Is there anything more fun than splashing out with the family and enjoying the thrill of an indoor water park? The UK is not really the place for reliable outdoor water fun but that’s why you’ll find so many excellent indoor water parks that cater to every need.
If you’re keen to dive in then you’re in the right place. We’ve put together this guide on the best UK water parks and you’ll be amazed at just how much there is to discover.
Blackpool is one of the UK’s number 1 holiday destinations with plenty to do to entertain people of all ages. The Sandcastle water park is just one of these attractions and what’s more, it’s currently the largest water park in the whole country.
At sandcastle, you’ll find the Master Blaster which is the longest indoor waterslide in the world! But if you fancy something a little more placid then there’s plenty to keep you happy including the wave pool and Treetop water chutes.
For grown ups who want a day out with a difference, there is the option to book a VIP area and experience the water park like never before. You’ll also be treated to a fully stocked alcohol fridge, a TV and a private hot tub plus much more; it’s the ultimate way to relax.
Splashdown is a great place for families with kids of various ages. There’s an amazing under 3s area which features a wonderful splash zone as well as more than 13 rides for older kids and adults to enjoy. Some of these are outdoors but the majority of the park is inside so can be enjoyed all year round.
But one of the biggest attractions at Splashworld is Infinity. This ride takes place with disco lights, music and high speed fun. If you pay a visit, this is a must!
The water park also throws kids parties if you want to do something a little different and they’ll include everything from use of the flumes to invitations and refreshments. Speaking of refreshments, if you’re feeling a little peckish after all that aquatic fun, the onsite cafe has a range of tasty food and drinks to fill your belly!
Once you have fully explored everything that the Sherwood Forest area of Nottingham has to offer, you might feel like trying something different and hitting the water. Wild Water Rapids is located within the Centre Parcs at Sherwood Forest and it’s recommended to book your visit well in advance because this is a hugely popular attraction.
The indoor swimming paradise is always heated so you’ll feel like you’re swimming in the tropics. The green, leafy theme adds to this and this water park is a nice relaxing alternative for people who aren’t keen on speedy water chutes and wild rides as there are a lot more chilled areas here.
That said, there’s still plenty to do with the water rapids and slides and you will find exciting rides here if that’s your thing. There’s also an excellent children’s water play area for younger visitors; you certainly won’t have a moment to be bored at Wild Water Rapids.
What we absolutely love about Blue Lagoon is that this is the first UK indoor water park that uses biomass heating so not only is it super fun here, it’s also eco-friendly!
You’ll find four amazing flumes that twist and turn out of the building and right back in. Two are open flumes while two are enclosed and they’ll take you to one of four relaxation or plunge pools. If you’re feeling adventurous, we’d recommend the Torpedo flume!
What’s more, there’s an outdoor area for days when the weather is a little more favourable.
But the biggest attraction at Blue Lagoon is the wave pool. It’s here that you’ll find a whole host of fun activities including geysers, water cannons, a beach area and six different wave patterns.
Alpamare truly has something for everyone. There are wild slides and wicked rides as well as relaxation areas and there’s even a wellness suite for those who really want to kick back.
There are a selection of pools including a massive wave pool as well as an outdoor heated area and a splash pool for the little ones. There aren’t as many slides here as some other water parks with a total of just four, but what you get is exhilarating and super fun.
When the weather is a little warmer, there’s a gorgeous outdoor bar where the grown ups can sit back and relax while the kids enjoy the water. But even when the rain is pouring, there’s an indoor cafe serving food for those hungry tummies after a day in the water.
Waterworld has earned itself the name of the ‘top waterpark within the UK’ and we’re not going to argue that fact. This is a tropical themed water park that’s bursting with fun for people of all ages and located right in the heart of the country, it’s accessible to everyone.
Waterworld is home to more than 30 rides so you can easily spend a day here and not get bored. There are thrill and adrenaline rides for those with a thirst for adventure while the family slides are perfect for the little ones and those who want a more peaceful experience.
When you’ve had enough of the water, there are places to eat and drink so you can really make a day of it. But what’s most exciting is that entry costs as little as a fiver!
For all those pirate fanatics, Calypso Cove is the place to be; with swashbuckling themes throughout, this is the ultimate water adventure park. There’s an excellent wave pool and lots of splash areas but the true appeal of this water park is the excellent selection of slides and rides.
Home to some of the fastest and most exciting water rides in the UK, Calypso Cove is a thrill seekers paradise. Try out Eruption, a fast paced water slide based around a volcano or perhaps Terror Torrent is more up your street; a super speedy slide that isn’t for the aint hearted. But if you’re after something a little more family friendly, you won’t be left out. Kraken is a great slide for introducing younger adventurers to water rides.
When you’re finished for the day, there’s a cafe serving food and drink to help you refuel after your adventures.
Located within the Splash Landings hotel, the Alton Towers water park is the place to be for people who want a truly tropical adventure. While there is an outdoor area, the park is also home to a huge indoor park for those rainy days and it doesn’t disappoint.
There are family friendly areas including the Bubbly Wobbly pool and a relaxing lazy river but if you’re up for something a little more high speed, you’ll find plenty to do. For example, the Master Blaster is a fast paced up and down ride that’ll really get the blood pumping.
What’s great about this water park is that guests can visit for the day or stay in the hotel overnight for more days of fun. Not to mention, you can purchase tickets to the theme park and make a weekend of it.
Lagan Valley is one of the most underrated water parks in the UK. OK it doesn’t have some of the adrenaline rides that you’ll find at places like Sandcastle or Alton Towers but it’s perfect for family fun. There are some faster paced rides but the main focus is on younger kids so there's a lot for families to do.
You’ll find a lazy river and lots of waterfalls as well as a space bowl and the falling rapids. For the very young children, there is an interactive area that boasts several activities including water shooters, see-saws and much more.
For those who simply fancy taking a swim, Lagan Valley is also home to a large 25m swimming pool as well as a diving pool. There’s something for everyone including inflatable sessions on the main pool. What we love about Lagan Valley is that it also hosts disability friendly sessions on a Tuesday evening from 6pm until 7:30pm.
We finish our tour of the UK’s top water parks back in the Midlands where you’ll find The Wave, a large indoor water park based in Coventry. It’s home to a whole host of things to keep you entertained whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.
For a more chilled out experience, head for the lazy river or the wave pool. But if it’s a thrill you seek then you won’t be disappointed. There are six wild slides including the Riptide, the Torrent and the Cyclone which are sure to knock you off your feet. Plus, there are some enclosed slides with disco lighting for a totally different experience.
For younger guests, the Reef is the place to be with child friendly splash zones and activities that’ll keep the little ones entertained for hours. And when you’re done, why not head to the onsite spa for some quiet time?
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Conclusion
From indoor tropical paradises to pirate themed adventures, there are water parks in the UK to meet every taste and need. No matter where you’re located, you’re never too far from an aquatic adventure and it’s great fun for all the family.
