Lido Luxury: 10 Outdoor Pools You Won’t Believe are in the UK

Friday 30th Apr 2021 |

Restrictions are continuing to ease, and many will be excited to strip off and jump into their nearest outdoor pool, to enjoy some alfresco fun over the scorching bank holiday weekend. 

Uswitch has put together a list featuring the most Instagrammable outdoor pools and lidos that the UK has to offer, perfect for your next swim.

From Yorkshire to Devon here are the best UK outdoor pools to soak up the sun this summer: 

Jubilee Pool – Penzance – #6246 Instagram Hashtags  

Source: Instagram

Cornwall is a family favourite destination during the summer and has racked up thousands of hashtags over the years on Instagram for its picturesque backdrops. 

But what if you could get that perfect picture for the gram at one of their famous lidos? 

Cornwall’s Jubilee pool is a beautiful lido that overlooks the Cornish sea, with magnificent Art Deco architecture dating back to the 1930s and a cafe on-site to keep the family entertained all day long. 

Tinside Lido – Plymouth  – #2146 Instagram Hashtags

outdoor pools

Source: Instagram

Are you searching for a pool that will look great on your grid? Believe it or not, Tinside Lido English is based in Plymouth. 

Though it may not be the climate of Spain, the huge semi-circle pool can still make that British summer’s day feel a bit more special. 

Watch ferries glide past on the sea bed or attend the outdoor cinema after a dip in the pool; there is so much beauty to explore at the lido you won’t be disappointed. 

Saltdean Lido – Brighton – #2035 Instagram Hashtags

outdoor pools

Source: Instagram


Saltdean Lido is a true example of the 1930s golden age of outdoor pools and has been described as ‘one of the seven wonders of the English seaside.’ 

With its beautiful countryside backdrop, the crescent-shaped pool has proven a popular tourist attraction for families across the UK, and after a period of refurbishment in 2018, it is now the only Grade 2 listed coastal lido in the country. 

So if you are looking for a pool to get that perfect Instagram shot, we recommend checking it out next time you are in Brighton. 

Sandford Parks Lido, Chelthenham –  #893 Instagram Hashtags 

outdoor pools

Source: Instagram

If you love a countryside sunset scene then Sandford Parks Lido is the perfect place to go for a dip on a warm summer’s evening. 

For more serious swimmers, the picturesque pool is 50 metres in length and was once offered as an Olympic training facility.  The lido is also family-friendly with a children’s pool and slides available for those that are looking for a fun day out during the summer holidays. 

Ilkley Pool and Lido – Yorkshire –  #874 Instagram Hashtags

Source: Instagram

There is nothing better than swimming with a view and Ilkley Pool based in Yorkshire will give you exactly that on a sunny day. 

Known as one of the best pools in the North of England, the lido is a popular favourite among families when the weather gets warmer. Snap a picture of the rolling hills behind the pool or engage in outdoor tennis lessons – there is something for everyone here. 

Arundel Lido – West Sussex – #757 Instagram Hashtags

outdoor pools

Source: Instagram

After months of being stuck inside we all need something to look forward to, and having been one of the first outdoor pools to re-open this year, Arundel Lido can be the perfect day out this summer.

Based in the middle of South Downs National Park, the pool is among some of the most Instagrammable lidos in the UK, with its stunning views of Arundel Castle in the background. 

Hathersage Swimming Pool – Peak District – #606 Instagram Hashtags 

Source: Instagram

The peak district is known for its stunning backdrops and mountain ranges, so why not swim in the heart of it all at Hathersage?

Located in a small village in the Peak District, Hathersage Swimming Pool has been open since the 1930s and guarantees a day of fun for families. 

Take a dip in the glistening blue pool or stop for a break on the picnic lawned seating area to refuel. With the outdoor pool now back open, it’s the perfect place to go this summer. 

Droitwich Spa Lido – Worcestershire – #48 Instagram Hashtags

Source: Instagram

If you are looking for a good place to snap your next Instagram picture, then Droitwich Spa Lido is the place for you. 

As for Worcestershire’s finest outdoor pool, the open-air lido is one of the last remaining inland saltwater pools and boasts a 40-metre swimming pool, wet play area and sun terrace. 

The pool is reopening on the 1st of May so if you don’t want to miss out, make sure to get booking your place now. 

Shap Swimming Pool – Cumbria – #28 Instagram Posts 

Source: Instagram

At over 900 feet above sea level, the Shap Swimming pool in Cumbria is the highest outdoor Lido in England. Although it’s small, there is a separate paddling pool for children so the whole family can go for a dip. 

Not only this but the pool is also heated, meaning it’s a great day out even when the weather isn’t as warm.  Having stayed closed last year, the lido is set to have its grand re-opening this summer for its 2021 season, so keep your eyes peeled for updates. 

Chagford Swimming Pool – Devon – #27 Instagram Hashtags 

Source: Instagram

If you are still wanting to go swimming when the weather might not be as warm then Chagford Pool in Devon is a great place to get those lengths in. 

Heated by Solar panels, the swimming pool is river-fed and uses as much natural water as possible to minimise the use of chlorine. If that doesn’t convince you, then its setting on the banks of Teign that offers views for miles may make it worth the journey. 

*Opening hours may be subject to change due to ongoing restrictions, so make sure you check the website before visiting.