Wicksteed Park
A historic park offering free entry, traditional rides, playgrounds, and scenic walks, perfect for family fun and nostalgia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fun and atmosphere
Wicksteed Park
Best Time
Peak fun and atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic park offering free entry, traditional rides, playgrounds, and scenic walks, perfect for family fun and nostalgia.
"Absolutely amazing day yesterday. Great price for family of four..unlimited rides which we all..especially girls took advantage of."
🎯 Wristbands for Unlimited Rides
Consider unlimited ride wristbands for maximum fun if you plan on going on multiple rides.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Save money by bringing your own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's many green spaces.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traditional Rides
Amusement Park Area
Experience classic amusement park fun with a variety of rides suitable for all ages, from gentle carousels to thrilling coasters.
Expansive Playgrounds
Various Locations
Let the kids burn off energy in the large, free-to-use play areas, perfect for imaginative fun and active exploration.
Lakeside Walks & Green Spaces
Park Grounds
Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the lake or relax in the vast green spaces, ideal for picnics and enjoying nature.
Narrow-Gauge Railway
Park Grounds
Take a charming ride on the park's miniature train, offering a unique perspective of the grounds for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Pay for Rides
A Day Trip for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wristbands for Unlimited Rides
Consider unlimited ride wristbands for maximum fun if you plan on going on multiple rides.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Save money by bringing your own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's many green spaces.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the large park.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
While entry is free, there's a small charge for parking your car on site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wristbands for Unlimited Rides
Consider unlimited ride wristbands for maximum fun if you plan on going on multiple rides.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Save money by bringing your own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's many green spaces.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the large park.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
While entry is free, there's a small charge for parking your car on site.
📱 Check Ride Height Restrictions
Some rides have height restrictions, so check these beforehand to manage expectations for younger children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wicksteed Park for its great value, friendly staff, and wide range of attractions suitable for all ages. Many highlight the park's spaciousness and the enjoyable experience for children, particularly those with special needs. Some minor issues include the cost of rides if not opting for wristbands and the parking fee.
"Great day. Great value. Great staff. Have selected 5star for rooms service and location as whole day was a 5 star experience. The haunted walk was scary! Our 2yr old, but almost 3yr old.104cm, grandson loved it and got more confident so by the end of the day went on the high swings! We didn't eat there - it wasn't silly money but we had brought our own."
shaz f
"Absolutely amazing day yesterday. Came with my son and my two granddaughters. Purchased wristbands for all. Great price for family of four..unlimited rides which we all..especially girls took advantage of. As a grandmother of a child with svi I cannot recommend this park enough. From staff to patrons of this park everyone was amazing and so respectful to my granddaughter. Staff were aware my granddaughter required help by her dad or myself to get onto rides..and were extremely courteous. Gentleman on carousel was the best. Thank you sir! Unfortunately daddy and I felt a little unwell after a ride..you probably heard our screams asking for help during ride which my..obviously caring granddaughters..laughed incessantly.. Will definitely return. Thank you guys for an amazing day"
June Watts
"Staff were absolutely amazing enjoyed evey ride i went on with my friend. Favourite had to be the slide where a lovely girl called skye, made the ride even more enjoyable just by not only helping understand the ride but her cheerfull demeanor made the ride soo much more entertaining.
Shout out to the meerkats who were adorable as ever."
Srlion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wicksteed Park is located in Kettering, Northamptonshire. You can reach it by car, with parking available on-site for a fee. It's also accessible by public transport, with Kettering train station being the nearest.
Yes, Wicksteed Park is well-signposted in Kettering. Many TikTok videos and Instagram reels confirm its location in Kettering, making it straightforward to navigate to.
There is a small parking charge for visitors who drive to Wicksteed Park. This fee helps maintain the park's facilities.
The nearest train station to Wicksteed Park is Kettering. From the station, you can take a short taxi ride or a local bus service to reach the park.
Wicksteed Park is approximately 40 minutes from Leicester and easily accessible from Birmingham, London, and Manchester, making it a viable day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Wicksteed Park itself is free! You only pay for the rides you wish to go on, or you can purchase unlimited ride wristbands.
Ride costs vary, but you can purchase individual tickets or opt for unlimited ride wristbands, which offer great value if you plan on enjoying many attractions. Prices start from around £3 for tickets.
Yes, you can buy individual ride tickets or choose an unlimited ride wristband for a day of continuous fun. This flexibility caters to different visitor preferences and budgets.
While not explicitly stated for all tickets, it's often advisable to check the official Wicksteed Park website for advance booking options, especially during peak seasons or for special events.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's best to check the official Wicksteed Park website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Wicksteed Park offers a variety of traditional rides, including rollercoasters like Dinosaur Valley, heritage cars, tea cups, and a caterpillar coaster, suitable for all ages.
Absolutely! Wicksteed Park is highly recommended for toddlers, with large free play areas, an indoor play zone, and gentle rides perfect for younger children.
Yes, adults can enjoy the park's scenic walks, relax in the green spaces, and even enjoy some of the more thrilling rides. The park offers a nostalgic experience for adults too.
Entry to the park is free, and there are large, free play parks, sandpits, and extensive green spaces for picnics and relaxation.
Wicksteed Park hosts various special events throughout the year, including fireworks displays and festive celebrations, so check their schedule for upcoming events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Wicksteed Park offers various food outlets and cafes. However, many visitors opt to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the park's green spaces.
While there are food options available, bringing your own food is a cost-effective choice. Reviews suggest that on-site food isn't 'silly money' but picnics are a popular alternative.
Yes, Wicksteed Park has ample green spaces perfect for picnics. It's a popular choice for families looking to save on food costs.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in the provided content, but most park eateries typically offer a range of choices. It's advisable to inquire directly at the food outlets.
Yes, bringing your own water bottle is generally recommended and permitted at most parks. There are usually water fountains or places to refill.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture memories by the lake, amidst the colourful rides, or in the expansive green areas. The park's vintage charm and natural beauty offer many picturesque opportunities.
Yes, photography of the rides and attractions is generally permitted for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific park rules.
The narrow-gauge railway, the historic park setting, and the diverse range of rides provide unique backdrops. Don't miss capturing the joy on children's faces.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check Wicksteed Park's official policy on drone operation before flying.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colours of the rides are always photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Bringing a picnic is a great way to manage food costs, and there are plenty of grassy areas to spread out. The narrow-gauge railway also offers a gentle and enjoyable experience for the little ones. Consider purchasing ride wristbands if your children are eager to try multiple attractions.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you plan on enjoying the rides, compare the cost of individual tickets versus unlimited ride wristbands to see which offers better value for your planned activities. Even without riding, the park offers a pleasant day out with its natural beauty and open spaces.
👴🏻 Seniors and Nostalgia Seekers
The park's traditional rides and charming atmosphere provide a gentle and enjoyable experience. Enjoy leisurely walks around the lake and through the park's green spaces, or take a relaxing ride on the narrow-gauge railway. The park's accessibility and free entry make it an easy and pleasant outing for seniors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Rich History of Fun
+1The park has evolved over the decades, consistently offering a blend of classic amusement park attractions and natural beauty. It's not just about the rides; the park's design emphasizes open spaces, making it a versatile destination for picnics, walks, and family gatherings. This commitment to providing a holistic experience has cemented its status as a beloved local institution.
+1Recent efforts have focused on modernizing facilities while preserving the park's nostalgic charm. The park is now owned by the Wicksteed Charitable Trust, underscoring its mission to provide accessible recreation for all. This ensures that Wicksteed Park continues to be a vibrant hub for community enjoyment for generations to come.
+1Navigating the Rides and Attractions
Older children and adults can enjoy more adventurous options, including the Dinosaur Valley rollercoaster, which is a popular choice. Beyond the rides, the park boasts extensive playgrounds that are a major draw for families. These areas are designed for active play, with plenty of space for children to run, climb, and explore. Complementing the play areas is the charming narrow-gauge railway, offering a scenic tour of the park grounds.
Visitors can choose between purchasing individual ride tickets or opting for unlimited ride wristbands. This flexibility allows families to tailor their experience to their budget and how much they plan to ride. Remember to check for any height restrictions on specific rides to ensure everyone can participate.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Comfortable footwear is a must, as the park is quite large and you'll likely be doing a lot of walking.
+1For those with very young children or specific needs, the park's staff are noted for their exceptional courtesy and willingness to assist, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit