As the weather starts to improve, signaling the arrival of summer, many are eagerly anticipating outdoor swimming activities. Unless you’re someone who enjoys swimming in cold temperatures, it’s likely been a while since you’ve had the chance to enjoy splashing around outdoors.
Fortunately, the UK boasts a variety of fantastic outdoor pools and lidos to choose from, and now you can easily locate your nearest one using our interactive map. Whether you’re seeking a serious swimming session or just want to have fun with your children in the water, this map will guide you to the closest pool.
The data for these locations is sourced from allthelidos.co.uk, a platform that maps out swimming spots across the UK. However, before heading out, it’s advisable to check the official website or social media pages of the pool you plan to visit, as some facilities may not open until later in the summer.
By the end of this week, parts of the southern UK are projected to reach temperatures of 24°C, providing an ideal opportunity to visit your local lido. This means that temporarily, the UK will be hotter than Ibiza, where temperatures are expected to hover around 19°C, so take advantage of the warm weather while it lasts.
Some of the notable lidos in the UK include Sea Lanes in Brighton, a seaside outdoor pool and wellness center that opened in 2023, offering stunning views of Brighton’s shingle beaches. Alternatively, you can explore the Strand Lido in Gillingham, Kent, set to reopen for weekends in May, featuring a picturesque design reminiscent of Mediterranean pools with its white exteriors and waterslides.
For a classic Art Deco-style lido experience, consider visiting Jubilee Pool in Penzance. This historic pool, opened in 1935, is the UK’s largest seawater pool and is usually slightly warmer than the sea. Additionally, it features a Geothermal Pool, naturally heated by the sea to temperatures of 28 to 30°C, providing a tropical swimming experience.
While many lidos in the UK have faced neglect over the years, some, like Hilsea Lido near Portsmouth, are being revitalized. Following a £7.75 million renovation, this lido now serves as a community hub, offering amenities such as a new sauna, modern changing facilities, an ice cream parlor, and a food van. The goal is to create a welcoming “holiday at home” atmosphere for the local community.
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