10 of the Best Water Parks Near London to Splash About in the Summer Holidays
When summer arrives, there’s nothing better than cooling off at a water park. Luckily, there are plenty of exciting water parks near London that offer the perfect escape for families, friends, or anyone looking to beat the heat. Whether you want to float down a lazy river, experience thrilling water slides, or just splash around in a wave pool, here are 10 of the best water parks near London to enjoy this summer.
1. Thorpe Lakes Aqua Park, Surrey
Located just a short drive from London, Thorpe Lakes Aqua Park offers a fun-filled day out for all ages. This inflatable water park features a variety of obstacles, including climbing walls, slides, balance beams, and monkey bars set up on a large lake. It’s perfect for families and groups of friends who want to enjoy some outdoor adventure. While you’re there, you can also try other water sports such as wakeboarding, paddleboarding, or water skiing.
- Distance from London: Approximately 30 minutes by car.
- Best for: Adventurous families, groups of friends, and water sports enthusiasts.
2. Alton Towers Waterpark, Staffordshire
If you don’t mind venturing a little further out of London, Alton Towers Waterpark is worth the trip. Located within the Alton Towers Resort, the water park features indoor and outdoor attractions, including lazy rivers, water slides, and splash zones. The Master Blaster Water Coaster is a highlight, offering a thrilling ride that twists and turns through the park. With tropical theming and plenty of activities for kids and adults alike, it’s a fantastic spot for a full day of fun.
- Distance from London: Around 3 hours by car or train.
- Best for: Families looking for a full day out, thrill-seekers.
3. Coral Reef Waterworld, Bracknell
Coral Reef Waterworld is a popular indoor water park located in Bracknell, offering plenty of excitement for all ages. The park features five thrilling water slides, including the Maelstrom, a swirling vortex slide, and the Cannon, which launches riders down a high-speed flume. There’s also a lazy river, pirate ship play area, and a warm lagoon pool for those who prefer a more relaxed experience. The park recently underwent a major renovation, ensuring modern facilities and plenty of fun.
- Distance from London: Approximately 1 hour by car or train.
- Best for: Families with children, indoor fun.
4. Splashdown Poole, Dorset
For those willing to take a day trip, Splashdown Poole in Dorset is an amazing choice for a summer outing. With 13 thrilling water slides, including the Spacebowl, Screamer, and Dragon’s Lair, there’s something for everyone who loves a bit of adrenaline. The outdoor areas include a heated swimming pool and a splash zone for younger children. Whether you want to take on the high-speed flumes or float gently along the lazy river, Splashdown has plenty of options to keep the whole family entertained.
- Distance from London: Roughly 2.5 hours by car.
- Best for: Thrill-seekers, families with older children.
5. LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, Berkshire
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort isn’t just about bricks and mini-figures—it’s also home to the Drench Towers and Splash Safari water play areas. The Drench Towers feature splash pads, water cannons, and a giant water bucket that drenches anyone below. The Splash Safari is designed for younger children, with smaller slides and interactive water features. It’s an ideal spot for a family day out, where you can combine the water fun with other theme park attractions.
- Distance from London: About 45 minutes by car or train.
- Best for: Families with young children, LEGO fans.
6. Liquid Leisure, Berkshire
Liquid Leisure is Europe’s largest inflatable water park, located near Windsor. The park features a huge aqua obstacle course complete with slides, climbing walls, balance beams, and hurdles. It’s a fantastic spot for group activities, including birthday parties and team-building events. In addition to the inflatable course, Liquid Leisure also offers wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and open-water swimming.
- Distance from London: Roughly 45 minutes by car.
- Best for: Groups of friends, birthday parties, and corporate events.
7. Lymington Sea Water Baths, Hampshire
If you prefer a more traditional swimming experience, Lymington Sea Water Baths in Hampshire offers the oldest open-air sea water baths in the UK, dating back to 1833. The baths feature a 200-meter pool filled with sea water, along with an inflatable obstacle course, paddleboards, and water zorbs. It’s a great spot to enjoy some open-air swimming, with stunning views of the Solent and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Distance from London: About 2 hours by car.
- Best for: Those seeking a more relaxed experience with some history.
8. Guildford Spectrum, Surrey
Guildford Spectrum is a leisure complex that includes an indoor water park offering multiple pools, wave machines, water slides, and a wild water rapids feature. The Surf Lagoon is perfect for those who enjoy the surf simulator, while the interactive pirate ship play area keeps younger children entertained. After the water park, you can explore the ice skating rink, bowling alley, and other facilities for a complete day of fun.
- Distance from London: Approximately 45 minutes by car or train.
- Best for: Families, those looking for a multi-activity day out.
9. Hobbledown Heath, Hounslow
Newly opened, Hobbledown Heath features a unique blend of adventure park, zoo, and water play area. The Splash Zone is ideal for younger children and includes water jets, splash pads, and sprinklers. With a combination of land and water activities, such as high ropes courses, animal encounters, and interactive play zones, it’s perfect for an adventurous family day out near London.
- Distance from London: About 30 minutes by car.
- Best for: Families with younger children, interactive play.
Conclusion
There’s no shortage of exciting water parks near London that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a high-octane adventure, a relaxing dip, or a family-friendly splash zone, these water parks offer a fantastic way to enjoy the summer. So, grab your swimwear, pack some sunscreen, and head out for a refreshing day trip to one of these amazing locations!
