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06 July 2026

The Central Park Paddling Pool will open for the summer season tomorrow (Tuesday 7 July). It will operate daily (except Mondays) until 30 August, 10am to 6pm.

Bretton Water Park is also due to open on Saturday 18 July. The facility will be open daily (except Mondays) from 10am - 4pm until Sunday 30 August.

Councillor Zameer Ali, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Safety, said: "We know how popular these attractions are for families across the city, so it's fantastic news that they are opening in time for the school summer holidays and whilst we are enjoying sunny weather.

"We fully appreciate that our summers are becoming hotter and with that in mind we are looking at opening the splash parks earlier next year, where possible, so that more families and children can enjoy them for even longer.

"Both Central Park and Bretton Park have much more than the water attractions to offer families, but best of all they offer free activities to keep the children entertained.

“Our teams have been working hard to prepare both sites for re-opening and we hope families get lots of use out of them this summer."

Central Park has a number of other attractions, including children's play areas, a sandpit, sunken garden and sensory garden, as well as various sports facilities.

Bretton Water Park, in Barnstock, is also ideal for the family and is surrounded by large grass play areas, football pitches and children's playgrounds. Entry to both the paddling pool and water park is free.

Last updated: 06 July 2026