UK lido loved by families with water slides, fountains and free parking | Travel News | Travel

Having opened its doors to the public since schools’ May half-term, enjoy a summery day out at the UK’s most family-friendly lido.

The open-air swimming pool has waterslides, a one-metre fixed diving board for practising dives, and a separate shallow pool for little ones.

In addition to the three thrilling flumes and water fountain feature, the pool is surrounded by a spacious grassy area perfect for picnics.

The grassy area is a popular spot for sunbathing and picnicking. Visitors are allowed to bring their own food, or they can purchase snacks from two nearby food stalls.

Moreover, there’s a large children’s sandpit and a basketball area, perfect for shooting hoops and playing games with friends.

Just a stone’s throw from the Surrey border, the Aldershot Lido boasts two snack shacks offering nachos, waffles, ice creams and beverages. According to Tripadvisor reviews, the food is commendable.

One review reads: “Really good day out. Cheap for what you get. Staff nice, pool is clean, the food available is nice, you can also bring a picnic if you want to.”

Another visitor commented: “Fab day out today. Yes, the water is a little chilly at first but, on a sunny day, it’s lovely once you get in!”

Another added: “Busy but not overly crowded, we were still able to park in the car park and find somewhere to sit on the grass area a little further out. Yummy ice cream from the waffle bar and nice chops from the tiki bar. Lots of nice snacks and drinks are available. We had a super fun day and will return.”

The pool was also praised for its cleanliness, and the site was commended for being well-managed with friendly staff. There’s also a shop on-site selling inflatables, goggles and other swimming equipment that visitors have found useful.

However, there is one minor complaint visitors have about the pool. Some had voiced that the water was cold, but this did not affect the overall star rating.

One reviewer enthused: “We came down from London and really enjoyed our day. Huge swimming pool, great slides, sand pit for little ones, paddling pool and lots of grass area. The water was freezing but great on a hot day. Will definitely be back!”

The website does make it clear that the water isn’t heated, so this should not come as a shock to visitors. On sweltering days, the chilly water can feel refreshing.

Another visitor expressed their desire for extended opening hours, noting they travelled from just outside London to enjoy the facilities. The pool currently closes at 5.45pm, with all guests expected to leave by 6pm.

The review read: “Beautiful outdoor pool; the kids love it. We were travelling from Ilford so quite far but it was worth it. Lovely stuff; clean area, I just wish they could be open until 8pm.”

Do note the lido is only open during the summer and is likely to close its doors for another year from September.

On the final day of the swimming season, however, dogs are given free rein in the pool. Owners can bring up to two dogs each for a swim at the lido.

Additional Information:

• Children under eight must always be accompanied by an adult in the water and the changing rooms.
• Tickets are available online, with prices set at £10.50 for adults, £7.50 for children and seniors, while under-threes, disabled swimmers, and carers can enter free of charge.
• Guests are welcome to bring picnics, but alcohol and barbeques are prohibited.
• A no-show fee of £2.50 per person is charged, and tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.
• The facility shuts promptly at 5.45pm, and patrons must vacate by 6pm.
• Aldershot Lido is conveniently situated just a 15-minute drive from the M3.
• Parking is complimentary, including five spaces designated for disabled badge holders.