{"id":4229,"date":"2024-09-26T12:40:59","date_gmt":"2024-09-26T11:40:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/events.loopla.com\/?p=4229"},"modified":"2025-11-21T12:54:11","modified_gmt":"2025-11-21T12:54:11","slug":"things-to-do-in-london-with-kids","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loopla.com\/blog\/things-to-do-in-london-with-kids","title":{"rendered":"20 Amazing Things to Do in London with Kids"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Visiting London with kids can be a fantastic experience as you explore one of the most famous cities in the world. A visit to London creates many memories together, as well as being fun and often educational. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Packed with history, culture and exciting attractions, London has so much to offer. Choosing how to spend the day as a family from all these can sometimes be challenging. So we\u2019ve selected 20 of the best things to do in London with kids to help you have a fun and memorable day out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Key London Sights<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

The London Aquarium<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tickets from \u00a327.50: The London Aquarium<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Southbank, SE1
Ages: <\/strong>all ages; ideal for 6+ years<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Home to over 500 species with creatures from sharks and penguins to jellyfish and rockpool life, the London Aquarium<\/a> is one of the world\u2019s best wildlife experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit The London Aquarium for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

SEAlife says it takes 1-1.5 hours to visit the London Aquarium, passing through the 14 themed zones, including the Coral Kingdom, the UK’s largest jellyfish experience, Rainforest and Polar Adventures and the iconic glass tunnel of the Open Oceans Zone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In our experience, it took a bit longer, roughly 2-2.5 hours to get through the whole aquarium as the children liked to stop and interact with the different animal exhibits along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at The London Aquarium<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Located just off Westminster Bridge on the Southbank, there are lots of things to do around the London Aquarium, such as getting a family photo with Big Ben and visiting the Paddington Experience. It is right next to Shrek\u2019s Adventure and the London Eye attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A short walk along the Thames and you will find plenty of family-friendly restaurants such as Giraffe, Wahaca and Honest Burgers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special offers on The London Aquarium<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to the London Aquarium from \u00a327.50 on their website: Sea Life London Aquarium <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also book The London Aquarium in a bundle with other attractions and save money. Book a ticket with the London Eye and Madame Tussauds starting from \u00a355.00 here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also book with a London Pass<\/a> which gives you discounts to many attractions. Find out more about the attractions you can access here: London Pass<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book from \u00a327.50<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Shrek\u2019s Adventure<\/a>  <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tickets from \u00a321.00: Shrek\u2019s Adventure<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Southbank, SE1
Ages: <\/strong>all ages; ideal for 6-12 years <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shrek\u2019s Adventure<\/a> is an immersive experience for all the family into the world of Shrek. It includes live shows, a 4D experience and the chance to meet your favourite characters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit Shrek\u2019s Adventure for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The tour takes approximately 1 hour, though you will likely want to plan for longer to enjoy the interactive zone featuring characters from other Dreamworks stories at the end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at the Shrek\u2019s Adventure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The London Aquarium, London Dungeon and Paddington Experience are in the same building as Shrek\u2019s Adventure. Westminster Bridge, with brilliant views of Big Ben and the London Eye, are nearby. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are lots of food options along the Southbank, such as a wagamama, Giraffe and Pizza Express.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to book\/special offers on Shrek\u2019s Adventure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book from \u00a321.00 on their website: Shrek’s Adventure<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shrek\u2019s Adventure can be included in a multi-attraction ticket with destinations such as The London Aquarium and the London Eye. You can book a multi-attraction pass starting from \u00a350.00 here.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also book with a London Pass<\/a> which gives you discounts to many attractions. Find out more about the attractions you can access here: London Pass<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book from \u00a321.00<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

The London Eye<\/a>   <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Things<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tickets from \u00a329.00: London Eye<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Southbank, SE1
Ages: <\/strong>all ages<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of London\u2019s most famous attractions, the London Eye<\/a> provides stunning 360\u00b0 views over the city and an unbeatable family photo opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit the London Eye for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A ride on the London Eye lasts 30 minutes. You will likely have to queue for the London Eye, which usually takes 20-30 minutes going up to 1 hour during busy periods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at the London Eye<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The London Aquarium and Shrek\u2019s Adventure are really close by, with the House of Parliament just over the river. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Royal Festival Hall is just a short walk along the River Thames, which hosts many cultural events for kids and family-friendly restaurants Giraffe and wagamama. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special offers on the London Eye<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to the London Eye from \u00a329.00 at their website: London Eye<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The London Eye is included in multi-attraction tickets with destinations like the London Aquarium and Madame Tussauds. Save up to 56% on tickets by booking them together: multi-attraction tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also book with a London Pass<\/a> which gives you discounts to many attractions. Find out more about the attractions you can access here: London Pass<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book London Eye from \u00a327.00<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Madame Tussauds<\/a> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Things<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tickets from \u00a329.00: Madame Tussauds<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Marylebone, NW1
Ages: <\/strong>all ages welcome; recommended for ages 7 years+<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Madame Tussauds<\/a> is one of London\u2019s most popular attractions. It gives you the opportunity to get up close with over 150 life-like waxworks of celebrities and iconic characters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here, you can explore London\u2019s history, take a photo with the Royal family and enter four different immersive experiences.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit Madame Tussauds for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It is recommended that you plan for 2 hours to fully enjoy the attraction with themed areas, including music stars in the Impossible Festival, London\u2019s history in the Spirit of London and the Marvel Universe 4D.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at Madame Tussauds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Madame Tussauds is located next to Regent\u2019s Park, where the kids can let off some energy. You can also visit the London Zoo<\/a> and Regent\u2019s Park Open Air Theatre there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The park also makes for a great place to picnic or get something to eat at Regent\u2019s Bar & Kitchen or The Waterside Caf\u00e9. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special offers on Madame Tussauds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to Madame Tussauds from \u00a329.00 on their website: Madame Tussauds<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get a multi-attraction ticket to include other London attractions such as the London Eye and the London Aquarium. Save up to 56% on tickets by booking them together: Madame Tussauds + London Eye.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also book with a London Pass<\/a> which gives you discounts to many attractions. Find out more about the attractions you can access here: London Pass<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book from \u00a329.00<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

The London Zoo<\/a>  <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tickets from \u00a327.00: London Zoo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Regent\u2019s Park, NW1
Ages: <\/strong>all ages<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The famous London Zoo<\/a> is home to nearly 15,000 animals for the family to discover. It makes for a fascinating day out learning about these remarkable creatures and the conservation efforts to protect them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit the London Zoo for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Visitors tend to spend 3-4 hours at the London Zoo. There are many areas to explore, such as the Land of the Lions, Outback Zone and Monkey Valley. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at the London Zoo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are restaurants and cafes at the Zoo or walk up the road to Camden, where there are family-friendly restaurants, including Pizza Pilgrims. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regent\u2019s Park has cafes, playgrounds, the Open Air Theatre and boat hire. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special offers on the London Zoo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to the London Zoo from \u00a327.00 on their website: London Zoo<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can get entry to the London Zoo along with other attractions with a GoCity pass and save. Get a pass and see what\u2019s included here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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London Zoo tickets<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Shows & musicals<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Watch West End Musicals: Matilda<\/a> and The Lion King<\/a> <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tickets from \u00a320.00: Matilda<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>West End, WC2
Ages: <\/strong>6+ years<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The West End is famous for its many theatres showing world-class performances of new musicals and some of our most loved shows. Matilda<\/a> and The Lion King<\/a> are two popular family favourites. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also read our articles on the best musicals<\/a> and west end shows<\/a> for kids to get ideas for other shows to see.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Show duration <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Matilda has a run time of 2 hours and 35 minutes, including the interval. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Lion King lasts for 2.5 hours, including the interval. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to eat after the show<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are lots of great places to eat in the West End. Seven Dials Food Market and Frankie & Benny’s are both good, family-friendly options near the respective theatres. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to Matilda <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to Matilda from \u00a320.00 on their website: Matilda<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cheap tickets for Matilda<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Book Tickets to The Lion King <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to The Lion King from \u00a335.00 on their website: The Lion King<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cheap tickets for The Lion King<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Julia Donaldson books live on stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tickets from \u00a327.26: Stick Man<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>West End, WC2; Bloomsbury, WC1
Ages: <\/strong>3+ years<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These adaptations of the children\u2019s books by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler bring the stories to life on stage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Show duration <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stick Man<\/a> runs for 60 minutes. The Smartest Giant in Town<\/a> runs for 55 minutes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to eat after the show<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Poppies Fish & Chips is a great place for food after watching West End shows. You could also explore the many restaurants of Chinatown. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seven Dials Food Market has many food options near The Smartest Giant in Town. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Stick Man at the Bloomsbury Theatre, there is an Honest Burgers and a Franco Manca close by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to Stick Man<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to Stick Man from \u00a327.26 on their website: Stick Man<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book Stick Man<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to The Smartest Giant in Town<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to The Smartest Giant in Town from \u00a312.00 on their website: The Smartest Giant in Town<\/a>  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book The Smartest Giant in Town<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Immersive events<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Step into an immersive event<\/a> at Bubble Planet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Bubble Planet <\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Bubble<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Book from \u00a318.00: Bubble Planet<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at Bubble Planet <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With Wembley Stadium nearby there are lots of family-friendly restaurants such as Frankie and Benny\u2019s & TGI Fridays. Or explore Wembley Park with food and events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to book Bubble Planet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book tickets to Bubble Planet from \u00a318.00: Bubble Planet<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book from \u00a318.00<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Free things to do in London<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

The Natural History Museum<\/a>  <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Free to visit: The Natural History Museum<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>South Kensington, SW7
Ages: <\/strong>all ages<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Natural History Museum<\/a> is the place to explore the natural world with interactive exhibits exploring dinosaurs, volcanoes and a life-size blue whale. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The museum hosts lots of events for families too. These include an Adventure Babies sensory storytelling class, the T. Rex show with Teach Rex, a show about the tyrannosaurus rex<\/em> performed by life-like dinosaurs and Dino Snores sleepover events. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is also a new wildlife garden to explore featuring dinosaurs and fossils and family activities throughout the summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit the Natural History Museum for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

2-3 hours is a good amount of time to spend at the Natural History Museum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is so much to see that it is a good idea to choose a few things to do beforehand. Family favourites include the dinosaur gallery, mammal corridor, Earth’s Treasury gallery and the new wildlife garden. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at the Natural History Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

South Kensington is home to many museums in addition to the Natural History Museum that are also well worth a visit. These include the Science Museum and the V&A. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The department store Harrods is near the Natural History Museum, as is Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, along with the Diana Memorial Playground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The family-focused T. Rex Restaurant is located in the Natural History Museum. Many cafes throughout Hyde Park make great family lunch spots. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to book The Natural History Museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Book free tickets and family activities to the Natural History Museum on their website: Natural History Museum<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also book a Dinosaur Discovery family tour here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Book Dinosaur Discovery Tour<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Young V&A<\/a>  <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best
Image courtesy of vam.ac.uk\/young<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Bethnal Green, E1
Ages: <\/strong>all ages<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Young V&A<\/a> is a space for children and families to be inspired by the three big galleries Imagine, Play and Design. It was named Art Fund Museum of the Year 2024 with exhibitions and events looking at design, fashion, art and technology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They also host regular mini-play workshops for young children with sensory sessions led by artists and storytellers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit Young V&A for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It takes 1-2 hours to visit the Young V&A exploring the three gallery spaces and exhibitions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at the Young V&A<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The parks Bethnal Green Gardens and Weavers Fields are within walking distance, and both have playgrounds where the kids can run around. The city farms of Hackney and Spitalfields are both a 20-minute walk from the Young V&A. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Town Square Caf\u00e9 at the Young V&A has lunchtime meal boxes for kids. You can also bring your own food to eat there. The nearby Gallery Cafe, with its garden space, is another good place to eat, or there is a Pizza Hut in the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to book the Young V&A<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Admission is free, with no booking required to visit the Young V&A<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Plan your visit<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Parks and playgrounds<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Diana Memorial Playground<\/a>  <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best
Image courtesy of royalparks.org.u<\/a>k<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Free to visit: Diana Memorial Playground<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Kensington, W2
Ages: <\/strong>0-12<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a tribute to Princess Diana, this playground<\/a> was inspired by the stories of Peter Pan with a giant wooden pirate ship surrounded by a sensory trail, sand play and sculptures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit Diana Memorial Playground for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are plenty to keep children occupied at the Diana Memorial Playground and you are welcome to stay as long you as you like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at the Diana Memorial Playground<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Around the Diana Memorial Playground are the rest of Kensington Gardens, which can be explored leading into Hyde Park. Kensington Palace is open to visitors while museums such as the Science Museum and Natural History Museum can be found in South Kensington. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Broadway Cafe is next to the playground with other cafes throughout the parks. There is also Pizza Pilgrims, Bella Italia and Nandos in walking distance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to book Diana Memorial Playground<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Admission is free, and there is no need to book. You may be required to queue for entry during busy periods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Plan your visit<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Olympic Park<\/a>   <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best
Image courtesy of queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Free to visit: Olympic Park<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Stratford, E20
Ages: <\/strong>all ages<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park<\/a> has lots for families to do. There is the Tumbling Bay Playground with sandpits, rock pools and treehouses. The park has the ArcelorMittal Orbit, where the kids can ride the world\u2019s longest and tallest tunnel slide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of course, there are many sporting activities too, such as swimming at the London Aquatics Centre or riding the network of family-friendly cycling routes and the BMX track at the VeloPark. You can bring your own bike or hire one at the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long to visit Olympic Park for<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Depending on which activities you choose, you can easily spend a whole day at the Olympic Park exploring the playgrounds, sports activities and nature trails. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan your day at Olympic Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for more things to do around the Olympic Park, Westfield Shopping Centre is right next to the park with shops, including The Entertainer and the LEGO Store, as well as a food court and cinema. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Discovery Children\u2019s Story Centre, with an interactive trail and story garden, is nearby, too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bread Street Kitchen, where kids eat free, is at Olympic Park. At Hackney Bridge, you can find cuisine from around the world. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to book Olympic Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It is free to visit the park, but some activities require booking. Discover activities and how to book at the park\u2019s website: Olympic Park<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Plan your visit<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Splash parks  <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Best
Image courtesy of southbank.london<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Free to visit: Kensington Memorial Park<\/a>; Elephant Springs<\/a>; The Appearing Rooms<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Location: <\/strong>Notting Hill W10; Elephant & Castle, SE17; Southbank, SE1
Ages: <\/strong>all ages<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Splash parks are always popular with kids, and London has fountain playgrounds scattered around the city. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are three of the best:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. Kensington Memorial Park<\/a> has a waterplay area that is open seasonally, with water jets and other activities in the park. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
      \n
    1. Elephant Springs<\/a> in Elephant & Castle is a playground with water jets and streams from rock formations beside sand pits and hammocks. It is open seasonally. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
        \n
      1. The Appearing Rooms<\/a> at the Southbank Centre are an interactive sculpture by Jeppe Hein. The fountains create rooms that just as quickly disappear. It is open over the summer depending on weather conditions. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        Need to know about splash parks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        It is recommended that children wear swimming costumes, with some requiring shoes and a T-shirt. Remember to bring a change of clothes and a towel as well. Be prepared that most splash parks don\u2019t have changing rooms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Splash parks tend to open seasonally for the summer months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Where to book splash parks <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

        Entry to most splash parks is free, and there is no need to book in advance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n