Best open-air pools in the Cotswolds

Our guide to open-air swimming in the Cotswolds
Whether you’re a fair weather swimmer, or enjoy taking a dip all year round, we think you’ll love these Cotswold open-air pools. So slap on some SPF and your swimming costume and dive right in!
The Lido Chipping Norton
Described as an oasis of calm in a busy world, Chippy Lido offers open-air swimming in two heated pools – a 25 metre pool and a paddling pool for young children. Whether you are dedicated to getting to a certain number of lengths, or you simply want to splash around with your family, Chippy Lido is a lovely pool to visit
Wotton Pool in Wotton-under-Edge
Wotton Pool is perhaps a more basic pool, heated to between 28-30 degrees, and is 18 metres in length. The great thing about the pool is that the enclosure is closed when the weather is cold, and open when the weather is clement. This is a great pool for swimmers who enjoy clocking up the lengths.
Stratford Park Lido in Stroud
Enjoy the sunny weather in Stroud’s outdoor pool which operates during the summer months. The pool is perfect for lengths or splashing around in. For those brave enough, why not try the diving board!
Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool in Cirencester
This open-air swimming pool may just be in the best location and is one of our favourite Cotswold open-air pools. Take in the magnificent view of Cirencester Park as you relax and enjoy the water. Heated to 27 degrees and fed by spring water, you can enjoy a slice of luxury in Cirencester. Take full advantage of the sunbathing patio and cool off afterwards in the pool. Sound good? We think so, too.
Sandford Parks Lido in Cheltenham
The Lido in Cheltenham is a great day out for all the family. There are children’s slides, a children’s pool and paddling pool, with the main pool being a whopping 50 metres. The Lido is a popular destination for those in the local area, and we think it would be a wonderful addition to any visit to Cheltenham and the Cotswolds.
Woodgreen Leisure Centre in Banbury
Woodgreen Leisure Centre in the heart of Banbury town has a large 50 metre outdoor pool, complete with an aqua-splash area and slide. Perfect for children and adults alike, the pool provides great facilities for those looking to spend a day in the water!

Thermae Bath Spa in Bath
Bath has long been renowned as a place for leisure and wellbeing and Thermae Bath Spa has taken on the mantle and is now the go-to spot for swimming and relaxing in Bath. The Spa has brilliant amenities and offers a host of treatments and facilities, including their Open Air Rooftop Pool. This pool is not so much designed for swimming lengths, but more for relaxing in with friends or family. The water is naturally warm, mineral rich and the pool has bubbling jets. As if this didn’t sound idyllic enough, you’ll have magnificent views of the city, too.
The Lido in Clifton, Bristol
Clifton is a beautiful, prosperous suburb of Bristol, and Bristol Lido is a great place to dip your toe into open-air swimming. The Lido dates back to 1850 but has undergone a huge restoration in recent years. It is now a modern, inviting place to swim. The pool is 24 metres in length and is heated to a comfortable 22-25 degrees. Best of all, The Lido keeps the chlorine levels as low as possible, so you can relax knowing that the water you are swimming in is clean and safe.
If swimming is not your bag, why not sit back and relax in the spa’s other facilities, including a sauna, steam room and hot tub. Sip a cocktail at the Poolside Bar – just like being abroad.
If you’d prefer something a little more exclusive, you can stay in one of our cottages with a pool where you can swim and enjoy the water in peace
Read more: Family-friendly getaways to the Cotswolds