The Final Guide to Skateparks in the UK

With over 1,600 skateparks scattered across the UK, finding the best ones can feel overwhelming. But if you're only sticking to your local spots, you may be missing out on some of the world’s top skateparks right here on home turf.

It’s for this reason why we’ve crafted this final guide to UK skateparks, highlighting the key locations that every skateboarder should experience at least once.

 

Southbank, London

Since the 1970s, skaters have been drawn to what is arguably the most iconic outdoor skate spot in the UK: London’s Southbank. Often referred to as the birthplace of British skateboarding, this legendary location is open year-round and has become the most featured UK skatepark of all time.

With its unique blend of indoor-outdoor vibes, vibrant graffiti-covered walls, and a backdrop of local pro skaters, Southbank is a must-visit for any skater looking to connect with the roots of UK skate culture.

While only a few of the original obstacles remain, much of the park has been carefully restored to maintain its authentic spirit. Located right on the Thames in the heart of London, Southbank offers a variety of ledges, banks, and stair sets - perfect for both showing off your skills and soaking in the atmosphere. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, this spot offers a quintessential skateboarding experience.

 

Unit 23, Dumbarton

Located in Dumbarton, Scotland, Unit 23 has been a staple of the UK skate scene since it opened in 2002. As one of the largest indoor skateparks in the United Kingdom, it boasts an impressive 56,000 square feet of pure skate terrain spread across three distinct halls, each offering a unique skating experience.

The park features a diverse street section and a dedicated transition area complete with a mini ramp, catering to skaters who love to grind and those who prefer flowing lines. But that's not all - Unit 23 also includes a trampoline room, a foam pit, and a replica of the iconic Little Devil bowl, offering a wide variety of thrills for skaters.

Designed with both beginners and seasoned pros in mind, this skatepark is perfect for all skill levels, providing an inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy. While there is an entrance fee, Unit 23 is open every day of the year, making it an unmissable destination for any skater looking to push their limits and have some serious fun.

 

Projekts MCR, Manchester

Opened in 2012, Projekts MCR is a distinctive skatepark found beneath the Mancunian Way overpass in Manchester, just a stone's throw from Piccadilly Station. This unique concrete and wooden plaza-style street park offers a diverse range of features, including flat banks, ledges, stair sets, rails, hips, a bowled mini run, and bowled corners, making it a haven for street skaters.

A true hybrid skatepark, Projekts MCR blends indoor and outdoor elements alike, providing a versatile skating experience regardless of the weather. The majority of the park is sheltered by a flyover roof, ensuring you can keep skating even on rainy days.

Widely regarded as one of the best skateparks in the North West of England, Projekts MCR is also celebrated for its accessibility and welcoming atmosphere. Beyond its high-quality obstacles, the park also features a cosy cafe and offers coaching sessions for those looking to learn or refine their skills. While there is a small entry fee, the value of the experience - along with the vibrant community vibe - makes it more than worth it.

 

The Level, Brighton

A cornerstone of Brighton’s skate scene since its refurbishment in 2013, The Level is a modern 1,400-square-metre skatepark that draws riders from all over the UK. Made of smooth, polished concrete, the park is divided into two main sections: a spacious transition area and a dynamic surrounding street plaza. The street section is packed with a variety of features, including kickers, rails, flat and curved ledges, hips, stair sets, a pyramid, banks, and a pole jam, catering to skaters of all styles.

What sets The Level apart is not just its well-thought-out design but also its scenic surroundings. Nestled beside one of Brighton’s popular greenspaces, the skatepark is framed by leafy trees, creating a surprisingly serene atmosphere that’s rare in urban skate spots. It’s an unexpected oasis that makes the skating experience here even more unique.

The Level is also known for being a family-friendly environment, with a neighbouring park that includes a children’s play area, flower beds, and a local cafe - making it a great spot for everyone, not just skaters. Its bowl-centric design offers something for every skill level: a shallow bowl section perfect for beginners looking to learn, and a more advanced traditional street section with various lines and concrete mini ramps forming a half-pipe with one bowled side. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse layout, The Level is an indispensable skatepark.

 

Radlands, Northampton

Radlands holds a unique place in UK skateboarding history, having survived the ups and downs of the skate industry. Originally built in 1992 as Britain’s first indoor skatepark, Radlands in Northampton faced closure 12 years later. However, in 2012, it was reborn at the same location, transforming into a fully outdoor skatepark while retaining its legendary status.

The park features a distinctive diamond-shaped design with a street course and plaza-style layout that offers a wide variety of obstacles. Skaters will find an array of rails, ramps, ledges, sliders, kickers, hips, and banks, along with a central strip filled with boxes, stair sets, manual pads, and more - perfect for skaters looking to mix things up and challenge their skills.

Best of all, Radlands is completely free to skate and is open 24 hours every day, making it a fantastic, accessible spot for skaters of all levels to enjoy this historic park.

That wraps up our roundup of the best skateparks in the UK. If you’re planning to check out any of these renowned spots, make sure you're fully equipped for the ride. At Longsands, we've got you covered with a range of stylish and functional skate gear - from joggers, trousers, and shorts to t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and backpacks, as well as various accessories. Take a look around and gear up for your next skate adventure.