A unique children’s roleplay and family café experience is delighting young families in Rotherham after officially opening its doors in June 2026.
Located in Parkgate, The Nook & Play offers a storybook-inspired roleplay space for children aged 0 to 5, featuring themed areas including a castle, jungle, seaside and magical woodland where little ones can explore, create and play.
Founded by local mum of two Teigan, The Nook & Play was created to offer something different from traditional play centres, encouraging imaginative play in a welcoming environment for both children and parents.
Upstairs, families can enjoy immersive storybook roleplay sessions, while downstairs provides a welcoming café space where parents can relax and connect with other families.
Opening her own business was never part of Teigan’s long-term plan
“It came completely out of the blue. When the building became available, something just clicked. As a mum with two little boys, I knew what was missing locally and wanted to create a place where children could truly use their imagination and just be kids.”
Since opening, The Nook & Play has received a fantastic response from local families, something Teigan says has made the hard work of starting and running a business worthwhile.
For Teigan, opening The Nook & Play has brought a newfound sense of purpose.
“I always felt a little lost and wasn’t sure what career path I wanted to follow. Now I know this is exactly what I was meant to do.”
How RiDO’s Launchpad support played a part in Teigan’s journey
Before opening The Nook & Play, Teigan contacted Rotherham Council’s Launchpad start-up business support team for advice.
With no previous experience of running a business, she accessed one-to-one guidance on areas including staffing, marketing and business planning. She also attended social media workshops, helping her build confidence and understand how to effectively promote the business online.
Reflecting on the support she received, Teigan credits Launchpad with helping transform her idea into a thriving business.
“I would recommend Launchpad to anyone, 100%. I was an amateur, but Launchpad gave me the confidence and knowledge to get to where I am now. Without Launchpad, I would still be at step one with no idea what to do.”
Teigan’s advice for other aspiring entrepreneurs, is simple:
“Take a deep breath and go for it. Reach out to Launchpad. They genuinely want to help and will do everything they can to support you.”
Find out more
The Nook & Play is located at Unit B8, Taylor’s Court, Parkgate, Rotherham, S62. Visit The Nook & Play’s website for more information and follow them on Facebook.
For more details about Rotherham Council’s Launchpad start-up business support programme, visit the RiDO Business Hubs website. Contact the team on 01709 254444 or BusinessRiDO@Rotherham.gov.uk.
This project is managed by the Enterprising Barnsley team within Barnsley Council and delivered across South Yorkshire in partnership with Rotherham Council, City of Doncaster Council and Sheffield City Council. The Launchpad project is part funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) and is receiving up to £1.2m Investment through the Local Growth fund (LGF).
Watch Teigan’s Launchpad Journey
As part of our Celebrating 10 Years of Launchpad campaign, Teigan shares the story behind The Nook & Play, her experience of starting a business and how Launchpad support helped turn her idea into reality.
