A water park noted for its splendid turquoise waters, is has added a new thrill with the “ultimate summer slide experience”. The eagerly-awaited La Jefa boasts status as a “towering centrepiece” where families can “slip, slide and splash” in the sun-drenched waters of St Andrews Lakes in Halling, Kent’s largest aqua park.
Having opened June 13, St Andrews, a 70-acre expanse of crystal-clear, spring-fed waters, has plethora of floating obstacles, slides, leaping platforms and splashing zones, in a resort that wouldn’t look out of place on the Mediterranean. Deriving its name from the Spanish term for a female leader, La Jefa takes its place alongside St Andrews’ much-adored attraction, the 20ft high El Jefe slide, translating to a male boss.
Excited to up the ante, St Andrews Lakes Operations Director Stuart Bishop said: “La Jefa is the perfect next step for our Aqua Park. Guests already loved El Jefe, but we wanted to bring something new, something a bit different and something just as fun. We can’t wait to see families and friends tackle it this summer.”
This enchanting spot near Rochester doesn’t stop at slides as it boasts a secluded sandy ‘beach’, stand-up paddleboarding adventures, kayaking opportunities, a thrilling zip wire and even axe throwing.
And for those craving more, there are wall climbing escapades, archery practice, sailing courses, paddleboard lessons and activity-packed days for youngsters during school breaks, reports Kent Live.
The disused quarry has been reborn as a blue lake reserve, offering several warter and land activities suitable for all ages. For those seeking relaxation, the wellness area beckons with wood-fired lakeside saunas, hot tubs, a cold plunge lagoon and a cosy relaxation space complete with comfortable chairs as well as a warming fire.
A 50-minute splash at the aqua park will set you back £25 per person, but there are family packages and discounts to be had. The minimum age to enjoy the water park is six years, with each session including life jackets, vigilant lifeguards and a comprehensive safety briefing to kick things off.
Before you dive into any of the offerings at St Andrews Lakes, it’s recommended to have a thorough browse of their website for essential details such as booking procedures, activities requiring an induction, potential early arrival for certain bookings, fees, session timings, and much more.
To ensure your spot on the beach isn’t swept away, be aware that there’s an all-day fee and reservations are a must.
Nestled in Halling, a quaint village within the Medway district flanked by Cuxton and Snodland and a stone’s throw from Rochester, St Andrews Lakes occupies what was once a chalk quarry. And if you’re wondering about the lake’s strikingly blue and clear waters, it’s down to the suspended chalk particles reflecting light.
St Andrews assures people that the water is “incredibly clean”, thanks to its spring-fed source.