19 Jan 2026
Play Putt, St Albans’ newly-opened indoor crazy golf and karaoke venue, has started 2026 with a determined focus on growing visitor numbers and group experiences.
Located in a unit next to DJ’s Play Jungle St Albans soft play centre in Sandridge, Play Putt has established itself as a vibrant destination for social gaming since it opened at the start of December, attracting families, friends and golf enthusiasts alike.
Despite January traditionally being a challenging month for the hospitality sector, the venue has seen trade steadily build, supported by positive feedback and repeat visits.
However, the team behind Play Putt believes there is significant untapped potential – particularly in corporate bookings, private hire and organised events.
Co-owner Helen Whittington said: “We’re seeing great engagement from casual visitors and golf groups, and the feedback has been fantastic. What we want to do now is unlock opportunities for businesses, charities and community groups who are looking for something a bit different.”
To support this next stage of growth, Play Putt is to submit a licence variation application that would allow the venue to open earlier and serve alcohol slightly later to 11pm. These changes are intended to accommodate demand from day time events and evening celebrations that are currently limited by early bar closing times. Alcohol would remain ancillary to the primary activities of indoor crazy golf and the karaoke lounge, with Play Putt continuing to operate as an activity-led venue rather than a late-night bar.
“Our focus has always been on competitive, social experiences,” Helen added. “Crazy golf and karaoke bring people together, and the licence variation would simply allow us to say yes to events that currently have to look elsewhere because of time restrictions.”
Play Putt has ambitions to become a recognised hub for business networking events, charity fundraisers, team-building sessions and private hire, offering a relaxed and inclusive alternative to traditional hospitality venues. The team believes this will not only boost trade during quieter periods but also strengthen links with the local business and community sectors.
“With the right flexibility in place, we can create more memorable events, support local organisations and ensure Play Putt continues to thrive as a social destination all year round,” Helen explained.
Meanwhile, partner business DJ’s Play will be celebrating its 15th anniversary on February 3, a significant milestone for one of Hertfordshire’s longest-standing children’s activity providers.
Since opening the business expanded to three play centres across Herts, as well as expanding into Play Putt in St Albans, The business remains family-run, with a strong focus on community, partnerships and local employment.
To celebrate the anniversary, DJ’s Play is inviting children’s activity providers, childminders and staff to a 15-year celebration and networking party at the St Albans play centre on Tuesday February.
The event is designed as a relaxed opportunity for local providers to connect, share ideas and celebrate the role that play and activity services have in supporting children and families across St Albans.
“We’re incredibly proud to reach 15 years,” said Helen . “This celebration isn’t just about us – it’s about recognising the wider community of providers who work hard every day to support children’s development, wellbeing and fun.”
