Which Splashdown Waterpark Is Right for Your Family: Dorset or Devon?

If you’re planning a family day out packed with water-based fun, both Splashdown Poole and Splashdown Quaywest offer fantastic experiences, but they suit slightly different types of visits.

Whether you’re organising a local day out or planning a seaside holiday, here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Splashdown for your family.

Located at Tower Park in Poole, Dorset, Splashdown Poole features both indoor and outdoor areas, making it a reliable option whatever the weather. With 13 rides and dedicated splash zones for younger children, it’s one of Dorset’s most popular year-round family attractions.

Best for:

• Families looking for a waterpark any time of year
• Rainy-day plans around Poole or Bournemouth
• Younger children who prefer splash zones and gentler slides

What to expect:

• A mix of indoor and outdoor slides with varying thrill levels
• Dedicated splash areas for under-5s
• Rides suitable for older children and teens
• Online booking only (no walk-up ticket sales)

Tips for visiting:

• Arrive early to avoid peak-time queues
• Children under 1 metre tall can access selected attractions with adult supervision
• Ideal for families with mixed ages thanks to the range of ride intensities

Splashdown Quaywest: Outdoor Adventure on the Devon Coast

Set beside Goodrington Sands in Paignton, Devon, Splashdown Quaywest is the largest outdoor waterpark in the UK and a firm favourite for summer days by the sea.

Best for:

• Warm-weather visits (the park is outdoors only)
• Family holidays combining beach time and waterpark fun
• Thrill-seekers and older children

What to expect:

• High-adrenaline slides including Devil’s Drop and Wild Kamikaze
• Shipwreck Island, an interactive aqua-play zone for younger children
• Easy access to the beach for a full seaside day out

Tips for visiting:

• The park is seasonal so check opening dates before travelling
• Arriving early often means shorter queues
• Pair your visit with beach time or a picnic to make a full-day experience

Choosing the Best Splashdown Experience

Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide:

Year-Round Waterpark Fun
Splashdown Poole’s indoor areas make it ideal for spring, autumn or wet-weather visits.

Summer & Seaside Days
Splashdown Quaywest’s outdoor setting and coastal location make it perfect for summer holidays and warm weekends.

Younger Children
Both parks cater well for little ones. Poole’s indoor splash areas can feel more manageable for toddlers and under-8s, while Quaywest’s Shipwreck Island is popular with children under 12.

Thrill-Seekers
Older children (8+) and teens will enjoy both parks, although Quaywest’s larger outdoor slides tend to be especially popular during peak summer months.

Travel & Planning Tips

Book in advance. Tickets for both parks should be purchased online ahead of time, particularly during school holidays when sessions sell out quickly.

Pack the essentials. Bring swimwear, towels, flip-flops, and suncream for outdoor visits. A change of clothes for the journey home is always helpful.

Food & refreshments. Both parks offer on-site cafés and refreshments. If you’re visiting Devon, combining your trip with a beach picnic nearby can help keep costs down.

Whether you’re planning a rainy-day escape in Dorset or a sunny seaside adventure in Devon, Splashdown Waterparks offer memorable family fun. Simply match the park to the season, your children’s ages, and your travel plans for a stress-free day out.

For more details and to book tickets, visit the official website HERE.