22/07/2025

Love Parks Week 2025: The Best Parks for Families & How to Keep Them Thriving

It’s Love Parks Week from 25th July - 3rd August 2025, and there’s no better time to grab the kids, pack a picnic, and head out to your local park—or even explore one a bit further afield. Whether you're after a quiet spot for a walk or a full-on day out with play areas and space to run wild, the UK is full of brilliant parks that are perfect for families.

We're sharing some of the best parks to visit with kids, some simple tips for making the most of your time outdoors, and a few easy ways we can all help look after these amazing green spaces.

🌳 Top UK Parks for a Family Day Out

1. Hyde Park, London

If you're in the capital, Hyde Park is a great place to start. There’s loads of space to run around, boats you can hire on the Serpentine, and even a playground with a pirate ship. You can easily spend a whole afternoon here without spending a fortune. See more

2. Roundhay Park, Leeds

One of the biggest city parks in Europe, Roundhay has something for everyone—massive open spaces, lakes, woodlands, and the brilliant Tropical World, which has meerkats, butterflies, and snakes. A hit with younger kids especially. See more

3. Moors Valley Country Park, Dorset

This one’s an adventure playground in disguise. There are forest trails with climbing equipment along the way, bike hire, a little steam train, and even a Go Ape course for older kids. Great for active families. See more

4. Alexandra Park, Glasgow

A lovely, relaxed park with a play area, pond, and space to cycle or scoot around. It's a bit of a hidden gem and perfect if you want to avoid the bigger crowds. See more

5. Coombe Abbey Park, Coventry

This park feels a bit like stepping into a storybook. There’s a big lake, woods to explore, and loads of space for games or a picnic. There's even a café in a proper old abbey building—bonus points for that. See more

6. Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales

If you fancy a proper day out in nature, this is a great choice. You can find family-friendly walks, waterfalls, and spots to paddle or skim stones. Ideal if you want to introduce your kids to some proper countryside. See more

7. The Helix Park, Falkirk

Home to the massive Kelpies sculptures (which are seriously cool), this park also has a big adventure play area and plenty of space to ride bikes or chill by the water. See more

🌞 Bonus Picks for Families in the South East

1. Mote Park, Maidstone (Kent)

A huge, beautiful park with something for everyone: a lake for boating, a great play area, and loads of space for scooters and bikes. It’s ideal for an afternoon picnic or even a whole day out. See more

2. South Park, Oxford

Just outside the city centre, South Park offers amazing views across Oxford, big open spaces, and often hosts local festivals and family events during the summer. A good mix of open grass and shady trees. See more

3. Cassiobury Park, Watford (Hertfordshire)

Well-loved by locals, this park has a splash pad for hot days, a brilliant adventure playground, and easy access to the Grand Union Canal towpath for a family walk or scoot. There’s also a little café and regular ice cream vans. See more

4. Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

Best known as the inspiration for Winnie-the-Pooh’s Hundred Acre Wood, this forest is perfect for imaginative play, gentle walks, and even a visit to the “Poohsticks Bridge.” It’s not a traditional park, but a magical place for a wander. See more

5. Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex

If you’re up for a bit of a scenic adventure, this park offers jaw-dropping views, riverside walks, and easy flat trails suitable for families. You can picnic near the Cuckmere River or walk out to the cliffs if the kids are up for it. See more

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Top Tips for a Great Family Day at the Park

1. Pack for all weather

This is the UK after all. Sun cream, raincoats, snacks, wipes—you know the drill.

2. Bring some bits to play with

A ball, kite, or bubble wands can go a long way. You don’t need loads of stuff, just a few simple bits that keep kids moving.

3. Make it a mini-adventure

Turn your outing into a scavenger hunt, see how many bugs or birds you can spot, or try drawing what you see. Nature makes a great playground and classroom.

4. Be kind to the park

Take your rubbish home, don’t pick flowers or leaves, and try to stick to paths. It all helps keep the place nice for everyone.

🌱 Easy Ways to Help Look After Your Local Park

You don’t have to do anything huge to make a difference—here are a few simple ways to support your local green spaces:

🧤 Lend a hand

See if your park has a "Friends of..." group or regular clean-up days. It’s a good way to meet other families and get involved.

💷 Chip in if you can

Many parks rely on donations or small grants. If you enjoy using them, consider donating to charities like Fields in Trust or The National Trust that help keep them going.

🗣 Speak up

If your local park needs repairs or more bins or better access, let your council know. Parks often only get attention when people raise their voices.

🐦 Look after the little things

Bird feeders, bug hotels, planting wildflowers—these small acts help support wildlife and keep parks buzzing with life.

🌼 Why Parks Matter (Especially for Kids)

Parks aren’t just nice places to visit—they’re a lifeline for families. They’re where kids learn to ride bikes, meet friends, and let off steam. They’re where we go to slow down and get a breath of fresh air. And they’re free, which is a massive bonus.

During Love Parks Week, whether you’re heading somewhere new or just down the road, take a bit of time to enjoy and appreciate your local green space. And if you can, do a little something to help protect it too.