About Us – HOST Play Cafe

what we do.

Based in the heart of Scotland’s central belt, host. is a cafe and play space for children and their grown-ups to explore, connect with others and relax.

At host., we believe that play is more than just fun: it’s how children learn, connect, and make sense of the world. Our space is designed to nurture these little moments of discovery, while giving grown-ups a place to feel at ease too.

Our sessions are inspired by the magic of imaginative play, with calming, open-ended setups that invite curiosity and creativity. it’s a chance to slow down, share special time with your little one, and be part of a welcoming community of parents and carers.

our story.

We’re Holly and Stephanie: two sisters whose earliest memories smell of fresh coffee beans and laughter. Our mum ran one of Hamilton’s very first coffee shops, so we grew up nestled between steaming espressos and the warm buzz of friends catching up. Here we learned that coffee is more than a drink—it’s a way to bring people together.

In our teens, life whisked us off to France. We finished school wandering cobblestone streets, learning the art of slowing down, sharing long lunches, and truly connecting. Though we loved our new rhythm, Hamilton always tugged at our hearts. Eventually, we both found our way home, eager to raise our own families in the place that shaped us.

Today, between us, we have seven bright-eyed children (Holly’s four and Stephanie’s three) and our youngest arrived just six weeks apart. While on maternity leave together, we realised there wasn’t a spot where we could sip a really good coffee, sit back, and watch our babies play safely. We wanted more than plastic toys and takeaway cups; we craved a calm, cosy haven where parents and little ones could feel at ease.

That longing sparked Host. It’s where our childhood café memories meet our careers – Holly’s in early years education and Stephanie’s in mental health nursing. And before you ask: yes, the name is exactly what it sounds like: a blend of Holly and Stephanie.

We built Host for families who deserve to feel relaxed, seen, and genuinely welcome, because we know first-hand how much that sense of belonging means.

our space.

big moves

…where the children can climb, crawl, balance and slide. It is all about bg energy, big fun and building confidence as they go.

small world

…play is filled with trains, animals, cars, tiny props for children to build, sort and create their own stories.

little explorers

…is host.’s baby zone. Soft, calm and cozy with sensory toys and a space to safely wriggle and discover.

make believe

…is where imagination takes the lead. Our play kitchen, market stall and dressing up bits for all the pretend play they love.

get in touch.

Do you have a question, concern, or just want to say hello? Get in touch via the form below and a member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.