Discover Children's Story Centre in London

Discover is billed as an interactive story trail for children. And it is, but it’s also so much more. Florence and I are regulars these days due to the fact you can join as a member at very reasonable rates and have annual access. We go every couple of weeks and haven’t been bored yet.

Knowing it has great things to do outdoors as well as inside is such a major draw in the summer. Discover has one of the best outdoor play areas in London, as far as I’m concerned, with slides, climbing frames and tree houses, along with musical instruments in every corner. Everywhere you look there is something new: a table shaped like a beetle with his legs as seats, spy holes, hills to roll down, a storytelling circle and plenty of space. There are mirrors everywhere and interesting things to see and touch. It’s a bit like a secret garden and children love it – even in the wet!

Inside is just as adventurous and has many different things to see and do. True to its storytelling theme, there are lots of lovely books to read with your child in interesting and comfy crannies. Popular authors often come in to read, and the staff have storytimes for varying ages. But it’s not just about books; it’s about exploring all aspects of story and make-believe. I first took Florence when she was about ten months old and it really captured her imagination, and every time we go she gets something new from it. I often see much older children enjoying every minute of their time there, too. It’s the sort of place you can take the whole family because it has something for everyone. Even I find myself dancing round in the theatre-type room where there are lights on the floor, and I’m 32! There’s also a craft corner where you can decorate a spoon for the wall mural, or draw on a mirrored shaft with special pencils. Florence is in her element – that’s her idea of fantastic! There are dressing-up boxes, puppet theatres, buttons to press, tents to sit in, indoor slides, hills with talking boxes, caves with sensory equipment, and a room to chill out in. You'd think that'd be your lot! But no...

Discover has a changing programme of exciting, interactive exhibitions that take place in the basement. Until November 4, there's a super-duper Superheroes installation...

This was one of our winning entries in our Silver Cross Days Out Travel Writer Competition. Find about out other winners, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the National Museum Of Scotland.