Things to do in Maidenhead
Maidenhead offers a fantastic array of leisure and cultural attractions that cater to all interests. Movie lovers can enjoy the latest releases at the Odeon cinema, while those seeking creative inspiration will find a vibrant arts scene at Norden Farm Arts Centre, which hosts regular exhibitions, performances, and workshops. For fitness enthusiasts, the brand-new Braywick Leisure Centre provides state-of-the-art facilities for swimming, gym workouts, and a variety of sports activities.
A visit to the River Thames is an absolute must when in Maidenhead. Just a short stroll from the town centre leads you to the historic 18th-century road bridge and Brunel’s iconic ‘Sounding Arch’, famously captured in Turner’s masterpiece Rain, Steam and Speed. Walking along the riverside paths offers stunning views of the Thames and scenic routes towards picturesque nearby villages like Cookham, Marlow, Bray, Windsor, and Eton.
One highlight along the river is Boulter’s Lock, immortalised in Gregory’s 19th-century painting. Here, you can enjoy a meal or drinks at the charming restaurant and bar, while watching boats navigate the lock. Nearby, Raymill Island remains a local favourite with its aviary, beautifully maintained gardens, and panoramic views over Maidenhead Weir.
Things to Do in Maidenhead for the Family
BCA Zoo: A charming small zoo housing over 100 animals, BCA Zoo offers a variety of experiences including guided tours, family zoo days, animal encounters, and even animal photography sessions. For more details, visit their website.
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts: A vibrant hub for the community, Norden Farm hosts creative workshops, live performances, cinema screenings, and community events such as the annual Lantern Parade and Kite Festival. The centre also features a cozy café. Discover more about Norden Farm here.
Riverside Gardens: A favourite for families, Riverside Gardens offers expansive lawns, a play area, and a fun mini golf course run by Jenner’s Café. It’s located close to Boulters Lock and Ray Mill Island, making it easy to enjoy all three in one outing. Learn more about our visit here.
The Fruit Fields: Situated on the Maidenhead/Cookham border, The Fruit Fields is ideal for Pick Your Own fruit, complemented by a Farm Shop offering fresh produce.
Braywick Nature Reserve: A beautiful spot for walking, this reserve features wooden sculptures for children to discover along the trails, with a trail map available at the Formal Garden. Nearby Braywick Park offers a children’s play area on its playing fields. Read about our walk here.
Maidenhead Mini Golf: An 18-hole, dinosaur-themed mini golf course packed with exciting obstacles and plenty of dinosaurs to spot. Find out more about our visit here.
Things to Do in Maidenhead for Kids
Boulters Lock and Ray Mill Island: These adjoining spots are perfect for a free day out. At Boulters Lock, watch boats navigate the lock while enjoying the riverside atmosphere. Just cross the bridge to Ray Mill Island, where you can feed swans, geese, and ducks, visit the bird aviary, and see the guinea pig enclosure.
Maidenhead Dessert House: Located near Maidenhead, this spot is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Braywick Leisure Centre: Close to Braywick Nature Reserve, the centre offers a family-friendly swimming pool, sports hall, escape rooms, and much more.
Ockwells Park: Spanning 130 acres, Ockwells Park combines beautiful natural spaces with a large playground and walking paths. Families will appreciate the play equipment and Juniors Café, which features a small indoor soft play area. Visit details here. Don’t miss the stunning Bluebells at Little Thrift Wood nearby, visible in late April to early May.
Oaken Grove Park: This fully enclosed park features a wide range of play equipment suitable for children of all ages, including a sandpit, zip wire, rotating swings, climbing frames, slides, trampoline, roundabout, rope swing, and even a fruit maze. Read all about our visit here.