Take control of realistic radio-controlled excavators, loaders and dump trucks in our purpose-built indoor construction arena in the heart of the Lake District. From first-time operators to serious RC enthusiasts, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
We always suggest booking ahead, espeically on weekends and school holidays.
This isn’t soft play. And it definitely isn’t just for kids.
Discover a unique indoor RC construction experience in the heart of Keswick, where visitors can take control of realistic radio-controlled excavators, loaders, dump trucks and construction machinery.
From younger visitors enjoying our easier-to-operate models with a helping hand, to older children, teenagers and adults taking control of our premium 1:14 scale hobby-grade machines, The Sandbox offers something a little different for everyone.
Dig, load, move and process mountains of material and discover just how satisfying operating these machines can be.
No previous experience needed. Just bring your enthusiasm.
Born from a love of machines. Built for people who never really grew out of them.
The Sandbox Café was created by founder Lawrance White, a former plant hire and machinery specialist with a simple idea: bring the fun and satisfaction of operating construction machinery indoors — just on a slightly smaller scale.
Opening in Keswick in 2025, The Sandbox was created as a place where families, friends, couples and serious RC enthusiasts could get behind the controls, have some fun and experience something genuinely different in the Lake District.
At the heart of the experience are our detailed 1:14 scale hobby-grade RC construction machines. Excavators, loading shovels, tipper trucks and more — machines that look, move and operate remarkably like the real thing.
And because The Sandbox isn’t only about the machines, you can enjoy locally roasted coffee, cake and a relaxed café atmosphere while you’re here.
The Original Sandbox Café.
Step into the operator's seat and take control of your own RC construction machine in our purpose-built indoor arena in Keswick.
Whether you're a complete beginner, a younger operator or a serious RC enthusiast, we'll match you with a machine suited to your age and ability.
Our smaller, easier-to-control machines are ideal for children getting their first taste of RC construction.
Children aged 5 and over can operate independently, while under-5s are welcome to join in with a parent or guardian directly assisting with the controls.
Ready for something more serious? Our hobby-grade excavators, loading shovels and tipper trucks offer a much more realistic challenge.
Designed for older children, teenagers and adults, these detailed machines look, move and operate remarkably like the real thing.
Choose your machine, take the controls and get to work. Dig and shape trenches, load and transport material, master the controls and put your operating skills to the test.
No previous experience needed — we'll show you everything you need to get started.
We want as many people as possible to be able to enjoy The Sandbox Café and our unique RC construction experience.
Lower counter seating is available around the sandpit, helping make the experience more accessible and comfortable.
We have an access ramp available. Just speak to a member of the team when you arrive and we'll be happy to put it in place for you.
If you have any accessibility requirements, please let us know. Our team will always do what we can to help you enjoy your visit.
Get in touch with us before booking and we'll be happy to talk through any accessibility requirements.
Planning a visit to The Original Sandbox Café? Here are the important bits before you fire up the machines.
No need to leave your best friend behind. The Sandbox Café is dog friendly, so your four-legged companions are welcome to join you.
We have fresh water bowls and a few complimentary treats ready for our canine visitors.
We simply ask that dogs are kept on leads and owners remain considerate of other guests while visiting.
Want to make sure there's a machine waiting for you? We recommend booking your Sandbox experience in advance.
Booking ahead is the best way to secure your preferred visit time and avoid disappointment.
Book Your Experience →
Reserve your 30-minute RC construction session in advance and we'll have the right machine ready for you.
Perfect for families, friends, date nights, birthdays, private parties — and big kids who've always fancied operating a digger.
We want everyone to have a brilliant time at The Sandbox Café. These simple rules help us keep the experience safe, fair and enjoyable for operators, spectators and our machines.
Tap a question below for the answer. If there's anything else you'd like to know before visiting, just get in touch.
Typically, there is one seat around the sandbox
for each RC model booked. We can usually accommodate
a second seat where an adult is helping a child
operate one machine.
If, for example, a party of eight books only one
machine, we can't provide eight seats around the
sandbox as these need to remain available for the
other operators in that session.
You're very welcome to stand and watch, and we also
have tables and chairs upstairs.
Walk-ins are welcome, subject to availability, but we strongly recommend booking during busy periods such as weekends and school holidays to guarantee your session.
Sessions are typically 30 minutes. If you'd like a full hour, simply book two back-to-back sessions.
There's no single age limit for visiting The Sandbox.
Children aged 5 and over can use
our easier-to-operate machines independently, while
younger children can join in with a parent or
guardian directly assisting with the controls.
Our more advanced hobby-grade machines are better
suited to older children, teenagers and adults.
Our team will help match each operator with a
suitable machine.
No. We're not a soft-play venue and the physical
sandpit is reserved strictly for the RC machines
and staff access.
Please don't allow children to enter the sandpit,
lean over the counter or reach in to touch the models.
At present, only The Sandbox Café's own hire
machines can be used in the sandpit during normal
sessions. This helps us maintain safety and fairness
for everyone.
If you have your own RC model and would like to
discuss bringing it along, please contact us
beforehand and we'll see what we can do.
If it's normal wear and tear, don't worry. If damage is caused by misuse, deliberate damage or failure to follow staff instructions, you may be charged for the cost of repairs.
You can place food and drinks on the counter around
the sandpit, but please keep them safely away from
the RC machines.
Seating immediately around the sandbox is prioritised
for customers taking part in the current RC session.
If you're visiting simply for coffee and cake, we
also have tables and chairs upstairs.
Yes. We offer party and group hire options. Please speak to the team or get in touch with us to discuss what you're looking for.
Yes. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in
the café area, although dogs cannot enter the
sandpit itself.
Owners remain responsible for their dogs at all
times and we ask everyone to be considerate of
other guests.
Speak to one of the team when you visit or get in touch before your booking. We're always happy to help.