Splashing around in the Sandwell Valley

Whilst we were visiting my parents in West Bromwich at the weekend we decided to investigate the new “Splash Pad” at Dartmouth Park. Unfortunately after its opening two days previously, they appeared to have been having some problems with the water. When we arrived just before 11am none of the fountains were working, but that didn’t stop the girls from enjoying the solitary puddle for some water play.

Emily was just desperate to join her sister, even if it meant just sitting in a puddle

Every so often a fountain would go on and there were shrieks of delight from all the kids desperate to have some fun and then a disappointed groan when the water stopped moments later. It’s a pity it wasn’t working as it looks like it could be great, albeit smaller than I expected it to be, with various fountains and sprinklers and a bucket that gradually fills up and then empties it’s contents on anyone underneath it.

Both girls having a great time, regardless of the amount of water!

Despite the Splash Pad not working as it should have been, it was hardly a wasted trip as the play area right next to it is brilliant. There is something for all ages, including some things that are wheelchair friendly. Ems is always happy in a swing, and this is even better when big sister pushes her.

The best thing about all of this? It was FREE!

The park has definitely come along way since I was a kid. The Park Farm is still there and going strong, and there is also the “High Ropes Aerial Adventure Course” (both of which there is a charge for). I really hope the girls are up for this when they are older as it looks awesome (and I quite fancy a go on it myself!)

So despite the Splash Pad (currently) being a bit of a disappointment, the rest of Dartmouth Park and The Sandwell Valley still make this a great place to take kids for a day out, and its something that West Bromwich should be proud of.

Most of our trips out seem to end like this!