Blackbird I liked that at Richmond St the kids often all played outside together at the start and end of the day when the weather was nice, but eacxh had their own group time during the day outside too. It really promoted the family environment they had there and the kids were all such good friends.
In general, ABC centres are usually pretty well done up and nice looking, but like you said its easy to think a place looks wonderful but doesnt ensure the quality.
DD went to an ABC centre down here where we are now and it looks fantastic, but i'm also happy that the staff are also fantastic here. The staff would differ from place to place obviously.