With the UK basking in a two-week heatwave, it’s officially time to seek shade, sip something icy — and, ideally, dive headfirst into a sparkling pool.
While beaches are always an option, there’s something undeniably special about an open-air lido or hidden countryside swimming spot that offers sun-soaked serenity without the sand in your shoes.
Whether you’re after Art Deco glamour, wild swims with a view, or a family-friendly splash zone, here are the UK’s best outdoor pools to cool off this summer.
1. Tinside Lido, Plymouth
Overlooking the sea and fringed by palm trees, Tinside is the ultimate retro-cool swim spot. This 1930s Art Deco lido offers panoramic views of Plymouth Sound and a vast saltwater pool that’s ideal for leisurely lengths or lazy lounging. Bonus: it’s free on particularly hot days.
Perfect for: Ocean views and vintage vibes.
2. London Fields Lido, Hackney
An East London staple, this Olympic-sized heated pool is open year-round but hits its stride in summer. Surrounded by greenery and with bookable sun loungers, it’s a sunbather’s dream.
Perfect for: City dwellers needing a dip without leaving London.
3. Lido Ponty, Pontypridd, Wales
This beautifully restored 1920s lido in South Wales offers three heated pools, inflatable fun sessions, and fountains for the kids — all set in Ynysangharad Park. It’s family-friendly and full of character.
Perfect for: Families and nostalgic swims.
4. Hathersage Swimming Pool, Peak District
A gem in the Derbyshire hills, this heated open-air pool boasts views of the surrounding countryside and is flanked by stone buildings and a charming village. They even host moonlight swims and live music events.
Perfect for: Scenic swims and peaceful dips.
5. Jesus Green Lido, Cambridge
One of the longest outdoor pools in Europe at 100 yards, Jesus Green offers a classic British swim experience along the River Cam. It’s unheated — so brace yourself — but utterly refreshing on a sweltering day.
Perfect for: Serious swimmers and fans of traditional lidos.
6. Jubilee Pool, Penzance
Cornwall’s answer to Miami, this Art Deco sea pool is filled with fresh seawater and even has a geothermal heated section for when the sun dips. With pastel tones and seaside views, it’s as Instagrammable as it is cool.
Perfect for: Stylish swimmers and holiday vibes.
7. Ilkley Pool & Lido, West Yorkshire
This 1930s lido sits in the heart of Yorkshire and is ideal for families with its café, paddling pool, and grassy areas for picnics. It’s a community favourite for good reason.
Perfect for: Traditional summer days out.
8. Shap Swimming Pool, Cumbria
Britain’s highest open-air heated pool offers clear skies, rugged scenery, and the charm of the Lake District. Off the beaten track and oh-so-refreshing.
Perfect for: Wild vibes with a lifeguard nearby.
Cool Down, Don’t Burn Out
With temperatures soaring, outdoor pools offer the perfect blend of sunshine, swimming, and relaxation — minus the chaos of the beach. Just remember: book ahead where needed, pack the SPF, and don’t forget a bottle of water.
The UK might not always promise sun, but when it does? You’ll find us poolside.
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