The sun’s out, the kids are buzzing with energy, and you're wondering how to keep them cool, entertained and off screens. The answer? Outdoor water toys.
Whether it’s a simple splash in a paddling pool, racing down a water slide, or experimenting with a water play table, the best outdoor water toys offer something for every age. They’re also a great way to turn your garden into a space for laughter, play and family time this summer.
At Outdoor Toys, we’ve rounded up some of the best outdoor toys to help your children make the most of sunny days. These picks are fun, durable and made for the whole family to enjoy.
Why water play is brilliant for kids
Besides being so much fun, water play helps children develop in a number of ways:
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Motor skills: pouring, squeezing and splashing supports both fine and gross motor development
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Social skills: water games are a great way to encourage sharing, turn-taking and teamwork
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Imaginative play: water adds a whole new layer of creativity to everyday games
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Active play: jumping, running, and spraying is great exercise in a safe environment
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Sensory development: cool water, slippery textures and flowing movement all help engage the senses
The 9 best garden water toys for kids
1. Water guns
Bring on the back garden water battles. Water guns are perfect for garden games, whether it’s a quick squirt or an all-out soaking.
You can choose from small models for toddlers to high-powered blasters for competitive siblings. Remember to bring goggles and towels.
Great for: active outdoor play, group games
2. Steel-frame and above-ground pools
While not technically a toy, a steel-frame pool is the ultimate centrepiece for warm-weather water play. These above-ground pools are ideal for families looking to create a safe and exciting space for everything from floating and splashing to diving for toys and relaxing in the sun.
They come in a range of sizes to suit your garden and are built with durable features that last across multiple summers. Pair them with inflatables, water games, or swimming pool accessories, and they become the perfect backdrop for fun, exercise, and family time.
Great for: cooling off, group play, creating a dedicated water space
3. Paddling pools
Paddling pools are perfect for little ones. They're quick to set up and endlessly useful. Whether they’re splashing with siblings or just dipping in toes, paddling pools make warm afternoons simple and fun.
Great for: small gardens, toddlers, water confidence
4. Water slide mats
Slide mats are a garden classic. Just roll them out, connect the hose, and get ready for squeals of laughter. They’re lightweight, easy to store, and a brilliant way to add movement to water play.
Take a look at our pool accessories to see our exclusive range of water slide mats.
Great for: active play, fast fun
5. Inflatable water slides
If you’ve got the space, an inflatable water slide has the wow-factor. Many include extra features like splash pools or climbing walls. They’re ideal for birthdays, weekend fun, or when you really want to get the whole family involved.
Great for: big gardens, memorable moments
6. Water play tables
For younger children, water play tables create hands-on fun that keeps them engaged for ages. Watch them pour, scoop and swirl, all while developing motor skills and creative thinking. Some models also support sand play and pair brilliantly with mud kitchens.
Great for: focused play, sensory exploration
7. Rubber and bath toys
Simple and versatile, rubber toys like ducks and boats offer imaginative fun in paddling pools, buckets or even the bath. They’re also a brilliant addition to water trays and make a great travel option.
Great for: toddlers, creative play
8. Water sprinklers
Running through a water sprinkler is one of the easiest ways to get moving and stay cool. From misting rings to spinning arms, there’s a sprinkler style for every child.
Great for: garden games, easy clean-up fun
9. Water wheels
Spinning, splashing, pouring, the water wheel is a small but fascinating toy. It allows children to explore how water moves, spins, and flows while improving coordination and curiosity.
Great for: toddlers, early science and discovery
Discover your summer favourites at Outdoor Toys
Water toys are a brilliant way to bring learning, movement and fun together, and turn your garden into a space your kids will never want to leave.
Whether you’re after a compact paddling pool, a high-energy slide, or something for quieter play, there’s something for every age, every family and every garden.
At Outdoor Toys, we stock everything from water slides and pools to trampolines, climbing frames, and ride-on cars – all designed to get your little ones playing, laughing and learning outside.
Ready to get set for summer? Shop our collection and make this the season of unforgettable family fun.
FAQs
What’s the best age for outdoor water toys?
Most water toys are suitable for children from age 2+, but always check the individual product information. Younger children should be closely supervised, especially in pools or with large water slides.
Are outdoor water toys safe for toddlers?
Yes, with supervision. Look for age-appropriate features like shallow splash areas, smooth surfaces and wide bases. Paddling pools, water tables, and rubber toys are great starter options.
What are the most affordable water toys?
If you’re shopping on a budget, start with sprinklers, slide mats, and rubber toys. They’re low-cost, take up minimal space, and offer plenty of fun.
Can I leave water toys out all summer?
It depends on the toy. Steel-frame pools are designed to stay up for the whole season, but inflatables, sprinklers and water tables should be cleaned and stored when not in use to extend their life.