Free children’s parks in Yorkshire to keep them cool while the warm weather lasts

When the weather’s muggy, there’s nothing like a refreshing dip—especially when it doesn’t cost a penny.

While some splash parks and water parks come with a hefty price tag, there’s nothing better than hearing the words “free.” While lidos are great, they are primarily for exercise; show up with a beach ball and an inflatable flamingo float and you might be shown the door.

What you need is a feature-packed free splash park to keep your little ones entertained and cool. And with the warm weather finally here, we’ve got just the seats.

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First on our list is Rivelin Valley Water Play in Sheffield. Despite being only three miles from downtown, the wooded setting makes it feel like a green oasis in the heart of the Steel City.

The park has three interconnected swimming pools equipped with jets, sprinklers, bucket and water tables. Originally a (mostly frozen) lido, it was sensibly converted into drinking pools by the old Sheffield Corporation.

As swimming pools fell out of fashion, Rivelin Valley Water Play – or ‘Rivelin Valley Splash’ as ​​it’s also known – opened its doors 10 years ago. The Sheffield kids have been all the rage ever since.

Next up is the City Park Mirror Pool in Bradford, affectionately called the ‘Bradford Puddle’. This vast saucer-shaped mirrored pool is dotted with flashing fountains that are sure to delight Oliver and Olivia.

While there may be a few unsavory characters lurking in the late afternoon, visit in the morning and you’ll have a blast.

Third on the list is Manor Heath Water Playground in Halifax, which features a large curved paddling pool and various water play features. Set among mature trees, it offers a sheltered spot for families – but don’t forget the sunscreen.

The fourth is Clifton Park Water Splash in Rotherham. This park spans over an acre and includes a variety of water features such as a kiddie pool, a stream, dancing jets and towering jets triggered by motion sensors.

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