News

The Big Picture - History slides

Activities Families
A recreation of the first-ever playground slide has been unveiled at the same park in which it was originally located.

A recreation of the first-ever playground slide has been unveiled at the same park in which it was originally located.

The 30-foot wooden slide was first installed at Wicksteed Park, Kettering in 1921.

In his 1928 book A Plea for Children's Recreation after School Hours and after School Age, the slide's designer Charles Wicksteed said, ‘I have direct evidence from mothers how whining, pale-faced children, complaining of any food they get, have come back with healthy faces and rosy complexions, ready to eat the house out after a good play in the playground.’

The recreation of the slide was overseen by Mr Wicksteed's great grandson, Oliver, who said, ‘The story of the park and the man behind it has had a huge impact, not just locally, but in the whole way we treat parks and children's play as a nation.’

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here