London's best fountains for summer splashing

Best for dipping a toe: Diana Memorial fountain

Water flows, swirls and bubbles around in two directions at the strangely serene Diana Memorial. Carved from Cornish granite and constantly refreshed by London's water table, it's a striking space for contemplation. Full splashing is not officially condoned - though plenty happens on sunny days - but visitors of all ages are encouraged to sit on the edge and cool down with their feet in the water. Bliss!

Best for playing: Granary Square Fountain, King's Cross

Granary Square makes parenting beyond the home front so pleasant, with on-site soft play, Handyside play park with sand pit, and, of course, the incredible play fountain experience.

Kids can run through and splash around in 1,080 choreographed jets, enjoying a fountain show of aqua-choreography (this alone mesmerises little ones; being able to run and play in it is the cherry on the cake).

At night, there's a light show to accompany the water works. Teens will also be obsessed – the fountain can be controlled via smartphone to turn into a game of Granary Squirt, aka Snake for the modern era.

Best for the challenge: Merchant Square Fountain Maze, Paddington

Merchant Square's Fountain Maze turns an afternoon splash into a challenge. With 320 jets arranged across three concentric circles, the fountain becomes a playful game: can you get back and forth without getting wet? Can you find new ways in and out of the maze? A totally fab idea when you want to while away a hot and sticky summer afternoon.

Best for dog-watching: Battersea Park Pleasure Gardens

One of our favourite spots to explore with the kids, Battersea Park has it all: secret gardens, zoo animals, Buddhas and a brilliant water feature. Perfect for dipping your feet in on hot days, we can also recommend this spot for dog lovers – we saw a French bulldog splashing around with a Frisbee the other day. Surely the best kind of entertainment there is?