In recent years, splash pads have taken off as one of the best ways to entertain young children in the heat. Unlike traditional swimming pools and paddling pools, these are those areas with fountains shooting up from the ground, before draining back into the ground.
As a result, there’s no standing water — meaning while swimming is out of the option, there’s also almost no risk of drowning. That makes them far safer for young children: in place of deep ends and slippery tiles are ground-level fountains, misting arches, and the occasional tipping bucket, all set on non-slip surfaces. Children can run and dart through the spray to their hearts’ content, and parents needn’t stress quite so much. The other advantage of no deep ends is that there’s no bombing and no rough play, meaning little ones are less likely to get in an accident.
They’re also accessible: no swimming ability required, and no arm bands or goggles to remember. London boasts dozens, from the dancing fountains of Granary Square to leafy Clissold Park in Hackney.
As they’re much of a muchness — distinguishing features are few and far between — here is a straightforward list of all those across town.