1 / 3Fairlop Waters Country Park
📍 Ilford, Greater London
A large country park centred on a scenic lake with pedal boats, electric boat hire, a water obstacle course, adventure play areas, and soft play. Free entry to the park with paid activities. Accessible from Fairlop tube station.
This is a real hidden gem in east London, just few minutes walk from Fairlop Station and atound 10 mins walk from Barkingside high street. Accessible via tube and several buses. The park is huge with a beautiful lake in the middle. There’s a soft play centre. Rope climbing for older kids. A cafe and a marquee hire too for events. Also boulder climbing area. Perfect for running, walking cycling. Was a perfect getaway during covid. Only con is some parts of the park are a little deserted so felt slightly uncomfortable going alone but perfect for going with friends and family picnics. Lots of activities in the lake too..like boating and even an inflatable water park. Paid parking
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for active families with children across a wide age range — toddlers manage the flat lake paths and playground, as older children gravitate toward the water obstacle course and rope climbing. A strong pick for a full day out when the group has mixed ages. Very windy days can close water activities, so check conditions before travelling.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →3,125 Google reviews
Sabina B
6 months ago
“This is a real hidden gem in east London, just few minutes walk from Fairlop Station and atound 10 mins walk from Barkingside high street. Accessible via tube and several buses. The park is huge with a beautiful lake in the middle. There’s a soft play centre. Rope climbing for older kids. A cafe and a marquee hire too for events. Also boulder climbing area. Perfect for running, walking cycling. Was a perfect getaway during covid. Only con is some parts of the park are a little deserted so felt slightly uncomfortable going alone but perfect for going with friends and family picnics. Lots of activities in the lake too..like boating and even an inflatable water park. Paid parking”
Md.Sayed Hossan Parvez
11 months ago
“Beautiful natural escape with something for everyone! Fairlop Waters Country Park is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy nature. I visited with family and we had a lovely time walking around the lake, enjoying the fresh air, and taking in the peaceful scenery. It’s a spacious and well-maintained park with lots of open green areas, perfect for picnics, walking, or just unwinding. There are also activity options available like water sports and adventure areas, making it a fun spot for all age groups. Plenty of parking is available, and it’s a great place to spend a weekend or holiday with friends and family. Highly recommended!”
mohamed sadiq
11 months ago
“A lovely park that truly has it all! There’s plenty of convenient parking and a spacious picnic area, making it perfect for family outings or solo relaxation. The natural surroundings are beautiful and peaceful — ideal for a morning walk, run, or even a full workout. It’s also very dog-friendly, with lots of open space for pets to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to stay active, this park is a fantastic choice.”
Drago Stanchev
11 months ago
“Discovered it during COVID lockdown and forgot about it. Today I found it and was very excited to get my family there. The walk around the lake is a combination of a lot of activities and views. Nice clean air, quiet environment, good landscape. If the weather wasn't so windy the water and climbing activities would be open I guess. Eve though it was time well spend.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Fairlop Waters Country Park wraps around a large lake with pram-friendly paths throughout. Water activities include pedal boats fitting up to four people, electric boats, and a water obstacle course. On land, there is an adventure play area, rope climbing for older children, and soft play. A cafe sits adjacent to the lake. Family bike rentals are also available on site.
