The best swimming spots in and around Bristol, perfect for summer

As the warm weather starts to make an appearance, the people of Bristol will want to find a great place to cool off, and there’s nothing like a dip in an outdoor pool or lake to do so. And while many people may have gardens with children’s pools, others may not, but there are many public places in the city and on the outskirts perfect for cooling off.

And it’s not just us adults who love a bit of fun in the water, kids love to splash around and play in the sun, splash around and have fun.

Whether you’re looking for a pool, a lake or something more fun like an inflatable water park, there are plenty of options in and around Bristol. Below is a list of just a few of the most popular places in the Southwest to enjoy this summer.

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Bristol Lido

If you are looking for a sparkling outdoor swimming pool close to the city centre, then this may be the place for you. Bristol Lido has a 24 meter outdoor swimming pool heated to around 20-25 degrees Celsius all year round, making swimming possible even in the colder months. There is also a sauna, steam room and hot tub on the property.

Ticket prices will depend on whether you are a member or not. A non-member can book a 2 hour session for £25 from 10am to 3pm, available 7 days a week. Children’s access is limited between 2pm and 4pm, but you don’t need to book, just pay a £7.50 charge on the door. If you are looking for membership prices or any other information, go to the venue’s website.

Portishead Outdoor Pool

Another great spot for outdoor swimming is the Portishead Open Air Pool, which offers brilliant views of the England-Wales Channel as you paddle. The place offers visitors 33m of pool for people to swim in, as well as a children’s pool, perfect for babies, toddlers and crawlers.

Ticket prices start at £4 for spectators, £5 per person for a family or open swim session and £6 for those wanting to do a lane swim session. For all information visit the pool website for more.

West Country Water Park

If you’re looking for something a little more outdoor adventure-style, West Country Water Park could be the perfect place for you this summer. There is plenty to enjoy from the inflatable water park, windsurfing, remote control boat rides, paddle boarding and kayaking along with open water swimming.

Each activity has its own price and can be booked on the water park website. Open seven days a week, this is definitely a great option for a day in the sun.

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Millennium Square/ Cascade Steps

For those who like something a little more centrally located and free, Millennium Square’s water fountains and the nearby Cascade Steps offer a great space for a little paddling. Located right next to We The Curious, which would make for another great day out, these paddling areas are free and can keep the kids entertained while they wait to head for food at one of the nearby restaurants.

Cotswold Country Park and Beach

For those happy to go a little further afield for a bit of adventure, Cotswold Country Park and Beach could be a great day trip a little further afield. Open daily from 10am to 6pm from July, the park offers outdoor swimming in the massive lake, beach bathing, a range of water sports and an inflatable water park.

To enter the park, people will have to pay per vehicle, the full list can be found on the park’s website, but a car with up to five occupants will cost £18. Most activities will also have an additional cost which can be booked on site or in the park on the day.

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