Don’t fret if you can’t make it to the seaside this summer, because all the fun of the beach is coming to Watford.

The Parade will be turned into a sandy oasis when the free Big Beach summer attraction returns from August 16 to 30.

Families and residents of all ages can enjoy a seaside experience without needing to travel miles to the coast, as there will be buckets and spades, deckchairs, picnic tables and sun umbrellas available free of charge.

Children enjoying the Big Beach.Children enjoying the Big Beach. (Image: Watford Borough Council) Watford mayor Peter Taylor said he was “excited” for its return, adding: “Every year, the Big Beach brings the seaside atmosphere right to the heart of Watford and provides a fun and free way to spend the day with the family.

“I would encourage everyone to head down, relax in one of the deckchairs, take part in beach games or build sandcastles.”

Photos from last year’s edition show children playing in the sand together as they enjoy the warm weather during the school holidays.

The Parade will be turned into a sandy oasis for two weeks in August.The Parade will be turned into a sandy oasis for two weeks in August. (Image: Watford Borough Council) There will be daily free activities organised by the Bowerbirdy Academy, which also runs the annual Wat’s On programme for children during the summer and Easter holidays.

The beach hut will be open at the site from 10am to 4pm daily providing information and assistance.

There are no food facilities at the Big Beach, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own or take advantage of the variety of eateries in The Parade.

There will be beach toys, deckchairs and sun umbrellas available free of charge.There will be beach toys, deckchairs and sun umbrellas available free of charge. (Image: Watford Borough Council) Watford deputy mayor councillor Aga Dychton said: “Big Beach in Watford presents an incredible opportunity for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the joys of summer without venturing far from home. 

“The sand opens imagination, bringing fun for all and helping everyone feel more relaxed.”

The beach hut will be open from 10am to 4pm daily.The beach hut will be open from 10am to 4pm daily.

Watford Borough Council said the Big Beach is suitable for children of all ages, although it asked that they be supervised by an adult.

It is part of WBC’s annual Big Events Programme which includes free indoor and outdoor activities for children aged from five to 15 from Monday, July 29, until August 30.

Residents can also enjoy open-air movies at the Big Screen which will be in the town centre from August 5 to 11 and in the Knutsford Playing Fields from August 12 to 18.