All kids love a theme park, but many of them can be tricky to navigate with a frustrated toddler who is too small for the rides. However, there are now an increasing number of theme parks around the UK specifically aimed at this gap in the market.
Character themed rides, age appropriate activities and lots of interactive play await on our list of the Best Theme Parks UK for Toddlers. Better yet, the prices are often much cheaper than a traditional theme park, making this an affordable family day out.
So read on, then start planning your next child-friendly weekend!
24 Theme Parks for Toddlers in the UK (2024 updated)
1. Paulton’s Park (New Forest)
A family-focused theme park on the edge of the New Forest, Paulton’s Park offers over 70 rides and attractions, including Peppa Pig World. The latest additions to the park are the dinosaur-themed Lost Kingdom, and a safari area called Little Africa. Best suited to younger children, Paulton’s Park has won numerous awards including the coveted Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice Award for 2019.
The park has added for 2021 8 new rides with new section called Tornado Springs which takes inspiration from the American 1950s era.
Address: Ower, Romsey SO51 6AL
2. Legoland® (Windsor)
Not just for Lego® lovers, this theme park has more than 55 rides, shows and attractions for children to discover. Suited to children between 3 and 12, they can see London in miniature at Miniland, ride down the rapids in a viking boat, get their driving license at the Driving School and conquer the dragon at Knights Kingdom. Lastly, it’s worth noting that you can save up to 40% by booking your ticket online in advance.
The operator behind the park has worked hard to feature a new area called Mythica that opened its doors end of May 2021. One of the new attractions is the UK’s first flying theatre. Sound exciting no?
Are you visiting Windsor for the weekend? Maybe would you love staying at these family friendly hotels and apartments
Address: Winkfield Rd, Windsor SL4 4AY
3. Drayton Manor Theme Park (Staffordshire)
There is one reason parents of young children love Drayton Manor, and that is Thomas Land!
Oh yes! I bet you are all too familiar with Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends. The theme park around the famous TV program is located at Drayton Manor Resort in Staffordshire not too far from Birmingham.
Train-mad toddlers can enjoy over 25 rides and attractions themed around the famous locomotive and his friends like Jerry the Jet. There is also a 15-acre Zoo and a 4D cinema, so you can keep the little ones entertained all day long.
And if you feel staying overnight, why not sleeping at one of the Thomas Themed hotel rooms with bunk beds provided for your children.
Address: Drayton Manor Drive, Fazeley, Mile Oak, Tamworth B78 3TW
4. Diggerland UK (Kent, Durham & Yorkshire)
If your children are into diggers and fascinated by builders and construction works, this park is definitely the best option for your family. You will enjoy as many as 20 rides with indoor and outdoor play areas for all kids ages. Diggerland parks are typically aimed at children between 4 and 14 years but younger kids will have fun as well. Last but not least, you will be able to drive and operate real diggers!
5. Gulliver’s Theme Parks & Resorts
Gulliver’s has four theme parks around the country, all aimed at children under 12. There are some great attractions spread across themed areas like a Log Flume, Dino Explorer Cars and Riggers Revenge zip line course. There are even animals to pet, if you need a break from the rides. 50% of their attractions are undercover too, so the wet weather won’t ruin your plans. There are also plenty of rides for under 5’s, so it’s a great choice among our theme parks in the UK for toddlers if you have kids of varying ages.
Address: Milton Keynes, Cheshire, Derbyshire Yorkshire
6. CBeebies Land at Alton Towers (Staffordshire)
Enjoy 14 rides and attractions for under 5’s, where they can meet their favourite TV characters from top shows like In the Night Garden and Teletubbies. This one is on the pricey side, however you can book a toddler pass online for £25 (1 adult + 1 child under 5). Each additional toddler is £5. A great option if you can go off-peak.
Address: Alton Towers Resort, Alton, Staffordshire ST10 4DB
7. Blackpool Pleasure Beach (Blackpool)
Blackpool’s main attraction and one of the UK’s most popular theme parks. As well as thrilling rollercoasters you can challenge your family to adventure golf or ice skating. Meet favourite TV characters like Spongebob Squarepants at Nickelodeon Land. In addition, enjoy live magic or circus shows at the theatre.
Address: 525 Ocean Blvd, Blackpool FY4 1EZ
8. Wicksteed Park (Northamptonshire)
Discover over 30 exciting rides and activities, including one of the longest zip wires in the UK, at this family friendly theme park in Northamptonshire. For toddlers there are teacup rides, mini cars, sand and water play areas and astro slides. You can also camp here, and wake up seconds away from the rides, cafes and playgrounds.
Address: Barton Rd, Kettering NN15 6NJ
9. Chessington World of Adventures (Surrey)
One of the UK’s most popular themeparks, Chessington offers lots for younger visitors. There’s The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure, flying elephants, crazy cars and a dragon’s Playhouse, to name just a few. And best of all, Under 3’s go free!
Address: Leatherhead Rd, Chessington, Surrey. KT9 2NE
10. Pleasurewood Hills Family Theme Park (Suffolk)
Close to popular holiday spot Great Yarmouth and the pretty Suffolk coast, this theme park offers over 35 rides, shows and attractions. For toddler’s there’s a miniature railway,pirate ship, classic carousel, teacup rides and much more. Meanwhile older kids can enjoy more thrill-seeking rides like the Cannonball Express or Timber Falls. So there really is something for everyone. Children under 90 cm get free entry too – perfect for tiny tots.
Address: Leisure Way, Lowestoft, Suffolk. NR32 5DZ
11. Oakwood Theme Park (Pembrokeshire)
Based in the heart of Pembrokeshire, Oakwood boasts fun for the whole family – toddler friendly rides, and fast thrills for the older kids. There are plenty of gentle rides at the Peter Pan themed area for young visitors, such as the Crocodile Coaster, making this one of our Top Theme Parks UK for Toddlers. And there’s also a large soft play space indoors. So even if the rain arrives, you won’t have to cut your day short.
Address: Canaston Bridge, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, Wales. SA67 8DE
12. Flamingo Land (North Yorkshire)
The Flamingo Land opens its doors on March 16th 2024
The Flamingo Land is a 375 acres theme park and an award winning zoo that boasts over 50 rides and themed attractions such as Peter Rabbit Adventure.
The park is located in Kirby Misperton in North Yorkshire so perfect if you plan a few days visiting York and around during a family holiday.
Your little ones will enjoy a lot of attractions suitable for them like Muddy Duck Tractor ride or the suspended coaster Zooom.
Address: Kirby Misperton, Malton YO17 6UX
13. Lightwater Valley (Yorkshire)
Here is another great theme park in Yorkshire where your family can enjoy over 40 rides with plenty to do for children under 12. You will find also lots of attractions for toddlers and pre-school kids such as an outdoor adventure play, the Lightwater Express Train or the Go Safari Area.
If your child loves adventure, she or he will be thrilled by the Treetop Trails, one of the best in the UK claimed the owner of the park.
Overall, Lightwater Valley is the perfect theme park that caters for young children and their parents for a great day out in Yorkshire. Don’t expect big adults roller coasters though.
Address: Water Ln, North Stainley, Ripon HG4 3HT
14. KidZania (London)
If you are restricted to stay in London, you should definitely try the KidZania world at Westfield in West London. You won’t find any thrilling rides or carousels like a traditional theme park but more an indoor venue where kids act as adults and learn about different jobs.
And they can also earn money (kidZos is the currency of the park) by completing different jobs.
I would say that a toddler with his or her older brother or sister will have fun at this unique attraction in London. KidZania recommends the adventure park for 4 to 14 years old. For children under 4, you will find a dedicated area where they will find books and activities. There are even storytelling and baby disco sessions available at KidZania.
Also parents can easily let their children wander around the secured indoor after check in since they will be equipped with RFID wristbands. But personally, I have enjoyed going with my children to apply for different jobs such as a Radio presenter or fireman/woman or even a glass window cleaner.
Address: Westfield London Shopping Centre Ariel Way, London W12 7GA
15. The BIG Sheep (Devon)
Among our bucket list of theme parks for toddlers in the UK, The BIG Sheep is a fantastic farm park located in Devon.
Your children will be amused by the variety of rides available at this theme park. They will also be able to be close to animals such as lambs, ducks or llamas.
If rain invites itself to your visit at The BIG Sheep, not to worry, you will find plenty of things to do indoor such as a soft play are with slides.
There is a restaurant where you can have a break during lunch time before you resume your journey trying different rides at the park
And don’t miss the fun festival called The BIG Sheep Toddler Fest dedicated to your little ones. 2023 edition is scheduled on Sunday 25th June and Sunday 10th September. Pencil those days in your diary!
Address: Abbotsham Rd, Abbotsham, Bideford EX39 5AP
16. Milky Way Adventure Park (Devon)
Situated in North Devon and among the most celebrated amusement park in the region, the Milky Way Adventure Park is the perfect getaway attraction for the whole family.
The theme park offers plenty of attractions for every age including young children aged 0 to 6 years old.
For instance, your little ones will be able to role-play in a pizzeria, ride the famous Milky Way train and on board the Cosmic Caterpillar.
There is also a great indoor soft play area called Little Stars perfect if you visit the park on a rainy day or in the Winter.
The Milky Way Adventure Park has been awarded the Number 1 spot among the Best UK Amusements Parks in 2022 by TripAdvisor.
Address: The Milky Way Adventure Park, Bideford EX39 5RY
17. Landmark Forest Adventure Park (Scotland)
If you are looking for a fun outdoor theme park for toddlers in Spring or the Summer, have a look at Landmark Forest Adventure Park.
Located in Cairngorms National Park, this adventure theme park is one of the favourite family attractions in Scotland.
The forest themed park has 13 attractions suitable for young children such as the Dinosaur Kingdom, the Butterfly House and Mini Differs.
Of course, you will find also great play areas in the park like a toddler’s playground and an amazing labyrinth with different challenges to keep the kids excited.
Address: B9153, Carrbridge PH23 3AJ
18. Adventure Wonderland (Dorset)
If you happen to visit Bournemouth for a weekend away, don’t miss out on taking the time to explore the Adventure Wonderland theme park.
Being presented at one of the top family attractions to do in Dorset, Adventure Wonderland is a great fun day out activity with lots of rides and indoor play.
While the park is not huge compared to other famous theme parks, the place is of great fun for toddlers and pre-school children who need some care and attention.
Little ones will enjoy the little petting zoo and also meet Alice and all her friends at different rides.
Adventure Wonderland has been praised recently by lots of families visiting with young children.
Address: Merritown Ln, Hurn, Christchurch BH23 6BA
19. Crealy Theme Park (Devon)
Here is one of the biggest theme parks in England: the Crealy Theme Park & Resort will delight every family wishing to spend a day out.
With over 60 rides and attractions plus live shows, Crealy Theme Park sees lots of families returning every year with their children.
For toddlers and young children, you will find plenty to do like the Blue Lagoon with balls pools, an adventure zone with over 75,000 sq feet of fun indoor play and so much more.
The park organises different events across the year such as an Easter egg hunt in April and family friendly water rides in the Summer between 25th July and 31st August 2023.
Address: Sidmouth Rd, Clyst St Mary, Exeter EX5 1DR
20. Sundown Adventureland (Nottinghamshire)
Sundown Adventureland is a theme park located in Retford, Nottinghamshire, UK, primarily aimed at children under the age of 10.
The park is divided into different themed areas, such as Fairy Tale Village, Toy Town, Pirate Cove, and Robin Hood’s Sherwood Forest. Each area features attractions and decorations related to its theme, creating an immersive experience for visitors.
Sundown Adventureland offers a variety of rides and attractions suitable for young children, including gentle roller coasters, carousels, train rides, and boat rides. Some popular attractions include the Rocky Mountain Railroad, the Jolly Pirate Boat Ride, and the Tractor Ride.
Address: Treswell Rd, Rampton, Retford DN22 0HX
21. Playland Fun Park (Worcestershire)
Playland Fun Park is a top amusement park located in Worcestershire, UK. The theme park designed for young children and older kids offer a whole range of activities such GoKarts or MotoGPBikes.
Some of the most popular attractions are of course the Safari Train, Dino-Tours and Tractors.
For sunny days, your little one(s) will enjoy playing in the paddling pool whilst older kids can play a round of mini golf with their parents.
Overall, Playland Fun Park is a fun theme park for young children that makes a nice day out with the family if you are visiting the Worcestershire region.
Address: Severn Meadows, Martins Way, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 8UU
22. Web Adventure Park (York)
Web Adventure Park is an established family attraction located in York where families
The Web Adventure Park offers a large indoor play area filled with slides, climbing frames, ball pits, and other soft play equipment, providing a safe and entertaining environment for children to explore and play. There is a specific under 5’s area with a ball pit too.
In addition to the indoor facilities, there is also an outdoor play area featuring an animal zone where children can meet goats, alpacas, guinea pigs and so much more. They can also have fun at a large sandpit or swings and climbing nets at Climbing Towers and a Water Zone area.
Don’t miss out this lovely kids theme park on your next visit to Yorkshire.
Address: Clifton Gate Business Park, Wigginton Rd, York YO32 2RH
23. 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park (Hampshire)
4 Kingdoms Adventure Park is an attraction located near Newbury offering a variety of activities and experiences suitable for families with children.
The park is divided into four themed zones, each representing a different kingdom: Water Splash, Fantasy Farmyard, The Western-themed area, and Adventure Play. Each zone offers unique attractions and activities related to its theme, providing a diverse and immersive experience for visitors.
4 Kingdoms Adventure Park features extensive outdoor play areas with a variety of attractions, including adventure playgrounds, slides, climbing frames, and swings. These areas are designed to provide children with opportunities for active play and exploration in a safe and supervised environment.
Address: Newbury Road, Headley, Thatcham RG19 8JY
24. Adventure Valley (Durham)
Adventure Valley is an award-winning family attraction located in, Durham, UK. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for families with children of all ages.
Adventure Valley features extensive outdoor play areas with a variety of attractions, including giant slides, zip wires, climbing frames, sandpits, and swings. These areas are designed to provide children with opportunities for active play and exploration in a safe and supervised environment.
The theme park includes a farmyard area where visitors can interact with a variety of farm animals, such as sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, and chickens. Children can feed and pet the animals, providing an educational and hands-on experience.
Adventure Valley offers a themed mini-golf course where families can enjoy a round of miniature golf together, navigating through obstacles and challenges in a fun and engaging setting.
Visitors can also pedal their way around designated tracks on pedal go-karts, providing a thrilling and active experience for children and parents alike.
Address: Union Hall Farm, Durham DH1 5SG
Frequently Asked Questions
Which theme park is best for 2 years old?
Whilst some attractions have some height restriction, we found CBeebies Land at Alton Towers a fun theme park for 2 year olds children. Plus there are some great shows happening like Teletubbies Big Bank show that make the visit to the park even more attractive for young children.
What theme park is best for toddlers UK?
Depending of where you live and how long you have during your holiday, there are lots of parks to choose in the UK that are suitable for toddlers. Among our favourite parks, you can spend a day at Lightwater Valley or at one of the Diggerland parks.
Which team park is best for 4 year olds?
We find that Paulton’s Park is a great place to go to with 4 year olds children as the venue offers a lot of rides and attractions for this age group. Otherwise, Thomas Land is a good bet if your little ones are big fan of the tank engine animation TV series.
Is Thorpe Park suitable for 2 year olds?
Thorpe Park Resort has been known for years as one of the most exciting theme park in England with over 2 million visitors per year. However, if you bring your toddler or pre-school children, you might find that most of the rides are not suitable for them. So my advice would be to wait until your kid has the appropriate height to enjoy fully the theme park.
CONCLUSION
So there you have it, plenty of theme parks for toddlers in the UK to enjoy all year round. Do you already have a favourite park in mind? Did you already visit one of those parks before?
PIN IT FOR LATER!
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