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The Best Outdoor Pools In The UK

With the weather warming up, and summer nearly here, there is no better time grab your towels, pack up your swimwear and cool off with a swim.

 

At Simply Swim we have put together a list of our favourite UK outdoor pools. So, if you are too far from the coast, or don’t enjoy salty swims and wet sand in your clothes this list offers a preferable alternative to still enjoy the benefits of a refreshing outdoor swim.

 

#1 Aldershot Lido, Hampshire

Aldershot Lido is perfect for a day out with the kids! Open daily from July until September, you can enjoy all three water flumes, the diving platform, water fountains and free Wi-Fi zones from 10am – 6pm. Tickets are between £4-£8 but family day tickets are also available. This venue also hosts a range of events throughout the summer including outdoor cinemas and live music, so make sure you plan ahead.

 

 

#2 Brockwell Lido, South London

If you’re spending the summer around London this year, take a trip to Brockwell Lido. They have some fantastic facilities on offer including the stunning 50m outdoor swimming pool, the latest gym and fitness equipment, an extensive programme of group exercise classes such as yoga, Pilates, HIIT and a café. With so many activities available, this really is the perfect place to keep fit this summer. Prices do vary so check out the price list before you travel. It is open between 6.30am and 10pm on weekdays, and 7am to 9pm on weekends.

 

 

#3 Lido Ponty, South Wales

Lido Ponty was originally built in 1927 and has since been helping to generate a strong Mediterranean mood to the South Wales Valleys. With three main heated pools, including a splash pool for younger kids, there are swimming opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Admission to the National Lido of Wales is free for children under the age of 16 and £2 per adult.

 

 

#4 Hathersage Open Air Swimming Pool, Derbyshire

It is perhaps a surprise to find a village with a population of less than 2000 people which has a large 100ft by 33ft public swimming pool. First opened in 1936, the Hathersage swimming pool is heated to 28°C, heated poolside showers, lawns and is set amongst the beautiful Peak District scenery. It is the perfect location for a weekend escape! Spend your time in the covered pavilion, café and of course the historic pool.

 

 

#5 Sandford Parks Lido, Gloucestershire

Tucked away on the edge of the Cotswolds, Sandford Parks Lido was first opened in 1935 and is packed with slides, fountains paddling pools and the 50m main pool. Throughout the year, Sandford Parks plays host to a variety of events including open air cinemas, triathlons and live music nights. The lido is open every day until 13th October, and tickets start at £4.80 for adults, children under the age of 5 go free.

 

 

#6 Tinside Lido, Plymouth

The lido at the tip of Plymouth Hoe really is spectacular and has been voted one of the top 10 best outdoor pools in Europe. Built in 1935 and located on the waterfront along the British seaside, just the views themselves are certainly worth the trip. Tinside is a slice of the quintessential British seaside from a bygone era. The Lido is a wonderful example of art-deco style and is Grade II listed. Make sure your book ahead of your trip because the lido can get very busy during peak season.

 

 

#7 Bristol Lido, Somerset

Bristol Lido is a restored Victorian swimming pool; the original swimming baths opened their doors in 1850. It doesn’t include any slides, paddling pools or fountains that might be better suited for children, however if you are planning a day out with friends or a loved one this summer this lido might be best suited to you. Enjoy a lovely lunch at the tapas bar or indulge yourself at the spa. The Lido spa has a variety of treatments available throughout the week, and with an award-winning restaurant next door it is easy to spend an entire day here.

 

 

#8 Jubilee Pool, Penzance

Swim in the fresh seawater Jubilee Pool straight from the coast of Cornwall. Cornwall’s celebrated Art Deco lido on Penzance’s Promenade is the perfect place for all the family to swim! Plans are in action to heat a section of the Jubilee Pool to 35°C all year round to help secure the long-term future of the pool. Work on this geothermal project is due to be completed this summer! A weekend away along the South-West Coast of the UK will also boast spectacular views, but especially during summer where the sun really does illuminate the wonderful landscapes. Add in a trip to this lido between June and September, it is open daily from 10.30am – 6pm.

 

 

#9 Jesus Green Lido, Cambridge

The Jesus Green Lido is one of the last few existing lidos that was built during the 1920s and 1930s. It is one of the longest outdoor pools in the country measuring 91 metres long and is open all summer. Separate male and female changing, and shower facilities are available as well as lots of grassed and paved areas for sunbathing. Adult tickets start at £2.30 and Junior tickets start at £1.25. Unfortunately, there is no direct parking for the pool but there are parking spaces along neighbouring roads.

 

 

#10 Ikley Pool and Lido, Yorkshire

Choose from a heated indoor pool, or a picturesque outdoor pool with a water fountain at the Ilkley Pool and Lido in West Yorkshire. There are a variety of planned sessions throughout the week so make sure you plan your trip accordingly to avoid any disappointment on arrival. However, if you do miss out on your desired slot there are green bowls, tennis courses and a putting green which all the family can enjoy!

 

 

Still unsure about your summer plans? Feeling more adventurous? Check out these 7 Unique Swimming Spots to Take the Family.

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