While a theme park can make for a thrilling family day out, rollercoasters and scary rides aren’t for everyone.
That’s why a water park could make for the ideal compromise if you’ve got both adrenaline junkies and more laidback members in your party.
The more daring can take on the slides, wave machines and whirlpools, while those after a calmer day out can unwind in the splash pools and lazy rivers – and there are plenty of play areas for little ones too!
The UK is home to a whole host of parks, from outdoor adventures for making the most of sunny summer days, to indoor offerings for when the British weather lets you down.
We take a look at some of the best water parks across the nation sure to make a splash with the kids this summer…
1. Sandcastle
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an exotic land thanks to the tropical temperatures at Sandcastle, where temperatures reach up to 28C.
Expect treehouse ‘storms’, water slides, shallow pools, peaceful lagoons and an action river, all of which promise plenty of fun and thrills for all ages.
The park is also launching the first sensory/quiet room in a UK water park to assist children and young people with additional and complex needs.
How much? Adult tickets from £16, Children 11 and under tickets from £12.75. Family saver tickets are available for families with 3-6 guests. Visit www.sandcastle-waterpark.co.uk for more information.
2. Aqua Park Rutland
This summer, it’s time to put your skills to the test and throw in a bit of friendly competition against your family members!
Re-opening on the 26th May, Aqua Park Rutland has more than 36 fun obstacles you can climb, jump, crawl, launch, slide and splash your way through, not to mention inflatable climbing wall ‘The Beast’, the tallest of its kind in the UK.
There will be dedicated 10am slots for families with children aged 6-13 too so even your little ones can take on the exciting challenge.
How much? Tickets from £20pp for a 50-minute session, which includes a wetsuit, life jacket and briefing. Visit www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk for more information.
3. Robin Hood’s Water Park, Nottingham
This Robin Hood-themed offering is the largest outdoor water park in the UK, boasting five exciting slides that little thrill-seekers will love.
Plus it’s part of Wheelgate Adventure Park where you can also find rollercoasters, animal experiences and family-friendly rides, so if your older kids really want to check out a theme park, it makes for a great compromise.
How much? £14.99 for adults and children over 108cm in height, £6.99 for children 95cm-108cm. Kids under 95cm go free. (Prices based on weekends and holidays). Visit www.wheelgatepark.com for more information.
4. Waterworld, Stoke-on-Trent
With slides, whirlpools, bubble pools, rapids, a lazy river and even an assault course, you’ll be spoiled for choice on activities at Waterworld.
There are even dedicated areas for toddlers and little ones, and for those who don’t want to get wet, spectator tickets are also an option.
An estimated 400,000 people visit Waterworld every year, so if you’re in the area it’s definitely worth going to see what all the hype is about!
How much? Tickets from £13.99, or you can get family tickets from £49. Visit www.waterworld.co.uk for more details.
5. LC Swansea
What used to be a leisure centre has been transformed into Wales’ largest water park, and it’s definitely ideal for kids who love a sense of adventure.
Take on the ‘boardrider’, a standing surf simulator or face their newest attraction Volcano Bay, which literally ‘erupts’ with water.
How much? Off-peak tickets from £4.50. During peak times, adult tickets from £7 and child tickets £5.50. Family tickets are available. Visit www.thelcswansea.com for more details.
6. Alton Towers Resort
The Staffordshire resort is best known for its theme park and rollercoasters, but Alton Towers also has a pretty impressive water park offering.
Think lazy rivers, crazy water cannons and even a thrilling water coaster, there’s something for everyone.
There are rapids and ‘flash flood’ pools for the more daring, but if you’ve got little ones then you can make the most of the quieter splash pools also on offer.
In fact, the resort has special offers for parents with tiny tots, offering discounted entry at £7 per adult, with children under 3 going for free.
The ticket offers access to the Little Leake, Lagoona Bay and Wacky Waterworks. Click here for the full details .
