‘Fantastic’ free water play park near Birmingham that ‘doesn’t feel squashed’ even on bank holidays

Looking for a fun day out over the bank holiday[1] weekend that won't cost a penny? Families[2] are raving about a 'fantastic' park that boasts a paddling pool and sand park that you can use entirely for free during the summer holidays. Stratford Recreation Ground paddling pool is open every day from May 1 to September 30, weather permitting, between 11am and 7pm. There's also a large sand area with a climbing frame and equipment in the middle plus opportunities for digging and lifting.

And the extensive splash park is great for water play[3]. There's also another pirate ship climbing frame, swings for all ages, a slide, sensory equipment, a spinning bucket, rockers, a zip wire and even a little house for imaginative play. It's conveniently close to the car park and river, near to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, and has toilets.

The park itself is pretty and ideal for riverside walks and picnics. You can also combine a visit with a round of mini golf and a wander around pictures Stratford-upon-Avon[6]. Take a look at our reviews of Shakespeare's Birthplace[7], Anne Hathaway's Cottage[8] and Shakespeare's New Place[9].

We've even found a great 'hidden gem' tea room[10] to visit too.

Mum Nikki said on Tripadvisor: "Good day out - a large play area with equipment to suit a variety of ages and a large sandpit. In the summer months the paddling pool is normally open so be sure to take towels. Get there early to get a good parking space and pack a picnic as there is plenty of room to sit."

Karl posted on Google Reviews: "Went here yesterday as part of a day out in Stratford have to say the kids absolutely loved it. Was surprised how much was there for all different ages. Helpful with public toilets right next to it.

The splash pool was absolutely brilliant. The kids spent nearly an hour in there alone, just jumping around and having fun. Highly recommended and a lot of fun to try and tire the kids out."

John added on Tripadvisor: "Fantastic park for the kids. We went here when it was really busy but it didn't feel squashed. So if you are thinking of avoiding on bank holidays then you need not."

Listen to our Brummie Mummies Podcast about how to identify birdsong[11] around the Midlands: Iamtripper posted: "Caters for a range of ages. I was on my way to the butterfly farm with my two year old daughter, we parked in the recreation car park and saw the recreation play area; it's free, a decent sized area, caters for a range of ages, had a small pool for paddling in, a sand play area, a small zip rope as well as the slides, swings etc, had toilets there and an ice cream van.

It was a sunny day and was busy with plenty of kids running around and enjoying themselves. It's really close to the river and the town centre and everything that goes with it, pubs, shops, cafe's etc." Ann posted: "My children absolutely love playing here.

Lots of parking nearby and great for children of varying ages. We have spent many happy hours here." Alex added: "One of the nicest parks the UK has to offer.

A varied collection of trees and flowers with incredibly picturesque scenery. Sitting in this park on a warm summer's day really makes you appreciate this country."

How to get to Stratford Recreation Ground from Birmingham

The recreation ground is on Swans Nest Lane in Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 7LS. It takes around an hour, traffic permitting, via the M42 and the M40 motorways.

Alternatively, you can catch a train from Birmingham[12] Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon.

The recreation ground is around a 20 minute walk from the station.

It's worth noting the paddling pool may sometimes be drained for cleaning, repair or maintenance so it's best to check social media ahead of visiting.

References

1. ^ bank holiday (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
2. ^ Families (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
3. ^ water play (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
4. ^ Super splash parks and outdoor pools near Birmingham (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
5. ^ The 'exceptional' water play park near Birmingham parents love and it's completely free (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
6. ^ Stratford-upon-Avon (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
7. ^ Shakespeare's Birthplace (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
8. ^ Anne Hathaway's Cottage (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
9. ^ Shakespeare's New Place (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
10. ^ 'hidden gem' tea room (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
11. ^ Brummie Mummies Podcast about how to identify birdsong (podfollow.com)
12. ^ Birmingham (www.birminghammail.co.uk)