The Fun Drum

The Fun Drum, indoor play centre in Gillingham

The Fun Drum is an indoor play centre for families located in Elm Court Business Village, just off Capstone Road, in Gillingham (Kent). The space presents itself as a destination for fun and adventure for all ages, with distinct play zones, imaginative experiences and non-stop entertainment. The centre states it has been recently refurbished and includes a café with an updated food and drink menu.

Age-specific play zones

The venue organises its play offering into several areas designed for different age groups:

• Baby Area, for children aged 3 and under.
• Tiny Town, for children aged 4 and under.
• Football Arena, suitable for all ages.
• Soft Play Area, suitable for all ages.

The description of the facilities mentions three play zones covering the different age groups, from the youngest in the under-3s area to older children in the large play frames for ages 3 and up. Among the available features are tube slides, electric vehicles and arcade machines.

Football Arena

The Football Arena is a 150 sqm facility presented as a new addition and included at no extra cost with admission. It can host matches such as 5-a-side or penalty shootouts, as well as free play. The activity is aimed at children aged 5 and up and is designed as a space for movement, teamwork and fun.

Birthday parties

The Fun Drum offers birthday party packages that include private rooms, two hours of play, food and unlimited squash. The company describes three options:

• Mid Week Party Special: designed for Monday to Thursday during term time, with a stated price of £13 per child.
• Classic Party: the most popular package, with full access to the play centre for children and party tables for adults, and includes food and complimentary squash or water.
• VIP Party: exclusive hire of the entire play centre with dedicated staff throughout the celebration.

In addition, the centre offers the possibility of booking the entire venue outside normal hours for VIP-style celebrations.

Facilities and services

The centre has a large café and dining seating area, with high chairs for the little ones. The food and drink policy states that outside food and drinks may not be consumed, and the café serves barista-style coffees, hot chocolate, cold drinks and freshly prepared hot and cold food.

Among the available facilities are free parking, free lockers, disabled toilets and baby changing facilities. The centre states it maintains high standards of cleanliness and has disabled access.

Events and special activities

The Fun Drum has organised seasonal events. In summer it announced the addition of Nerf Gel and Dart Arenas, with activities such as a princess workshop, two Nerf battle arenas, a toddler zone, a football academy, large inflatables, an obstacle course and races, giant games and bird displays, among more than ten activities included in the ticket price. In December 2022 it held a series of festive events including a Santa's Grotto experience, reindeer food making, gingerbread decorating and a snowball fight. A Breakfast With Santa edition in 2021 is also recorded.

Bookings and operations

The centre requires advance booking for weekends and school holidays. Play sessions and parties are booked through the website. The company notes that opening times may vary due to public holidays, special events and private bookings, and directs customers to its Facebook page for updates. It also publishes an email address for CVs from those interested in joining the team.

Location and contact

The Fun Drum, Unit D, Elm Court Business Village, Capstone Road, Gillingham Kent ME7 3JQ · Phone: 01634 553866 · Email: info@thefundrum.co.uk