“Sand pit and scooter track. Those are the words I’d use to describe Lions Park in West Ryde.” This park is more than just a playground. It’s a community hub where kids can be kids.
Lions Park is located on Victoria Road. It’s easy to miss if you’re driving by. But trust me it’s worth stopping. Enter via Shaftsbury Road. You’ll find it just behind the Midas Service Centre.
Let’s talk about the playground itself. It’s medium-sized and offers something for kids of all ages. The shaded sand pit is a highlight. It has built-in buckets and a conveyor belt. Kids can spend hours scooping and playing.
There are seven swings including bucket seats and a disc swing. In-ground dual slides are perfect for toddlers. Preschoolers will enjoy racing down them. Behind the slides is a grassy area. It’s perfect for kicking a ball or flying a kite.
The scooter track loops around the grass. It even has a petrol station style cubby house. Kids can refuel their scooters. Just be aware the track isn’t level. Kids will pick up speed. Older kids can test their skills on the spider climbing tower. There is also a half basketball court.
Only the sand pit has a shade sail. The rest of Lions Park gets some afternoon shade. Trees stand on the western side. It can get hot in summer. So plan your visit accordingly.
Lions Park offers other facilities. A dual BBQ sits next to the sand pit. Two picnic tables are also available. There’s a bubbler. Kids always like to play with it. A toilet block was built in late 2016. It has a baby change table but no nappy bin.
Lions Park is near other places of interest. The West Ryde Library is close by. So is the West Ryde Marketplace. The Melrose Park Public School street library is also nearby. Darvall Park isn’t too far away either.
Ryde Council takes pride in its playgrounds. Many have been upgraded recently. The council has a 20-year plan. It includes more playgrounds across the city. Lions Park is already a great example.
Next time you’re in West Ryde stop by Lions Park. Let your kids explore the sand pit. Watch them race around the scooter track. You might even want to bring a basketball. Lions Park is a place for families to connect and have fun. It’s a simple park. But it brings joy to many.