We've got a few very hot days coming this week, with temperatures soaring. There's also no knowing what weather we can expect in July and August this year (or indeed, in future years) and unless you are lucky enough to have your own outdoor pool, children will be desperate for ways to cool off. Here are some of my favourite places to go with children for a change of scenery on the rare, but often sizzling, hot days during the Great British Summer.
Tonbridge Outdoor Swimming Pool
Location: Tonbridge
Cost: Adult casual user: £9.30, under 3s: £1.40
Overview: Right in the heart of Tonbridge, the outdoor swimming pool is a classic choice for cooling off. With a heated outdoor pool, a children’s pool, and a fantastic fountain area, it caters to swimmers of all ages and abilities. The surrounding sunbathing area is ideal for parents who want to relax while the kids splash around. It's a wonderful way to spend a hot summer day without straying far from home. Combine with a visit to the Racecourse play ground, a zip around the miniature railway or by watching the paddle boarders make their way up the Medway, and you've got yourself a fantastic day out.
Aqua Park at Bewl Water
Location: Lamberhurst, near Tunbridge Wells
Cost: £20 per person
Overview: For an exhilarating day out, head to the Aqua Park at Bewl Water. This inflatable obstacle course on the water is an adventure waiting to happen. Suitable for kids aged 6 and over (and adults, of course), the Aqua Park features giant slides, balance beams, and a variety of other inflatable obstacles. It's the perfect spot for a family day out, especially when the temperatures rise. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen and a sense of adventure! There's also a soft play and two lovely playgrounds to choose from.
Calverley Adventure Grounds' Playground
Location: Tunbridge Wells
Cost: Free
Overview: Did you know that the popular Calverley Adventure Grounds has the perfect toy to keep toddlers entertained? The water tables here are a hit with younger children, offering hands-on fun while keeping them cool. The adventure playground also boasts a variety of play equipment, like little wooden houses, making it a versatile spot for a family outing. Combine it with a picnic under the shade, and you have the perfect recipe for a delightful day out.
Swanley Park's Splash Pool
Location: Swanley
Cost: Free from 11 am, but booking is required
Overview: A little further afield, Swanley Park’s Splash Pool is well worth the trip. The splash pool features fountains, water jets, and paddling areas that are perfect for toddlers and younger children. The park itself is expansive, offering a miniature railway, boating lake, and extensive play areas, so there's plenty to keep the whole family entertained all day long.
Drusilla's Adventure Park and Zoo
Location: Polegate, East Sussex
Cost: Day tickets cost £29.50 for adults and children over the age of 2, under 2s go free
Overview: If you're up for a bit of a drive, Drusilla's Adventure Park and Zoo is an excellent choice. Their splash pad and water play area are perfect for cooling down after exploring the zoo. With interactive water features and soft play zones, it’s a fun and educational day out that promises to keep the kids both entertained and cool. The zoo itself is lovely, featuring penguins, lemurs, meerkats, and more! There are also multiple adventure playgrounds and free rides for children to enjoy.
Knockhatch Adventure Park
Location: Hailsham, East Sussex
Cost: Day tickets cost £20.69 for adults and children over the age of 2, under 2s go free
Overview: Knockhatch Adventure Park boasts not one but two splash parks. The Jungle Splash Park and the Pirates Cove Paddling Pool provide hours of wet and wild fun for children of all ages. Each of the splash parks features water cannons, slides, whirlpools and more! The park also offers various other attractions, including multiple adventure playgrounds, a boating lake, animal encounters, jumping pillows, rides, and indoor play areas. It’s a fantastic destination for a family day out during the heatwave.
Epic Life Paddle Boarding
Location: Tonbridge
Cost: From £21.20, please check their website for up-to-date information
Overview: For families with older kids and teens, Epic Life offers a fun and unique way to cool off and explore our amazing town. Paddleboarding on the River Medway is a refreshing and exciting activity that provides a great workout while allowing you to enjoy the scenic views. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced paddleboarder, this is a fantastic way to spend a sunny day. Along with SUP (Stand up paddleboarding), Epic Life offers kayaking, SUP yoga, and more.
Hever Castle Water Maze
Location: Hever
Cost: Adult tickets (gardens only) £18.35, children are £11.50, kids under 4 go free.
Overview: A visit to Hever Castle is always a treat, and their water maze adds an extra layer of fun, especially during a heatwave. The maze challenges you to reach the center without getting wet, but where’s the fun in that? Kids will love the surprise jets of water and the chance to cool off in this beautifully designed garden feature. There's also a more traditional hedge-maze, two amazing playgrounds (one of my favourites in Kent), the stunning gardens, and so much to discover. You can easily take along a picnic and enjoy a day out in the gardens.
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