It’s hot out there today. So you’d better find ways to cool off quickly. Luckily, Bristol is surrounded by incredible outdoor swimming spots, but one of the country’s best can actually be found in the heart of the city. But there’s more than one reason to visit Bristol Lido—including a poolside restaurant and spa treatments.
The restored Victorian swimming pool originally opened in 1850, but found new life at the start of the 21st century after a huge restoration project. Boasting a 24-metre, low-chlorine outdoor pool, heated throughout the year at around 20-25°C, Bristol Lido provides one of the most comfortable swimming experiences in the city.
If you’re going to visit, however, then you might as well take advantage of all the spa facilities. Enjoy a bit of heat therapy in the steam room or Scandinavian-style sauna—each with its own cold water drench buckets. Then relax in the gentle hot tub, or even book a 60-minute massage, from facials to hot stones.
But it’s the food that has me constantly returning. Whether you’re after small plates or a quick snack from the poolside bar, or a three-course meal from the restaurant in the original viewing gallery, the Lido offers a taste of the Mediterranean in Clifton—often using the chargrill and clay oven.
How much does it cost?
To become a member, it costs £50 to join and then £80 monthly for to enjoy all facilities—but, to be honest, memberships are currently full with a long waiting list, so that probably doesn’t concern you if you want to swim urgently.
Luckily, you can also book a two-hour session for £25 (Monday-Thursday) or £30 (Friday-Sunday). There are also exciting packages available, like the swim and lunch deal for £50, offering pool and spa facilities followed by a two-course a la carte meal.
Why was Bristol Lido named one of the best open-air swimming pools in the UK?
Betway Casino has analysed social data from Instagram alongside Google search volume to reveal the most popular lidos in the UK. Described as “a tranquil escape with its spa, restaurant, and stylish urban setting”, Bristol Lido came 11th—with 1,662 Instagram hashtags and 142,200 Google searches.
The most popular lidos in the UK:
- Brockwell Lido, London
- London Fields Lido, London
- Tooting Bec Lido, London
- Thames Lido, Reading
- Saltdean Lido, Sussex
- Jubilee Pool, Cornwall
- Parliament Hill Lido, London
- Hampton Pool, London
- Guildford Lido, Surrey
- Ilkley Lido, Yorkshire
- Bristol Lido, Bristol
- Woolacombe Sands Holiday Park, Devon
- Tinside Lido, Devon
- Sandford Parks Lido, Gloucestershire
- Lido Ponty, Wales
📍 Bristol Lido, Oakfield Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BJ
🌐 To learn more about Bristol Lido head here.