The primary-coloured tube slides and heady scent of chlorine doesn’t half take you back. Make some more family memories with a trip to one of our recommended water parks and leisure pools in Manchester and the North West.
With interactive water play and cheeky sprays for tots, and high-octane daredevil action on superfast chutes for teens, there’s a kids swimming pool for all ages.
The prices vary, with council-affiliated leisure centres providing the best bargains. The big names cost more but they’re akin to theme parks; the slides are like rides with scary names and scary reputations. Reasonable value, if you think of it that way.
The joy of the water park is that it has the feel of a sunny holiday activity (and often some pretty tropical temperatures too) but it’s also the perfect rainy day activity.
Pack your swimming costume and towel and dive in.
-
BarnsleyCalypso Cove Waterpark
More detailsIt’s a bit of a drive if you’re travelling from Manchester but it’s worth it. Calypso Cove Waterpark in Barnsley is a fab day out – not only has it got five slides ranging from toddler-friendly to frankly terrifying, but it only costs £12.50 to get in (or less for children under 11.)
-
Stockport Town CentreGrand Central
More detailsGrand Central is a leisure centre in Stockport. It’s best known for its swimming pool which has two slides but it also has a gym, exercise classes and a few basic spa facilities.
-
HydeHyde Leisure Pool
More detailsIf you’re looking for a pool with a waterslide in Manchester, you’ve got two options: Grand Central in Stockport and Hyde Leisure Pool (or Hyde Baths as it’s still known locally).
-
BlackpoolSandcastle Waterpark
More detailsSandcastle Waterpark is almost as much of a part of Blackpool’s South Shore scenery as the Pleasure Beach with primary-coloured tube slides protruding from the building in rather frightening-looking swirls like a marble run on steroids.
-
SouthportSplash World
More detailsSplash World in Southport is an inclusive family-friendly water park. It offers a range of attractions but is perhaps more suited to younger splashers.
-
Stoke-on-TrentWaterworld
More detailsWaterworld is Facebook-famous – everyone’s been and everyone raves about it. It’s not cheap but when you compare it to theme parks like Alton Towers, it’s not bad value for a day out. The price includes at least three hours in the water and when it’s not so busy, you can stay as long as you want.
