Water Chute 100
For nearly a century, the Water Chute at Wicksteed Park has been a place of joy, laughter, and memories for generations of families.
Opened in 1926, it is Britain’s oldest surviving water chute and one of the earliest surviving water-based rides in the world. Its Grade II listed original structure makes it a truly unique piece of heritage, loved by locals and visitors alike.
Many of us remember the excitement of climbing to the top, being winched up one boat at a time, and enjoying the thrill of the ride.
From its original slope built from bed rails to its sweeping roof today, the Water Chute has carried smiles for 100 years, connecting generations in shared delight.
Now, the ride needs an essential roof restoration to ensure it continues to thrill visitors for the next 100 years.
These businesses have generously donated and joined our Water Chute 100, helping us preserve this historic ride for many generations to come.
Greens Electrical
Fully qualified electrician servicing Wellingborough, Rushden, Kettering, Corby and surrounding areas.
Having been in the contracting industry for over 30 years, Greens Electrical offer a top class service to their customers.
Transpower Drives LTD
For over 40 years, Transpower Drives Limited has been a trusted force in the UK engineering supply chain. Since 1982, they have built their reputation on four core principles: Competitive Pricing, Premium Quality, High Availability, and Unrivalled Technical Support.
From their modern 12,000 sq. ft. warehouse and workshop in Wellingborough, they supply local and national industries including food production, manufacturing, utilities, and service sectors, with an extensive range of industrial power transmission products and MRO components.
Riverside Printers
Looking for high-quality print with a fast turnaround? At Riverside Printers, we offer everything from business cards, flyers and brochures to signage, banners and branded stationery – all tailored to your needs.
Professional, reliable, and right here in Corby – get in touch today to bring your ideas to life!
Stanair
Stanair is an independent UK industrial door services company, specialising in the supply, installation, repair, and servicing of industrial and commercial doors.
With nearly 50 years of experience, Stanair supports businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, logistics and warehousing, providing reliable access and security solutions backed by a fast, local service model and 24/7 emergency response.
St Peter's School
Situated in the heart of Kettering, St Peter’s School is a hidden gem that combines a rich heritage with forward-thinking, modern education for children aged 3 to 11. Housed in a beautiful historic Victorian building alongside our new, eco-friendly Cedar Hub, we provide a vibrant, nurturing family environment where every child is known by name.
What truly sets us apart is our stunning, sprawling campus, featuring amazing woodland areas and beautifully maintained gardens that boast Gold Standard Woodland Trust status. With an average class size of just 12 pupils, our expert teachers use these exceptional natural grounds—including our nature pond and outdoor learning spaces—to inspire Curiosity, Creativity, Confidence, and Community. Blending traditional family values with a modern, eco-conscious curriculum, we ensure your child gains both academic excellence and a true foundation for life.
Taste8
aste 8 Limited is a professional mobile food services and takeaway provider specialising in high-volume, fast-paced environments. We have a proven track record of managing multiple catering units that deliver quality results under pressure.
Our mission is to deliver exceptional takeaway experiences through culinary excellence and efficient service, maintaining the highest standards of food safety and customer care in every unit we operate.
Crawford Precision Engineering
Established in 1990, Crawford Precision is a local, Kettering based manufacturer specialising in precision rotary linear bearings, including the Spiro, Rotolin, and SBB ranges.
We also produce ball cages, guide pillars, and ball bushings designed specifically for press tools. Our SBB Rotary Linear Bearings are used to support doctoring equipment across the paper mill industry worldwide.
Mick George
Mick George provides integrated construction and environmental services, specialising in waste management, aggregates, concrete, recycling and earthworks, delivering reliable, sustainable solutions across the UK.
Fineshade Engineering
Fineshade Engineering specialise in crafting and restoring bespoke radiators, fuel tanks, and creating custom metalwork projects for vintage vehicles, historic aircraft and high-end retailers.
1st Reaction Security
1st Reaction Security are delighted to be able to help with preserving the Water Chute.
As a boy growing up in Kettering, managing director Wayne Southern spent many an afternoon at Wicksteed Park enjoying all of the attractions, including the Water Chute.
Other News
The Utterly Revolting Science Show is Coming in 2026
The Utterly Revolting Science show is coming to Wicksteed Park! Brace yourselves for the Rude Science team’s hilarious, high-tech, highly explosive new journey through the human body, packed with burp biology, fart physics and revolting edible chemistry. Expect enormous bottoms, edible fireworks, burp machines and the world’s loudest fart in this riotous science spectacular.
What to do at Wicksteed Park this February 2024
If you're looking for family-friendly fun and activities, you're in the right place. From exciting rides and puddle jumping adventures to scenic park walks and the cosy charm of Wicky's Play Factory, we've got your half-term covered.
Wicksteed Charitable Trust success at Northamptonshire Heritage Forum Awards 2025
Last week the Northamptonshire Heritage Forum Awards 2025 took place at the park and Wicksteed Charitable Trust came away very successful!