Swimming outdoors and wild swimming have surged in popularity in the UK in recent years, with increasing numbers of Brits heading for the country’s beaches, lakes, lidos and outdoor pools to get their aqua fix.
While the occasional heatwave may encourage more of us into the water, many people have embraced swimming outside year-round for its numerous health benefits and as an excellent all-round form of exercise.
Luckily, even those who live far from the sea can take advantage of the UK’s great range of outdoor swimming pools and lidos that are open to the public, with locations ranging from close to city centres to isolated countryside retreats.
The Independent has compiled a list of some of the best for indulging in an al fresco dip, whether you’re a fairweather swimmer who’s waiting for the height of summer to dive in, or are happy to take the plunge no matter the temperature.
Ilkley Pool and Lido, West Yorkshire
People enjoying the sun at Ilkley Lido
(PA)
Built in the 1930s and surrounded by hills and fields in the Yorkshire countryside, Ilkley Lido is a popular summer destination for locals. In addition to its outdoor pool (45m at its widest point), the lido offers tennis courts, picnic areas and a 25m heated indoor pool. While currently closed, it will open again later in spring.
Prices and opening times
Adult admission is priced at £5.60, while junior (aged three and over) entry costs £2.90. Children under three go free. The website encourages anyone wanting more details to follow their Instagram (@ilkleylido) or sign up for updates on the council website.
Serpentine Lido, London
A rowing boat on Serpentine Lake
(Getty Images)
Billed as “arguably London’s most iconic ‘open water’ swimming location”, the 100m-long Serpentine Lido is located in Hyde Park and opens to the public on weekends in mid-May every year. Usually closing in mid-September, the lido is open to the public every day from June, although members of the Serpentine Swimming Club – the oldest swimming club in Britain – can swim every day between 5am and 9.30am, with many taking part in a race on Christmas Day.
Visitors can pick up drinks and snacks in the Lido Café Bar after a dip.
Prices and opening times
During the season, the lido opens at 10am and closes at 6pm every day. Adult full day admission costs £7, while child admission (for…
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