04-04-2025
Cassiobury paddling pools set to reopen - with new rules introduced
Watford's popular Cassiobury paddling pools are set to reopen this weekend with 'longer sessions and fairer access'.
The Everyone Active-managed site has been shut since September but will welcome visitors back from Saturday, April 5, for the Easter holidays until Monday, April 21.
It will then close temporarily before opening daily for the summer on Saturday, May 24, until September 7.
Watford Borough Council says it has introduced 'important updates to improve the visitor experience', including the return of the 50/50 entry split.
This means there will be 135 places per session available by the booking app and 135 walk-in spaces offered on a first come, first served basis each session.
The council added: 'To ensure fairer access for all, families will only be able to book one session per day, helping to prevent sessions from being blocked out and allowing more people to enjoy the facility.
'Visitors who attend a pre-booked session are welcome to wait and join another session later in the day if space is available.'
Responding to public feedback, session lengths have been increased, giving families more time to enjoy the water. The new 2025 session times are:
10:00 – 11:30
12:00 – 13:30
14:00 – 15:30
16:00 – 17:15 (75 mins)
17:45 – 19:00 (75 mins)
(Image: WBC) WBC said it reserves the right to close the facility if temperatures drop below 15C or to ensure visitor comfort and safety.
The Cassiobury paddling pools, managed on behalf of Watford Borough Council, welcomed 53,000 people last year along – highlighting its appeal as a top family destination, WBC said.
Nestled within 190 acres of beautiful parkland, the Cassiobury Park Paddling Pools boast three splashpads, exciting water jets, and fountains for children to enjoy during the warmer months.
It also includes two splash pools that allow children to control the water flow, creating an interactive and playful environment. Changing and toilet facilities are conveniently located nearby.
