Some splash parks and lidos are opening up from this weekend, here are eight places to have a splashing time.

There are lots of ways to stay cool and have fun in Essex, from splash parks to water sports and places to paddle.

  • Clacton Pavilion, in Marine Parade East, is set to open the water park on Saturday, May 27. The fun splash park has slides and tunnels and a low-level paddle pool, perfect for younger children. Pavilion Waterpark is open all week from 10 am to 6pm. See www. clactonpavilion.co.uk.
  • The Three Shells Lagoon, Western Esplanade, is an enclosed lagoon area right next to Adventure Island. There is a play park close by and it is perfect for youngsters to paddle, swim and play in the water. No dogs are allowed between May and September 30.
  • Brightlingsea Lido in Promenade Way is a lovely place to spend the day. They are set to be open every day of the season from Saturday May 27. To book visit www.brightlingsealido.org
  • Hoards of people gather at Splash Fountains at City Beach, Marine Parade, to cool off in the summer months with the 64 multi coloured jets spray. The free fountains are on from midday to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • There is lots of fun to be had at Maldon Splash Park, run by Places Leisure. The sessions need to be pre-booked and it will be open for a limited number of days this year from Wednesday 31st May. To book visit www.placesleisure.org.
  • Enjoy the aqua park at Festival Wakeboard and Aqua Park in Basildon for £20 per person for an hour session. It will be laugh a minute on the inflatable course where the aim is to make it across without falling in. www.festwake.com
  • There is more inflatable fun with an obstacle course including slides, balance beams and climbing areas at the Aqua Park Lakeside in Grays. See www.aquaparkgroup.co.uk.
  • Essex Glamping are now offering Kayaking at Hadleigh Country Park. Children under the age of eight need to be accompanied by an adult on a double kayak. Children under five are not permitted. Visit www.glampinginessex.co.uk