Palace Play

Palace Play is the soft play and arcade area at the end of Brighton Palace Pier. Reviews suggest it combines indoor play with classic seaside arcade machines, from claw grabs and coin pushers to basketball hoops and racing games. It sounds like the sort of place that can rescue a rainy day, provided you’re already in the mood for noise. The positives are pretty clear: plenty of variety, a bigger soft play than some parents expected, and a decent ticket-and-prize setup that keeps children interested. Staff are mentioned positively, including an entrance presence that helps stop kids wandering off without an adult. The price is also described as reasonable, especially if you’re using the wristband. The catch is that it’s not exactly a peaceful parent lounge. Reviewers mention it can get very hot and the arcade noise can be immense. Party bookings also caused a long wait for one family, with no warning on the website, which is the sort of thing that turns a simple outing into a minor administrative disaster. Worth knowing before you set off with excited children and a packed lunch.