BERG Playbase Climbing Frames 2026 | The Complete Guide for Irish Families
Everything you need to know about the BERG PlayBase modular climbing frame system: frame sizes, accessories, pricing, installation, safety, and how to choose the right setup for your family. Updated February 2026.
What Is the BERG PlayBase?
The BERG PlayBase is a modular, steel, in-ground climbing frame system designed for play, sport, fitness, and relaxation. Manufactured by BERG — a Dutch company with over 35 years' experience in outdoor toys — the PlayBase is engineered as a single frame that serves the entire family from toddlers through to adults, for 15–20 years.
Unlike traditional timber climbing frames or swing sets, the PlayBase uses a patented tube-connection system built from heavy-duty, powder-coated galvanised steel (Ø89 mm / 9 cm diameter tubing). Accessories attach via a simple carabiner-clip system, allowing the frame to be reconfigured in minutes — from a children's playground to an outdoor gym to a garden lounge space.
Key Benefits at a Glance
- Modular design — accessories swap in minutes via carabiner clips
- All-age use — from babies (with baby seat) to adults (fitness equipment)
- Steel construction — outlasts timber frames with minimal maintenance
- No concrete required for free-standing models
- Minimalist aesthetic — designed to complement modern gardens
- Triple-protected finish — galvanised, anti-corrosive coated, then powder-coated
- Up to 13-year frame warranty when registered
PlayBase Frame Models & Sizes
The PlayBase system comes in four frame sizes. All share the same height (245 cm above ground) and depth (100 cm), differing in length and mounting method.
BERG PlayBase Wall — From €999
| Type | Wall-mounted |
| Dimensions (above ground) | 240 cm (L) × 100 cm (W) × 245 cm (H) |
| Installation | Mounts to a structural brick or concrete wall; fixed at ground level via base plates |
| Concrete required? | Wall fixings required (no ground concrete) |
| Best for | Small/narrow gardens, urban terraces, courtyards with a solid masonry wall |
| Colours | Black, Green |
| Price (MSRP Ireland) | From €999 |
BERG PlayBase Medium — From €1,499
| Type | Free-standing, dug-in |
| Dimensions (above ground) | 290 cm (L) × 100 cm (W) × 245 cm (H) |
| In-ground dimensions | 315 cm (L) × 350 cm (D) × 295 cm (H total) |
| Installation | Dug into the ground 20–50 cm; no concrete required |
| Best for | 1–3 children, typical suburban gardens |
| Colours | Black, Green |
| Price (MSRP Ireland) | From €1,499 |
BERG PlayBase Large — From €1,749
| Type | Free-standing, dug-in |
| Dimensions (above ground) | 380 cm (L) × 100 cm (W) × 245 cm (H) |
| In-ground dimensions | 405 cm (L) × 350 cm (D) × 295 cm (H total) |
| Installation | Dug into the ground 20–50 cm; no concrete required |
| Best for | 3+ children, larger gardens (10 m+ × 12 m recommended) |
| Colours | Black, Green |
| Price (MSRP Ireland) | From €1,749 |
BERG PlayBase Extra Large — From €1,999
| Type | Free-standing, dug-in |
| Installation | Same dug-in method as Medium and Large; no concrete required |
| Best for | Large families, maximum accessory capacity |
| Colours | Black, Green |
| Price (MSRP Ireland) | From €1,999 |
Shared Specifications (All Models)
- Tubing diameter: Ø89 mm (9 cm) — heavy-duty steel
- Frame finish: Galvanised steel → anti-corrosive coating → powder-coated black or green
- Maximum overall frame load: 400 kg (excluding accessories)
- Maximum user weight per person: 100 kg
- Safety zone clearance: 2.2 metres all around and above, clear of obstacles
- Surface requirement: Flat, level, unpaved surface (grass ideal)
- Assembly time: 2–6 hours (plus digging time for free-standing models)
- Assembly crew: 3 people recommended; 4 to place in ground safely
- Certifications: CE certified, TÜV certified
Pre-Configured Sets & Bundles (2026 Ireland Pricing)
BERG offers frame + accessory bundles for convenience. All prices include VAT.
PlayBase Wall Sets
| Product | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| PlayBase Wall + Swing set | €1,038 |
| PlayBase Wall + Family set | €1,128 |
| PlayBase Wall + Peak set | €1,427 |
| PlayBase Wall + Sports set | €1,227 |
PlayBase Medium Sets
| Product | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| PlayBase Medium + Swing set | €1,577 |
| PlayBase Medium + Active set | €1,567 |
| PlayBase Medium + Toddler set | €1,637 |
| PlayBase Medium + Ultimate set | €2,165 |
| PlayBase Medium + Play set | €2,026 |
| PlayBase Medium + Sports set | €1,875 |
| PlayBase Medium TL (Climbing net M + Boxing bag) | €1,847 |
PlayBase Large Sets
| Product | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| PlayBase Large + Toddler set | €1,916 |
| PlayBase Large + Family set | €1,977 |
| PlayBase Large + Peak set | €2,216 |
| PlayBase Large + Ultimate set | €2,505 |
| PlayBase Large + Play set | €2,216 |
| PlayBase Large + Sports set | €2,174 |
| PlayBase Large TL (Climbing net L + Boxing bag) | €2,197 |
| PlayBase Large TT (Hammock) | €1,728 |
PlayBase Extra Large Sets
| Product | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| PlayBase Extra Large + Active set | €2,135 |
| PlayBase Extra Large + Family set | €2,186 |
| PlayBase Extra Large + Ultimate set | €2,765 |
| PlayBase Extra Large + Play set | €2,993 |
| PlayBase Extra Large + Sports set | €2,424 |
PlayBase Accessories — Full Catalogue
Accessories are grouped into three categories: Play, Sport/Fitness, and Lounge. All attach via carabiner clips for quick swapping — you can reconfigure your PlayBase in minutes without tools.
Play Accessories
| Accessory | Price (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Platform + Slide | €399 | Slide attachment with platform |
| Baby Seat | €52 | For toddlers/babies |
| Baby Swing | €79 | Enclosed baby swing |
| Seat Swing | €39 | Standard swing seat |
| Wooden Disc Swing | €22 | Classic wooden disc |
| Disc Swing | €39 | Rubber disc swing |
| Nest Swing | €99 | Large round nest swing |
| Gym Rings | €29 | Wooden gymnastic rings |
| Trapeze | €29 | Wooden trapeze bar |
| Climbing Wall | €399 | Mounts to side of Medium, Large, or XL frames |
| Climbing Net M | €219 | Fits Medium frame |
| Climbing Net L | €319 | Fits Large frame |
| Climbing Net XL | €399 | Fits Extra Large frame |
| Basketball Hoop | €199 | Attaches to frame |
| Soccer Target Net M | €99 | Medium football goal net |
| Soccer Target Net L | €149 | Large football goal net |
| Soccer Target Net XL | €199 | Extra large football goal net |
Sport & Fitness Accessories
| Accessory | Price (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boxing Bag | €129 | Heavy bag for boxing workouts |
| Dip Bar | €99 | For dips and upper-body training |
| Pull-Up Bar | €99 | For pull-ups and chin-ups |
| Fitness Rope | €39 | TRX-style suspension trainer |
| Resistance Bands | €29 | For strength training |
Lounge Accessories
| Accessory | Price (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hammock | €129 | Fits Large frame only |
Accessory Compatibility Notes
- The monkey bars (top rail) are integrated into every frame and double as an overhead attachment point
- Swings, rings, trapeze, and boxing bag hang from the top rail via carabiner clips
- The climbing wall attaches to either end of the Medium, Large, or XL frame
- Climbing nets are size-matched to each frame (M/L/XL)
- The hammock is designed to fit the Large frame only
- Multiple accessories can be used simultaneously (up to ~3, depending on combination and frame size)
- Accessories can be swapped in minutes without tools
Who Is the PlayBase For? (Age & Use Guide)
The BERG PlayBase is designed for all ages — there is no upper age limit. Here's what we recommend by age group:
| Age Group | Recommended Accessories |
|---|---|
| Babies & Toddlers (0–2 years) | Baby seat, baby swing |
| Young Children (2–5 years) | Baby seat, seat swing, disc swing, nest swing |
| Children (5–10 years) | Swings, climbing wall, climbing net, trapeze, gym rings, basketball hoop, soccer net |
| Tweens & Teenagers (10–16 years) | Climbing wall, climbing net, pull-up bar, dip bar, boxing bag, gym rings, monkey bars |
| Adults | Pull-up bar, dip bar, boxing bag, fitness rope, resistance bands, gym rings, hammock |
The modular philosophy: Start with a basic frame and 1–2 accessories. Add more as your children grow and interests change. The frame is a one-time purchase; the accessories evolve with your family.
Design & Materials
- Aesthetic: Minimalist, geometric design with sleek black (or green) powder-coated steel and natural wood/rope accents on accessories
- Frame construction: Galvanised steel tubing → anti-corrosive coating → powder coat finish (triple protection against rust and weather)
- Patented tube connection system: Provides exceptional rigidity and stability without welding
- Compact above-ground footprint: The innovative underground frame design means the PlayBase takes up far less visible space than timber climbing frames
- Garden integration: Designed to blend into modern gardens rather than dominate them — customers consistently praise how well it looks in their outdoor spaces
Installation Guide
Free-Standing Models (Medium, Large, Extra Large)
- No concrete required — the frame's wide underground base provides stability when properly dug in and backfilled
- Tools needed: Shovel/spade, spirit level, ratchet straps (helpful), rubber mallet
- Process: Assemble the top frame on a flat area → mark out the digging area → dig trenches/slots for the underground framework (approx. 20–50 cm deep) → place the frame → backfill with excavated soil → tamp down → add accessories
- Typical timelines: Assembly 2–3 hours; digging varies from 2–8+ hours depending on soil type (clay and stony soil takes longer)
- Crew: 3 people to assemble; 4 recommended to lower the frame into the ground
Wall Model
- Requires mounting to a structural brick or concrete wall using appropriate fixings (fixings depend on wall material)
- Base plates fix at ground level
- Professional installation recommended, especially on older brickwork
Key Installation Tips
- Surface must be flat, level, and unpaved (grass is ideal)
- Maintain 2.2 m clearance from obstacles in all directions and overhead
- Check for underground utilities before digging
- Keep clear of overhead cables and low tree branches
- Don't fully tighten bolts until the entire frame is square and level
- Tamp down soil over several days before using the frame at maximum capacity
- Watch the BERG assembly video before starting — customers consistently say this makes a big difference
Safety & Certifications
- CE certified — meets European safety standards
- TÜV certified — independently tested and approved
- Designed for domestic family use only — commercial use voids all warranties
- Safety features: Non-slip surfaces, rounded edges, sturdy construction
- Maximum user weight: 100 kg per person (individual accessory limits may be lower — check labels)
- Maximum frame load: 400 kg (excluding accessories)
- Weather performance: Frame can remain outdoors year-round; soft accessories (hammock, boxing bag) should be brought in during severe weather
Warranty
| Component | Standard Warranty | Extended (with registration) |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | 10 years | 13 years (register within 1 month of purchase) |
| Accessories | 2 years | 2 years |
Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover damage from customer negligence, normal wear and tear, or commercial use. Register at berg.com/product-registration.
Maintenance
- Monthly inspections: Check all fixings and bolts, especially after high winds
- Cleaning: Wipe down frame periodically; the powder-coated finish is weather-resistant
- Accessories: Inspect ropes, seats, and wooden components for wear; replace promptly if damaged
- Winter care: Frame stays up year-round. Store soft accessories (hammock, punching bag, resistance bands) indoors during severe storms
- Basketball hoop & nets: Remove in storms if your site is very exposed
PlayBase vs. Traditional Timber Climbing Frames
| Feature | BERG PlayBase | Traditional Timber Frame |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Galvanised, powder-coated steel | Treated timber |
| Lifespan | 15–20+ years | 8–12 years typically |
| Maintenance | Minimal — check bolts monthly | Annual treatment/staining |
| Modular accessories | Yes — swap in minutes via clips | Limited or fixed |
| Age range | Toddlers through adults | Typically children only |
| Fitness use | Full gym capability | Rarely |
| Look | Modern, minimalist, garden-friendly | Rustic/traditional |
| Foundation | No concrete (dug-in underground frame) | Often requires concrete footings |
| Warranty | Up to 13 years (frame) | 5–10 years typically |
| Reconfiguration | Easy — change accessories any time | Difficult/expensive |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add accessories later, or must I buy everything now?
You can absolutely add later. This is the PlayBase's core design principle — start with the frame and 1–2 accessories, then add more as your children grow and your budget allows. All accessories remain compatible with the frame for its lifetime.
Which frame size should I buy?
Wall — for small/urban gardens with a suitable masonry wall. Medium — for 1–3 children in a typical suburban garden. Large — if you have space (10 m+ × 12 m) and 3+ children or want maximum accessory options. Extra Large — for the biggest families and gardens.
What accessories should I start with?
Depends on your children's ages. Ages 2–5: baby seat + seat swing. Ages 5–10: swings + climbing wall + trapeze. Ages 10+: swings + climbing wall + fitness equipment (pull-up bar, dip bar, boxing bag). Start simple, add over time!
Is it safe in Irish wind and weather?
Yes, when properly installed. The frame is heavy-duty galvanised steel with a low centre of gravity due to the dug-in underground framework. It's designed to withstand harsh weather year-round.
Do I need concrete?
No. Free-standing models (Medium, Large, Extra Large) are stabilised by their underground framework when properly dug in and backfilled. The Wall model requires wall fixings but no ground concrete.
How long does assembly take?
Frame assembly typically takes 2–3 hours with 3 people. Digging takes an additional 2–8+ hours depending on soil conditions (clay and stony soil being the most challenging).
Can adults use it?
Absolutely. The 100 kg per-user weight limit and dedicated fitness accessories (pull-up bar, dip bar, boxing bag, resistance bands, gym rings) make it a genuine outdoor gym. Many of our customers report cancelling gym memberships after installing a PlayBase.
What's the difference between the PlayBase and a traditional swing set?
Traditional swing sets are typically designed for children only and become "outgrown" within a few years. The PlayBase is a modular system that serves the entire family — play, sport, fitness, and relaxation — for 15–20 years, with accessories that can be swapped as needs change.
Can I move it once installed?
Yes. Because no concrete is used, the free-standing models can be relocated by digging out the underground framework and reinstalling in a new location.
Customer Reviews Summary
Based on 30+ verified customer reviews:
- Overall sentiment: Overwhelmingly positive — zero negative ratings
- Build quality: Unanimous praise for durability, sturdiness, and premium materials
- Design: Customers consistently highlight how well it integrates into their gardens
- Multi-age use: Many specifically mention confidence in long-term use for teens and adults, not just young children
- Assembly: Some find it straightforward (especially with the BERG video guide), others note that digging in clay or stony soil is hard work — but universally agreed to be "worth it"
- Value: Customers view it as a long-term investment — several report that adults use it for workouts too
Top assembly tips from customers: Assemble with 2–3 people. Only tighten screws after fitting everything together. Use ratchet straps and a rubber mallet. Watch the BERG assembly video before starting.
Configure Your PlayBase
Use the official BERG PlayBase Configurator to build your custom setup — choose your frame size, side configurations, and accessories, and see a visual representation with total pricing.
Need Help Choosing?
Our PlayBase specialists can recommend the perfect system for your garden and family. Tell us about your space and the ages in your household, and we'll build the perfect PlayBase plan for you.
- Phone: 01 960 1641
- Browse the range: View all BERG PlayBase Climbing Frames
- Sizes & dimensions: View frame size guide
Free 48-hour delivery on most models | 10-year frame warranty (13 years with registration) | Modular design | Premium Dutch quality | Official BERG PlayBase dealer Ireland