Tales of Hoffman

Yet another hot, sunny day - perfect weather to make our first ever visit to the wonderful Hoffmans Playland.

This amusement park has hardly changed since it first opened in 1952, and therein lies all its charm. The rides are small and old-fashioned and quiet - the only music comes from the carousel. There's no outrageous entrance fee, just tickets per ride, and hardly any queueing. It's a happy place for younger kids and their families.

That said, the Boy was reluctant to go on any of the rides (except for the train, obviously), until we happened to run into one of his best friends from school. Then there was no stopping him, driving roundabout fire engines and motorbikes, boats and the like. He had a great time. The Girl was even more adventurous and tried out the balloon-ride, helicopters and a tiny ferris wheel.

The mega-amusement parks - Disneyland, Legoland etc - are all well and good, but there's definitely room for little places like this: small, simple and a whole lot of fun.