Bluewater Shopping Centre launches The Beach

Soak up the sun, relax in a deck chair, build sandcastles with the children.

Yes - it could be a day at the Kent coast but from this weekend there is one landlocked section of the county offering exactly that.

Bluewater Shopping Centre is preparing for the first time to launch The Beach.

Featuring tonnes of sand for all to enjoy, there is also the opportunity to cool off in a giant paddling pool, visit fairground attractions and eat and drink from a selection of refreshment stalls.

The much-anticipated attraction opens at the Greenhithe centre this Saturday (July 22) and will be offering fun in the sun for shoppers for the duration of the school summer break.

The traditional rides include a helter skelter, bumper cars, log flume and carousel.

There will also be appearances from jugglers, mermaids, dancers and regular Punch and Judy shows.

The Beach is landing at The Village near Zizzi and Pizza Express and tickets are already now on sale.

Entry is £3 per person - with fairground rides an additional charge on top.

For more details and to purchase tickets visit thebeachbluewater.com