Water All The Way!

Janey Swanson celebrates the revival of Britain's lovely lidos

- JANEY SWANSON

The Return of The Lido

"Lidos are definitely enjoying a resurgence," says Simon Inglis, who is an ambassador for Historic Pools of Britain, which supports historic swimming pools and lidos throughout the UK.

Simon explains that, in days gone by, the main difference between a lido and an outdoor swimming pool was the amount of time that could be spent there. "Traditionally, as well as an outdoor swimming pool, a lido also had sunbathing areas and a café so it was more of a resort."

There have been open air swimming pools in Britain since the 17th century but Simon reveals that it wasn't until the 1920s that lidos became popular. "At that time, most people couldn't afford to go on summer holidays or even take a trip to the seaside," he explains. "Thanks to lidos, they could catch a bus and go to the beach' for the day, where they'd swim, sunbathe and relax in a café overlooking water.

"The popularity of lidos continued until the 1970s and '80s, when many fell into disrepair. That's when some local communities came together to save their local outdoor swimming pools and lidos.

"Thanks to the efforts of these groups, about 110 have survived - and flourished.

"In fact, there's recently been such a revival of interest in swimming outdoors, new lidos and outdoor pools are once again opening across the UK."

If you fancy making a splash this summer, head to your local lido! For more information go to historicpools.org.uk

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