Royal Docks Summer Splash 2025 - FAQs

Where is Royal Docks Summer Splash?

Royal Docks Summer Splash (which used to be called Kids Summer Splash) is in the Royal Docks, in East London. Located close to the IFS Cloud Cable Car on the embankment of Royal Victoria Dock, we’re only a short walk away from Royal Victoria and West Silvertown DLR stations, as well as Custom House (DLR and Elizabeth Line).

What time does Royal Docks Summer Splash open and close?

Opening hours are 11am to 5pm every day. On Thursday 7^th August and Thursday 14^th August we welcome a DJ from the Disco Shed from 5pm until 9pm. Please note the pool will be closed from 5pm every day.

What time is entry to the water?

Entry is from 11am, last entry to the pool is at 4.30pm.

Is there an age restriction to use the water?

No, there is not an age restriction, however children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Under 8 year olds and non-swimmers must be accompanied by an adult in the water. No non-swimmers or under 16s should go past the floats into deeper water.

Will I have to queue?

If the site is at capacity, you may need to queue as we operate a one in, one out system.

Access to the water and the adjacent beach will be via timed sessions to ensure fair access for everyone and to keep numbers at a safe level. Wristbands will be given for sessions and the beach area will be cleared and wristbands removed between each session.

Session 1: 11.00 – 12.30

Session 2: 12.30 – 14.00

Session 3: 14.00 – 15.30

Session 4: 15.30 – 17.00

Can we buy food and refreshments inside?

Yes, there will be a van selling drinks, ice-creams and hotdogs. There are cafes, a food market and supermarkets close by. Please ask a member of staff if you need help to find these.

Are picnics or BBQs allowed?

Picnics are welcomed but no BBQs are allowed. We ask that no food or drinks are consumed on the beach area. Strictly no glass should be brought onto site.

How deep is the water?

At its deepest point within the event site, the water is just over one metre deep. The water level varies and is dependent on impounding activity from Royal Docks Management Authority. A lifeguard will be present at all times, but it is the responsibility of parents and guardians to supervise their children. We ask all swimmers to adhere to the rules and follow the instructions of the security staff and the lifeguards at all times.

Do you have showers?

Yes, rinse showers are provided and we recommend that everyone rinses after swimming. Please note that no products or soap can be used in the showers.

Are there any fish or animals in the dock?

It is a river water dock and there are fish and other water-related animals.

Are there any lockers?

There are no lockers available.

Are pets allowed?

No pets are allowed in Royal Docks Summer Splash except assistance dogs.

What security measures do you have in place?

We have security at Royal Docks Summer Splash 24/7.

Will there be photographers / videographers on site?

There may be photographers and/or videographers on site and signage is in place to reflect this. If you do not wish to appear in photos and videos, please let the team know.

Is there parking available?

There isn’t any on-site parking for Royal Docks Summer Splash. We recommend travelling by public transport. You can plan your journey using the TfL website.

Is Royal Docks Summer Splash wheelchair accessible?

Royal Docks Summer Splash is both wheelchair and pushchair friendly with accessible toilets. We have created an access guide – please contact us at royaldocksevents@london.gov.uk if you would like a copy.

Please note: there isn’t on-site parking. For information on blue badge parking in Newham please visit their website.

What if it rains or the weather is bad? What happens if it’s really hot?

In adverse weather conditions (high winds, heavy rain, storms or in the event of a heatwave with temperatures constantly over 30 degrees) Royal Docks Summer Splash will be temporarily closed to keep the public and our staff safe. Please check our social media for updates.

Can we book the area for a corporate event or private party?

Royal Docks Summer Splash cannot be booked for corporate events or private parties.

Is there somewhere to leave my buggy?

There is a buggy park on-site. We ask that, unless your child is asleep in the pushchair, all buggies and scooters are left in this area. Bicycles may be parked here at quiet times (at the discretion of the security staff) but there is additional bike parking adjacent to City Hall. Staff will be able to direct you.

What does the event site provide?

On the lawn area, there is a large sandpit with a mixture of deckchairs and picnic benches. There are some hard plastic garden chairs available for use on request. There are sun parasols across the site providing shade.

There is a full programme of additional activities for children (arts and crafts, music) with a daily activity apart from Mondays.

In addition, we have a late opening on Thursday 7^th and Thursday 14^th August with music from the Disco Shed. There is no access to the water during these sessions. Drinks may be purchased from the adjacent Byrney’s Beach Bar.

What are the rules of Royal Docks Summer Splash?

Bikes and scooters will not be permitted on-site. Public bike racks are provided nearby, adjacent to City Hall.
You must look after your own valuables on-site.
No glass.
Security reserve the right to search any member of the public.
No dogs, except assistance dogs.
No weapons.
Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Large non-family groups may be refused entry.
Anyone exhibiting unruly behaviour will be asked to leave.
Anyone suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be prohibited from entering the event.
At peak times the event will operate a one in one out policy.
We reserve the right to refuse admission.

What are the rules specifically in the water?

To enter the water you must register with at the registration desk and get a wristband.
All children in nappies must wear waterproof nappies.
Anyone suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be prohibited from entering the water.
At peak times access to the water will operate with a one in one out policy.
Children under 8 years old and non-swimmers must be accompanied by an adult into the water and supervised at all times.
Do not swallow the water.
Lifeguards and security staff are responsible for enforcing safety rules and responding to emergencies. Parents or guardians must supervise children at all times.
No food and drink in the water area.
Wearing water shoes is recommended as the dock floor is stony and uneven.
You must wear your safety wristband at all times.
You must not leave your child unattended in or next to the water.
We reserve the right to refuse admission.