Water Meadow Work Update November 2025

November 19, 2025

Water Meadow Work Update November 2025

Water Meadow Work Update: We have now completed the first phase of flood alleviation works to the Wicksteed Park Water Meadow.

In the image you can see the newly widened river and this, together with lowering of the floodplain, means the land will be better able to store water in wet conditions thus reducing flood risk and improving water quality. The remainder of the works due under the project will now be completed in Spring 2026 when the ground conditions have dried out.

Over the winter, the permissive footpath that runs along the River Ise in the Water Meadow from Barton Road to Cheyne Walk will be closed until at least Spring 2026.

The decision to keep the footpath closed until this time is required to meet health and safety measures.

Please adhere to safety signage at all times.

Thank you for your understanding and patience in this matter while we work to bring the Water Meadow back to its intended use.

Other News

Huge Success: Mother Christmas’ donation appeal helped disadvantaged kids enjoy Christmas

Mother Christmas has said a big and sincere thank you to all of her 'Christmas Helpers' in and around Northamptonshire who has helped make 2023's gift appeal so successful!

100days, 100images, 100years

Wicksteed Park is celebrating its centenary this year having officially opened in May 1921.

Wicksteed park’s iconic water chute voted as uk’s best historic ride

Wicksteed Park’s Water Chute is the oldest ride of its kind in the UK. The Water Chute has been judged as the country’s Best Historic Ride in the 2022 UK Theme Park Awards.

Customer Reviews

"Had a wonderful day at wicksteed in half term. Not overly busy, children went on all the rides and as many times as they wished. We booked wristbands for them on line and was great value for money. Staff were all friendly and professional. Love being able to go back to a place I lived as a child with my own child and nieces and nephews."

Emma

"We booked the day before as we knew it would be warm but not too hot. The number of places to pick up wristbands was pretty good so you weren't to be queuing for ages. The ride operators were so lovely and if no one was in the queue they let my daughter stay on. She had the best day ever. Though saying that the queues never got very long which was really handy, especially if you have restless kids."

India

"Fabulous day out, pre-ordered wrist bands and love you do a 'family of 3' option ❤️ All staff were super helpful and cheerful, no long queue times and site was all clean and tidy. All on a sunny day in half term so it was busy but never felt crowded. Thank you"

Claire

"Fantastic day with my grandchildren aged 4 and 2. All of the staff were so friendly and helpful. The “ Time for Tots” day was excellent value- very easy to book- just the perfect sort of rides available made even more enjoyable as no queues. A big thank you to everyone who is involved with Wicksteed Park."

Shelley

"This historic fun park and country park has something for all ages. There is a parking fee but it is low and supports the charity which owns and runs Wicksteed Park. There are a variety of rides for children of all ages. Without children, the park has great views, walks, miniature train, garden, etc. We had a drink at the Carousel Cafe, coffee and cake was great and sat on a nice table outside on the veranda."

Robert

"Had a wonderful time in the park today! Had lunch at the garden café, brioche baguettes and jacket potatoes, and the food was amazing !! Generous portions and super tasty! Staff in there were lovely, smiley and helpful, with lots of recommendations about what to do in the park! We took some cakes home too and they were also fab!! Will definitely be back."