KEEPING the kids occupied over weekends and half term holidays can be difficult in the colder months.
So we’ve rounded up the best indoor waterparks across the UK.
With a mix of high-thrill slides and rides, relaxing spa treatments and adults-only zones, these waterparks are the perfect place to spend a day indoors.
Here’s three top picks for a splashing family day out.
Waterworld, Stoke-on-Trent
Waterworld is home to over 30 different rides and attractions, and describes itself as the “number one indoor tropical aqua park”.
The waterpark is home to a popular wave pool and rapids which swirl you through its waters.
There’s also plenty to keep adrenaline junkies entertained.
The famous Thunderbolt ride is known for being the UK’s first trap door drop waterslide – a water flume which shoots you down at 25mph.
Meanwhile one of the newest rides, Hurricane, descends at 17mph with spooky lightning effects.
The popular Python ride has also been recently refurbished, with slithery twists and turns gentle enough for toddlers.
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There’s also calming bubble pools, relaxation areas, and a restaurant serving up pizza, bubble waffles and milkshakes.
And if you visit in the warmer months, there’s an outdoor pool and loungers to soak in the rays.
The waterpark is within Waterworld Leisure Resort, which is also home to the tiki-themed Adventure Mini Golf and the new M Club Spa and Fitness facility.
General entry starts at £24.00.
The Wave, Coventry
This indoor waterpark in Coventry holds the record for the largest wave pool in the UK.
The famous wave pool churns a whopping 20 million litres of water per day, with waves that deepen gradually as you wade in.
The indoor waterpark also has six slides, ranging from The Rapids water coaster to The Riptide – a rubber ring ride set at an exhilarating 90° angle.
The Cyclone is one of the waterpark’s fastest rides, swirling riders around in an open bowl before falling into the pool.
The Wave is also home to a lazy river which whisks swimmers around a winding path, as well as a splash zone for younger children named The Reef.
Adults visiting can enjoy a dedicated pool for lane swimming, fitness centre or a trip to the dedicated spa.
The Mana Spa has a steam room, sauna and offers a variety of massages and facials.
Tickets for ages 12+ start at £14.50 (off peak). Junior tickets start at £12.50, and infants aged 1 and under go free.
Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool
This indoor waterpark is the UK’s largest, with your pick of waterslides and flumes for the kids, as well as a spa for the adults to unwind.
Here you can treat yourself to a tropical holiday in Blackpool, as this waterpark is set in a tropical 84° climate.
The park boasts 18 waterslides, including the UK’s longest indoor rollercoaster.
Family friendly slides range from the Treetops Water Chutes, multi-lane slides perfect for little ones, to the pirate-themed HMS Thunder Splash.
The waterpark is also home to 5 record-breaking “white-knuckle rides” – exciting options for the thrill-seekers in the family.
The Sidewinder is the world’s first Indoor half-pipe waterslide, whilst the Masterblaster has been named the UK’s longest indoor rollercoaster waterslide.
The Caribbean Storm Treehouse, on the other hand, is an interactive water climbing frame – complete with a giant coconut that pours 600 gallons of water onto unsuspecting swimmers every few minutes!
And if you want a break from all the screaming and laughter, the Sea Breeze Spa has a sauna, steam room, foot spas and even an aromatherapy room.
The spa costs £7 per person and must be booked alongside an admission ticket.
There’s also a “Tiki Cabana” experience for ultimate relaxation.
For £60 per person adults can unwind in a private area with a flatscreen TV, fridge stocked with cold drinks, and a private hot tub.
The price also included full-day admission, lunch and access to the spa.
General entry starts from £24.95 for ages 12+, £15.95 for kids aged 3 – 7, and under 3s go free.