Get ready for a splash of excitement! Kent's beloved aqua park is about to double in size, and trust us, you won't want to miss this. But here's where it gets even more thrilling: St Andrews Lakes in Halling is not just expanding; it's transforming into an adrenaline-packed paradise, all set to reopen in April 2024. And this is the part most people miss—the park isn't just adding more space; it's introducing a whole new world of attractions that will leave you breathless.
The current aqua park, a winter favorite, has been temporarily dismantled for maintenance, but don't worry—it's all part of the plan. Marketing manager Eleanor Rose assures us that construction kicks off on March 2, with a swift 15-day turnaround. The existing layout will remain, but the park will expand from 2475 sq m to a whopping 5100 sq m, packed with new runways, high-energy challenges, splash zones, and epic features that will make your heart race.
But here's the controversial part: Is bigger always better? While the expansion promises more fun, some might argue that the charm of a smaller, more intimate park is lost. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Among the new additions are two more versions of the crowd-pleasing La Jefa and El Jefe slides, ensuring there’s something for every thrill-seeker. Every new feature is crafted by AquaGlide, the world’s leading inflatable manufacturer, guaranteeing top-notch quality and safety.
Eleanor explains, “We’re keeping the essence of what made the park great, but taking it to the next level. Last year’s new slide was just the beginning. This year, we’re adding more slides, runways, and even one of those giant balls you’ve seen on Total Wipeout. It’s going to be epic!”
The park will also feature iconic AquaGlide inflatables like Jungle, Parkway, Log Jam, I-Beam, Summit, Freefall Supreme, Double Ice Cap, Hatchway, Lugeway, Catapult, and Helix. To support this massive expansion, underwater infrastructure is being upgraded with 160 new concrete anchors, adding to the existing 100, to keep the floating park securely in place.
And here’s another point to ponder: With the park’s capacity increasing from 130 to 250 visitors per session, will the experience feel overcrowded, or will it enhance the fun? Share your thoughts below!
Tickets are priced at £27.50 per person for a 60-minute session, including a 10-minute safety briefing. Nestled in the serene Kent countryside, St Andrew’s Lakes offers a perfect escape from daily life, blending breathtaking nature with heart-pounding adventure. Last year, the park introduced a thrilling zip-line and the new La Jefa slide, complementing the fan-favorite El Jefe.
Beyond the aqua park, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including kayaking, diving, paddleboarding, canoeing, open-water swimming, and sailing. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, St Andrew’s Lakes has something for everyone.
So, are you ready to dive into this doubled-up adventure? Let us know what you’re most excited about—or if you think the expansion might be a step too far. The debate is open!