We have 4 free-to-use outdoor paddling pools and 2 splash parks in Harlow. These are now open daily from 10am to 6pm for the summer season - see the status table below for the most up to date information.
The 4 paddling pools will be closing at 6pm on Sunday 31 August. The 2 splash parks will remain open for a further 2 weeks, closing at 6pm on Sunday 14 September.
On Wednesday 3 and 10 September, Staple Tye Splash Park will be open an hour earlier from 9am to 10am for SEND inclusion use only.
We'd love to hear your feedback on the paddling pools and splash parks. You can give us your thoughts by filling out our short online form.
There are no toilets on site at the paddling pools and splash park.
Status
Last updated on Thursday 28 August 2025.
| Paddling pool | Status |
|---|---|
| Bush Fair | Open |
| Norman Booth | Open |
| Potter Street | Open |
| Staple Tye | Open |
| Sumners | Open |
| Town Park | Open |
Bush Fair: Tilegate Road, Harlow CM18 6NQ (parking in Tilegate Road car park)
Norman Booth: Norman Booth Recreation Centre, Harlow CM17 0EF
Potter Street: Southern Way, Harlow CM17 9EJ
Staple Tye: Great Parndon Community Centre, Abercrombie Way, Harlow CM18 6YJ
Sumners: Sumners Leisure Centre, Broadley Road, Harlow CM19 5SJ
Town Park: Harlow CM20 2FF (parking in First Avenue car park)
Safety
We do not have lifeguards at the pools. We usually have staff on duty to monitor the water quality and report any problems.
Our staff are trained how to deal with an emergency situation but this does not include administering first aid. Staff have access to a small supply of plasters and antiseptic wipes only, which can be given to the parent of the child to administer.
We have to drain the pools from time to time to make sure they are kept clean.
Please make sure any children under 8 are accompanied by an adult.
You cannot take bikes, dogs or glass into the pool area.