Splash parks are ideal for summer funSplash parks are ideal for summer fun
Splash parks are ideal for summer fun

The best splash parks and open air pools in Portsmouth and across Hampshire

By Kelly Brown

Editor

Published 18th May 2023, 11:48 BST
Updated 30th Jul 2024, 11:31 BST
With the weather heating up families are expected to flock to our area’s splash parks and outdoor swimming areas.

Yes we know we have the sea on our doorstep, but these fantastic splash parks and pools are fantastic for families with little ones as well as those unable to get to the coast. On top of these are there also some great adventure play areas in the city, and if you are happy to travel further afield, aqua parks in the New Forest as well.

Not all of them are always open – but for those of you looking for a splash about to cool off, take a look at some of our favourites:

Petersfield Open Air Swimming Pool in Heath Rd is a fantastic heated 25m outdoor pool which is open every day from late April to mid-September, weather permitting. There are hot showers and individual changing rooms plus a big sun terrace and picnic benches. The deep end is 3m and there is a springboard. There is also a cafe on site. A general swim costs £8 for an adult and £6 for a child, with other pricing options available. Check the pool time and book your place before you visit at petersfieldpool.org.

5. Petersfield Open Air Swimming Pool

Petersfield Open Air Swimming Pool in Heath Rd is a fantastic heated 25m outdoor pool which is open every day from late April to mid-September, weather permitting. There are hot showers and individual changing rooms plus a big sun terrace and picnic benches. The deep end is 3m and there is a springboard. There is also a cafe on site. A general swim costs £8 for an adult and £6 for a child, with other pricing options available. Check the pool time and book your place before you visit at petersfieldpool.org. Photo: staff

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Tucked away behind the large playground at Canoe Lake is a splash pad which is the perfect place to cool down. Its proximity next to the park and beach and other facilities at Canoe Lake make it a popular destination for families. It is 'open' from 9am until 7pm every day until September. Free entry.

6. Canoe Lake Splash Pad

Tucked away behind the large playground at Canoe Lake is a splash pad which is the perfect place to cool down. Its proximity next to the park and beach and other facilities at Canoe Lake make it a popular destination for families. It is 'open' from 9am until 7pm every day until September. Free entry. Photo: Google Maps

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If you are happy to travel a bit further afield then Aldershot Lido may be the place for you. With a large Lido area, slides and and outdoor pool, as well as a large grassy area and cafe facilities, you can easily spend all day at this outdoor water haven. The Lido is opening for its 2024 season open during May half term, weekends in June and every day throughout July and August. Prebooking required. More information at www.placesleisure.org/centres/aldershot-lido

7. Aldershot Lido

If you are happy to travel a bit further afield then Aldershot Lido may be the place for you. With a large Lido area, slides and and outdoor pool, as well as a large grassy area and cafe facilities, you can easily spend all day at this outdoor water haven. The Lido is opening for its 2024 season open during May half term, weekends in June and every day throughout July and August. Prebooking required. More information at www.placesleisure.org/centres/aldershot-lido Photo: Rushmoor Borough Council

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Hilsea Lido is currently closed until 2025 with work underway to bring the popular facility in the north of the city back to life.

8. Hilsea Lido

Hilsea Lido is currently closed until 2025 with work underway to bring the popular facility in the north of the city back to life. Photo: Malcolm Wells

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