When most of us think of soft play centres, images of bright plastic structures, harsh fluorescent lights, and uninspired snacks often come to mind. That’s what makes Crumb and Play such a refreshing change.
Nestled inside a beautifully restored Dutch barn within the Heart of the Country Village in Lichfield, this soft play café offers a stylish, family-friendly space where playtime extends outdoors into a lovely garden.
The play area is thoughtfully designed with sustainably sourced wooden toys, offering a tactile and natural experience for children. Parents can relax with iced matchas, lattes, and a selection of delicious biscuits and cakes, all while soaking up the peaceful surroundings.
READ MORE: Lloyds Launches UK’s First £5,000 Deposit Mortgage to Boost First-Time Buyers
READ MORE: Pair Deny Dumping Wooden Boards and Altering Van Number Plates in Birmingham
The Heart of the Country Village itself is a charming shopping location filled with artisan jewellery makers, independent boutiques, and local treasures — perfect for a casual day out.
One of the standout features of Crumb and Play is the small natural woodland nearby. It invites children to build dens, explore hidden fairy doors, and meet the village’s two beloved pigs, Sandra and Sower, creating magical moments beyond the soft play equipment.
Rem Bains, a Streetly mum-of-two and former investment banker, created Crumb and Play with both parents and children in mind. “It’s just as much a treat for grown-ups as it is for little ones,” she says. The Dutch barn offers a chic upstairs role play area and a cosy soft play zone downstairs tailored for babies and toddlers.
Outdoor adventures await in Little Crumbs Garden, boasting wooden climbing frames, a mud kitchen, and ample space to fuel young imaginations throughout the year. Whether your child loves to climb, create, or both, there’s plenty to captivate them as you enjoy a hot coffee in peace.
The role play street is a highlight, featuring a mini café, kitchen, ice cream van, construction area, and a salon humorously named The Dutch Barn-et.
Since opening in 2023, Crumb and Play has hosted numerous family events including mummy meet-ups, pyjama parties, and the annual Crumbfest, a free celebration with stallholders and face painting.
The café caters thoughtfully to vegan and gluten-free diets, with ‘lunch baskets’ filled with healthy treats that appeal to kids and adults alike.
Sustainability is at the heart of the operation. Rem emphasizes the eco-friendly ethos with wooden toys, recycled cups, and an ongoing commitment to reduce waste.
“Our goal is to create a relaxed, inclusive space where families feel truly cared for,” Rem explains. Her own children, Jovan and Rueben, are her trusted product testers and advisors, ensuring everything meets their high standards.
Crumb and Play is designed to be a calming and beautiful environment with soft colors and subtle aesthetics — a place where everyone feels welcome without overwhelming stimuli. Parents appreciate being able to watch their little ones from anywhere in the space, making visits easier and more enjoyable.
With exciting new additions soon arriving in the garden, Crumb and Play promises even more fun and memorable moments for families.
Visit Crumb and Play at the Heart of the Country Village, London Road, Lichfield WS14 9QR — just a 30-minute drive from Birmingham via the A38.