Yes, you read that right, over the years, I’ve been to Paultons Park over 20 times. My family and I had an annual pass for a few years and we took full advantage. From the rides to Peppa Pig World, there’s always a lot to fit in.. My daughter is always asking, 'When are we going back?'
So, in this article, I’ll share 20 things you need to know before you go from insider tips to making the most out of your visit.
![A photo of Buffalo Falls in Paultons Park](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/65c64ad601d714a18f269fcf_Buffalo%20Falls%20Water%20Slide%202%20(1).jpg)
1. Paultons is ideal for those with children under the age of 14.
I've always seen Paultons Park as a fantastic destination for families, especially those with kids, particularly those under 14. The park is filled with rides and attractions that perfectly cater to younger children, making it an ideal place for family outings.
However, from my experience, there's also plenty to keep older kids and even adults entertained. Some rides are surprisingly fast, offering that thrill factor that teenagers and thrill-seekers like myself often crave.
2. Measure your kids before you go.
Before heading to Paultons Park, it's a smart move to measure your kids. Paultons Park has an offer where kids go free if they're under 1 metre tall. I've seen parents try all sorts of clever tricks to get their slightly taller kids in for free.
Some keep their kids in pushchairs, pretending they're asleep, or even take their shoes off to sneak under that height limit. But, from what I've observed, the staff at Paultons are pretty sharp. They know what to look for and won't hesitate to ask for a sleepy child to wake up for a quick measure under the stick.
Trying to sneak by might seem like a good idea, but honestly, it's a no-go. The staff are on it, and there's no sneaking around the rules. And if you're feeling a bit disappointed because your child is just over that 1-metre mark, there's actually a silver lining.
It might seem like a bummer at first, especially when you're paying for their ticket for a younger child that might be tall for their age. However, being over 1 metre tall allows you to go on more rides.
3. Choose the day you visit carefully.
Choosing the right date for your visit to Paultons Park can make a big difference in your experience. Inset days are a fantastic choice, especially just before school starts in September. The park is noticeably less crowded, allowing you to enjoy more rides with shorter wait times. November is another quiet period, offering a more relaxed visit.
It's important to note that Paultons Park closes its doors for a winter break, typically in January and some of February, so plan accordingly.
If you don't mind queuing and enjoy the bustling atmosphere, visiting during the summer holidays could be for you. However, be prepared for longer wait times as this is the peak season for the park.
![A photo on the catopilar ride at Paultons Park](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/65cf6b00044c2b33790b169c_Caterpillar%20ride%20Paultons%20Park%20(1).jpg)
4. Get there early and aim for the rides you want to go on.
Arriving early at Paultons Park is a strategy I've found to be golden. The park gates open at 10 am, but be there beforehand to get a good parking space and get your tickets checked.
Once inside, it’s crucial to have a plan of action. Before the visit, my family and I often look at the map on the app to work out the rides we're most eager to experience. This pre-planning allows us to head straight for our top picks before the majority of the crowd starts to flow in.
Popular attractions like the Velociraptor or Tornado Springs get busy as the day progresses, so targeting them first can save a lot of waiting time.
This approach maximises our time in the park and ensures that we don't miss out on our must-do rides due to long queues later in the day.
So, my advice? Get there early, map in hand, and make a beeline for those rides.
5. The afternoons are quieter.
As the morning rush begins to wane, Paultons Park transitions into slightly quieter phase during the afternoons. After the initial surge of eager visitors in the morning, many families start to take breaks for lunch or head home, especially those with younger children.
The reduced crowd size in the afternoon means shorter lines for rides and attractions, allowing for a more relaxed approach to exploring the park.
However, there is an exception to this - the school holidays. It will often stay busy all day, as families want to maximise the time spent there.
6. There are over 70 Rides!
Paultons Park features a broad spectrum of more than 70 rides and attractions, catering to a wide range of tastes and age groups. This extensive collection includes high-speed coasters for those seeking thrills, family-friendly rides suitable for all ages, and themed areas like Peppa Pig World that captivate younger visitors.
Additionally, the park offers water rides, which are particularly appealing during warmer weather, and tranquil garden spaces for guests looking to relax.
![A photo of the Storm Chaser at Paultons Park](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/65c64b7b83a985ea30c5bfc6_Storm%20Chaser%20Paultons%20Park%20(1).jpg)
7. You can do Paultons Park in a Day.
Despite Paultons Park hosting an impressive array of over 70 rides and attractions, it's possible to experience the park in just one day. This feasibility is especially true if you arrive early and prioritise which rides you're most keen to try and use the quieter afternoon hours to your advantage.
However, during peak seasons or busier times of the year, you might find that a one-day visit feels a bit rushed if you aim to experience everything the park offers. In such instances, considering an overnight stay could enhance your visit. Booking a hotel nearby and returning for a second day gives you more time to explore at a leisurely pace and allows you to revisit your favourite rides or check out any attractions you may have missed.
To make this option more appealing, Paultons Park often has offers that can reduce the overall cost of a multi-day visit. These deals can include discounts on park entry, hotel packages, or special rates for returning visitors, making a longer stay attractive and more affordable.
8. If you go on a rainy day, there are still things to do.
Visiting Paultons Park on a rainy day doesn't mean your fun has to be dampened. Many of the park's rides and attractions are designed to operate in the rain, so you can still enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities with the right waterproof gear.
It's also worth noting that rain can sometimes reduce crowds, meaning shorter queues for some of the park's most popular rides. Once I went on a drizzly day with my little one, and we did Peppa Pig World in 2 hours, as there were no queues at all, then she enjoyed the soft play.
![A photo of The Soft Play in Peppa Pig World](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/65c64bb05e31481e7ca7777f_Soft%20play%20at%20Peppa%20Pig%20World%20(1).jpg)
9. It’s super clean.
One piece of feedback that consistently stands out about Paultons Park is its cleanliness. Visitors often remark on how well-maintained the park is, a testament to the staff who work tirelessly around the clock. Their efforts ensure that every corner of the park, from the walkways to rides, is kept in pristine condition.
This dedication to cleanliness significantly enhances the overall experience, making the park not just a fun place to visit, but also a comfortable and safe environment for families.
10. Bring a change of clothes.
Bringing a change of clothes to Paultons Park is a tip that cannot be overstated, especially considering the variety of water rides and the unpredictable British weather. Whether you're splashed on a water ride or caught in a sudden rain shower, having dry clothes can make the difference between a comfortable day out and a soggy, chilly experience.
It's also a wise idea to pack swimwear for the little ones during the summer months. Paultons Park features water play areas like the Muddy Puddles in Peppa Pig World, where children can enjoy splashing around and cooling off.
11. By the end of a the day your wallet will be lighter
A visit to Paultons Park, while memorable and enjoyable, can be expensive. The cost of tickets, particularly for a family, is a significant consideration, with some visitors expressing concerns about feeling priced out. This sentiment reflects the broader challenge of managing a family day out amidst rising costs, not just for entry but also for additional expenses such as food and souvenirs.
![A photo of an aerial view of Peppa Pig World](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/65c64c3368efec3db78dcfab_Peppa%20Pig%20World%20(1).jpg)
12. For the best ticket price, book in advance.
Currently, the on the day price £58.50 each, but, if you book in advance they are £43.50 per person. However, make sure you select the right date as they are non-refundable.
I have heard of people changing their dates, but they were charged an admin fee.
If you’re just visiting for the day, unfortunately Paultons Park do not offer any discounts or special deals, so book in advance for the best price.
13. You can bring your own food.
Paultons Park welcomes visitors to bring their own food, making it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy a day out while sticking to a budget. Packing your own snacks, sandwiches, and drinks can help manage expenses, allowing you to focus your budget on other aspects of your visit, such as souvenirs or attractions that might have additional costs.
When you decide to dine al fresco within the park, you might find yourself in the delightful company of the local wildlife, including ducks. These feathered residents are known to be quite friendly and may approach you in hopes of sharing your meal.
14. It’s more than just a theme park.
Paultons Park is not just about the big rides and fast rollercoasters. It's a place where you can also enjoy nature and see some animals.
For example, you can watch the penguins during their feeding times, which is really fun to see. Plus, there are lots of birds and other animals around the park. Imagine walking around 140 acres; that's how much space the park has!
It's filled with beautiful gardens and relaxing places to enjoy the outdoors. So, besides the thrilling rides, you get to explore nature, see animals up close, and even learn a bit about them, making your day at Paultons Park extra special.
![A photo of the gardens at Paultons Park](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/65c64bf8b8cf12ce953d87e1_In%20the%20gardens%20Paultons%20Park%20(1).jpg)
15. You will get your steps in.
Visiting Paultons Park involves a significant amount of walking, given its extensive size of over 140 acres that encompasses various rides, attractions, and landscaped gardens. I love to wearing my FitBit to count my steps, and on Paultons Park days I usually get in about 15,000 steps, which is quite about 6 miles of walking.
Comfortable footwear is a must to accommodate the day's activities, ensuring that the walking experience is as pleasant as possible.
16. The Peppa Pig Music Will Stay in Your Head.
When you visit Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park, you'll get to hear lots of Peppa Pig songs playing around you. After you leave the park, you might still find yourself humming or thinking about those songs. They have a way of sticking in your head (whether you like it or not)!
![A photo of the robotic Peppa Pig characters](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63b4492f718e031ad5f81b45/65c64c6d0f214543557b0ba2_Peppa%20Pig%20characters%20at%20Paultons%20Park%20(1).jpg)
17. It’s cashless.
Paultons Park operates on a cashless system for all transactions within the park. This means that payments for entrance tickets, food, souvenirs, and any other park purchases must be completed using a credit or debit card.
So, before you visit, it's a good idea to ensure you have a suitable payment method.
18. You’ll exit via a gift shop.
When your adventure at Paultons Park comes to an end, you'll find that the exit path leads you through a gift shop. This is quite common in theme parks, but it's something to be aware of, especially after a long day when energy levels might be low and patience thinner, particularly for those visiting with children. The shelves stocked with tempting merchandise, from Peppa Pig toys to various souvenirs, can be a real test of willpower for both kids and parents alike.
I remember a time when my daughter spotted yet another Peppa Pig item in the gift shop and had a full meltdown when told she couldn't have it. It's a scenario many parents find familiar, adding a bit of stress at the end of an otherwise fantastic day.
To prepare for this, it might be helpful to set expectations with your children beforehand or plan a small budget for a souvenir as a reminder of the day. This way, you can navigate the exit through the gift shop more smoothly.
19. After you leave, there are a few places to eat.
After a day filled with fun and adventures at Paultons Park, it's pretty common to step outside and suddenly realise how much time has flown by, along with a pang of growing hunger. Luckily, there are several convenient dining options nearby to satisfy your appetite.
Just down the road, you'll find a McDonald's, perfect for a quick and familiar meal that appeals to most family members, especially if you're in a hurry or dealing with picky eaters.
For those looking for a more scenic or relaxed dining experience, the New Forest area is dotted with charming pubs. These often serve a range of hearty meals in a cosy setting, allowing you and your family to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.
Alternatively, you could extend your day by heading into Southampton or Romsey. Both towns offer a wider selection of eateries, ranging from casual dining to more upscale options.
20. Paultons Park does not have a hotel.
Paultons Park does not offer a hotel on site, but visitors have several nearby options. A Premier Inn near the park provides affordable and comfortable lodging for families. There is also the Mortimer Arms, just by the park entrance.
For those interested in outdoor experiences, the New Forest area has many glamping and campsites, which can be really good fun if that’s your kind of thing!