If you’re short on inspiration for half-term activities, one idyllic lake might just be the perfect solution.
Organising a full week’s worth of entertainment for your children can prove both draining and costly. While you’ll want them enjoying the pleasant weather rather than being cooped up indoors all week, maintaining their interest isn’t straightforward, and ferrying them between numerous attractions can become complicated.
So if you’re after a single destination offering every activity you could possibly want for your kids, then this gorgeous Kent lake deserves serious consideration. According to a video posted on social media, the lake boasts approximately 18 different activities – and several will grant parents a much-needed respite as well.
St Andrews Lakes in Rochester is a stunning blue lake reserve featuring an extensive selection of pursuits, from paddleboarding and kayaking on open water to zip wire and archery on dry land.
The TikTok account for the lakes shared a video claiming your half-term arrangements will be “sorted” with a visit to the venue, as they highlighted 18 of the most thrilling options for youngsters and grown-ups to enjoy.
Beyond child-friendly pursuits such as the aqua park, zip wire, paddleboarding, kayaking, archery and wall climbing, there’s also plenty to keep adults both entertained and unwound – including pilates sessions, a wellness centre and a spa.
There’s also no shortage of family-friendly activities on offer, from pedalo trips and lounging on the lakeside beach to hiring out a BBQ cabin where you can grill some burgers while soaking up the sun.
The comments section beneath the video was packed with people who’ve already secured their bookings at the lakes, which also feature holiday lodges available for longer stays, eagerly counting down to their visit.
One person said: “Going in July, can’t wait!”, as another posted: “Coming tomorrow! I live here, it’s literally the best.”
Others were busy tagging mates and relatives in the clip, insisting they “need” to check out the picturesque spot before summer’s out.
But not everyone was sold on the idea, with a handful of commenters highlighting that the activities can prove “expensive”.
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Based on the St Andrews Lakes website, visitors are required to pay separately for each activity they fancy trying at the resort. Aqua park sessions kick off at £28, while the kids’ aqua park – aimed at children aged two to six – starts at £19.
Zip wire sessions are priced from £29.50, and paddleboard hire begins at £5. Single kayaks cost £28.50, doubles are £40, and family kayaks come in at £42. Even if you bring your own board or kayak, you’ll still be charged £7.50 for a two-hour session on the lake – and there’s a minimum £7.50 fee simply to access the beach.
There are bundle deals on offer that could help keep costs down, though. The website lists several package codes that’ll knock 10% off when you book two activities together, while the “action trio” deal lets you have a go at axe throwing, archery, and wall climbing for just £40 per person.