Residents in Hitchin and across North Hertfordshire can look forward to a return of warmer-weather fun, as splash parks reopen for the summer season this weekend.

North Herts Council has confirmed that its four splash parks will open daily from 10am to 6pm, starting Saturday 2 May and running through to Sunday 6 September.

The sites include:

• Baldock's Avenue Park
• Bancroft Recreation Ground (with café kiosk)
• Howard Park (with café kiosk)
• Priory Memorial Gardens

The reopening marks a popular seasonal moment for families, with Hitchin's Bancroft Recreation Ground expected to once again become a local hotspot during sunny spells.

Alan North, Greenspace Service Manager at the council, said the facilities are always eagerly anticipated: "We're thrilled to begin the splashpad season as we recognise how loved they are across the district. Our popular parks such as Bancroft and Howard Park continue to be hotspots for residents to enjoy a hot drink and a treat, whether you're taking the kids to the park or just going for a brisk walk."

Alongside the splash parks, café kiosks in Hitchin and Letchworth are reopening, offering hot and cold drinks, light snacks, toasted paninis and ice cream, including vegan options. Visitors can sit outside or take items away, while dogs are also catered for with water bowls and free treats.

Looking ahead, outdoor swimming will also return later this month, with both Hitchin Lido and Letchworth Lido due to reopen from 23 May through to early September.

For many local families, the reopening signals the start of the summer season — with fingers crossed the sunshine sticks around.

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