Reviving History: Britain’s Oldest Lido in Bath Reopens After Restoration

Cleveland Pools in Bath is set to reopen to the public for swimming from Sunday, September 10th, 2023, following an extensive restoration project that has brought new life to this beloved Grade II listed Goergian lido.

The restoration was made possible through the dedicated efforts of passionate volunteers who led the 20-year effort, with invaluable support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

In celebration of this significant opening and in conjunction with Heritage Open Days, visitors can swim for free on Sunday, September 10th. To secure your spot, you will need to book in advance. Tickets will be available on the Cleveland Pools website from 10am on Saturday, September 2nd. 

Cleveland Pools is the oldest public outdoor swimming pool in the UK. Its origins trace back to 1815, when it initially operated as a pool fed by the river. Over time, the site underwent a colourful evolution, spanning the Victorian era and through the 1970s. However, the emergence of the Bath Sports and Leisure Centre, an indoor facility, eventually led to the closure of Cleveland Pools for swimming in 1984. 

Following its brief stint as a trout farm, the pool faced the threat of demolition. In 2003, the Bath and North East Somerset council, the site's owners, put it up for sale, landing it on the English Heritage Buildings at Risk Register. It was at this point that three locals - Ann Dunlop, Janice Dreisbach, and Roger Houghton - united to establish the Cleveland Pools Trust (CPT) in 2004. Their aim was to rescue the pools from disrepair.  

The Total Guide to Bath team are really excited to hear that the Lido is returning. We can’t wait to join the rest of the community of Bath for a refreshing swim. 

More details regarding operating hours, swimming schedules, and admission fees will be available soon on their website from September 11th, 2023. 

https://www.clevelandpools.org.uk/  

Photo Credit: Cleveland Pools