Waterworld Leisure Resort, Stoke-on-Trent
The UK’s largest indoor tropical aqua park with thrilling rides, wave pools, and family-friendly fun all year round in Stoke-on-Trent.
Waterworld is the UK’s premier indoor tropical aqua park located in Stoke-on-Trent’s Festival Park. Open year-round, it offers over 30 thrilling rides and attractions including the UK's tallest and fastest water slides in Tornado Alley. Families can enjoy wave pools, flumes, spas, and bubble pools in a warm 29-30°C environment, making it an ideal destination regardless of weather. Facilities include a licensed café bar, family-friendly changing areas, and accessibility features.
A brief summary to Waterworld
- Festival Park, Festival Wy., Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 5PU, GB
- +441782205747
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 4.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak times like weekday mornings or evenings to avoid long queues on popular slides.
- Book tickets in advance online to secure your preferred session and take advantage of combo deals and annual passes.
- Try the autism-friendly additional needs evenings for a quieter, more sensory-considerate experience.
- Make use of the family-friendly communal changing areas with individual cubicles for convenience.
- Check the weather and season to enjoy the outdoor pool, which opens only on peak summer days.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Stoke-on-Trent railway station, take a local bus towards Festival Park; the journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. The bus stop is a short walk from Waterworld’s entrance.
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Car
Driving to Waterworld via the A500 or A50 main roads typically takes 10-15 minutes from Stoke city centre. On-site parking is available with over 300 spaces, charged at £6 for up to 10 hours, with the first 30 minutes free. Parking can be busy during peak times.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Stoke city centre to Waterworld takes around 10 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially for families or groups carrying swim gear.
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Walking
Walking from Stoke city centre to Waterworld is possible but takes about 45-60 minutes along urban roads and may not be suitable for all visitors, especially with children or heavy equipment.
Waterworld location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Waterworld
A Tropical Oasis in the Heart of the Midlands
Waterworld Leisure Resort stands out as the UK’s largest indoor tropical aqua park, nestled in Stoke-on-Trent’s Festival Park. It offers a year-round warm-water environment maintained at around 29-30°C, providing a perfect escape from the often unpredictable British weather. The park is designed to cater to all ages and swimming abilities, featuring a large wave pool with a gradual zero-depth beach entry that deepens to 1.8 meters, ideal for families with young children and strong swimmers alike.Exciting Rides and Attractions for Every Adventurer
At the heart of Waterworld’s appeal are its exhilarating rides, including the four super-thrill slides of Tornado Alley: Thunderbolt, Cyclone, Hurricane, and Stormchaser. These are the tallest and fastest water slides in the UK, offering adrenaline-pumping experiences for thrill-seekers. Alongside these, there are gentler family slides, flumes, spas, and bubble pools, ensuring a diverse range of attractions suitable for all visitors, from toddlers to adults.Family-Friendly Facilities and Inclusive Design
The resort is thoughtfully designed with families in mind. It features communal changing areas with individual cubicles to accommodate groups and families comfortably. Accessibility is a priority, with autism-friendly events providing a quieter ambiance for guests with additional needs, as well as disabled access and toilets. On-site amenities include a licensed café bar and the Water’s Edge restaurant, offering freshly prepared meals with options catering to halal, gluten-free, and nut-free diets.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
Waterworld operates with session controls during peak times to ensure a quality experience, with typical visits lasting between three to four hours. Parking is available with over 300 spaces, and charges apply for parking and locker use. The resort encourages advance booking, with various ticket options including family passes, combo deals with mini golf, and annual passes. The park’s management maintains strict water and air temperature controls, checked hourly to guarantee comfort.Environmental and Community Commitment
Waterworld Leisure Resort demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, generating up to 80% of its electricity demand on-site. This eco-conscious approach aligns with its role as a major regional attraction, contributing positively to local tourism and community engagement through school visits and group bookings.Seasonal Variations and Best Times to Visit
The quietest periods to visit are from September to February, when fewer queues and no time limits on sessions enhance the experience. The park also opens an outdoor pool during peak summer days, adding to the variety of aquatic fun. Off-peak visits offer a more relaxed atmosphere, while school holidays and weekends tend to be busier with session time controls in place.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Burma Star Island
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National Trust - Nether Alderley Mill
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National Trust - Hare Hill
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National Trust Shugborough Estate
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National Trust - Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Alderley Edge and Cheshire Countryside, a nature reserve rich in scenic views, outdoor adventures, and local history.
White Nancy
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Solomon’s Temple
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Poole's Cavern
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Freda's Grave
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Bunbury Mill
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Explore Bunbury Mill: A historic flour mill in Tarporley, Cheshire, showcasing traditional milling techniques and the beauty of the English countryside.
Knutsford Obelisk
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Cholmondeley Castle Gardens
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BeWILDerwood Cheshire
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Cannock Chase National Landscape
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Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow
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Unmissable attractions to see
Festival Retail Park
0.4 km
A dynamic outdoor retail and leisure destination in Stoke-on-Trent, blending popular high street brands with family-friendly entertainment and dining.
Etruria Industrial Museum
1.0 km
Step into the world’s only working steam-powered potter’s mill, where Stoke-on-Trent’s industrial heart beats on at the Etruria Industrial Museum.
Middleport Pottery
1.7 km
Discover the last working Victorian pottery in the UK, where heritage ceramics come alive alongside historic canals and timeless craftsmanship.
The Brampton Museum
1.9 km
Explore Newcastle-under-Lyme’s heritage through immersive exhibits, a charming Victorian street, and vibrant community events in scenic Brampton Park.
Hartshill Park
1.9 km
Explore the historic and tranquil Hartshill Park, a lush nature reserve with ponds, woodland, and rich heritage in Stoke-on-Trent.
Hanley Park
2.0 km
Historic Victorian park in Stoke-on-Trent with scenic canals, restored landmarks, inclusive play areas, and vibrant community spirit.
Westport Lake Visitor Centre
2.6 km
Discover Stoke-on-Trent’s largest lake with rich wildlife, scenic walks, and family-friendly facilities at Westport Lake Visitor Centre.
Ford Green Hall
3.6 km
A 17th-century timber-framed farmhouse revealing authentic domestic life through world-class collections of textiles, ceramics, and period furnishings.
Hulton Abbey
3.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Hulton Abbey, a modest yet historically rich 13th-century Cistercian monastery nestled in Stoke-on-Trent’s tranquil Trent Valley.
Apple Tree Town
3.9 km
Explore, learn, and play in a vibrant children's role play town designed to spark imagination and social skills in a safe, family-friendly setting.
Apedale Heritage Centre
4.6 km
Explore Staffordshire’s coal mining heritage with authentic underground tours, a rich museum, and heritage railway at Apedale Heritage Centre.
Eleven
4.7 km
Intimate live music venue in Stoke-on-Trent with top-tier sound, friendly atmosphere, and a strong focus on rock and tribute bands.
Apedale Community Country Park
4.9 km
Explore Staffordshire’s rich mining heritage and scenic landscapes at Apedale Community Country Park and Heritage Centre.
Gladstone Pottery Museum
6.3 km
Step into a living Victorian pottery factory and discover the rich heritage of Staffordshire ceramics at Gladstone Pottery Museum.
Aynsley China Ltd
6.4 km
Historic British bone china manufacturer in Stoke-on-Trent, blending craftsmanship and heritage since 1775.
Essential places to dine
Ostler Restaurant
2.2 km
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The Potters Club
2.3 km
Historic elegance meets refined British cuisine in Stoke-on-Trent’s distinguished Potters Club.
the QUARTER at Potbank
2.6 km
A dynamic restaurant and event venue blending Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage with vibrant dining and unique indoor-outdoor spaces.
Marloes Restaurant
2.7 km
An intimate British bistro in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where seasonal European cuisine and a legendary beef Wellington make every meal feel like a celebration.
85 Secret Garden
3.5 km
Discover the enchanting blend of fine dining, creative cocktails, and soulful ambiance at 85 Secret Garden in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Orange Tree Bar and Grill
3.6 km
Stylish bar and grill in Stoke-on-Trent offering creative grill dishes, excellent steaks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Stafford Arms
6.7 km
Historic 16th-century gastropub in Bagnall blending rustic charm with modern dining excellence and warm hospitality.
Lunar
8.2 km
Modern British dining inspired by the Lunar Society, set within the iconic World of Wedgwood estate in Staffordshire.
The Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar (located at Moddershall Oaks)
11.5 km
Lakeside dining with fresh local flavors and scenic views at Moddershall Oaks’ elegant Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar.
Pecks Restaurant
13.0 km
A refined British dining experience in Cheshire, blending seasonal flavors with a theatrical tasting menu and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
The Spotgate Inn
13.3 km
Dine in authentic vintage Pullman carriages at The Spotgate Inn, where historic charm meets hearty British pub fare in Stone.
La Villa Verde
13.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at La Villa Verde, Stoke-on-Trent’s beloved Italian restaurant.
The Wayfarer
14.0 km
A contemporary gastropub in Stone blending British classics with international flair in a cozy, stylish setting.
Little Seeds Restaurant
14.1 km
Intimate seasonal dining in Stone celebrating local British produce, sustainability, and a flourishing kitchen garden.
The Ship Inn
15.6 km
A cozy British pub in Tean offering hearty traditional dishes, friendly service, and excellent value in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Festival Heights Retail Park
0.7 km
A modern, accessible retail park in Stoke-on-Trent offering diverse shopping options and convenient amenities for a seamless shopping experience.
The Potteries Centre
1.4 km
Staffordshire’s largest shopping and leisure destination with over 50 stores, dining, cinema, and community events all under one roof.
Sign of the Times Antiques ltd
2.0 km
Discover quirky antiques and vintage treasures at Sign of the Times Antiques Ltd, a unique shop in Stoke-on-Trent’s historic Burslem district.
Hippie at Heart
2.7 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and unique bohemian styles at Hippie at Heart, Stoke-on-Trent’s ethical clothing boutique.
Roebuck Shopping Centre
2.8 km
A historic-rooted shopping centre blending national brands and local charm in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s vibrant High Street.
Nike Clearance Store
6.6 km
Discover discounted Nike gear and footwear at Talke Retail Park’s dedicated clearance store in Stoke-on-Trent.
Trentham Shopping Village
7.2 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
Goomoo
7.3 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Gift Company
7.4 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Gift Company, a welcoming shop nestled in the scenic Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent.
Rogue Boutique
14.4 km
Discover unique, quality women's fashion and accessories with personalised service in the heart of Stone at Rogue Boutique.
Jolu Accessories Boutique
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The Market Shopping Centre
18.2 km
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Crafts of Cheshire (Ltd)
20.5 km
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Walk The Line Vintage
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Cabin Boutique
23.3 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in a charming log cabin boutique nestled within Middlewich’s Hopley House Shopping Village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Basement
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Sutherland Arms
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A welcoming pub and cozy B&B in Stoke-on-Trent offering quality ales, lively events, and comfortable rooms with self-catering facilities.
No.41
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A stylish pub in Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its eclectic decor, craft ales, cocktails, and extensive gin selection.
The Plume of Feathers- With Neil Morrissey
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A friendly canalside pub in Barlaston offering fresh local food, Neil Morrissey’s ales, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and pets.
Fitzherbert Arms
12.3 km
Historic Staffordshire pub blending award-winning cuisine, rustic charm, and warm hospitality in the heart of Swynnerton village.
The Swan With Two Necks
13.1 km
A stylish gastropub in Blackbrook blending classic British flavours with modern comfort and scenic countryside charm.
The Borehole
13.4 km
A cozy, quirky micro pub in Stone offering local craft beers, a warm log burner, and a famously dog-friendly welcome.
Swan Inn
14.5 km
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DV8 Bar & Lounge
15.1 km
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The Boars Head
17.1 km
A charming gastropub near Nantwich serving refined British cuisine in a cozy countryside setting with welcoming service and a lively beer garden.
The Beer Emporium
17.2 km
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The Lazy Trout
17.7 km
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Dog & Doublet Inn
20.2 km
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The Swettenham Arms
20.5 km
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Staffordshire Bull
22.5 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Gossip!
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TTL Nightclub
1.3 km
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Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
1.3 km
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Reflex - Hanley
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Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
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Base 95
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3D Leek - Bar & Nightclub Experiences
14.5 km
Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
The Club
15.0 km
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3D Congleton
15.1 km
A vibrant and affordable nightclub in Congleton’s town centre, perfect for late-night dancing and fun weekends.
The Studio
22.2 km
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Mainstreet Nightclub
31.2 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Mainstreet Nightclub, where music, dancing, and a lively crowd create unforgettable late-night memories.
Level 2
31.6 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Great Rocks Social Club
36.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
757 Night Club & Laluna events venue
42.3 km
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We Love Oldskool Nights
42.9 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
- Lively
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly