Planning Our Trip to Paultons Theme Park

Last week, during the half-term break, we decided to treat the kids to a special getaway to Paultons Theme Park, home of Peppa Pig World. With Millie being a huge Peppa fan and Ted, at five years old, still enjoying it, we wanted to visit before he outgrew the magic. The timing felt perfect, as the weather forecast promised sunshine, making it an ideal opportunity for an outdoor adventure. Having heard wonderful reviews about the park’s family-friendly atmosphere from online and Dan’s brother and his family, we were eager to explore everything it had to offer and create lasting memories for our little ones.

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Finding the Best Accommodation Deal

Initially, we considered Paultons short trip offers, which included accommodation and a second day free at the park. However, with it being a last-minute plan, availability was limited, and the few options left didn’t quite meet our needs. Determined to find a suitable alternative, we explored different accommodation options nearby. After some research and plenty of Googling, Dan discovered Sandy Balls Holiday Park, a well-rated resort nestled in the New Forest. To our delight, they had last-minute discounts for a two-night stay, making it an attractive option. Not only was it close to Paultons Park, but it also offered plenty of on-site amenities, including a swimming pool, outdoor activities, and evening entertainment, ensuring that our trip would be packed with fun beyond just the theme park visit.

We also discovered that Paultons was offering a 30% discount on second-day passes, making this option even more appealing. This meant we could return for another full day of fun at a significantly reduced price, allowing us to experience more of the park without feeling rushed. The added benefits of staying at a holiday park—such as live entertainment, an arcade, soft play, and an on-site restaurant—made it an even better choice than a hotel. It gave us the flexibility to unwind after a busy day without having to search for food or activities elsewhere.

Another major advantage was the extra space our lodge provided. Unlike a hotel room where we would all be confined to a single space, we had a separate living area, allowing us to relax in the evenings while the kids were asleep. This made a huge difference, as we didn’t have to tiptoe around in the dark or whisper to avoid waking them up. Instead, we could sit comfortably, chat about the day’s adventures, and plan our itinerary for the next day. It truly added an extra layer of enjoyment and convenience to our trip. 

The Journey to Paultons Park

Our adventure began with a four-hour drive down south. It was the longest drive we had ever done with the kids, so we were slightly apprehensive about how they would handle it. Fortunately, they behaved wonderfully, keeping themselves entertained throughout the journey.

Top tip: Amazon Kindle Fire tablets (product link here) loaded with their favourite movies and shows were a lifesaver! Having a mix of cartoons, interactive games, and pre-downloaded content meant there was always something to keep them engaged. We also packed plenty of snacks and drinks to avoid unnecessary stops and keep their energy levels up.

To break up the journey, we made a pit stop at a service station for lunch and a quick stretch. The anticipation of reaching our destination kept the excitement levels high, and before we knew it, we were approaching Sandy Balls Holiday Park, eager to start our adventure. 

Our Stay at Sandy Balls Holiday Park

We arrived at Sandy Balls Holiday Park just before 6 PM and were warmly welcomed by the reception staff. They provided us with all the necessary information for our stay, including maps of the resort, details about on-site activities, and meal options available at the restaurant. The check-in process was smooth and efficient, which was a relief after a long drive.

Despite our last-minute booking, we were pleasantly surprised to find that our lodge was centrally located, making it easy to access the arcade, bar, and restaurant without too much walking—an added bonus with little ones in tow. The lodge itself was spacious and well-equipped, featuring a cozy living area, a fully functional kitchen, and comfortable sleeping arrangements. The only minor downside was that some parts of the lodge looked slightly worn, with a few scuffs and signs of age. However, given the affordability and the fact that we planned to spend most of our time enjoying the park and other activities, this wasn’t a significant issue for us.

One thing to note for future visitors is that towels are not included in the stay, so it’s essential to bring your own. Luckily, we had packed ours, but it’s an easy detail to overlook. After unloading our bags and setting up Millie’s travel cot, we took a quick stroll around the resort to get our bearings. We were impressed by the wide range of amenities, including a heated indoor pool, a well-maintained soft play area, and a variety of scheduled entertainment events for kids and families.

Feeling hungry after our journey, we headed to the on-site restaurant for a late dinner. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with a good selection of meals catering to both adults and children. The food arrived quickly, which was ideal for two excited and slightly overtired little ones. The kids’ meals were discounted when purchased with an adult meal, making it a budget-friendly option for families. 

Once dinner was finished, we decided to explore a little more of the holiday park before heading back to the lodge. The soft play area was a massive hit with the kids, giving them a chance to burn off some extra energy before bedtime. Meanwhile, Dan and I enjoyed a sit down and a chat about what was to come. Afterward, we spent some time in the arcade, where Ted was absolutely thrilled to try his luck on the claw machines and racing games. Millie was fascinated by the bright lights and sounds, clapping every time Ted won a few tickets.

After a fun-filled evening, we made our way back to the lodge, feeling satisfied and excited for the adventures awaiting us at Paultons Park the next day.

Arriving at Paultons Park & First Impressions

The next morning, we embarked on a scenic 20-minute drive through the New Forest. The journey itself felt like part of the adventure, as the landscape was filled with rolling greenery, towering trees, and open meadows. Along the way, we were mesmerised by the wild horses and donkeys roaming freely, often stopping to graze by the roadside or casually crossing in front of us. The kids were absolutely enchanted, pointing excitedly every time they spotted another animal. Seeing these beautiful creatures up close in their natural habitat was a truly magical experience and a unique highlight of our trip. We even pulled over briefly to admire a small group of ponies up close, allowing the kids to take in the wonder of the New Forest before continuing on our way to Paultons Park.

We arrived at Paultons Park at 10:30 AM, just 30 minutes after opening. The journey there had been smooth, and the excitement in the car was palpable as we approached the entrance. Since it was Welsh half-term and English schools were back in session, the park was pleasantly quiet. No queues at the entrance made for a stress-free start, allowing us to walk straight in without any waiting.

The entrance area was beautifully maintained, with vibrant flower beds, neatly paved walkways, and friendly staff greeting visitors. The kids were thrilled to spot banners of Peppa and George near the entrance, setting the scene for the magical day ahead. With our tickets scanned quickly, we were inside the park within minutes, ready to explore and make the most of our adventure!

Cleanliness and Organisation

The first thing we noticed was how immaculate the park was. There was no litter, and everything looked well-maintained, from the vibrant flower beds to the freshly painted fences and spotless walkways. The attention to detail was impressive, with even the ride areas and queuing sections appearing meticulously cared for. Staff were actively picking up litter and tidying common areas, showcasing Paultons’ strong commitment to cleanliness and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The park’s pristine condition contributed significantly to the overall experience, making it not just enjoyable but also reassuring for families with young children. 

Exploring Peppa Pig World

Peppa Pig World is just a five-minute stroll from the entrance, well signposted and easy to find, making it simple for families with young children to navigate. As we approached, excitement levels soared as we could already spot the vibrant colors and familiar characters from the Peppa Pig series decorating the area. Along the way, we crossed a mini railway line featuring real working barriers that lowered as the charming train passed by, adding to the immersive experience. The kids were absolutely thrilled by this unexpected detail, eagerly watching as the train rolled through and pretending they were part of Peppa’s world before even stepping inside.

As soon as we entered under the iconic Peppa Pig World sign, we felt transported into Peppa’s world. The attention to detail was incredible—every element had been designed to reflect the beloved TV show. Themed houses on rolling green hills, complete with bright colours and cartoon-like features, added to the whimsical atmosphere. Perfectly designed trees, oversized flowers, and vibrant decorations made it feel as though we had walked straight onto the set of Peppa Pig TV show. The cheerful background music from the series played softly in the distance, further immersing us in the experience. Even the pathways and ride entrances were styled to match the show’s aesthetic, making every corner a delight to explore. It was clear that a lot of effort had gone into bringing Peppa’s world to life, and the kids were absolutely mesmerised by the surroundings.

Rides and Attractions

The ride selection caters perfectly to young children, offering a delightful mix of gentle yet engaging attractions. Millie (2 years old) was able to go on every ride with us, and Ted (5 years old) could go alone on some, but we chose to experience everything together as a family. It was heartwarming to see their faces light up as they rode on their favorite characters from the show.

Each ride had something unique to offer, from a Ferris wheel-style ride, where we could take in fantastic views of the park, to a water rapids adventure, which provided just the right amount of excitement without being too overwhelming for little ones. The balloon ride gave us a gentle spin high above Peppa Pig World, while Grandpa Pig’s Boat Trip had us cruising along a scenic river with fun splashes along the way.

For a break from the rides, there’s even a soft play area, which was spacious, well-maintained, and a perfect place for the kids to run around while we took a moment to relax. The variety of attractions meant there was never a dull moment, and every ride felt thoughtfully designed to capture the magic of Peppa Pig’s world while ensuring a fantastic time for young children and their families. 

Dining Options

We initially considered eating in Peppa Pig World’s food hall, but the queue was long, and with hungry kids in tow, we wanted a quicker option. Instead, we walked two minutes to Tornado Springs, an area of the park with a more relaxed atmosphere, and found Route 83, a retro American diner-style restaurant with no queue.

The menu featured a variety of family-friendly options, including burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, and fries, all freshly prepared. The portion sizes were generous, and we were pleasantly surprised by the good quality of the food, given it was theme park dining and at a reasonable price compared to other attractions we’ve visited in the past.

We were also impressed by the cleanliness and efficiency of the service. Unlike some of the busier food outlets in Peppa Pig World, we could order, eat, and get back to exploring quickly, which was a major plus. If you’re visiting Paultons Park and looking for a quieter place to grab a meal, we highly recommend taking a short walk out of Peppa Pig World to discover better dining options with shorter wait times. 

Special Moments & Souvenirs

We met Peppa and George, which Millie absolutely adored. She was completely starstruck, giving them the biggest hugs and posing excitedly for pictures. The meet-and-greet staff were fantastic, ensuring each child had their special moment and making the experience feel magical.

Meanwhile, Dan proved to be a carnival game champion, much to the kids’ delight. He took on a ball toss challenge and, against all odds, managed to win a giant Charizard Pokémon plush for Ted on his first try. Ted was absolutely over the moon, proudly carrying his new favourite toy around the park. Not wanting Millie to feel left out, Dan tried his luck again at a different stall and, incredibly, won a huge Peppa soft toy for her as well. Her little face lit up with pure joy as she cuddled it tightly. It was a proud dad moment indeed, with Dan joking that he may have finally found his hidden talent in life!

After a full day of fun, we returned to Sandy Balls for dinner, kids’ entertainment, and arcade fun before getting some much-needed rest. The restaurant offered a relaxed atmosphere, and the food was delicious, with plenty of family-friendly options. The kids were still buzzing with excitement from the day’s adventures, so we let them enjoy some of the evening entertainment, which included a lively kids’ disco and a fun interactive game session. Seeing them dance and laugh with other children made for a heartwarming moment. Before heading back to our lodge, we spent a little more time in the arcade, where Ted tried his luck on the racing games, and Millie had fun pressing buttons on the colourful machines. Once we finally made it back, the kids fell asleep almost instantly, exhausted but happy, while we enjoyed a quiet evening reflecting on the magical day we had just experienced. 

Day Two at Paultons Park

Saturday was noticeably busier, with a clear increase in visitors as the weekend crowds arrived. Despite this, the entrance staff managed queues efficiently, ensuring a smooth check-in process. As we made our way into the park, we noticed that most families were heading straight to Peppa Pig World, making it much more crowded than the day before. Wanting to avoid long wait times, we decided to explore other areas of the park: The Lost Kingdom, Critter Creek, and Tornado Springs.

Each of these themed areas had its own unique charm. The Lost Kingdom transported us back in time with its life-sized dinosaur animatronics, fossil-themed decor, and prehistoric jungle vibes. Ted was particularly excited about the roaring dinosaurs scattered throughout the area, adding an extra element of adventure. Critter Creek offered a quirky, colourful environment with insect and animal-themed rides that were perfect for younger children. Meanwhile, Tornado Springs, inspired by a 1950s American town, had a fun, retro aesthetic with thrilling yet family-friendly rides. It turned out to be a fantastic decision, as the rides in these areas had much shorter queues, allowing us to make the most of our second day at the park. 

Discovering More of Paultons Park

These areas had plenty of rides suitable for younger kids, ensuring that even outside of Peppa Pig World, there was still plenty for Millie and Ted to enjoy. The Lost Kingdom’s dinosaur theme was a big hit with Ted, who was fascinated by the towering animatronic dinosaurs that roared and moved as we walked through the area. It really brought the prehistoric world to life, making it feel like an adventure through a Jurassic jungle.

His favourite ride was Boulder Dash, a spinning ride where you sit in a dinosaur egg or a boulder-shaped cart as it twirls and moves in a figure-eight motion. It was just the right balance of fun and excitement—fast enough to get giggles out of the kids but not too overwhelming for little ones. Ted couldn’t get enough and insisted on riding it multiple times! Millie, though initially unsure, ended up enjoying it too, clutching onto Dan’s hand and laughing the whole way through.

Aside from Boulder Dash, there were also other fun rides in the area, we enjoyed the Dino Chase, a gentle rollercoaster perfect for younger kids who wanted to experience a “big kid” ride without anything too extreme. The entire Lost Kingdom area was an unexpected highlight, making us realise just how much more Paultons Park had to offer beyond Peppa Pig World! 

Dining & Shopping

For lunch, we dined at The Wild Forest Family Restaurant at the park entrance. The food was served on proper plates, unlike the takeaway-style options elsewhere, which made for a more comfortable and relaxed dining experience. The menu offered a great variety, including wraps, jacket potatoes, hearty salads, and kids’ meals, ensuring there was something for everyone. The portion sizes were generous, and we appreciated that the meals felt fresher and healthier compared to typical theme park fast food. The restaurant had a warm, rustic charm, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. It was a welcome break from the excitement of the park, allowing us to recharge before heading back out for more adventures. Another highlight was the friendly staff, who were attentive and made sure families with young children were well accommodated. Overall, it was another great dining choice that we would happily recommend to other visitors.

Before leaving, we stopped by the gift shop so Ted and Millie could spend some of their pocket money on a few special souvenirs to remember the trip. Ted picked out a cool dinosaur water bottle from the Lost Kingdom section and a spaceship, while Millie chose a selection of flamingo toys to go with her giant Peppa, which she held onto tightly for the journey home. The shop had a great variety of themed merchandise, from clothing and books to fun accessories and collectibles. It was the perfect way to end our adventure, letting the kids take home a piece of the magic.

Then, it was time for our long drive home, full of happy memories. The kids were exhausted after two days of non-stop excitement, and within minutes of setting off, Millie had already fallen asleep clutching her new Peppa toy. Ted stayed awake a little longer, playing with his spaceship, before eventually dozing off as well. As we drove through the scenic countryside, Dan and I reflected on what a fantastic trip it had been, feeling grateful for the precious memories we had created as a family. 

Final Thoughts: Is Paultons Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World are fantastic for families with young children. The park offers a perfect balance of fun, excitement, and accessibility, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have an unforgettable experience. With its clean environment, well-designed attractions, and an impressive selection of rides tailored for little ones, it’s a perfect family day out. The attention to detail in Peppa Pig World, combined with the variety of rides and activities across the rest of the park, makes it a must-visit destination for families looking to create cherished memories together.

We hope to visit again before Ted outgrows Peppa Pig, but even if we don’t, we’re incredibly grateful for the wonderful memories we created as a family. Watching the kids experience the magic of Peppa Pig World, explore the thrilling dinosaur-themed attractions, and enjoy the excitement of the park together made the trip truly unforgettable. The joy on their faces, the laughter, and the shared moments of adventure are things we will cherish for years to come. If you have young children, we highly recommend adding Paultons Park to your family travel bucket list—it’s an experience that blends fun, learning, and quality family time into one amazing adventure! 

FAQs

1. What age is best for Peppa Pig World? Peppa Pig World is perfect for toddlers and young children, typically between 1 to 6 years old.
2. Is Paultons Theme Park worth it for older kids? While Paultons Theme Park has some thrill rides, older kids may prefer places like Thorpe Park or Alton Towers.
3. How long should we spend at Paultons Park? A two-day visit is ideal to fully explore Peppa Pig World and the rest of Paultons Park.
4. Can you bring your own food? Yes! You’re allowed to bring picnic food, and there are plenty of picnic areas.
5. What is the best time to visit Paultons Theme Park? Avoid peak times like school holidays and weekends for shorter queues and a more relaxed experience.