A trip to Beale Park, near Pangbourne, is always a fun family day out. Set in 350 acres of Thames-side land, the park feels spacious and uncrowded, even in the school holidays. There are landscaped gardens to explore, animals to spot and several playgrounds catering for kids of all ages. The narrow gauge diesel train is a favourite with most visitors.
Animals at Beale Park
There are enclosures with a range of interesting birds and animals – including owls, wallabies, meerkats and deer. If it’s your first visit, hop on the train to get a tour of the park and see the layout. You’ll also see peacocks and ducks wondering around the grounds.
Train at Beale Park
The diesel train is a hit with most visitors. The 1-mile ride takes about 10 minutes and is a good way for little ones to see around the park. My children like waving to others from the train and spotting the little stone animals hidden along the cutting. A train ride is included with the entry price and additional rides can be purchased for £1.
Paddling Pool at Beale Park
The shallow paddling pool opens up in the summer and is a great place to splash around and cool off in on a hot day.
Playgrounds at Beale Park
There are several great playgrounds spread out through the park catering to kids of all ages. The Little Tykes Village is a hit with toddlers and is packed with plastic houses and ride on vehicles. There is an adventure playground beside the cafe with slides, rope courses, climbing structures and a pirate island with sand and wooden boats. Alongside the train line there is a playground for older children with high rope climbing structures. At the far end of the park, you’ll find a zip wire swing and a short running track where you can time your running speed.
Peacock Restaurant
The popular Peacock Restaurant in the middle of the park sells a wide range of hot and cold food including pasta, baked potatoes and bacon rolls. You can also pick up ice creams here. There are picnic tables outside the cafe.
Special Events
Check out the Red Kite Days What’s On page for listings of special events in the holidays.
Opening Times
Low Season
11th February – 20th March & 26th September – 4th November
10am until 5pm, last admissions 4pm
High Season
21st March – 25th September
10am until 6pm, last admissions 5pm
Beale Park Admission Prices
If you live locally, an annual pass is well worth the investment. Ten train rides are included in the annual pass.
Day visits admission costs are available on their website
For more information, see the Beale Park website.
