Where to cool off now it's hot, hot, hot!

Now the warm weather has arrived (at last) here are the best free places for your little ones to paddle, play with water and generally get wet. Most of them are easily accessible from SE23 by bus or car. If you know of any others please share!

1. Ladywell Fields (stretches between SE6 and SE13)
The three fields each have the Ravensbourne river flowing through them, which is wonderful for river dipping and paddling. If you're lucky you might spot a kingfisher. Don't forget nets and shoes suitable for paddling on pebbles! Ladywell Fields has also been awarded a Green Flag Award.

2. Sydenham Wells Park (Wells Park Road, SE26)
Fantastic water play area in the children's playground, perfect for cooling down! Another Green Flag Award winner.

3. Hilly Fields (SE4)
Small water play area in the playground with a pump leading to a large sandpit... great for creating sandcastles and water channels. Good for toddlers.

4. The Scoop Fountains (between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, SE1)
Okay this is a little further from SE23 but well worth it!
Riverside location, fantastic fountains for children to run in and out of, plus plenty of of space for a picnic.