Category: Sports & ActiveSee venue photos

Sports & Active

Stoke Park Paddling Pool

Guildford, Surrey· GU1 1ET

SEN Suitability Assessment

Based on analysis of 12 public reviews (Aug 2021 – Sept 2025)

54/100

SEN Score

Based on noise, queues, staff, calm spaces

High confidence

Based on the 12 most recent of this venue's many Google reviews.

Breakdown

NoiseMixed

Crowds & queuesOK

PredictabilityOK

Calm spacesOK

Book ahead to check opening statusPlenty of shade and seatingCan get crowded at peak timesFree parking availableGood for running aroundLarge grounds to explore

Parent summary

Stoke Park Paddling Pool has real strengths for families seeking outdoor space and water play—children have genuinely enjoyed visits, and the site offers plenty of shade, benches, and a large field for running around. Parking can be tight during busy periods, and the venue has experienced unexpected closures, so it's worth confirming opening status before you travel.

What visitors say

Many visitors have found Stoke Park Paddling Pool a great spot for children, with plenty of shade, benches, and space to run around. Some visitors have experienced challenges with parking availability during busier periods, and there have been occasional unannounced closures. The venue itself is well-maintained and free to park at, making it an accessible option for families, though checking opening status before travelling is recommended.

Based on a sample of public reviews. Experiences vary - every child and every visit is different.

Read reviews on Google →

From SEN communities

dedicated SEN sessionssensory gardenaccessible facilities

Dedicated SEN swimming sessions available, providing more relaxed environment
Sensory garden at Stoke Park open for use alongside paddling pool
Free paddling pool with no booking required, reducing anxiety barriers
SEN session mentioned on 7th April 10am-11am by families

Sourced from Facebook community groups, parenting blogs, Instagram posts within the SEN community. Individual experiences vary.

When to visit

Typical busyness patterns based on Google Maps visitor data. Term-time and school holidays will vary.

Weekdays (Mon to Fri)

Typically quietest around 8am

8am2pm7pm

Weekends (Sat to Sun)

Typically quietest around 7pm

8am2pm7pm

QuietModerateBusyVery busy

Potential challenges

Check opening status in advance—the venue has closed without notice in the past, and there isn't always clear information available beforehand
Parking spaces are small and can fill quickly, particularly during busy periods
During peak times, the environment can become crowded; some children may find this challenging

What works

Plenty of shaded areas and benches for quiet breaks
Large open field and playground for physical activity and sensory regulation
Free car parking (though spaces are limited)
Well-maintained facilities
Water play in a dedicated paddling pool

Photos

Facilities

Quiet / SEN sessions

SEN/Disability sessions are offered at the venue.

Tips for your visit

Park opens 8am daily, closes at dusk or 8pm (whichever sooner). 52 hectares of rolling grassland - families should consider terrain difficulty for their needs. Activities include playground, minigolf, rose garden (dogs on lead), and open spaces. Contact parks@guildford.gov.uk for management plan or specific accessibility queries.

Pricing

Stoke Park is free to enter as a public park

Getting in & parking

Disabled parkingVisitors report yes

Accessibility

Park has wide open spaces and scenic walks. Green Flag award-winning park with high facility standards. However, specific wheelchair accessibility details (paved paths, accessible toilets, terrain suitability for wheelchairs/buggies) not detailed in provided content.

Opening Hours

Monday08:00-20:00

Tuesday08:00-20:00

Wednesday08:00-20:00

Thursday08:00-20:00

Friday08:00-20:00

Saturday08:00-20:00

Sunday08:00-20:00

Frequently asked questions about Stoke Park Paddling Pool

Quick answers drawn from our venue data and review analysis.

Is Stoke Park Paddling Pool autism friendly?

Stoke Park Paddling Pool has a mixed SEN profile, suitable for some but not all sensory needs, with an overall SEN score of 54/100 from our analysis of parent reviews. Stoke Park Paddling Pool has real strengths for families seeking outdoor space and water play—children have genuinely enjoyed visits, and the site offers plenty of shade, benches, and a large field for running around. Parking can be tight during busy periods, and the venue has experienced unexpected closures, so it's worth confirming opening status before you travel.

Does Stoke Park Paddling Pool have quiet sessions or sensory-friendly features?

Yes. Stoke Park Paddling Pool offers quiet or relaxed sessions. SEN/Disability sessions are offered at the venue.

Is Stoke Park Paddling Pool wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Stoke Park Paddling Pool is wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Park has wide open spaces and scenic walks. Green Flag award-winning park with high facility standards. However, specific wheelchair accessibility details (paved paths, accessible toilets, terrain suitability for wheelchairs/buggies) not detailed in provided content.

When is Stoke Park Paddling Pool least busy?

Based on Google visitor data, Stoke Park Paddling Pool is typically quietest on Wednesday around 8am. Term-time weekdays during school hours are generally calmer than weekends and school holidays.

Is Stoke Park Paddling Pool outdoors?

Yes. Stoke Park Paddling Pool is primarily an outdoor venue in Guildford. Check the weather and bring suitable clothing. Wet or very hot days may be challenging for some sensory-sensitive children.

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