Award-Winning Soft Play Café in Cannock
Little Land of Play, a soft play café based in Cannock, has been named the 'best in the Midlands' at the Muddy Stilettos 2026 awards, winning the top prize for a children's business. Despite its recent accolade, the venue remains relatively unknown to many families outside the area.
Open for two years, the play centre is now preparing to relocate to a brand new site just down the road. The current location on Progress Drive will move to Smalley Close, Cannock, offering expanded facilities.
Unique Features and New Premises
Described as a 'pastel paradise', Little Land of Play boasts a one-of-a-kind star-filled pit containing 9,600 stars, a sensory area with a giant busy board, a play frame, Montessori toys, and role play areas. The open-plan layout allows parents to enjoy lunch, freshly baked sweet treats, and barista-made coffee while watching their children play.
The new play centre will feature a giant indoor Dino Dig sandpit where little explorers can dig for fossils, an outdoor play space, and additional equipment for younger visitors. Owner Hannah Firmstone, a mother who also runs a bouncy castle hire business, expressed her pride: 'I am beyond proud and grateful! As we approach the week of our second year of the play cafe and fifth year of hires, this award couldn't have come at a more special time.'
Community Impact and Parent Reviews
Firmstone highlighted the community aspect: 'Over the years, we've had the privilege of getting to know so many incredible families. We've celebrated first words, first steps, giggles, friendships, pregnancy announcements, birthdays, and so many precious milestones. We've also shared the tougher parts of parenthood, offering a listening ear, a comforting conversation, and a space where people feel understood and supported. What started as a play café has become so much more than a business. It has become a community and a little family.'
Parents have left glowing reviews on Google. One mother said: 'Can't really put into words how much I adore this play cafe and the girls that run it. Not only is it cheap and cheerful but it's also like going from home to home. The girls are so sweet with my children and take the time to always have a little chat with us moms. I think it's so sweet how they remember the children's names and moms that walk in. They're not just a business, they are genuinely lovely, caring people who have time for everyone that walks into their door. My sons both have disabilities so finding a place suitable to their needs has always been hard until we found here. BEST play cafe.'
Another added: 'Could not recommend Little Land of Play enough. Our little girl adores going and has so many toys to play with. The place is spotless, bright and perfect for little ones. It's nice there are only a small number of children who are allowed in each session so it doesn't get overcrowded and overwhelming. The girls are so friendly and do a cracking job running the place. Food and drinks are available for adults and the kids which again are 10/10! Our favourite place to visit!'
Award Competition and Booking Information
Little Land of Play beat finalists including The Wave in Coventry, The Strings Club in Leamington Spa, Mucking About in Stratford-upon-Avon, Blissful Beginnings in Cannock, and the Enchanted Tea Room in Leamington Spa.
The new venue is located at Smalley Close, Cannock WS11 5TY, approximately 35 minutes from Birmingham via the M6, traffic permitting. Advance booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. For more information and to book, visit the Little Land of Play website.
