About Wicksteed Park

A Short Story

Wicksteed Park, in Kettering, Northamptonshire, is one of the UK's oldest theme parks, founded in 1921 by Charles Wicksteed. Managed by the Wicksteed Charitable Trust, it offers over 25 rides, 281 acres of parkland, playgrounds, and walking trails, catering to all ages. The park also hosts events like live entertainment and workshops, with venues available for weddings and parties. Best of all, entry to the parkland is free, making it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers to enjoy year-round.

Did you know? We are funded by the charitable trust

Wicksteed Park is wholly owned by Wicksteed Charitable Trust. The park does not receive any regular external funding to help maintain the park as a truly unique, freely accessible public space.

As a charity, Wicksteed Park is dedicated to preserving its heritage and ensuring that it remains a cherished community asset. The park relies on donations and support from visitors to maintain its facilities and to continue to offer free entry to the public.

If you would like to support the Trust in maintaining this wonderful space and securing it for future generations to enjoy, please click the Support Us button below or visit our reception.

Car parking charges paid when visiting Wicksteed Park help support the Trust in maintaining the park as free and accessible for all.

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Conservation

Dive deep into the history of Northamptonshire as you wander through our woods or hop aboard the UK’s most beloved narrow-gauge railway and let it whisk you away on a nostalgic journey. With so much to explore and experience, you’ll find yourself thinking “There’s nowhere quite like Wicksteed Park!”

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Digital Archive

Our Digital Archive contains historical photos, plans and memorabilia which we hope to update on a regular basis. This archive is a testament to the park’s rich heritage and the countless moments of joy it has brought to its visitors over the years.

View Archive

Become a Trustee at Wicksteed Park!

Are you passionate about preserving history, fostering community spirit, and shaping the future of a beloved green space? Wicksteed Park invites you to become a trustee and play a pivotal role in continuing our legacy of joy and togetherness.

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Get in Touch

Got questions or need further information about your visit? Our amiable team is eager to assist! Reach out through any of the methods provided on our contact page.

Customer Reviews

"We all had a fantastic time here plenty of car parking. Me, my daughter, Niece, and Grandson and there's lots to do here, including lovely walks and fun rides, plenty of eating places too. We took our own picnic though there were plenty of seating areas. We were able to buy extra drinks and ice lolly on our walk around the rides. Plenty of toilet facilities too. The staff were lovely and friendly here, would definitely recommend it here for a fun day out."

Katrina

"Took my granddaughters they loved it. There is plenty to do and lots of free play areas. The ride tickets are good value at one pound when you have more than one child to pay for. Parking good. Food stalls and drinks can be purchased. Excellent day out."

Lesley

"We went last week and had the best time! Staff were so friendly and helpful and we thought this was great value for money. Kids Loved it."

Michelle

"We camped here this week, and all had a blast!!! It was so well-priced. We were one of the first in the park. The camping was quiet, and the kids absolutely loved all the places to walk!!! Thank you!"

Charlotte

"First time visiting this park and wasn’t disappointed. Such a lovely place. Couldn’t decide to either buy wristbands or tokens. Family of four. Two adults. 6 year old and nearly 2 year old 0.8m tall. Wristbands were the cheaper option in the end. Staff friendly and happy. Food was really tasty. We ate in the American diner. We couldn’t do the whole park we got there at midday so we ran out of time. We will come back and come earlier in the day."

Collette

"We had a lovely day at the park on a very busy day, it was an amazingly good value day out. It is still incredibly popular mostly down to affordable rides and free play park. We visited twice in the summer holidays, we bought tickets both times as with the length of queues we had only managed to get on two rides in the first hour and a half. So you couldn’t of got on 22 rides to make the wrist band better value. We were disappointed that there wasn’t a track with cars to drive as in previous years. As with little boys that is a firm favourite"

Anonymous

"Went to the monster ball my grandchildren really enjoyed themselves.. especially when Wicky bear and Mable came out on stage"

Lynn

"Went here yesterday. Great day out and not expensive. Kids had a fun filled day"

Sharon

"We camped at Wickstead park this weekend for our annual camping trip with friends and kids (age range 15 - 13). Booking was very easy and great communication with reception. The site is very clean, as are the facilities and there is lots for the kids to do. Its a very safe site and I would highly recommend it. We will definitely be back!"

Jackie

"Absolutely fantastic day out. We had a very happy two-year old all day. Great rides for the little one, lovely places to stop for a bit of peace and quiet too and it is magnificently clean and litter free!"