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For children, there is plenty to do in Redhill Park, with a large play area, a paddling pool and a cafe which runs weekly kids’ activities. In addition, you can explore nature in the adjoining Redhill Common.

How to get to Redhill Park

Redhill Park is located 3 miles north of central Bournemouth along the A347. By public transport, bus No 5 stops at Combe Avenue at the southern end of the park and bus No 5a stops at Co-Op, opposite the southern end of the park.

Access

The area is flat and easily accessible.

Parking

The park has its own (free) car park. There is also plenty of free roadside parking in neighbouring roads.

Opening Times

The paddling pool is open daily between May and September. Note: In 2024, the council announced that due to budget cuts, the paddling pool would be closed. Although they later relented and opened the pool for the summer, plans for opening in 2025 have yet to be confirmed.

Price

Entry to the park and most of the facilities is free. You must pay to use the tennis courts.

Paddling Pool

The popular Paddling Pool has been here since WWII. During the war, the park was used as a first aid station and a water tank was sunk into the ground. Once the war was over, this tank was turned into a children’s paddling pool. The large area means that even on busy days, there’s plenty of room for everyone and it’s shallow enough for even young children to paddle in safely.

Play Area

The Play Area has a range of play equipment, plus a ball court and a skate zone.

Redhill Park Cafe

There is a cafe in the park – Redhill Park Cafe – which offers a typical cafe menu at breakfast and lunch time with indoor and outdoor seating available. Opening times are seasonal – during summer it is open daily from 10.30 am – 4.30 pm.

Pop up Play Village

Pop up Play Village hold a weekly role play stay & play session on Tuesdays for children age 6 months to 8 years. Sessions take place from 10.30 am – 11.15 am and 11.30 am – 12.15 pm and cost £4 for one child (£3 for a sibling). Bookings can be made here.

After School Art Club

There is an After School Art Club on Friday afternoons. These drop-in sessions run from 3.30 pm – 4.30 pm and are free to attend.

The Parks Foundation

The cafe is run by The Parks Foundation, who also offer a programme of activities for children. Check out the most up-to-date event schedule here.

Tennis Courts

For older children (and adults, of course) there are Tennis Courts. You can book courts for £7 an hour (or £45 a year) here. Tennis lessons are also available, starting with Parents & Tots classes suitable for children age 3-5.

Toilets/Changing Facilities

There is a toilet block with changing facilities next to the cafe.

Redhill Common

The park is next to the Nature Reserve of Redhill Common. On this small area of heathland, you can follow trails and hunt for the residents wildlife, such as lizards, slow worms and butterflies.

For more inspiration on things to do in and around Bournemouth with young children, check out my 101 Things to do in Bournemouth with Babies and Toddlers here.

• Updated: September 2024