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

Kettering Half Marathon 2025 Notice

Please be advised that there will be road closures affecting vehicular access into the park from approximately 8.45 on Sunday morning through to midday. Please visit Kettering 5k & Half Marathon | 9th March 2025 for details of the route. Any vehicles parked on site prior to 8.45 may be unable to leave before the roads reopen.

Wicksteed Charitable Trust: Join Us in Securing Our Future

Wicksteed Park has been a cornerstone of family fun, community events, and natural beauty for over 100 years. As the birthplace of modern play equipment, it holds a unique place in history, and in the hearts of generations. However, the park's future as a free to access site is at risk. The Wicksteed Charitable Trust needs your help to keep the park open, free, and thriving.

Wicksteed Park Nominated for 5 UK Theme Park awards

Wicksteed Park have been announced as a nominee in 5 awards in the UK Theme Park Awards 2025!

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."