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Cool Off at Manchester’s 11 Top Water Parks for Families
When the sun’s blazing and the kids are bouncing off the walls, there’s only one solution: water parks. Nothing says “family bonding” like getting soaked together and arguing over who dared the biggest slide.
Whether you’re up for wild water adventures or a lazy float with a cheeky ice cream on the side, Manchester and its surrounding areas have got you covered.
I remember my first time at a water park—clutching my towel like it was a life raft, only to end up screaming my lungs out on a giant flume. Classic.
Now, with a bit more waterpark wisdom under my belt (and better towel management), our team has scouted the best spots for your next splashy day out. From hidden lakes perfect for paddling to full-on indoor tropical paradises, this list has it all.
Trust me, you’ll want to dive into our top picks—just don’t forget to pack an extra towel or three. Let’s get your family waterlogged in the best way possible!
Chorlton Water Park
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Address: Maitland Avenue, Manchester M21 7WH
Contact details: +44 161 881 5639
Operating Hours: Daily, 8AM – 6PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Picture this: you’re walking through lush greenery, the hum of the city fading behind you. Suddenly, you’re greeted by a glistening lake, so serene it looks like it’s been airbrushed.
Here’s the thing about Chorlton—it’s not just a pretty face. The lake is perfect for a paddle or a quick dip if you’re feeling brave.
Got kids? They’ll be entertained for hours splashing about or spotting ducks while you relax on the grassy banks. If you’re the active type, bring your bike or walking shoes because the trails here are mint.
Don’t rush off without trying some of the water sports on offer; from kayaks to paddleboards, there’s plenty to keep everyone busy. And if all that fresh air leaves you peckish, whip out your picnic or head to one of the nearby cafés.
Pro tip:
Get here early to bag the best picnic spots, trust me, the lakeside views at sunrise are worth the early alarm.
Sale Water Park
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Address: Rifle Road, Sale M33 2LX
Contact details: +44 161 962 0118
Operating Hours: Daily, 8AM – 8PM
Pricing: ££
Next up, we’re heading to Sale Water Park; it’s like the older, more adventurous sibling of Chorlton. The lake here is huge, and when I say huge, I mean massive.
It’s a hotspot for water sports—think canoeing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Don’t worry if you’re a newbie; there’s a watersports centre on-site where you can get lessons or hire gear.
Not feeling sporty? No problem. The walking trails are just as impressive, with routes that take you through woodlands and open fields. And for those lazy days, there’s nothing better than sitting by the water, watching the world go by with an ice cream in hand.
Hungry? The Boathouse restaurant has you covered with everything from light bites to hearty mains. Plus, their terrace offers cracking views of the lake—perfect for soaking up the sun while you dine.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the sunset paddle sessions. The sky turns all kinds of magical, and it’s the perfect way to wind down your day.
Alton Towers Waterpark
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Address: Farley Lane, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 4DB
Contact details: +44 871 222 3330
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 10AM – 6PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Now, this one’s a bit of a drive, but trust me, it’s worth it. Alton Towers Waterpark is a full-on aquatic playground, and it’s pure joy from the moment you step inside.
First, there’s the Master Blaster water coaster—think rollercoaster but with water. It’s fast, furious, and guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.
Prefer something a bit more chill? Grab a rubber ring and float along the lazy river, or head to the hot tubs for some well-earned relaxation. The place has a tropical vibe, complete with palm trees and a Caribbean soundtrack that makes you forget you’re in the UK.
And for the little ones, the Wacky Waterworks Treehouse is a dream come true. It’s packed with tipping buckets, water cannons, and slides that’ll keep them entertained for hours.
Pro tip:
Book your tickets online beforehand. It’s a popular spot, and you don’t want to spend half your day queueing when you could be riding the waves.
Sandcastle Waterpark
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Address: South Beach, Blackpool FY4 1BB
Contact details: +44 1253 340700
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 10AM – 6PM (times may vary seasonally)
Pricing: £££
Website
If you’re after non-stop fun, Sandcastle Waterpark in Blackpool is the place to be. It’s the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, packed with over 18 slides and attractions.
Whether you’re racing down the Aztec Falls or braving the Montazooma, there’s plenty here to get your heart racing. Got little ones? They’ll love the Caribbean Storm Treehouse, a multi-level play area with water cannons and giant tipping buckets.
For those wanting to chill, the Ushi Gushi River Creek offers a lazy float with a side of relaxation. Oh, and let’s not forget the wave pool—it’s as close as you’ll get to the ocean without leaving Blackpool!
Pro tip:
Upgrade to a VIP Tiki Cabana for your own private retreat—it comes with comfy seating and direct access to the waterpark.
Wild Shore Delamere
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Address: Delamere Forest, Northwich CW8 2JL
Contact details: +44 161 227 9927
Operating Hours: Daily, 10AM – 5PM (seasonal hours)
Pricing: ££
Website
Ready to test your balance? Wild Shore Delamere is all about outdoor adventure on the water.
Located in the heart of Delamere Forest, this place boasts a giant inflatable aqua park, complete with climbing walls, trampolines, and obstacle courses that’ll have you laughing (and probably falling) in no time.
If inflatables aren’t your thing, give wakeboarding or stand-up paddleboarding a go. There’s even open water swimming for those brave enough to take the plunge. The stunning forest backdrop only adds to the charm, making this a great spot for a full day of family fun.
Pro tip:
Bring water shoes, they’ll help you grip those slippery inflatables like a pro.
Hollingworth Lake Water Activity Centre
Address: Rakewood Road, Littleborough OL15 0AQ
Contact details: +44 1706 370499
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 9AM – 5PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Pennines, Hollingworth Lake is the ultimate spot for water-based adventures. From sailing to windsurfing, kayaking to powerboating, there’s an activity here to suit every skill level.
Fancy something a bit more relaxing? Hop on a rowing boat and take in the stunning scenery at your own pace. The activity centre offers lessons and equipment hire, so you don’t need to be a pro to join the fun.
There’s also a charming café nearby serving hot drinks and homemade cakes—the perfect reward after a day on the water.
Pro tip:
Check out their family taster sessions, they’re a great way to try out multiple activities without committing to a full course.
Barnsley Metrodome Waterpark (Calypso Cove)
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Address: Queens Ground, Queens Rd, Barnsley S71 1AN
Contact details: +44 1226 730060
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 9AM – 8PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Barnsley Metrodome’s Calypso Cove is where pirate dreams come true. With massive water slides like the Kraken and Eruption, plus a wave pool that’ll make you feel like you’re out at sea, this place is a hit with kids and adults alike.
The Buccaneer Bay area is perfect for younger adventurers, with gentle slides and splash zones to keep them entertained. Feeling daring? Take on the Terror Torrent—it’s one of the UK’s fastest indoor water slides.
If that sounds a bit intense, the lazy river offers a more relaxing ride. And when hunger strikes, there’s a café on-site serving everything from snacks to hearty meals.
Pro tip:
Time your visit for off-peak hours to avoid long queues and have more time to explore the waterpark.
Gulliver’s World Theme Park
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Address: Shackleton Cl, Old Hall, Warrington WA5 9YZ
Contact details: +44 1925 444888
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 10:30AM – 5PM
Pricing: ££
Website
While Gulliver’s World is known for its rides, its Splash Zone is where the water fun really kicks off. This indoor water play area is perfect for families with younger kids, featuring fountains, slides, and a giant tipping bucket that soaks everyone below.
What’s great about the Splash Zone is that you don’t need to worry about the weather—it’s open year-round, offering a warm, tropical escape. Plus, with plenty of seating around the play area, parents can relax while the kids let loose.
Pro tip:
Pack a change of clothes for the kids, they’ll be soaked but grinning ear to ear after a session in the Splash Zone.
Splash World
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Address: Esplanade, Southport PR8 1RX
Contact details: +44 1704 537160
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 10AM – 6PM (seasonal hours)
Pricing: £££
Website
Let’s talk about Splash World in Southport, a place where the fun never dries up, no matter the weather. This fully indoor water park is a haven for families, boasting everything from adrenaline-pumping flumes to gentle splash zones.
First on the list of must-tries? The Rapid River Ride—it’s like being whisked away by a fast-flowing stream, perfect for those who love a bit of excitement without the big drops.
If you’ve got a daredevil in the family, point them towards the Speed Freak Flume.
This high-speed slide will have you zipping down faster than you can say “splash!” For a more laid-back experience, grab a rubber ring and drift along the lazy river, soaking in the tropical vibes.
Parents, you’re in for a treat too. There’s a large seating area where you can relax with a coffee while keeping an eye on the kids. And speaking of little ones, they’ll adore the dedicated play area, complete with mini slides and interactive water jets.
Pro tip:
Check out their quieter weekday sessions for a more relaxed vibe, especially if you’re bringing toddlers who like to explore at their own pace.
Inflata Nation Inflatable Theme Park Manchester
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Address: Textilose Rd, Trafford Park
Contact details: +44 161 710 2360
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun, 10AM – 8PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Now, let’s bounce over to Inflata Nation—a one-of-a-kind inflatable paradise. While it’s not a traditional water park, its Water Wars section ensures you’ll leave just as soaked and satisfied.
Water Wars is where things get seriously fun; armed with water balloons and blasters, you’ll face off in a hilarious soaking battle. Once you’ve had your fill of water antics, explore the rest of the park.
There’s an inflatable climbing wall, a gladiator-style duel platform, and even a ball pit to dive into. For parents, Inflata Nation offers a comfy café area, so you can recharge with a cuppa while the kids burn off their endless energy.
And yes, they do birthday parties too, so if you’re planning a celebration, this spot guarantees memories—and maybe a few soaked socks.
Pro tip:
Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes and bring extra towels. Trust me, you’ll need them after an epic round of Water Wars!
