As the UK summers get warmer, more and more people are looking for outdoor fun in the water to enjoy the excellent weather. Luckily, there are many outdoor pools, water parks, inflatable courses, splash parks and lidos in Surrey and surrounding areas.

But what is the difference between water parks, lidos, and inflatable courses? Typically, water parks will feature pools, slides, and water-based rides such as rapids or lazy rivers, and they can be indoor or outdoor, although many will be indoor. Traditionally, a lido was an outdoor pool near a body of water or a beach, although these days, that isn’t always the case, and inflatable courses are just that, on water.

With so many outdoor water parks and swimming pools near me in Surrey and our local area, I wanted to share some of the best options for those looking to have a good time over the summer school holidays with some water fun in the sun.

How much are outdoor pools and lidos?

The prices you pay for all of the different activities will vary depending on the activities and the person taking part. Some will require a monthly membership, or you can pay as you go to use council-run facilities like Guildford Lido, which is a great place to spend a hot day; it has water slides, where prices start from £6.90 for children and £8.50 for adults for general swimming. Others, such as Thorpe Lake Aqua Park, which is a great place to spend a few hours on an inflatable course, are from £9 per person.

To avoid disappointment, it is advisable to check terms and conditions online, including recommended ages, and allow swimming aids or the abilities for all users, especially in the case of inflatables. You can also find out what amenities are available, such as marking change rooms and food and drink options. In some cases, you can get discounts by making online bookings in advance or making block bookings for the summer for the family and taking advantage of family discounts, too. It’s worth noting any changes to operational time for any outdoor water park and activity centres as they might not be open in certain weather conditions.

Age restrictions for water sports Surrey

Water sports and activities are available for all ages, and parents can take young children and babies; however, you need to be aware of some rules and restrictions before you go, especially for general swimming.

• Under 5’s: 1 adult to 1 child
• 5-8: 1 adult to 2 children
• Children over 8 can enter the water alone but must be competent swimmers or use swimming aids.

These ages and restrictions may vary, so it is worth checking before arriving to ensure that you won’t be disappointed or turned away.

The minimum age for unaccompanied children on water inflatables can vary, but in many cases, under 8s need to be supervised on the course; again, always check when booking online to avoid any disappointment.

Lidos in Surrey, waterparks, splash parks, inflatable courses and more

Hampton Open-Air Pool

Hampton Pool, located in the picturesque Hampton area, offers a delightful swimming experience with its heated outdoor swimming pool and lush surroundings.

High Street

Hampton

Middlesex

TW12 2ST

Guildford Lido

Run by Freedom Leisure, Guildford Lido, near Stoke Park, is a popular spot in Guildford. It features a spacious 50-meter outdoor pool, paddling pool, extensive grassy areas for sunbathing, and a picnic area. You can book sessions for lane swimming in the morning or general swimming fun after 10.30am. The lido is open daily in the summer months.

Stoke Road

Guildford

GU1 1HB

Guildford Spectrum

Practically next door, you have the Guildford Spectrum, a comprehensive leisure complex boasting multiple indoor pools, including an Olympic-sized one, a wave pool with a big slide, and various other recreational facilities such as bowling and ice skating. There’s also a coffee shop for refreshments and a diner serving pizzas and burgers. There’s free parking on-site, with 1000 spaces available.

Parkway

Guildford

Surrey

GU1 1UP

Stoke Park Paddling Pool, Guildford

Set within the expansive and picturesque Stoke Park, this shallow, well-maintained toddler paddling pool provides a safe and enjoyable environment for younger children to splash and play during the warmer months. It is free to visit, and no booking is required.

117 Stoke Road

Guildford

GU1 1ET

Aldershot Lido

Aldershot Lido, a cherished local spot, offers large outdoor swimming pools, green picnic areas, and thrilling slides.

Guildford Road

Aldershot

GU12 BP

Lagoona Park, Reading

Set against the scenic backdrop of a picturesque lake, the park offers an array of adrenaline-pumping experiences, including inflatable obstacle courses and open-water swimming.

Pingewood Road South

Pingewood, Reading

RG30 3UH

Coral Reef Water World, Bracknell

Coral Reef Water World in Bracknell captivates visitors with its tropical-themed giant water slides, water tunnels, lazy rivers, and extensive indoor pool area.

Nine Mile Ride

Bracknell

RG12 7JQ

Pools in the Park, Woking

Pools in the Park, Woking, provides a serene setting with both indoor and outdoor pools, catering to swimmers of all ages.

Woking Park

Kingfield Road

Woking

GU22 9BA

California Country Park Paddling Pool

This shallow, well-maintained pool offers a refreshing escape for young children during the summer months. Surrounded by the park’s natural beauty with two nature trails, including woodlands, meadows, and a picturesque lake, the paddling pool area also features ample seating and plenty of picnic spots, making it ideal for a relaxing day out.

California Country Park

Wokingham

RG40 4HU

Thorpe Lakes Aqua Park

Just across from Thorpe Park theme park, Thorpe Lakes Aqua Park is an adventure-filled destination that features an exciting inflatable obstacle course on the water, perfect for a fun day out.

Thorpe Road

Chertsey

Surrey

KT16 8PH

Pools on the Park Richmond

Finally, Pools on the Park Richmond, set within Old Deer Park, combines a tranquil atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor swimming options, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Just behind the pools, there are the Old Deer Park tennis courts, should you wish to make a day of it.

Old Deer Park

Richmond

TW9 2SF

Frensham Great Ponds

Frensham Pond, located near Farnham in Surrey, is surrounded by sandy beaches and heathland. During the warmer months, it provides a picturesque setting for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

Bacon Lane, Churt

Surrey

GU10 2QB

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