Summer is upon us. It’s time to throw on our swimming costumes, grab our towels and head straight for a swim. The questions is, where?
Although some beaches across the UK are beautiful, on a hot summer’s day they can also be incredibly busy. Or perhaps you live further in land, the last thing you want is to spend most of the day travelling to the coast. If that is the case then there’s no need to worry, because here are 10 of the best outdoor pools across the UK.
#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. Activities include the lido, gym, health suite, fitness studios, café and a hydrotherapy pool. So, take some time out of your busy schedule and enjoy a day at Brockwell Lido! Find the Lido in Brockwell Park near Brixton and Herne Hill in South London. With so many activities available, 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
Open until 10th September, the heated waters of Lido Ponty is the perfect outdoor pool to enjoy a wonderful summers day. Located in Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, the venue has three heated swimming pools and an adventure play area, so it is perfect for all of the family. Book a session online and explore the history of the Grade II listed lido which has been renovated to suit the 21st Century visitor.
#4 Hathersage Open Air Swimming Pool, Derbyshire
First opened in 1936, the Hathersage swimming pool is heated to 28°C 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. The summer season is in full swing until 10th September, so check out the timetable and happy swimming!
#5 Sandford Parks Lido, Gloucestershire
Tucked away on the edge of the Cotsworlds, Sandford Parks Lido 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. Located on the waterfront along the British seaside, just the views themselves are certainly worth the trip. The summer season continues until 10th September, but make sure your book ahead of your trip because the lido can get very busy during peak season.
#7 Bristol Lido, Somerset
The Bristol Lido 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 straight from the coast of Cornwall. The Jubilee Pool is the perfect place for all the family to swim! 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 and is open all summer until 17th September. 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? Discover 10 of the best outdoor swimming locations across the UK.