Wicksteed Park

The brainchild of Charles Wicksteed, the Park's beginnings can be traced back to 1913 when he purchased the meadowland near Kettering with the intention of opening a model village. Charles wanted to create an open space and safe parkland for local families, many of whom lived in homes with no gardens which forced children to play in the street.

The park and garden is open 365 days a year and is free to visit. There's a man-made 30-acre lake complete with rowing boats and canoes along with a water chute (built in 1926 it is the oldest working ride in the UK), playground, aviaries and arboretum. The playground is one of the biggest and best free playgrounds in Europe.

The Wicksteed Park Railway, which first opened in 1931, is one of the most iconic features of the park. It takes visitors to the furthest reaches of the Park, around the lake's shore and through some of the attraction areas.

The rides are numerous and include roller coasters, racing cars and a log flume. The fairground section provides a range of traditional fairground rides like a pirate ship, cup and saucers and dodgems along with a putting green and crazy golf.

If you fancy a more relaxing time there's plenty to keep you happy too. For a spot of fishing there is a fishing lake on the campsite where tench, carp, roach, perch and pike can all be caught. Day tickets can be bought from reception and cost £15.

The Sunken Memorial Garden is one of the most secluded areas of Wicksteed Park. The first part is known as the Rose Garden which was opened in 1924 and provides hours of quiet time for visitors. Later on a memorial was added in recognition of Charles Wicksteed's favourite dog 'Jerry'. Another 'secret' part of the Park is the Arboretum which is sited behind the tree line beyond the lake. The area was created in 1971 and has lots of specimen trees, shrubs and bushes which have become well established over time.

For an adventure with the children away from the rides and attractions there's a Nature Trail, which starts from the railway station, goes around the lake and takes about 45 minutes to walk. There's lots for them to see along the way and wildlife to look out for!

The Wicksteed Pavilion hosts regular live music shows, fairs and exhibitions. News of these events can be found on the dedicated website www.wicksteedpavilion.co.uk.

Should you wish to venture further afield the campsite has easy access to Kettering town centre which offers shops, pubs and places to eat.