The Best Outdoor Swimming Pools In Kent

By Olivia Emily

10 months ago

Happy splashing


Looking to make a splash in Kent? Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly haven or an invigoratingly icy dip, the garden of England offers a wealth of swimming pool options. From serene outdoor pools to thrilling wild swimming spots, read on to find the perfect swimming pool in Kent for you.

The Best Swimming Pools In Kent

Faversham Pools

First opened in 1964, Faversham Pools is an iconic spot offering swimming year-round across two indoor pools (with a Jacuzzi to boot) in natural light-filled spaces, and summer swims in three outdoor pools. Fuel up in the Tide Cafe with fresh coffee, homemade meals and tasty cake. Plus, if you’d like to romanticise your life, the 33 metre heated outdoor lido is open year-round for Sunset Swims.

Find It: Leslie Smith Drive, Faversham ME13 8PW. favershampools.com

 

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Tonbridge Swimming Pool

Originally built in 1910, this lovely outdoor heated swimming pool is open from April to September, and has a neighbouring indoor pool inside, as well as a spa with sauna and steam room. Lounge in the beach area after your swim, where you can also grab something tasty to eat.

Find It: Castle Street, Tonbridge TN9 1HR. tmactive.co.uk

The Strand Lido & Leisure Park

This riverside tidal saltwater swimming pool in Kent was first opened in 1896, and is the only remaining pool of its kind left in the country. Expect six 25 metre lanes for fitness swimming, alongside an outdoor leisure pool, 300 metre lazy river, and paddle pool and slides, perfect for kids.

Find It: Pier Road, Gillingham ME7 1TT. Open on weekends, then every day during the summer holidays. medway.gov.uk

Walpole Bay Tidal Pool

Built and opened in 1937 and now Grade II listed, this four acre tidal pool – thought to be the UK’s largest tidal pool – reaches depths of 6 foot in places, perfect for a refreshing swim. There are no toilets or lifeguards and the pool can get rough at high tide, so tread carefully. Situated right by popular Margate’s Old Town, embark on some post-swim explorations, or a stroll along the beach.

Find It: Walpole Bay, Hodges Gap, Margate CT9 2JN. visitthanet.co.uk

Bewl Water

For open water swimming fans, try Bewl Water, where you can enjoy natural recreational swimming, or improve your athletic performance with the help of experts if you so wish. Meanwhile, kids will have a blast at the summer Aqua Park, where an inflatable obstacle course takes over a portion of the lake. Elsewhere at Bewl, make a day of it with pedalos, paddle boarding, and plenty of scenic strolls.

Find It: Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Wadhurst TN3 8JH. bewlwater.co.uk

Walmer Paddling Pool

Got little ones you’re looking to make a splash with? Located by the beach, Walmer Paddling Pool is part of an adventure golf site – but is perfect for a cool off on a hot day. There’s also deck chairs for hire, hot snacks and ice cream.

Find It: Marine Road, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DN. walmeradventuregolf.co.uk