As well as being great meeting places across many communities in the UK, lidos are the perfect spots for enjoying endless fun, especially when the weather’s at its best during summer.
Lidos have long been a part of British culture and thankfully these great outdoor swimming pools have been making a comeback in recent years as Countryfile explains:
“At the height of lido culture, Britain had more than 300 outdoor pools. The trend took off in the 1930s, influenced by Germany’s Volksparks, which were dedicated to healthy outdoor pursuits. Lidos gave coastal communities a sociable, open-air place to swim, protected from the rigours of the harsh sea. Today, there are more than 100 lidos in the UK, with more renovation projects in the pipeline.”
Here in Cambridgeshire, we’re lucky enough to have a whole host of lidos to while away those summer days. For holidaymakers, visiting one of our local lidos is no doubt a great Cambridge experience.
In this blog post, we reveal the best lidos to cool off and beat the city heat this summer.
Jesus Green Lido
Bordering the River Cam, Jesus Green is well known for its beautiful scenery and chilled atmosphere. After you’re done with relaxing in its open parkland, however, why not hit the pool?
Jesus Green Lido is one of Cambridgeshire’s best known and best-loved open-air swimming pools, it even has its own sauna. The pool first opened in 1923 and has since been a vital part of the Cambridge community. It’s one of the few remaining lidos from this era and one of the largest (and longest) in Europe. Discover more fascinating facts about Cambridge.
Jesus Green Lido is open from May to September between 7am and 7pm daily.
Peterborough Lido
Offering not one open-air swimming pool but three, Peterborough Lido is another great spot to enjoy outdoor swimming in a historic setting. The lido is of an Art Deco style and features a 50-metre main pool, teaching pool and kids’ paddling pool, all of which are heated.
It’s easy to spend the entire day at Peterborough Lido, with its on-site café (which serves hot and cold food), sun deck, shaded terraces, and children’s playground providing plenty to do for all the family.
Peterborough Lido is open daily until 6pm. Visitors are advised to book their swim sessions online to avoid disappointment.
Lammas Land Pool
Also known as the Newnham paddling pool, Lammas Land Pool is the perfect place to take the kids for a paddle on a hot summer’s day. It’s free to use and is also home to a large playground and refreshment kiosk.
Sheep’s Green Learner Pool
Just a stone’s throw away from Lammas Land, you’ll find Sheep’s Green Learner Pool. At 0.9 metres deep, it gives learner swimmers some extra depth to play with and is well known amongst locals as the perfect starter pool for young children.
It’s also a beautiful place to spend the afternoon thanks to its stunning setting alongside a wild water-meadow on the River Cam.
Just like Lammas Land, this hidden gem is free to use. Opening times vary, check Cambridge City Council’s website for details.
Cambridge Aqua Park
If you’re looking for a bit more adventure from your lido experience then Cambridge Aqua Park just north of the city centre is a must-visit this summer. It offers an inflatable obstacle course that ensures a splashing good time for everyone aged 5 and over.
All this summer fun is just a click away – book your Cambridge staycation with us today.