The Best Splash Parks in London: 8 Brilliant Places to Cool Off with Kids
Looking for the best splash parks in London? Whether you're trying to keep toddlers cool during a heatwave, searching for a free splash pad or planning a fun family day out, London has some fantastic places where children can splash, paddle and play.
From iconic fountains in the heart of the city to hidden local favourites, we've rounded up our favourite London splash parks, water play areas and interactive fountains. Most are completely free to visit, making them perfect for the summer holidays.
Don't forget to pack a towel, a change of clothes and plenty of sun cream – trust us, you'll need them!
1. Granary Square Fountains
📍 King's Cross
👶 Best for: All ages
If we had to choose just one splash park in London, this would probably be it.
With more than 1,000 choreographed fountains dancing across Granary Square, children can spend hours running between the jets while parents relax nearby with a coffee.
One of the reasons we love Granary Square is that there's so much to do afterwards. Coal Drops Yard is packed with family-friendly cafés and restaurants, while Lightroom, the London Canal Museum and Everyman on the Canal (during summer) are all within a short walk.
Why we love it: Plenty of space, lots of places to eat afterwards and suitable for all ages.
2. Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms
📍 Southbank Centre
📅 17 June – 31 August 2026
👶 Best for: Ages 3+
This isn't your average London splash pad.
Created by artist Jeppe Hein, Appearing Rooms uses walls of water to create constantly changing "rooms" that appear and disappear without warning. One minute you're dry, the next you're soaked.
The South Bank is one of our favourite places to spend a summer's day in London. Browse the famous Southbank Book Market beneath Waterloo Bridge, watch the talented skateboarders practising tricks, enjoy lunch by the river and finish by cooling off in one of London's most iconic summer installations.
Why we love it: Part artwork, part splash park and unlike anything else in London.
3. Clapham Common Splash Pad
📍 Clapham Common
👶 Best for: Toddlers and younger children
As local parents, we couldn't leave this one off the list.
The splash pad on Clapham Common is a huge hit every summer and one of our favourite places to cool off with younger children. Gentle water jets, a fantastic playground and plenty of green space make it easy to spend an entire morning here.
There's also a café nearby and Clapham Old Town is just a short walk away if you're looking for lunch afterwards.
Why we love it: One of South London's best free family days out.
4. Diana Memorial Fountain
📍 Hyde Park
👶 Best for: All ages
One of London's most iconic places to cool off, the Diana Memorial Fountain encourages children to paddle through its gently flowing water while parents relax on the surrounding lawns.
Afterwards, enjoy a picnic in Hyde Park, hire a pedal boat on the Serpentine or combine your visit with the nearby Science Museum and Natural History Museum.
Why we love it: A London classic that's just as popular today as ever.
5. John Madejski Garden
📍 V&A South Kensington
👶 Best for: All ages
Hidden inside the V&A Museum, the John Madejski Garden feels like a secret oasis in the middle of London.
Children love paddling in the shallow water feature while parents can enjoy a coffee overlooking the elegant Italian-style courtyard. It's the perfect stop after a morning exploring South Kensington.
Why we love it: Calm, beautiful and one of London's loveliest hidden gems.
6. Somerset House Fountains
📍 Somerset House
👶 Best for: All ages
The Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court is one of London's most elegant water play areas. Children can dart between the fountains while parents soak up the beautiful surroundings.
Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at Somerset House before exploring nearby Covent Garden.
Why we love it: Beautiful architecture combined with plenty of splash-filled fun.
7. Summer Splash at Royal Victoria Dock
📍 Royal Victoria Dock
📅 Summer holidays
👶 Best for: All ages
If you're looking for somewhere that feels more like a beach than a splash park, Summer Splash is hard to beat.
With its supervised swimming area, sandy beach and family-friendly atmosphere, it's one of the best places to cool off in London during the school holidays.
Why we love it: It feels like a seaside day out without leaving the city.
8. Coram's Fields Water Play
📍 Bloomsbury
👶 Best for: Toddlers and younger children
Coram's Fields is already one of our favourite parks for little ones, and the water play area makes it even better on a hot day.
Combined with the playgrounds, sandpit, small city farm and wide open spaces, it's somewhere younger children can happily spend hours.
Why we love it: A brilliant hidden gem in central London.
What to Pack for a Splash Park
Before you head out, we'd recommend packing:
Swimsuits or quick-drying clothes
Towels
A change of clothes
Water shoes or sandals
Sun cream
Plenty of water
Snacks or a picnic
A picnic blanket
Frequently Asked Questions
Are splash parks free in London?
Many of London's best splash parks are completely free to visit, including Granary Square, Clapham Common, the Diana Memorial Fountain, the V&A Courtyard and Somerset House fountains.
Which is the best splash park in London?
If we had to choose just one, we'd recommend Granary Square. With more than 1,000 fountains, lots of nearby cafés and plenty to do in King's Cross afterwards, it's hard to beat.
Which splash parks are best for toddlers?
Clapham Common Splash Pad, Coram's Fields and the Diana Memorial Fountain are all brilliant choices for younger children thanks to their gentler water play.
What should children wear to a splash park?
Swimwear or lightweight clothes, water shoes if possible and don't forget a towel, a change of clothes and plenty of sun cream.
