It looks like we are in for a summer scorcher this year. And, that means it’s time you located your swimming trunks, bathing suits or Speedos ready to try some of Yorkshire’s many beautiful outdoor pools. Why head to one of those indoor echo chambers they call an indoor swimming pool with screaming kids when you can visit our outdoor lidos set in stunning locations.
If, like me, you’ve been bitten by the outdoor swimming bug and enjoy the experience of braving the al fresco pools dotted around Yorkshire, where the waters can get a bit chilly, then you’ll enjoy our tour around Yorkshire’s lidos. Where you can feel the rush as you dip your body into the cool water, bringing out your latent caveman.
These lidos in Yorkshire are the perfect places for those who don’t quite fancy the whole wild swimming thing, or aren’t quite confident enough to give it a try. And, also if you fancy a proper swim. You’ll find some heated and some unheated. Some are built for more family-friendly days, while others are designed for serious fitness. Either way, these are all of Yorkshire’s best lidos and outdoor pools to get you outside this summer.
So, what are Yorkshire’s best lidos and outdoor pools?
1. Ilkley Lido
Located in the popular spa town of Ilkley in West Yorkshire is home to a 45 meters long and 12 meters wide long outdoor pool offering great views of the surrounding countryside. It’s one of the largest and best outdoor swimming pools and lidos in Yorkshire, it’s perfect for the summer heat. But, be aware that the pool is not heated. The unique placement of this lido and the gorgeous views make this a unique experience for sure. Enjoy a refreshing swim with stunning views this summer at Ilkley Lido! It costs £5.05 for adults and £2.60 for children aged three to 16 and pensioners. Ilkley Lido, Denton Rd, Ilkley LS29 0BZ
Visit the website here.
2. Helmsley Open Air Pool
The North York Moors National Park lido is found in Helmsley and caters for leisurely swims along with serious swimmers. The pool opened over 50 years ago and was recently refurbished. Offerlng lane swimming, fun times and even yoga classes there is something for everyone. The pool temp is a wonderful 28 degrees, so you’ll be nice and warm. Perfect for kids and big kids alike, we imagine it will be hugely popular. Enjoy a warm and refreshing swim in Helmsley Lido this summer! It costs £5.50 for adults, £3.75 for children and concessions for just £4.50. Helmsley Open Air Swimming Pool, Baxton’s Sprunt, Helmsley, YO62 5HT
Visit the website here.
3. Alpamare Scarborough
Located in the oldest seaside resort in Britain, Scarborough, Alpamare is an open air swimming pool by the Yorkshire Coast. It offers everything for the perfect family day out including water slides, wave pools and lazy rivers to spas and a food restaurant. Inside you can enjoy the giant wave pool and diving around whilst outside you can enjoy a fantastic warm outdoor garden pool to play in, or if you’re looking to chill out their outdoor infinity pool, where you can relax and destress.Prices start from £12.00 on weekdays during the low season, with extended opening days also from £12.00, £18.50 on low season weekends, and up to £23.00 during the high season. Alpamare Scarborough Waterpark,28 Burniston Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO12 6PH
Visit the website here.
4. Ingleton Outdoor Swimming Pool
Found in the Yorkshire Dales, Ingleton Outdoor Swimming Pool is a 20m long heated pool surrounded by all the natural beauty that this national park has to offer. It has a range of sessions from adults-only to toddler sessions making it open to every type of swimming looking for a bit of an al fresco splash. Naming itself as one of Britain’s best outdoor pools, this is one lido not to be missed. Almost 100 years old, it was originally built by local volunteers, including miners from the New Ingleton Colliery, in 1933. Admission costs £5 for adults and £3.50 for children, with an additional £2 charge for non-members. Children under 3 years old can enter for just £1. Ingleton Outdoor Swimming Pool, Sammy Lane, Ingleton, LA6 3EG
Visit the website here.
5. Hathersage Outdoor Swimming Pool & Lido Yorkshire
Hathersage Outdoor Swimming pool a 100ft by 33ft outdoor pool can be found in South Yorkshire, not too far away from Sheffield and is a stunning spot that offers a fun day out for all the family. Found in a quaint village, it’s something different compared to the other Yorkshire lidos & outdoor pools. And, you may think it strange that a village with a population of less than 2,000 has a large (100ft X 33ft) public swimming pool, yet here we are. The heated pool is great all year round and has sessions such as aquafit sessions and ticket-only swims. It costs just £7 for adults, £6 for pensioners and £4 for children with free swims for under 4s. Hathersage Outdoor Pool, Oddfellows Road, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1DU
Visit the website here.
6. Albert Avenue Pools & Fitness, Hull
Albert Avenue lido is an outdoor swimming pool in the heart of a city. Shutting 25 years ago it was given a new lease of life after the council’s £10.5 million transformation. The water in the pool is heated to 28C, so not quite wild swimming – but hey. Indoor family swims (for up to two adults and two children) cost £13.65, while children under 5 swim for free. It also offers a state-of-the-art gym, fitness studio with virtual classes, a sauna, and refurbished indoor pools. The lido itself is heated seasonally and features a splash area for families. Outdoor swims at the lido are priced at £5.50 for adults, £3.50 for juniors, and £16.10 for a family of four, with under 5s also going free.
Find out more here.
7. Filey Paddling Pool
Found in the amazing seaside town of Filey with views over the iconic natural phenomenon, Filey Brigg the paddling pool, is a perfect day out with the kids a stone’s throw from the beach. The free facility offers an enclosed spa, so you can let kids explore and stay cool in the summer months. The Filey paddling pool located on the promenade , although not as fancy as some of the other Yorkshire lidos and outdoor swimming pools offers a fantastic space for those summer months – and is something a little different. Filey Paddling Pool, The Beach, Filey, YO14 9JY
Find out more here.
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Wakefield needs one
Wakefield needs an open air pool. Something si