28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Splashdown Poole named among the best UK waterparks
Splashdown Poole, which features 13 different rides to choose from, was named alongside spots like The Wave in Coventry and Alton Towers Waterpark.
It was included alongside 13 others in a list from Time Out that highlighted a mix of indoor and outdoor waterparks.
Introducing the article, they said: "Looking to make a splash with your next family day out? How about some wobbly water obstacle courses, chaotically fun wave machines and slides so long you're not sure where they end?
"Waterparks come in all shapes and sizes in the UK, and luckily for us, most are open all year round – offering a great day trip to keep kids entertained for hours on end while you brush up your butterfly stroke."
The full list of the best waterparks and swimming pools in the UK can be found on the Time Out website here.
Why is Splashdown Poole among the UK's best waterparks?
Splashdown Poole was included on the list thanks in part to the variety of rides people could try out.
Time Out shared: "At Splashdown in Dorset, there are 13 rides to choose from, and planning your sliding schedule has never been easier with their handy, online, colour-coded guide ranking the rides.
"Up at the top, you'll find your high-speed thrills from the Screamer and Velocity or the short, near-vertical drop of the Baron's Revenge. While only eight metres long, it'll have you hanging onto your trunks.
"In summer, many rides divert to outside courses for alfresco water fun. The park closes during winter for general maintenance and upkeep."
Alongside the slides, the centre's website shares that there is an outdoor splash pool - called Buccaneer's Beach - which is open in the summer for those under the age of eight.
Splashdown Poole doesn't have a swimming pool, but has some splash zones for younger kids to enjoy (Image: Jaki A/Tripadvisor)
What do visitors think of Splashdown Poole?
Splashdown Poole has mostly earned positive reviews from visitors, with it having a 3.4/5 score on Tripadvisor from 929 ratings and a 4.2/5 score on Google Reviews from 2,682 ratings.
One person wrote: "Recently went to the Splashdown Poole and it is a fantastic waterpark, which has a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions.
"It's perfect for families, with thrill slides like The Screamer and more relaxed options like the Red River Roller."
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Another said: "Very good place for children. 3 flumes and the water is reasonably warm, not cold like most places. There is also a hot tub for adults to relax while their children go off and play.
"Would highly recommend and would recommend buying in advance as it can get very busy (especially during half term)."
A third posted: "First time visitors with partner and daughter, we really enjoyed it, loads of slides to go on although the outside area was closed (due to reopen in May) but still didn't disappoint, would recommend if you are in the area."