Stoke Park Paddling Pool
Guildford, Surrey· GU1 1ET
SEN Suitability Assessment
Based on analysis of 12 public reviews (Aug 2021 – Sept 2025) · Good confidence
SEN Score
Based on noise, queues, staff, calm spaces
Breakdown
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 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–Fri)
Typically quietest around 8am
Weekends (Sat–Sun)
Typically quietest around 7pm
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
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
Parking
Multiple car parks available. Blue badge holders exempt from parking conditions at Nightingale Road and Lido Road car parks. Burchatt's Farm car park (London Road) offers free parking at all times. Lido Road car park offers 4 hours free parking 6am-6pm. Blue badge accessibility confirmed but distance to entrance and drop-off facilities not specified in content.
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
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