.
Children under 2: free, with no ticket required.
Please check the booking page for current prices and ticket conditions before purchasing.
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Yes. Adults and children aged 2 and over require tickets to access Wild Play. Children under 2 can enter free without a ticket, according to the current booking information.
Please select the correct ticket types when booking for your group.
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Wild Play tickets include all-day play on your booked date. You can arrive at any time during the advertised opening hours for your session, generally between 9am and 4:30pm.
Remember to allow approximately 15-20 minutes to walk from the designated car park, where applicable.
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We recommend booking online in advance. If tickets are unavailable for your preferred date, the session may be fully booked, and walk-ins cannot be accepted.
The fact that Into the Wild is open every day does not mean Wild Play is available every day. Please check the booking calendar before travelling.
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Wild Play offers activities for children of different ages, with a variety of outdoor play features.
Children must be supervised by their accompanying adults. Parents and carers should assess whether each activity is suitable for their child's age, confidence and ability, and follow any displayed safety restrictions.
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Yes, picnics are welcome for visitors who have purchased a Wild Play ticket, subject to the current booking conditions.
Food and drink are also available on site during the relevant service hours. Our self-serve coffee station is available 24/7, while the Coffee Shack and wood-fired pizza operate at separate times.
Family Season Pass FAQ
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The Family Season Pass is ideal for regular visitors who want to enjoy Wild Play throughout the season, including weekends and school holidays. Who want to save on their visits.
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Adult passes (aged 16+) cost £25, and child passes (aged 2+) cost £55. Under 2 is FREE.
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The pass covers access to the Wild Play area only. It does not include other activities, workshops or experiences outside Wild Play. For one year from date of purchase.
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No. The pass is non-transferable, and adults and children cannot be swapped. A photo of your family will be taken on your first visit and used to check your pass on future visits.
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No. Seasonal events will be additional charge. Food and drink from the Coffee Shack or Wood Fired Pizza are not included in the pass and must be purchased separately.
Food, drink and facilities
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Yes. Our food and drink options include self-serve coffee, the Coffee Shack and wood-fired pizza, depending on the time of your visit.
The self-serve coffee station is available 24 hours a day, every day. The Coffee Shack and wood-fired pizza have separate opening hours, generally Thursday to Sunday, with availability potentially varying during school holidays and special events.
Please check our latest updates if you are visiting specifically for food.
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Yes. Our self-serve coffee station is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
This means you can stop by for a coffee outside the usual opening hours of the Coffee Shack and other facilities. Please follow the instructions displayed at the station when preparing your drink.
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The Coffee Shack generally operates Thursday to Sunday, from approximately 9am to 4:30pm. Hours may vary during school holidays, seasonal events and other special occasions.
For the latest information, check our website or social media before visiting.
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Wood-fired pizza is generally served Thursday to Sunday, with service usually starting at 11am and finishing around 4pm.
Availability may vary depending on the day, season and demand. Please check the latest updates if you are planning your visit around lunch.
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Yes, you can use the self-serve coffee station at any time, as it is available 24/7. However, other food and drink options depend on the opening hours of the relevant facility.
The availability of pizza, snacks and other items outside normal service hours is not guaranteed.
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Our wood-fired pizzas are generally made fresh to order rather than pre-ordered. Availability depends on the day's service hours and stock.
If pizza is an important part of your visit, check the latest opening information before travelling.
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We do not currently offer gluten-free pizza. If you have a dietary requirement, please contact us before visiting to discuss the available options.
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Our food offering includes pizzas, drinks, snacks and other items, and the suitability of each option depends on the specific allergy.
Please contact us before your visit if you have an allergy or dietary requirement. Do not assume that a dish is safe to eat without checking the ingredients and potential cross-contamination risks.
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Visitors with a Wild Play ticket may bring a picnic, subject to the current booking conditions. Own food may also be permitted for certain booked parties.
If you are visiting without Wild Play or attending a private event, please check the relevant conditions and support the venue by purchasing food or drink where applicable.
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Yes. Into the Wild has a licensed bar serving a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks during applicable service hours.
Alcohol is served subject to the venue's licence and applicable age restrictions. Please check event-specific information for bar availability.
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Yes, basic toilet facilities are available on site.
As Into the Wild is a woodland venue, facilities are more rustic than those at a conventional indoor attraction. Please plan your visit accordingly.
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The venue has lighting, but walking routes to and from Into the Wild are not fully lit.
If you are visiting early in the morning, late in the evening or for an evening event, we recommend bringing a torch and checking the arrival and departure instructions.
Dogs, accessibility and what to bring
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Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in appropriate areas of the venue. Please keep dogs under control and clean up after them.
Dogs may not be permitted at every activity or event, including bushcraft workshops. Restrictions may also apply in busy children's play areas and during certain events, so please check before bringing your dog.
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We recommend comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for woodland paths and uneven ground.
Paths can become muddy or slippery after rain, so waterproof clothing and suitable shoes are sensible choices. For evening visits, bring extra layers and a torch.
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Into the Wild is an outdoor woodland venue, so visitors should be prepared for changeable weather.
Rain does not automatically mean an event will be cancelled. However, activities or the venue may close during high winds or severe weather if conditions are unsafe.
Please check our official channels for updates before travelling. If your booking is affected by a closure, follow the instructions provided by the venue.
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Families with younger children are welcome, and children under 2 can access Wild Play free of charge without a ticket.
However, the venue is reached on foot and includes outdoor paths and uneven terrain. A baby carrier may be more practical than a pushchair.
Please consider your child's needs and check the walking route before visiting.
Bushcraft workshops and birthday parties
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Into the Wild offers bushcraft experiences in a woodland setting, with activities such as fire lighting and opportunities to learn practical outdoor skills.
Workshop dates, activities, age requirements and ticket arrangements vary by session. Please check the individual event listing for full details.
Bushcraft workshops are separate from general Wild Play admission. A workshop ticket does not automatically include access to the play area.
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Yes. Bushcraft workshops should be booked in advance through the relevant event listing.
Check the listing for the date, start time, age suitability, what to bring and any additional requirements. Spaces may be limited.
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No. Dogs are not permitted at bushcraft workshops. Please make suitable arrangements before attending.
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Yes. Into the Wild offers children's bushcraft birthday parties, giving children the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities in a woodland environment.
Activities can include fire lighting, animal tracking and marshmallow toasting. Parties typically last around two hours, with exact activities and arrangements confirmed through the booking information.
Please book through the designated party booking page and review the terms before reserving.
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Food is not automatically included in the bushcraft party booking.
Pizza may be ordered on the day, or you may be able to bring your own food in accordance with the party conditions. Check the current party information for details about refreshments and additional costs.
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Wild Play admission is not included as standard with a bushcraft birthday party.
The party arrangements may allow limited post-party access for a specified number of people. Check the terms of your booking to confirm who is eligible and what access is included.
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Please check the conditions of your specific party booking before bringing a cake or decorations. Arrangements may differ between bushcraft parties and private-hire options such as the Safari Tent.
The relevant booking information will confirm what is permitted.
Private hire, celebrations and group visits
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Yes. Private hire may be available depending on your requirements, the date and the space you would like to use.
Options may include the Safari Tent, woodland areas and venue facilities for celebrations or organised gatherings. Depending on the booking, facilities may include seating, food and drink options, Wild Play or bushcraft experiences.
Please contact us with your preferred date, group size and event requirements so we can advise on suitable options and availability.
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Yes. The Safari Tent is an option for celebrations, including children's parties where you want a designated space for your group.
Please contact us or use the relevant booking page to confirm availability, hire duration, capacity, pricing and what is included. Safari Tent hire does not automatically include Wild Play admission or catering.
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We welcome enquiries from groups. If you are planning a large visit, please contact us in advance so we can advise on the best arrangements.
For organised celebrations or events requiring exclusive use of a space, private hire may be more suitable than a general visit.
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For a standard visit, table reservations may not be necessary, as we have a range of seating areas. If you are arriving with a large group, please contact us in advance.
For exclusive use of a space or a celebration requiring a dedicated area, please enquire about private hire.
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Please check the published prices for your chosen activity and the relevant booking terms. If you are organising a larger group or private event, contact us to discuss the available arrangements.
Bookings, cancellations and seasonal events
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If you cannot select tickets for your preferred date, the session may be fully booked. We cannot accept walk-ins for a fully booked Wild Play session.
Please choose another available date or check our official channels for updates. Although Into the Wild is open every day, not every activity runs daily.
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Wild Play bookings are generally non-refundable, except where the venue has to close, for example because of severe weather warnings.
Please read the terms and conditions displayed during booking. If you believe your booking has been affected by a closure, contact us using the details provided in your confirmation.
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We may close during high winds or other unsafe weather conditions. Any closure will be communicated through our official channels where possible.
Rain alone does not necessarily mean an event will be cancelled. If a closure affects your booking, follow the instructions provided by the venue.
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Into the Wild hosts seasonal activities and special events throughout the year, which may include Easter, Halloween experiences and Christmas activities.
Dates, ticket availability, age restrictions and what's included vary by event. Follow our social media channels and check the What's On section of our website for announcements and booking details.
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Check our website and follow Into the Wild on social media for updates about workshops, seasonal events, family activities and special opening times.
We recommend checking the relevant event listing before travelling, as activity schedules and facilities may differ from the venue's general access arrangements. And signing up to our newsletter.
Still have a question?
If you haven't found the information you're looking for, please contact us.
You can also explore our Plan Your Visit, Wild Play, Bushcraft Workshops, Birthday Parties, Private Hire and What's On pages to find more information about visiting Into the Wild. Plan your visit, check the walking route and enjoy a little time in the woods.