Sandy

THE best way to keep kids busy is to head to an indoor waterpark for the day.

So we’ve rounded up some of the biggest and best in Europe where is is always warm, with some as hot as 32C.

Suntago Water World, Poland

Having opened in 2020, Suntago Water World is now Europe’s biggest indoor waterpark.

Remaining around 32C, the 75,000sqm attraction has three zones – Jamango, Relax Suntago and Saunaria

Inside are 18 swimming pools, including a wave pools, thermal pools and baby pools.

And guests have a choice of 35 slides, ranging from big dual-riders to more gentle ones for smaller guests.

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Relax Suntago is for adults only, with thermal pools and hot tubs, while Saunaria is the spa area with steam rooms and saunas.

New this year was Crocodile Island, part of the Jamango area, which has climbing areas and games inside.

The rest of Jamango is great for smaller guests, with lazy rivers and baby pools.

Next year it will also be opening a new four-star hotel

Until then, guests can stay at the onsite ‘village’ with 92 bungalows sleeping up to eight people.

The best way to get to Suntago Water World is to fly to Warsaw, with the attraction around an hour by car.

Tropical Islands, Berlin

Tropical Islands was the largest indoor waterpark in Europe until Suntago opened.

Built inside a former aircraft hangar, it still has a number of record-breaking attractions.

This includes the world’s biggest indoor beach, and the world’s biggest indoor tropical rainforest.

The 10,000sqm waterpark has four sections – Water Worlds, Tropical Rainforest, Tropical Village and Amazonia.

Water Worlds is the main area with the large beach, sunglounger and palm trees as well as a swimming pool, water lagoon and water playground.

Tropical Rainforest has everything from 50,000 plants to flamingos and turtles while Tropical Village is the food, drink and souvenir area.

Themed by destination, it includes Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo and Bali as well as the new Hawaiian themed Ohana Town last year, with overnight lodges, bowling and karaoke.

Amazonia is the huge outdoor area, although most of this closes during the winter.

While there are lots of overnight lodges and camping areas for guests to stay in, there are plans for a new hotel although an opening date is yet to be confirmed.

The best way to get to Tropical Islands is to fly to Berlin, with the attraction around an hour away by car.

Rulantica, Germany

Rulantica is the waterpark of the Europa-Park theme park in Germany and opened back in 2019.

Spread across 32,600sqm, there are 14 themed zones a well as 50 slides and attractions.

It is always 32C so you can grab one of the 1,700 sunloungers to warm up.

For kids there are playgrounds, ‘water carousels’ and wave pools, with enough for both older children and toddlers.

Otherwise it has everything for adults too with swim up bars, steam rooms and saunas.

New last year was a huge outdoor water attraction although this is closed for the season.

The best way to get to Rulantica is to fly to Basel Airport with the waterpark around an hour away.

Sandcastle Waterpark, UK

When it comes to the UK, you need to head to Blackpool for the biggest indoor waterpark.

Sandcastle Waterpark opened in 1986 and sits at 29C all year round.

It is home to the UK’s longest indoor rollercoaster waterslide, Master Blaster, as well as a number of other slides.

Otherwise there are treehouses, lazy rivers, wave pools and even the biggest water cannon in the UK.

There are also treehouses and forts for kids to play on, as well as a wave pool and lazy river and the UK’s biggest water cannon.

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You can even hire Tiki Cabanas where you have a hot tub and drinks, or just visit the Waterfall Cafe for snacks.

The AA has named the UK’s Holiday Park of the Year, and it’s in a beautiful coastal location with a sandy beach, plenty of entertainment, and lots to do in the area

The UK’s Holiday Park of the Year has been announced, and it’s nestled on a stunning stretch of Norfolk coast, sandwiched between two popular seaside resorts.

Haven’s Hopton Holiday Village, located between Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth and near the Suffolk border, has been awarded a five-star rating by the AA, with the inspector praising its: “Excellent leisure and entertainment facilities for all ages.”

The AA Caravan and Camping Awards 2025-26 judged parks across the UK, covering a variety of award categories, from Small Campsite of the Year to Glamping Site of the Year. Hopton scooped up the coveted AA Holiday Park of the Year award, with inspectors praising its picturesque coastal location, natural countryside setting, and superb range of on-site amenities.

Home to 775 static caravans, the park is situated in the village of Hopton, known for its long sandy beach that becomes a hotspot during the summer months. Visitors can take advantage of direct beach access, allowing them to spend their days lounging on the golden sands or strolling along the low grassy cliffs.

Hopton village itself has classic seaside charm, complete with fish and chip shops, amusements, and a handful of convenient stores. There’s also plenty to do in Great Yarmouth, just a ten-minute drive away, offering family-friendly rides at the Pleasure Beach, the chance to discover marine life at the SEA LIFE Centre, or enjoy traditional seaside fun on the pier.

A mere 40-minute drive north from Hopton, you’ll find Horsey Gap, a beach known for its large grey seal colony. The best time to see them is during the pupping season, which runs from late October to February, reports the Express.

Visitors can use the viewing platforms to spot these adorable creatures without disturbing them.

Another fantastic day out is Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park, situated about 15 miles from the park. This popular attraction has something for everyone, from a Kiddie Zone for the little ones to thrilling rollercoasters for the adrenaline junkies.

There are also wildlife areas where you can spot colourful birds and sea lions, and a soft play area is included in the ticket price.

If you’d rather stay close to home, there’s plenty to do on site at Hopton Holiday Village. It boasts an indoor pool with flumes, as well as a covered outdoor pool that opens during the warmer months.

Families can enjoy a round of 6-hole golf or a game of tennis, hire bikes or karts, or have fun in the inflatable arena during the summer months.

As a Haven park, there are also loads of bookable activities such as a climbing wall, archery, and arts and crafts.

The park features a large entertainment complex, complete with a family-friendly restaurant, fish and chip shop, amusements, fast food takeaways, and The Marina Bar and Stage where Haven’s entertainment team put on shows. Evening entertainment kicks off with The Seaside Squad with games that keep the kids entertained, followed by activities such as bingo and all-ages shows.

You can nab a three-night stay at Hopton Holiday Village for as little as £59, based on a family of four sharing a saver caravan. Discover more and make your booking here.

The beautiful seaside town is perfect for a winter getaway. The town has a pier, sandy beaches, a number of attractions and is famous for its crabs.

The summer season has come to an end, and many Brits are now setting their sights on a winter escape. While seaside towns are a hit for holidays during the balmy months, they also offer fantastic getaways during the colder, darker days.

Winter visits provide a unique ambiance, ideal for tranquil seaside strolls, snug pubs, and fewer crowds. The town of Cromer, situated 23 miles north of Norwich, has been hailed as the perfect alternative to more frequented spots like Brighton or Bournemouth.

For those seeking a quieter coastal retreat during the off-peak months, this Norfolk town could be just the ticket. This vibrant seaside resort boasts sandy beaches, a pier, and a plethora of attractions. The high street is brimming with art galleries, independent shops, and pastel-coloured buildings.

The Norfolk Coast Path, which offers sweeping views of the rugged Norfolk coastline, is easily accessible from Cromer and is an ideal route for families to explore. The historic Grade II listed Victorian Pier, home to the world’s last end-of-pier theatre, hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including a Christmas Show that always draws both locals and visitors alike, reports the Express.

Cromer is also renowned for its Cromer crab, celebrated for their sweet and flavourful meat, caught in the chalky waters off the North Norfolk coast. The town honours its unique seafood heritage with the annual Cromer and Sheringham Crab and Lobster Festival.

Within the town centre, visitors will discover numerous shops, restaurants and pubs. The 14th century St Peter and Paul church dominates the skyline, boasting Norfolk’s tallest church tower at 160 feet.

History enthusiasts frequently visit Cromer Museum, which offers captivating exhibits about the area’s past, including the Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed, known as “Britain’s Great Barrier Reef”, and the wartime story of how the Government planned to destroy the pier to prevent it being used as a landing strip by Britain’s enemies.

The town also houses a Banksy artwork that materialised on a sea wall in 2021, forming part of the elusive artist’s Great British Spraycation tour of Norfolk and Suffolk.

Referencing Cromer’s crab fishing heritage, the piece depicts hermit crabs, with one occupying a shell whilst displaying a placard reading “luxury rentals online” – believed to comment on local housing concerns. The council has protected it with resin coating against weather damage.

TripAdvisor reviews from tourists are overwhelmingly favourable, with many highlighting the town’s charm and available amenities.

GrahamN66 said: “First visit to Cromer, summer 2025. It is a gem, as it says itself! Excellent, long sandy beaches with shingle at the top. Just great, even if loads of people are using it, there is always space and it is just lovely. Amazing sunsets, facilities, all within easy walking distance – would totally recommend.”

Anglian Wanderer shared: “Cromer is one of those places I return to time and again, and it never loses its charm. The beach is as beautiful as ever, with wide stretches of sand, fascinating rock pools at low tide, and postcard-worthy sunsets.

“What I love most about Cromer is an unspoiled seaside town full of character, charm, and community. If you want fresh sea air, real coastal beauty, and a town that feels like a well-kept secret, Cromer will win your heart.”

Cutiepie19 said in: “Stayed at Hotel facing pier in Cromer. The place is beautiful. Visited its museums and church. Coffee shops are delightful. Lots of places to stop off and enjoy. Quaint little streets full of delightful independent and main street shops.

“Lots of cute food places and pubs. Very, very clean too. Gorgeous pier which is very well maintained. Beautiful prom to walk along and admire the view out to sea. Spotless beaches. Highly recommended.”