The UK has been experiencing a surge of heatwaves this summer, and what better way to beat the heat than by taking a refreshing dip in cool water? If you're not within easy reach of a beach, don't worry - there are plenty of outdoor swimming pools and lidos scattered across the country. Finding the perfect outdoor pool or lido can be tricky, so we've compiled a list of 10 standout spots known for their fantastic facilities, picturesque settings, and endless fun. From right here in Devon to Yorkshire, there's a pool for everyone to enjoy.
READ MORE: All drivers must inform DVLA of little-known health condition or risk £1,000 fine Located on the 'English Riviera', is a 53m sea-water swimming pool built into a natural rock pool that has been a favourite spot for bathers since the Victorian era. Open from May to September, it offers an intimate experience with the Devon coast and even features a small shingle beach nearby. As one of the few remaining outdoor seawater swimming pools in the country, Shoalstone Pool provides ample space for relaxation and sunbathing, reports the Mirror .
While there's no entry fee, visitors are encouraged to make a voluntary donation of £2.50 per swim or £6 per family to help cover operational costs. For those seeking a bit of excitement, Cardiff Bay's Aqua Park is the ideal spot to let off some steam.
This inflatable water park, nestled in the beautiful surroundings of the bay, boasts a variety of fun obstacles such as climbing walls, trampolines, slides and monkey bars. The park has a minimum age limit of eight years old, and all participants must be able to swim 25 metres unaided. Pre-booking online is available at £20 per person for a one-hour session, or two hours for £30.
Offering stunning views over the sea from the edge of the iconic Plymouth Hoe, Tinside Lido consistently ranks among Europe's top outdoor pools. Established in 1935, Tinside Lido harks back to the classic British seaside era and is also a Grade II listed site. Open only during the summer months, this gorgeous saltwater swimming pool caters to everyone and is fully accessible to individuals with all needs.
Besides the pool, there's also a sun deck, considered one of the best spots in Plymouth to bask in the sunshine. Given its popularity, it's recommended to book ahead. Prices vary from £4.
80 to £8. While Salford Quays is most famous for being home to Media City, many may not know that you can also swim right outside it. Uswim at Salford Quays provides the opportunity to enjoy open water swimming during sessions on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Uswim provides all the essentials you'll need for open water swimming, such as wetsuits, silicone swim caps and goggles (for a fee). They also offer 'Open Water Intros' for those new to the sport. If you pay in advance, a session costs just £7 online, while pay-on-the-day is £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s.
This lido offers an outdoor water park perfect for a family day out. With fountains, water cascades, ship-shaped play zones with water jets, and colourful splash pads, it's a hit with kids while parents can relax on the sidelines. The park also offers a range of food and drinks.
Admission is £8 per child for one hour of play, and adults are 50p. It's aimed at children aged one to 11 and no booking is required. If you're after a swim with a view, Ilkley Lido in West Yorkshire is the place to go.
You can take a dip in their 45m-long outdoor swimming pool or enjoy a picnic while taking in the views over Ilkley Moor. The pool also offers children's swimming lessons and over-16s only sessions. However, it's worth noting that the pool isn't heated.
So while it may be a refreshing dip on a hot day, be prepared if the weather takes a turn. Entry is priced at £5.05 for adults and £2.
60 for children aged three to 16 and pensioners. Under-3s can enter free of charge. For those looking for a saltwater swim, Woodup Sea Pool is an excellent choice during a heatwave.
Also known as Woodrolfe Pool, this basic salt water bathing pool even boasts its own little beach at one end. Open from May to September, it's free to visit, making it a fantastic family destination this summer. The pool also features a toilet, barbecue area for a summer feast, and picnic tables.
If you fancy being near the sea but not quite in it, Bude Sea Pool is a large semi-natural tidal pool that has offered sheltered safe wild swimming on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean since the 1930s. Even better, it's completely free for everyone. The pool is maintained by the charity, Friends of Bude Sea Pool (FoBSP), and relies on the generosity of its visitors.
From the start of April until the end of October, the Pool Crew will be available to ensure everyone can enjoy the pool's shores safely. Tooting Bec Lido, renowned for its vibrant Victorian changing rooms and as a social hub for South West London locals, is one of the UK's oldest swimming pools. First opened in 1906 as a communal bath, it spans an impressive 91 metres.
The historic pool recently underwent a £4 million refurbishment. To mark the reopening, Paralympic champion Ellie Simmonds joined over 1,000 local residents for a grand family fun day. Nestled within four acres of picturesque landscaped gardens in Cheltenham Spa, this lido houses an Olympic-sized pool and a smaller children's pool.
The outdoor pools are heated, ensuring a comfortable swim even if the weather isn't favourable. The main 50m pool, maintained at a warm 30C, caters to family swimming, lane swimming, classes and training. The children's pool, heated at 32C, features a popular splash slide and is shallow for safety.
The lido is surrounded by meticulously manicured lawns and flowers, providing perfect spots for sunbathing. Under-5s can swim for free, while adult tickets are priced at £7.70.
Family deals and concessions for older children, students and those over 65 are also available..
