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:
9. Stamshaw Adventure Playground
Stamshaw Adventure Playground not only has a fantastic play area at its site off Western Terrace, PO2 8JX but in the summer months it also has a great little splash pad, weather permitting. The park is open during term time and the school holidays. Entry is free for 6 – 13 year olds. Details at 023 9269 0241. Photo: Google maps
10. Paulsgrove splash pad
The splash pad off Marsden Road, Paulsgrove is open on selected days - weather permitting Photo: Contributed
11. Portsea Venture Playground and splash park
Portsea Venture Playground off Aylward Street, Portsmouth offers supervised and unsupervised play sessions in its adventure playground which includes a splash park. Details from 023 9275 3237. Photo: Google Streetview
12. New First Aqua Park
The New Forest Water Park offers a range of family friendly activities that include wakeboarding, inflatable aqua park, kayaking, SUPing & camping. It can be found at Ringwood Rd, Fordingbridge SP6 2EY. Photo: Google maps