My husband and I recently ventured out with our toddler for a mid-morning visit to Abu Ghazal Garden in Manama, and what a thoroughly delightful jaunt it proved to be.
Pulling into the convenient adjacent parking spaces, we immediately noticed the garden’s tranquil atmosphere.
For a weekend morning, it was remarkably peaceful; a far cry from the bustling evenings Manama’s parks often attract.
The park is wonderfully set up for little ones, boasting two distinct shaded playgrounds.
The most pressing news for parents is that one of the play areas has been recently spruced up, and I was thrilled to see that the old sand underfoot has been replaced with rubber flooring.
This makes for far safer tumbles and eliminates the post-play nightmare of finding sand everywhere; a definite victory for parents.
This updated area, complete with swings, slides and climbing structures, was where our little one happily spent most of her time.
Crucially, the second playground also features this flooring, ensuring safe play throughout the entire park, though one might wish for a small patch of sand. For those keen to burn a bit more energy, a basketball/football court is also readily available.
While some features of the garden might feel a touch dated, the overall atmosphere is perfectly pleasant for a leisurely stroll.
The expansive lawns are simply begging for a picnic. We found ample seating areas dotted around, providing comfortable spots to sit back and enjoy the surroundings.
We also noted the convenience of on-site bathroom facilities which is always a must with a little one in tow.
There is a restaurant on-site too; perfect for quickly grabbing refreshments and snacks, which, as any parent knows, is crucial when a toddler’s demands strike!