About Us

Background

Grow Through Play was established in 2004, when Stuart Beare acquired Chapel Leisure, a UK-based company specialising in children’s coin-operated vehicles and driving school attractions. From the outset, the company was built on a clear ethos: to help clients maximise their potential by creating engaging attractions where children can grow in confidence and learn through play.

Innovation has always been central to this mission. One of the earliest examples was the introduction of the Barrel Train concept—originally a US innovation—first trialled at Tulleys Farm in 2001. This prototype proved highly successful and led to the development and production of the Barrel Train (Barrel Bug) ride in 2005.

It was at this stage that The Wright Event first became involved with Grow Through Play, taking on the role of manufacturer for the barrel trains. This marked the beginning of a long-standing collaboration between the two companies, combining creative concept development with high-quality manufacturing expertise.

In 2026, this relationship came full circle when Grow Through Play was formally acquired by The Wright Event, bringing together over two decades of shared experience, innovation, and a joint commitment to delivering exceptional play-based attractions.