Swimming outdoors is the best kind of swimming, and thankfully, the UK still has plenty of towns sensible enough to maintain some of the most impressive lidos.
All the Lidos have compiled a list of over 162 across Great Britain, and although it doesn't seem to have been updated since April 2025, we checked that most are still open for business. Always enquire ahead, as some swimming spots require you to book a slot.
If, like us, you're a fan of early 20th-century architecture, the Jubilee Pool in Penzance - the UK's largest saltwater pool, Saltdean Lido, and Oasis in Covent Garden, offer the chance to relive the golden age of outdoor swimming.
Most admission prices are less than £15, with some as low as £4.50, offering significantly better value for money than Shoreditch House membership...
Part of Paperweight's 'Greater Things' series; #1001 ways to live your life greater. Get it delivered to your inbox every week with Sunday Paperweight when you subscribe for free.
