Aqua Action Fairlop Waters Country Park | Big Fun

Aqua Action is an outdoor inflatable water park set within the expansive Fairlop Waters Country Park. Designed for high-energy fun on the water, the park operates seasonally and offers adventure-filled aquatic experiences for individuals, families, and groups.

Nestled in the scenic surroundings of Fairlop Waters Country Park, Aqua Action Fairlop Waters is a vibrant inflatable water park in Ilford, London. The attraction is built on a large lake, offering a series of floating obstacle courses and water-based challenges that cater to thrill-seekers and families alike. Known officially as Aqua Action Water Park, this venue brings together aquatic adventure, physical activity, and plenty of splashes.

The main draw is the large Aqua Bounce course, which includes climbing towers, balance beams, slides, and jumping platforms. Designed to challenge both coordination and endurance, the inflatable layout appeals to children aged six and above, teenagers, and even adults seeking a unique outing. A separate Aqua Tots Fairlop section ensures that younger visitors (aged 1–8) can enjoy the water safely under adult supervision, without needing swimming skills.

Due to its location within the wider Fairlop Waters Country Park, the water park experience is complemented by lush greenery, on-site restaurants, a lakeside café, and other leisure options such as boating and cycling. Visitors often come for a few hours of water fun and stay longer to enjoy the amenities of one of East London’s largest outdoor recreational hubs.

With strong safety protocols, buoyancy aids, lifeguards on duty, and a reputation for being family-friendly, Aqua Action Fairlop is a top choice for summer outings and group events, particularly for birthdays, school trips, and youth groups.

Seasonal Availability

Aqua Action is open seasonally, operating from 5 April to 28 September 2025. The water park does not operate year-round due to its outdoor nature and temperature sensitivity of the lake. Specific opening and closing dates are updated yearly on their official website and social media platforms.

Aqua Action Location & Directions

Fairlop waters, Forest Rd, Ilford IG6 3HN

🗺️ Directions to Aqua Action

Aqua Action Official Website & Contact Information

https://aquaaction.co.uk

General enquiries

Phone: +44 (0)207 101 4507

Email: info@aquaaction.co.uk

Main Attractions

Aqua Action Fairlop Waters is home to a dynamic 75-metre inflatable obstacle course set on the lake, designed to test balance, coordination, and stamina in a fun, aquatic environment. Highlights include:

• Slides and drop‑off slides: five varied slides, including two steep drop-offs for fast water landings
• 3.5 metre climbing tower: a tall, challenging ascent leading to slides or jumps into the water.
• 2 metre balance beam: a thrilling narrow beam requiring concentration to cross without plunging into the water.
• Jumping platforms: one and two metre platforms for safe but exciting water dives.
• Blast‑bag: a trapezoid airbag that propels you into the water after crouching at the edge.

This layout makes Aqua Action one of the leading inflatable water parks in the UK and a standout water fun park in Essex and London.

Special Rides

Beyond the main course, Aqua Action offers:

• Agility-focused obstacles, including hopping balls and stepping stones that blend balance with agility in a competitive, playful, and social setting
• Blast-bag launch, which is particularly popular for those seeking that adrenaline-fuelled moment when the iceberg-like inflatable catapults them skyward.

Kids & Family Areas

For younger guests, the Aqua Tots Fairlop area offers:

• A scaled-down inflatable playground with cute bounce platforms (turtles, swans) and splash zones.
• Safe, shallow water so that non-swimmers (ages 1–8) can join in the fun under adult supervision without needing buoyancy aids.

This section ensures the park caters to families, making it an excellent Ilford water park for all ages.

Relaxation Areas

While the main attraction is the inflatable water park itself, the wider Fairlop Waters Country Park provides:

On-lake seating and lawn spaces for sunbathing or picnicking between sessions.

The Boathouse Bar & Café and Lake View Marquee, offering meals, snacks, and drinks—all with scenic lake views.

Access to rest areas near other facilities including Fiskardos Greek Restaurant, Owls Soft Play, and the sailing centre.

Unique Features

What really sets Aqua Action apart:

A picturesque lake setting on the London/Essex border, combining natural beauty with a sense of adventure.
The optional season pass, allowing unlimited visits throughout the water park season—perfect for adrenaline seekers and frequent visitors.
Flexible bookings designed for groups, parties, stag/hen dos, or corporate days, making it more than an ordinary water sports in Essex venue.

Baby Changing Facilities

Aqua Action provides cubicles and open‑plan changing areas suitable for quick changes before or after a session. These are not full-changing rooms like those found in indoor leisure centres, but they are practical for essential care needs. For more leisurely changing, parents can also use public toilets in nearby facilities across the park.

Bottle-Warming Stations

No dedicated bottle‑warming stations are available at Aqua Action. Parents may wish to bring pre-warmed bottles or request access to adjacent café facilities—such as the Boathouse Bar/Café—where staff have been accommodating in the past.

Baby Pools

There is no separate baby pool at Aqua Action. However, the wider Fairlop Waters Country Park includes water play areas and the small-scale Aqua Tots Fairlop inflatable zone designed for children aged 1–8. While not a miniature pool, its shallow splash zones allow toddlers to paddle safely under adult supervision.

Minimum Age Restrictions

Aqua Action main course: Minimum age 6 years, with 6–7 year-olds requiring a 1:2 adult supervision ratio; those aged 8 and above may participate alone if an adult completes the waiver.

Aqua Tots Fairlop: Accepts children as young as 1 year old, but there is no official minimum—adult care is required at all times; no swim ability is required here.

While Aqua Action does not specialise in infant care facilities, the combination of its modest changing areas, proximity to baby‑friendly spaces like Owls Soft Play, and park cafés offer enough support for families to enjoy an outing with babies. Parents should prepare by bringing essentials such as pre‑heated bottles, changing mats, and spare clothes.

Entry Fees

Standard 55-minute session: £20 per person, which includes wetsuit and buoyancy aid hire.

Grip socks are compulsory and cost an additional £2; guests may bring their own suitable socks (must be ankle-high and non-slip)

Discounts & Offers

Group discounts apply automatically at checkout

• 10 % off for bookings of 10–19 people.
• 20 % off for bookings of 20 or more.

Season pass:

Available for £120, permitting unlimited visits during the open season — an excellent option for frequent visitors or avid, active families.

Private hire

• Weekdays (term-time): £500 for up to 50 guests.
• Weekends and school/public holidays: £1,000 for up to 50 guests.
• Additional guests cost £10 per person.

Groupon deals

Occasionally offer packages including entry and wetsuit hire, with cancellation policies up to 72 hours before the session.

Aqua Action Tickets Booking

Online booking is strongly recommended; walk-ins may be possible but are subject to capacity limits.

Arrival time: guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before session start to check in, change, complete a waiver, and receive safety instructions.

Waiver: A waiver is required for every visit — one per session — including for children aged 8+.

Refund/Cancellation Policy

No refunds are issued under any circumstances, including for cancellation due to weather.

Rescheduling is permitted up to 7 days before the booking, with adjustments via the cancellation link.

Swim requirement: participants must be able to swim 20 m unaided and self-rescue. If deemed unable to swim by lifeguards upon arrival or trying to access the course, guests will be refused entry without refund.

Groupon bookings allow cancellation or change up to 72 hours ahead; after that window, no refunds or rescheduling is permitted.

Daily Schedule

Term-time (Monday–Friday): Aqua Action is closed on weekdays during school terms, opening exclusively at weekends.

Weekends (Saturday & Sunday) during term time: Open from 10 am to 6 pm.

School holidays and public holidays (all year): Open seven days a week from 10 am to 6 pm.

Seasonal Changes

The park’s 2025 season runs from 5 April to 28 September.

Outside these dates, Aqua Action does not operate due to lower weather temperatures and lake conditions.

Out‑of‑Hours & Private Bookings

Out‑of‑hours sessions: Available by arrangement for groups, birthdays, corporate bookings, hen/stag dos, and school activities. These can be scheduled outside of standard open hours during the operating season.

Guests should contact the water park to discuss tailored time slots.

Peak & Off-Peak Info

Peak periods include weekends, school holidays, and summer months (June–August). Sessions during these times book up rapidly, so advance booking is recommended.

Off-peak visits (weekends early/late season, just after opening or before closing) tend to be quieter. However, it remains a busy attraction due to its popularity at the inflatable water park London/Essex border.

Public Transport

Nearest Station: Fairlop Station (Central Line) is approximately a 5-minute walk from the water park, located on Forest Road — under a mile away. The station offers step-free access and a public car park with disabled bays and an EV charging station.

Bus Services: Several London buses, such as the 296 and 462, stop near the park entrance. Visitors should check Transport for London for the latest routes and timetables.

Wheelchair & Accessibility

Fairlop Station is wheelchair accessible with step-free access, aiding mobility-impaired visitors. Though Aqua Action’s main inflatable course is not wheelchair accessible, surrounding park facilities, including footpaths, café, and lakeside areas, are generally accessible.

There is no wheelchair hire on-site, but Shopmobility services are available in nearby Ilford town centre.

Aqua Action Parking Info & Charges

On-site parking at Fairlop Waters Country Park is managed by RingGo. Rates (from 1 April 2024):

• Up to 1 hour: £1.50
• Up to 2 hours: £2.60
• All-day: £5.50.

Payments via the RingGo app, text, or phone; no cash payments. Motorcycle parking is free if in a designated bay.

Blue badge holders report they receive free parking, even if not in designated bays, though official rules advise using marked disabled bays.

Car Charging Stations

Fairlop Station car park, a short walk from the water park, includes electric vehicle chargers and blue badge bays. Charges apply: £8 (Mon–Fri), £6 (Sun), £7 (Sat).

Shuttle Service

There is no park-run shuttle from nearby transport hubs. Most visitors arrive by car or on foot from Fairlop Station.

Bike Storage

Secure cycle racks are available near Fairlop Waters reception. The park also provides seasonal bike hire — £6 per hour for adults, £4 for children — payable onsite.

Customer Ratings

Customer Reviews

Aqua Action at Fairlop Waters Country Park has quickly built a reputation as one of the most exciting inflatable water parks in Greater London. Drawing families, thrill-seekers, and school groups from across Essex and beyond, the attraction receives generally positive reviews for its lively atmosphere, well-maintained facilities, and attentive staff. Like any seasonal outdoor venue, feedback varies, with some visitors commenting on session cancellations and refund clarity. However, most guests describe it as a memorable day out that combines fun, fitness, and fresh air.

“The inflatables were really good fun but everyone was finding it difficult to get themselves back on the circuit. It was really hard to get yourself up. A lot of people were finding it very difficult and the lifeguards didn’t help with this- it kind of took the fun out of it”

“I recently visited this beautiful spot , and I can confidently say it was one of the best experiences I’ve had!”

“Came here for a 12:00 session on a Tuesday. It was the perfect amount of busy. We did t queue for anything.”

Safety & Cleanliness

Cleanliness, especially of changing rooms and showers, receives positive comments. Operational safety also seems well-managed—lifeguards enforce the swim test rule, and buoyancy aids are included. However, cancellations due to unforeseen issues (e.g. blue-green algae) have occurred at Fairlop Waters Country Park at large, sometimes affecting Aqua Action sessions too.

Food & Drink

Aqua Action is conveniently located beside the Boathouse Bar & Café and the Lake View Marquee, both offering stunning waterside views. The Boathouse serves hot and cold snacks, light meals, ice-cream, and a selection of soft beverages, while the Marquee hosts occasional event days with BBQs and local vendors.

Next door, Fiskardos Greek Restaurant offers a sit-down option with family-friendly service. Picnic benches and grassy lawns around the lake invite guests to bring their own food—a welcome detail for families seeking more affordable or personalised meal options.

Accommodation

There is no accommodation at Fairlop Waters Country Park, but the surrounding area includes several hotels and B&B options in Barkingside and Ilford. Many visitors combine their visit with a stay in nearby hotels for longer South East London and Essex escapes.

Seating & Lounging Areas

Well-maintained benches and picnic tables line the lakeshore close to the water park and café.

Grassy areas provide informal lounging space, ideal for sun-soaked breaks between sessions or for supervising children on Aqua Tots Fairlop without compromising sightlines.

Changing & Locker Facilities

On-site cubicle changing rooms and open-plan areas are provided; guests are encouraged to arrive wearing swimwear.

Lockers available on a first-come, first-served basis; bring your own padlock or purchase one for £3.

Shower facilities are basic rinse-off showers designed for quick clean-downs post-session.

First Aid & Medical Assistance

Lifeguards are present during every session for emergency response and to enforce safety rules; they are not available for personal assistance.

The larger Fairlop Waters site offers first aid points (e.g., within the Sailing Centre or main visitor facilities), able to assist with minor injuries or provide initial first response as needed.

Toilets

Public toilets are accessible near the adventure course and cafés. They include baby changing tables and are routinely praised by guests for cleanliness.

One reviewer stated, “Changing rooms and showers are immaculately clean”

Water Fountains

Free drinking water fountains are available near the park café and around picnic zones, encouraging guests to bring refillable bottles. While not potable on the water itself, topping up before or after sessions is easy.

Wi-Fi Availability

There is no dedicated park Wi‑Fi covering the aqua course. Free Wi‑Fi may be offered in The Boathouse Bar / Lake View Marquee for cafe guests, though connectivity may be occasional.

Baby-Friendly Facilities

Families are well catered for: Aqua Tots Fairlop provides gentle water fun; onsite cafes accommodate prams; and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities are present.

Lost & Found Policy

Items lost around the aqua course can be reported to reception, where they will hold belongings for 30 days before disposal or donation if unclaimed. Small valuables may be held by the office until collection.

Smoking Areas

The water park area is entirely smoke‑free. Smoking is only permitted in designated spots near main car parks in line with Fairlop Waters Country Park policy.

Dog-Friendly Details

The water park area does not allow dogs, for health and safety. However, the wider Fairlop Waters Country Park is popular with dog walkers; dogs must remain on leads and are allowed in most open areas but not within café indoor zones .

Swim Ability Requirement

• All participants must be able to swim 20m unaided — this is a strict safety rule enforced during the swim-out to the inflatable course.
• If staff or lifeguards judge a guest unfit to swim this distance, they will be refused entry without refund.

Session Duration & Arrival

Each booking includes a 55-minute session, and participants should arrive at least 30 minutes prior for check-in, wetsuit fitting, waiver signing, and safety briefing

Wetsuits, Buoyancy Aids & Grip Socks

• Wetsuits and buoyancy aids are included; wetsuits are optional and issued at staff discretion.
• Guests must wear swimwear under the wetsuit—no refunds provided for non-compliance.
• Grip socks are mandatory, available on-site for £2, or visitors may bring their own ankle-height, non-slip versions.

Waivers & Age Rules

A signed waiver is required for each session, including for children aged 8 and above.

Minimum age is 6 years

• Ages 6–7 require adult supervision at a 1:2 ratio.
• Age 8+ can attend unaccompanied but must have a guardian sign the waiver.

Rain & Weather Policy

• The park remains open during rain, as it is a water-based activity.
• In extreme weather or adverse lake conditions (e.g., blue-green algae), sessions may be cancelled — but refunds are not offered, only rescheduling in line with the policy.

Lifeguards & Participant Conduct

• Certified lifeguards oversee every session. They ensure emergency readiness and monitor safety—but do not provide personal supervision.
• Guests must follow all instructions, behave safely, and swim to shore when signalled.

Booking & Capacity

• Online booking is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.
• Maximum capacity is enforced to maintain a safe participant-to-space ratio.

Refunds & Rescheduling

• No refunds will be issued under any circumstances.
• Rescheduling is permitted up to 7 days in advance — subject to availability.
• For Groupon or third-party bookings, cancellations must follow that provider’s policy (usually 72 hours ahead).

Aqua Action at Fairlop Waters Country Park follows clearly defined safety procedures to ensure the wellbeing of all visitors. These guidelines are mandatory and strictly enforced by trained staff and lifeguards.

Arrival & Session Briefing

Each session lasts 55 minutes, but visitors are required to arrive at least 30 minutes before the session start time. This allows for check-in, waiver completion, wetsuit fitting, and the compulsory safety briefing, which covers course rules and water behaviour expectations.

Equipment & Clothing

• Buoyancy aids are mandatory and provided for every participant.
• Wetsuits are included in the booking fee and encouraged, especially in cooler weather.
• Grip socks are compulsory for all participants. These can be brought from home (must be ankle-height and non-slip) or purchased onsite for £2.
• Guests must wear appropriate swimwear under the wetsuit.

Weather & Session Conditions

• Aqua Action operates in most weather conditions, including rain.
• In the event of severe weather or water quality issues, such as hazardous algae blooms, sessions may be cancelled for safety reasons. In these cases, guests may be offered the chance to reschedule, but refunds are not issued.

Lifeguard Coverage & Conduct

• Certified lifeguards are present throughout all sessions and are responsible for participant safety.
• Guests are expected to follow all lifeguard instructions promptly.
• Unsafe behaviour such as pushing, diving head-first, or ignoring supervision will result in removal from the course without refund.

Grip Socks Requirement

Grip socks must be worn at all times on the course. You can bring your own (non-slip, ankle-height) or purchase on-site for £2 during booking or at reception.

Swim Ability & Swim-Out

Participants must swim approximately 25 metres from the bank to the inflatable before starting the course. Lifeguards will assess swim ability during this swim-out. If a participant cannot meet the requirement, they will be refused entry without refund.

Buoyancy Aids & Wetsuits

Buoyancy aids are mandatory and included in the booking. Wetsuits are optional but provided, especially in cooler weather. If the weather is hot, management may withhold wetsuits. All guests must wear swimwear underneath; wetsuits will not be issued without appropriate clothing, and refunds will not be provided.

Session Times & Check-In

Each session lasts 55 minutes, including the safety briefing. Guests must arrive at least 30 minutes before their session to complete check-in and orientation.

Age Rules Specific to Areas

For the main course, the minimum age is 6 years. Children aged 6–7 must be accompanied by an adult on a 1:2 ratio. Children aged 8 and older may attend alone if a guardian signs a waiver.
The Aqua Tots Fairlop zone is designed for children aged 1–8, who must be supervised at all times. No swim test or buoyancy aid is required in this area.

Conduct on Equipment

Rough behaviour—such as pushing or running—is not permitted. Slides and jumping platforms must be used with feet-first entry only to prevent injury. Lifeguards actively monitor behaviour to ensure a safe environment.

Weather & Course Suspension Rules

Aqua Action operates in light rain. However, sessions may be suspended or cancelled during severe weather or hazardous water conditions such as algae blooms. Refunds are not offered, but rescheduling is allowed in such cases.

Waivers & Liability

Every participant must have a signed waiver per session, including children aged 8 and above. Guests without a completed waiver will not be allowed to participate, and no refunds will be issued.

Lifeguard Enforcement

Lifeguards are present at all times and have full authority to remove anyone behaving unsafely. This includes non-compliance with safety rules or deliberate misconduct. In such cases, no refunds will be given.

Aqua Action at Fairlop Waters Country Park stands out as one of the most engaging and accessible inflatable water parks in London and Essex. Its prime location—just a few minutes’ walk from Fairlop Station on the Central Line—makes it ideal for families, youth groups, and thrill-seekers looking for a day of aquatic fun without venturing too far from the city.

The variety of attractions, including the large Aqua Bounce obstacle course and the gentler Aqua Tots area, offers something for all age groups. The safety-first approach is evident, with enforced swim checks, well-equipped lifeguards, and clear ride rules—giving parents confidence while children play. The requirement for grip socks and swimwear under wetsuits may seem strict at first, but these policies support both hygiene and participant safety.

Another strong point is the connection to the wider Fairlop Waters Country Park. With scenic walks, sailing, and a Greek restaurant, and open spaces for picnicking, Aqua Action feels like the centrepiece of a full day out. While the no-refund policy can be challenging—especially for cancellations due to weather or water quality—this is clearly communicated at the point of booking.

In summary, Aqua Action Fairlop is more than just a water park; it is a well-managed, fun-filled destination that blends physical activity, family time, and nature. For anyone asking, “What to do in Ilford”, this is a top contender.

Browse our Aqua Action photo gallery for a closer look at one of the most exciting inflatable water parks in London. From sweeping aerial views of the entire obstacle course to action shots of guests leaping, sliding, and splashing their way through the Aqua Bounce layout, these images capture the energy and fun that define a visit to Aqua Action Fairlop Waters Country Park. You will also see practical details like the on-site showers, changing rooms, reception area, and family-friendly features such as Aqua Tots and shaded seating areas.

Whether you are planning a group day out, birthday celebration, or weekend activity with the kids, the photos below give a true sense of what to expect on your visit to this popular Ilford water park.