Best Lidos Around Bristol & Somerset

Looking for a top-tier spot to smash out some lengths in the open air? Here’s your guide to the region’s standout lidos. If you’re after swimming with charm, history & the sun on your face, here’s how to find it.

‍Size: 250m long, 15,000 sq m (about two football pitches!)

Water type: Saltwater

Cost: Free

Temperature: Unheated

Run by: Volunteers

Open: All year round

Cafe: 5 on the Beach is a solid option, just a short walk away.

Transport: On-street parking or bus/cycle from Bristol.

Facilities: No toilets, showers or changing rooms.

Incredibly large tidal pool. It’s silty (so don’t expect crystal-clear water), but the view up to Clevedon Pier & the infinity-edge vibe under the cliffs make it worth it. Swimmers tend to gather below Poet’s Walk, with an easygoing & friendly community. Water quality is tested every two weeks (check their website), but avoid at high tide when waves crash over the sea wall. If you’re looking for uninterrupted open water swimming, this is a brilliant spot with a bit of a wild edge.

‍Size: 33 x 17m

Water type: Freshwater

Cost: £6.25 for lane swimming

Temperature: Heated April–October, unheated November–March

Run by: Volunteers

Open: All year round

Cafe: On-site, serving excellent coffee & cakes.

Transport: Free on-street parking, or cycle the Pill path from Bristol.

Facilities: Changing rooms, warm showers & toilets.

This retro spot is absolutely charming. The heated pool is ideal for summer swims, & the unheated winter option attracts a crowd of hardy swimmers. The view of the Welsh hills is stunning, & the community is strong. The lane sessions are your best bet to dodge the more leisurely crowd. Events like full-moon swims & ice swimming comps keep things interesting year-round.

‍Size: 24m pool

Water type: Freshwater

Cost: From £25 (spa access included)

Temperature: Heated year-round

Run by: Privately managed

Open: All year round

Cafe: High-end poolside restaurant & cafe with seasonal dishes.

Transport: No on-site parking; nearby options or walk/cycle from Clifton.

Facilities: Changing rooms, sauna, steam room & hot tub.

Clifton’s historic lido is a luxurious spot. Perfect for a restorative swim, the heated pool is made for smooth laps. Come late in the evening or mid-morning/afternoon for quieter lane swimming. Combine it with a sauna & steam for post-swim zen, or stick around for a meal at the restaurant. Booking your swim in advance is essential. It’s pricier, sure, but for those days when you want to treat yourself, it’s unbeatable.

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Size: 30m pool

Water type: Freshwater

Cost: £6.50 for adults

Temperature: Heated

Run by: Volunteers

Open: Seasonal (April–September)

Cafe: On-site for drinks & snacks.

Transport: Free parking; buses run from Glastonbury & Wells.

Facilities: Changing rooms, toilets & showers.

Greenbank’s more about a laid-back swim than a hardcore session. The space around the pool is sunny & open, making it a decent spot to relax after a swim, & you could combine with a trip to Glastonbury, Wells or a stroll in the Mendips.

Size: 25m pool

Water type: Freshwater

Cost: £5.50 for adults

Temperature: Heated

Run by: Volunteers

Open: Seasonal (May–September)

Cafe: Light refreshments on-site.

Transport: Free parking nearby & accessible via bus.

Facilities: Basic changing rooms, toilets & showers.

This is a solid choice if you’re after straightforward swimming. The 25m length is good for structured session, & it’s usually less crowded than other pools in the region. You can tag it onto a walk or trail run in the Mendips. There’s not much frill, but that’s part of the charm. Turn up, swim, leave happy.

Size: 27m pool

Water type: Freshwater

Cost: £5 for adults

Temperature: Heated

Run by: Volunteers

Open: Seasonal (April–September)

Cafe: Small snack bar with drinks & ice creams.

Transport: Free on-street parking & buses from Taunton.

Facilities: Changing rooms, toilets & showers.

This is a hidden gem for swimmers who love a community feel. It’s not often crowded outside of peak summer days, but only having 3 lanes means you could find yourself caught out by a busier pool. You could combine this with a walk or trail run in Exmoor or the Quantock Hills. All-in-all, it’s good for a no-nonsense swim in a peaceful setting.