Top Ten Places To Make A Splash In And Around Bath

Last updated: October 2026

Quick answer: for water fun in Bath itself, head to the summer water play at Sydney Gardens or the paddling stream at the Sandpits in Moorfields. Within an hour's drive, families love Avon Valley's summer water zone, the splash area at Longleat, the paddling spot at Barton Farm in Bradford on Avon, and lidos at Greenbank in Street and Portishead. Always check opening times and dates before you go, as many water features are seasonal.

When the sun comes out in Bath, there's nothing better than cooling off by the water. Whether you're visiting for a summer break or you live locally, here are our favourite places to paddle, splash and swim in and around the city.

1. Sydney Gardens: water play in the city

The play area in historic Sydney Gardens, a short walk from Great Pulteney Street, is a favourite with local families. In summer, its water play feature keeps little ones busy for hours, and the surrounding gardens are perfect for a picnic.

Good to know: the water play runs in the summer season only. Free to visit.

2. The Sandpits, Moorfields: paddling stream

This local green space has a shallow stream running through it, with stepping stones and challenges for children to clamber over. Mature trees give welcome shade on hot days, and there's a small waterfall hidden at the far end.

Good to know: popular with locals but rarely too busy. Bring a towel and spare clothes. Check before you go.

3. Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park, Keynsham

About 15 minutes' drive from Bath, Avon Valley turns into a summer water park during the school holidays. Recent years have featured a 50-metre slip 'n' slide, giant paddling pools, a daily foam party and a Massive Family Waterfight.

Good to know: summer events sell out quickly, so check this year's dates and book on the Avon Valley website.

4. Longleat: Adventure Castle splash area

Longleat's Adventure Castle play area, with zip wires, climbing frames and tube slides, has a water play area that's perfect on a hot day. Bring swimming costumes and towels.

Good to know: included in a day ticket, which also covers the safari and the park's other attractions. About 50 minutes' drive from Bath. Check what's open on Longleat's website.

5. Barton Farm Country Park, Bradford on Avon

Between the River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal, Barton Farm has a shallow paddling spot that's ideal for little ones. Nearby you'll find play areas, picnic spots, green space and cafés.

Good to know: it's a short walk from Bradford on Avon station, which is around 10 minutes by train from Bath.

6. The Newt in Somerset

The Newt, near Bruton, is one of the most beautiful days out in the area, with stunning gardens, woodland walks and excellent food. Children love exploring the gardens, which have water features and seasonal family trails.

Good to know: entry is by membership, and children go free with a member or a guest pass. About 50 minutes' drive from Bath. Check what's on at The Newt.

7. Warleigh Weir: riverside picnics

Warleigh Weir, about three miles from Bath along the Kennet and Avon cycle route, is a beautiful riverside spot that gets very busy in summer. It's best reached on foot or by bike.

Good to know: the weir and island are privately owned, and there are no lifeguards. The Environment Agency warns against swimming near weirs, and the council has raised safety concerns about the site. Enjoy it for a picnic and a paddle at the edge rather than a swim, and take your rubbish home.

8. Greenbank Pool, Street

This tree-lined heated outdoor pool in Street, about 45 minutes' drive from Bath, has been open since the 1930s. There's a main pool for confident swimmers, a smaller children's pool with a slide and a splash area with fountains and jets.

Good to know: it's open in the summer season only, so check dates and prices on the Greenbank Pool website.

9. The Wave, Bristol

The Wave is an inland surf lake about 30 minutes' drive from Bath. Alongside surfing for adults, it runs children's lessons and sessions, which are a great way to build water confidence.

Good to know: sessions must be pre-booked. Check family options on The Wave's website.

10. Portishead Open Air Pool

Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Severn Estuary, Portishead's heated lido is a lovely spot for a family swim with a view. It's about 45 minutes' drive from Bath.

Good to know: check opening times and booking before you travel.

One to watch: Cleveland Pools

Bath's own Cleveland Pools is Britain's oldest lido, dating from around 1815. After a long restoration it reopened in September 2023, but flood damage in early 2024 closed it again. Check the latest before planning a visit.

Make a day of it

Pair a morning by the water with an afternoon in the city. See our guide to family-friendly Bath, find quieter corners in Bath's hidden gems, or refuel with our foodie's guide to Bath.

FAQs

Where can kids play in water in Bath?

In the city, Sydney Gardens has a water play feature in summer, and the Sandpits in Moorfields has a shallow paddling stream. Within an hour's drive, Avon Valley, Longleat and Barton Farm in Bradford on Avon all have water play or paddling spots.

Is there a lido in Bath?

Bath's Cleveland Pools is Britain's oldest lido. It reopened in 2023 but was closed again after flood damage in 2024, so check its latest status. Nearby alternatives include Greenbank Pool in Street and Portishead Open Air Pool.

Can you swim at Warleigh Weir?

Warleigh Weir is privately owned, with no lifeguards, and the Environment Agency warns against swimming near weirs. It's best enjoyed for a riverside picnic and a paddle at the edge.

What are the best water days out near Bath for families?

Avon Valley's summer water zone near Keynsham, Longleat's Adventure Castle, The Wave in Bristol for children's surf sessions, and the heated lidos at Greenbank and Portishead.

Are these places open all year?

Most water features and lidos are seasonal, usually from late spring to early autumn. Always check opening times and book ahead where needed.

Stay in Bath this summer

Planning a family summer break? Stay in a Pass the Keys home in Bath, with space to spread out after a day by the water. Browse stays in Bath.

Own a home in Bath?

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