After months of being trapped inside for most of the day, families are embracing outdoor life and flocking to local parks to enjoy their long awaited freedom.

With most splash parks closed due to COVID in 2020, lots of children are missing out on long, hot summer days playing in the water.

Well, COVID may have taken our splash parks but it cannot take our rivers! Here are some ideal places for your children to dip their toes in the water this summer.

Gadebridge Park - This location really splits people! I think the clarity of the water can really change depending on the location of the river you choose and how full it is. I definitely see children in there when it’s hot and there are some gentle slopes into the water in places. (The Splash Park is unfortunately closed in 2020 due to Covid restrictions) Park in the large car park for free parking and head under one of the many trees for shade. On warm weekends you get lots of people setting up gazebos for extra shade as well.

Cassiobury Park, Watford - This is definitely a popular one. There are a couple of locations along the river that are easily accessible with lovely surrounding fields and trees for shade. (The Paddling Pools are unfortunately closed in 2020 due to Covid restrictions)

Stanborough Lakes - Stanborough Lakes is one of the few locations where both the river and (new) splash park are both open in Summer 2020. You’ll find a couple of places where children can easily enter the river and it stays shallow for long stretches. The Splash Park is bookable in advance. It’s also a lovely place to go for a walk around the lakes. There’s lots of trees for shade, a cafe and a very large (if a little pricey) car park.

Scotsbridge Park, Rickmansworth - The River Chess runs next to this play park with a Miller & Carter Pub right next door. It’s a large park with lots of space for running around and if you walk along the river you’ll find a few spots you can enter the water for a paddle.

Aston Clinton Park - This park is really big with a play park, outdoor gym, skate park, cafe and lots of space to run around. There’s also a lovely stream there for paddling but people do suggest water shoes and the rocks can be a little jagged.

I hope this has given you some ideas for lovely locations to head to this summer. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures so you can look back on the crazy, hazy summer that was 2020.