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Indoor waterparks across the UK with VIP spas, mega slides and 30C tropical climates as UK temps dip

AS RAIN starts pouring in the UK and temperatures dip, you might be craving some warmth and somewhere to take the family that feels like a holiday.

But you don’t need to jet off abroad to escape the British weather.

Alpamare in Scarborough is an alpine-themed waterpark with rides named after ski runs Credit: TripAdvisor
Coral Reef Waterworld in Bracknell has a pirate ship for kids to climb, plus a volcano-themed ride Credit: Coral Reef Waterworld

Across the country, high-tech, indoor aqua parks are offering an oasis away from the rain – with tropical 30C climates, record-breaking wave pools and adrenaline-pumping speed slides.

From waterparks with their own VIP hot tubs and thermal spas for adults, to multi-lane racing chutes for kids, these are the ultimate indoor waterparks that guarantee a fun day out while the British weather does its worst.

Alpamare, Scarborough

Alpamare describes itself as “unlike any waterpark you’ve seen before”, and they might just be right.

This alpine-themed water world has four massive waterslides named after ski runs: the Cresta Run, Olympic Run, Black Run and Snowstorm.

Race down these thrilling water rides through twists, turns and even stops to spin around giant funnel bowls.

There’s also a massive wave pool which erupts with waves every 30 minutes. Or for something more chilled, there’s a huge main indoor pool and even a heated outdoor infinity pool for when the weather picks up.

The relaxation doesn’t stop there – this waterpark has its own spa with a ‘Sauna World’, hammam and health bar.

Inside the Sauna World you’ll find a panoramic Finnish sauna, LED ice showers, a reflexology foot bath and even a unique ‘Hay Bath’.

Here you can lay back on a lounger in a wooden relaxation area packed with fresh hay harvested from the fields of North Yorkshire – a unique form of aromatherapy.

Tickets start at £10 per adult, £7.50 per child and £2.50 per toddler. Book ahead online for the best rates.

Coral Reef Waterworld, Bracknell

One of England’s biggest indoor water worlds, Coral Reef Waterworld is ideal for a family rainy day out with plenty of fun including a giant pirate ship and erupting water volcano.

Indoors, expect tropical temperatures at 30C and a rapid river, bubble pool and children’s splash zone.

The pirate-themed splash area houses a pirate ship called The Coralina, surrounded by water cannons and interactive water features for kids of all ages.

There are also five high-tech waterslides, including The Cannon, which launches riders down a 67 metre-long chute like a cannonball.

Another popular ride is Poseidon’s Peril, where two people are attached to an inflatable raft as it rotates and swirls through colour-changing lights.

Grown-ups can head to the Coral Spa to unwind.

It has heated loungers, three saunas and even a Japanese steam room.

Adult tickets cost £20.55 and children’s cost £14.55. Book tickets ahead online.

Splashdown Waterpark, Poole 

Splashdown Waterpark in Poole has 13 waterslides including terrifying thrill ride The Screamer Credit: TripAdvisor

Home to some of the UK’s wildest waterslides, Splashdown Waterpark in Poole is a total paradise for adrenaline junkies.

This action-packed waterpark boasts 13 indoor and outdoor flumes that operate whatever the weather.

Daredevils can conquer The Screamer, which plummets you through a near-vertical 40-meter drop in under five seconds, or dive into the pitch-black Black Thunder.

If you want a party with your plunge, the Infinity waterslide plays funky tunes alongside a flashing laser show as you whirl around a giant bowl.

Little ones aren’t left out either, with the interactive water cannons at Buccaneer Splash keeping younger kids safely entertained.

Admission for three hours costs £23 per person, £9 for 1-4-year-olds and £6 for children under 1.

Child tickets include entry for a companion adult.

Make sure to book tickets online in advance.

Calypso Cove, Barnsley

Calypso Cove in Barnsley is themed like a tropical island, with plenty to do for young kids Credit: TripAdvisor

Inside the Barnsley Metrodome, Calypso Cove is the North’s ultimate indoor waterpark.

It’s designed to look like a tropical island paradise, making it a huge hit for family days out when the British weather misbehaves.

There are some high-energy water rides here to enjoy, like Terror Torrent, one of the UK’s fastest indoor water flumes.

This thrilling slide hurls riders through tight twists and turns before dropping them out into the pool.

There’s also The Eruption, a volcano-themed ride that spins you around a large bowl before dropping you out at the bottom.

Families with younger kids can climb onto the decks of the large pirate ship play area, while parents with babies and toddlers can enjoy the shallow waters and gentle water fountains of Barnacle Bay.

For a bite to eat, head to The Hideout poolside cafe. Here you can break up your swimming session by walking straight out of the water to grab burgers, chips, and drinks in your swimwear before heading straight back to the slides.

Adult tickets cost £16, under 10s tickets cost £13 and under 3s tickets cost £4. All tickets must be booked in advance online.

The Wave, Coventry

The Wave in Coventry has six high-octane slides for families and thrill-seekers to try Credit: TripAdvisor

The Wave in Coventry is a giant indoor waterpark home to the largest wave pool in the UK.

Jump into the huge pool where the wave machine churns more than 20 million litres of water per day, or drift along in the lazy river.

There are six waterslides for thrill-seekers to brave, including The Riptide, a half-pipe slide that blasts riders in a rubber ring down a near-90-degree drop.

There is also The Cyclone, which spins swimmers around a giant open bowl before dropping you through the middle.

For younger children, The Reef is a vibrant splash pad with its own miniature slides and water fountains safely tucked away from the big flumes.

Meanwhile, grown-ups looking for some me-time can head to the Mana Spa.

There you can swim in a quieter spa pool, unwind in the aromatherapy room and relax in the sauna or steam room.

Tickets cost £15 per adult, £13 for children 11 and under and under ones go free.

Sandcastle Waterpark, Blackpool

Sandcastle Waterpark in Blackpool is the biggest indoor waterpark in the UK Credit: Sandcastle Waterpark Blackpool / Facebook

Sandcastle Waterpark is the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, sitting on the South Promenade opposite popular theme park Pleasure Beach.

This water world packs 18 slides and attractions into a tropical 29C environment, making it the ultimate rainy day saviour.

Take your pick from white-knuckle rides like The Master Blaster, the UK’s longest water rollercoaster, or Montazooma, a head-spinning slide of twists and turns.

There’s also Aztec Falls, a water ride that plunges you into darkness before spinning you around a giant bowl.

The Caribbean Storm Treehouse is a hit with kids, featuring a giant climbing frame topped with a huge coconut that unleashes 600 gallons of water on swimmers below.

Little ones can also challenge each other on the multi-lane Treetops Water Chutes or explore the interactive HMS Thunder Splash pirate ship.

When you need a break from the noise, the adult-only Sea Breeze Spa offers a relaxing escape.

A £7 upgrade secures a three-hour session to unwind across the saunas, steam rooms, foot baths, and aromatherapy lounge.

And if you really want to splash out, the park offers premium Tiki Cabanas for adults.

Priced at £60pp, this VIP package bundles full-day waterpark entry and a free meal with your own private area with a hot tub, flatscreen TV and a fridge stocked with cold drinks.

Tickets start from £25.50 for ages 8+ and £16.50 for kids aged 3-7, with under 3s going free. Make sure to book online in advance, as same-day purchases here can cost you extra.

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Outdoor waterpark forced to close lido at short notice after temperatures hit 33C

Blackpill Lido, Swansea with water features and people relaxing.

A UK waterpark has closed suddenly as the country experiences 33C heat.

Blackpill Lido in Swansea, Wales, is a popular spot that is free for visitors – and is even more popular with the current heat the UK is experiencing and the half-term holidays.

Blackpill Lido, Swansea with water features and people relaxing.
Blackpill Lido in Swansea has closed after damage to the pool floor was found Credit: Supplied

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However, Swansea Council was forced to drain the lido yesterday after the pool floor became damaged.

It is the pool’s second closure in the past month, following sprinklers being stolen from the lido earlier this month.

According to Swansea Bay News, the council revealed that they had been forced to drain the pool on Tuesday after parts of the pool flooring came away.

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A spokesperson for the council said: “Sadly the Lido at Blackpill will be closed for a number of days due to a technical issue.

“Sincere apologies for any inconvenience this has caused and thank you for your understanding.”

In a later update, a council spokesperson added: “Unfortunately, the lido’s flooring has come away in some areas and we’re looking into how it happened.

“We’re aiming to get it fixed as quickly as possible over the coming days and then we’ll refill the lido.”

The council also revealed that even once repair works are complete, it could take a number of days to refill the lido, which will prolong the closure.

Currently, no expected reopening date has been announced.

Blackpill Lido underwent refurbishment in recent years, including launching new water features.



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It’s officially hotter than Santorini this weekend

THE UK is basking in temperatures of up to 30C this bank holiday, it’s even going to be hotter than Greece, or as Sun Travel like to call it – perfect beach bar weather.

If you’re hoping to sip on a cool beer or salty margarita by the coast, check out our favourite spots in Kent, Devon, all the way to the Isle of Wight (and don’t forget your sun cream).

The UK is heating up and it’s time to head to the beach – like this one in Kent Credit: Alamy Stock Photo
One of Lisa Minot’s favourite beach bars is The Hut on the Isle of Wight Credit: The Hut

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Little Swift, Kent

The Little Swift in Kent has views across Margate’s Main Sands beach Credit: Alamy

“Sipping frozen margaritas on the beachfront as the sun sets behind you… there’s hardly a better way to spend a sunny afternoon in the UK.

“And Little Swift in Margate, Kent, is one of my favourite places to do it.
The tiny natural wine & cocktail bar has a number of tables on the pavement out front, overlooking Margate’s Main Sands beach.

“They specialise in frozen cocktails from £9, with flavours ranging from pina colada and margarita to Aperol sours.

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“Grab a drink, people watch, then make your way to Beach Buoys for some of the best fish and chips of your life.” – Caroline McGuire, Head of Sun Travel (Digital)

Bo’s Beach Cafe, Devon

Enjoy a pizza and a cold beer at Bo’s Beach Cafe in Devon Credit: Bo’s Beach Cafe

“The atmosphere may be a little more mellow than some of the other spots mentioned in this list, but the views will surely trump them all.

“The decking from Bo’s Beach Cafe juts out over North Sands beach, a dog-friendly shore in Devon.

“Wooden picnic tables look out towards the bluest of oceans where you can watch the sea tractor roll in and out daily, collecting local passengers from the water and delivering them to dry land.

“Expect to mingle with a mix of laidback locals as well as tourists who prefer to escape the crowds of the nearby Salcombe.

“The pizzas are legendary and can be washed back with an ice cold beer.” – Sophie Swietochowski – Assistant Travel Editor

The Hut, Isle of Wight

Lisa sipped on rose at the laid-back beachfront restaurant at The Hut Credit: Lisa Minot

“For a spectacular sunset cocktail or a chilled glass of rose, there’s no better place to be than The Hut at Colwell Bay on the Isle of Wight.

“This chic, laid-back beachfront restaurant and bar combines the casual charm of a traditional British seaside pavilion with the vibrant, sun-drenched energy of a Mediterranean beach club.

“There’s panoramic views across the Solent from its open-air deck where you can enjoy the freshest seafood while the DJ spins mellow tunes and as night falls, the party really starts.

“The joint is popular with sailors too – and has its own dedicated tender service to bring people from their boats, yachts and dinghies.” – Lisa Minot, Head of Sun Travel

The Venus Cafe, Devon

Cyann recommends Venue Cafe in Devon Credit: Cyann Fielding

“We all know Devon beaches have a lot to boast about, but at the red sand, Broadsands Beach near Paignton, you’ll find the fantastic Venus Cafe.

“With views of the bay, the Venus Cafe has a huge decking area with over 100 seats to soak up the sunshine.

“If you are here in the morning then they breakfasts are a must, but the cafe also serves locally caught fish such as mackerel and sardines at the weekend.

“From the beach bar you can also spot the two Brunel steam railway viaducts, where you will see steam trains chugging along.

“The cocktails are a must here – costing just £9.50, flavours include a tropical pineapple daiquiri with coconut and Salcombe’s Island Street rum.

“Prefer something with more of hit? Pick the Espresso Martini, which is made with local Tors Vodka and a pinch of sea salt (game changer!).” – Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Rockwater, Hove

Alice sipped on an Aperol Spritz at Hove last summer Credit: Alice Penwill

“Last summer during the July heatwave, I was sunning myself in Hove and stopped by Rockwater Beach Club on the promenade.

“The venue is rustic-looking on the outside and blends in with its surroundings with wooden- slatted exterior and huge glass windows.

“The inside is spectacular with plush chairs, a beautiful bar and a holiday-like atmosphere with both locals and tourists chattering away.

“I felt like I was in another country as I sipped on an Aperol Spritz whilst the sun shone through open windows looking over Hove Beach.

“When I go back next, I’m desperate to sit upstairs on the roof terrace which soaks up the sunshine and has sweeping views across the seaside.

“The drinks list is as long as your arm with everything from classic cocktails to refreshing summer coolers.” – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Surf Side, Cornwall

Sophie and her mum enjoyed a cheeky rink at Surf Side in Polzeath Credit: Sophie Swietochowski

“I can think of nowhere I’d rather be on a gloriously hot day than Surf Side on the Cornish shores of Polzeath.

“This lively rum bar is spread across two floors and spills out onto the sands with party goers stomping their feet late into the evening.

“I once heard someone refer to this spot as an “apres-sea” bar and it feels completely fitting with hordes of surfers stumbling in after hitting the waves.

“The food is decent, as well as the cocktails  – sample the local oysters, gorge on a steak sandwich or tuck into moules marnieres (mussels in a white wine sauce).

“Outside on the sands – and part of the bar – you’ll find a little old beach boat that’s been converted into a food van of sorts and sells outdoor BBQ bites and beach fries.” – Sophie Swietochowski – Assistant Travel Editor

Blackpool Sands, Devon

Blackpool Sands Cafe looks-like it could be in the Mediterranean Credit: Instagram

“At Blackpool Sands – which is already very picturesque – you’ll find Blackpool Sands Café, Lounge and Restaurant.

“The tropical-looking lounge has an interior and vibe that transports you to the Mediterranean, with straw umbrellas, floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a heap of natural light.

“And its so close to the beach that the sand even gets inside.

“Dishes on the menu all use locally sourced ingredients, so what you eating feels as good as what you see.

“But – as you are in Devon – make sure to get their cream tea.” – Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter



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My fave UK seaside lido is reopening this weekend after being saved from closure

SUN RAYS warming your cheeks, there’s the gentle smell of a barbecue and kids all around have smiles on their faces, but what could make it more perfect? A lido.

With temperatures soaring to 30C across the UK this bank holiday weekend, a lido seems like the perfect day out and for years on end, it was where I would beeline to in the warm weather.

Teignmouth Lido was saved from closure by the local community Credit: Teignmouth Lido
And it will reopen on May 23 Credit: Facebook/TeignbridgeLeisure

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But I wouldn’t just head to any old lido; my preferred spot is Teignmouth Lido in Devon.

Recently saved by the local community from closure, Teignmouth Lido to most will seem like a regular open air pool.

And while I may be biased as the destination is home to many fond childhood memories with my family (including my dad doing handstands in the water and begging to get ice cream from the counter), the lido does have a lot to boast about.

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The lido can be found in the Devonshire seaside town of Teignmouth Credit: Getty
And is right by the beach and historic pier with arcades Credit: Getty

The pool measures 25-metres-long, between May and September there are usually a whole host of events on and is surrounded by a grassy bank ideal for sunbathing.

If you just fancy a dip, then a two hour block costs £8.40 per adult and £5.40 per child – though you can also get a full-day swim pass costing £15.10 per adult and £9.70 per child.

Just want to watch your kids? You can do that too and pay a smaller spectator fee of £4.40 for two hours, or £7 all day.

Sessions tend to be split between general swims, lane swims and fun sessions but there are also Aqua Fit and ‘Fit for Sea’ sessions.

There are a number of other beaches nearby too, including near The Point Credit: Getty
You can also hop on a ferry from The Point across to the village of Shaldon Credit: Getty

Following the risk of closure earlier this year, the lido has been saved by an outraged local community (including myself) and will be run by Teignbridge District Council this summer before hopefully being sold to the local community.

And really, the lido couldn’t be closer to the seafront – only separated by a wall.

Teignmouth Seafront Beach is huge and features unique red sand you find across Devon.

What makes the beach particularly special is the amount you can do there, such as heading along the South West Coast Path and watching trains whizz by at Teignmouth Railway View.

Also by the beach is a play park, skate park and crazy golf Credit: Getty
The town centre is free of big branded chains and boasts cosy cafes instead Credit: Alamy

Halfway down the beach you’ll also find Teignmouth Pier.

Standing since 1867, the pier is just one of two pleasure piers left in the South West of the country.

Inside you can find all you would expect of a traditional seaside pier, such as penny arcade machines and even modern video games.

You can also grab a bite to eat and ice cream on the pier.

At the other end of the beach, there is then Jurassic Adventure Golf – ideal for a bit of competitive family fun – and the play park.

There’s also a historic lighthouse near the seafront Credit: Getty

If all of this wasn’t enough, the promenade along the entirety of the seafront is flat and wide, making it the ideal spot for rollerblading or testing out skateboarding before dropping into the skate park.

The final stop at the far end of the beach is the lighthouse, which is relatively small but built from grey stone and is definitely worth checking out for its unique look.

If you don’t mind walking slightly further, you’ll reach The Point – a narrow split of sand at the mouth of the Teign Estuary where the river meets the sea.

And if you are lucky enough as I have been on a few occasions, you might spot a seal or dolphin.

And many independent shops and a museum in the town centre Credit: Alamy

It is a great spot to explore and see the neighbouring village of Shaldon on the opposite side of the river, though just don’t enter the water here as the currents can be quite strong.

Shaldon is pretty to explore as well, with pastel coloured houses and a handful of cosy cafes and pubs.

If you want to explore Shaldon, you can hop on a short ferry ride across the estuary from The Point.

Back in Teignmouth town centre there is more to see, including Teignmouth Museum and a number of independent shops, cafes and pubs.

The lack of big brand, high street chains really makes it feel like a traditional, vintage seaside town.

The very best thing about Teignmouth? All of this is within a short walk of the town’s train station and whichever direction you travel to the station in, you will get fantastic views of red ancient desert sandstone cliffs, beautiful beaches, nature reserves and sprawling estuary.



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The UK’s FREE lidos, sea pools and splash pads

SUNSHINE and hot weather in the UK has felt like a long time coming and finally this weekend it will reach highs of 30C – ideal for spending time at a lido.

And you are not short for choice when it comes to picking a lido – with over 100 across the country.

There are a number of lidos across the UK that are completely free to enter including Mount Wise Pools, in Plymouth Credit: Google maps
Another free spot is Summer Splash in Royal Docks, London Credit: Royal docks/Instagram

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Even though most charge admission fees (unless you’re a toddler), there are some gems that are free and others that have ways to get around paying.

Free to all

Whether it be a tidal pool or open-air lido, there are a number of venues around the UK that are completely free for everyone to visit.

For example, Bude Sea Pool in Cornwall is a semi-natural tidal pool, found right on the beach.

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In Margate, Kent, you could head to Walpole Bay Tidal Pool for free – it is Grade II listed and is the UK’s largest tidal pool.

Over in Wales, you could visit Blackpill Lido in Swansea, which also has a children’s play area and climbing rock.

Embedded in the rock, Pittenweem Tidal Pool in Fife, Scotland is another free tidal pool.

Also in Fife, you can head to St Monans Tidal Pool, which is next to a historic windmill.

Another great option down in Devon is Mount Wise Pools, which is free for everyone and boasts three pools – a 25-metre main pool, a fun pool with fountains, a whirlpool and a bubble pool and a paddling pool for kids.

As for paddling pools, you could head to Stoke Park paddling pool in Guildford.

There are a number of free splash pads too across the country, such as Great Hollands in Wokingham – which has 13 water soakers, two bucket drenchers, fountain jets and water tunnels.

Pittenweem pool on the Fife Coastal Path in Fife, Scotland, is in the rock Credit: Alamy

Free for certain age groups

Depending on your age, there might be some offers available to you at a lido or swimming spot near you.

For example, if you are under 16-years-old or over 60, you could head to Hamstead Heath Ponds in London, for free before 9:30am.

The same applies to Parliament Hill Lido in London.

It is worth checking whether any pools or lidos have age-related offers, with the most common being free entry for under 16s or 18s and for over 60s.

Free for local residents

There are some other lidos that offer free passes to certain groups such as Tooting Bec Lido Credit: Alamy

Your local council might give out free swim passes or access to lidos near you.

For example, if you are a Wandsworth resident in London, under 18-years-old, a student or from a low income household – you can swim for free at Tooting Bec Lido.

Often you will need to bring proof of address and age to get free access, but it is worth looking into if your area offers such a scheme.

Other offers

There are some other lido offers across the UK that can get you free access.

For example, there are many pop-up lidos across the UK, which are usually free to visit.

You could also head to Hamstead Heath Ponds for free if you are in a certain age group Credit: Alamy

For example, Summer Splash in East London is an outdoor lido that sits over the water at Royal Victoria Dock and will return between July 25 and August 17.

Another chance to get free entry is on open days, usually in September.

Across the UK, thousands of venues usually open their doors for free as part of England‘s largest festival of history and culture.

You will often find historic, Art Deco lidos participating.

Keep an eye out for lidos offering taster sessions too, which are usually free.



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All the lidos opening across the UK this bank holiday weekend as temperatures set to reach 28C

ACROSS the UK this bank holiday weekend, temperatures are set to hit 28C and what better way to enjoy it than heading for a refreshing dip?

Well, the good news for Brits is that there are a ton of lidos reopening this weekend across the country.

There are a number of lidos across the UK opening this weekend, including Teignmouth Lido in Devon Credit: Facebook/TeignbridgeLeisure
Elsewhere in Devon, Salcombe Lido will also be reopening this weekend Credit: Tripadvisor

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Saturday May 23

Lots of lidos will be reopening on Saturday May 23, including some with upgrades.

In Devon, Teignmouth Lido will reopen after being saved from closure by the local community.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding who grew up in the area and visited the lido each summer, said: “Teignmouth Lido is more than just a gem on the South West coast; for me, it’s the backdrop of my childhood.

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Hitchin Lido in Hertfordshire will open on Saturday Credit: Tripadvisor

“For over a decade, my school summer holidays were defined by afternoons spent there with my family.

“With ample patio and sun-drenched patches of grass surrounding the 25-metre crystal clear pool, it was the rare kind of place where parents could relax while kids felt a bit of freedom.”

Swim sessions cost from £8.40 per adult and £5.40 per child.

Also in Devon, Moretonhampstead Lido has recently been upgraded with a new pool lining.

Sessions at the 25-metre, 27C heated pool cost from £4 per child and £5.50 per adult.

In Cornwall, Mount Wise Lido is also reopening and is free to visit.

The lido claims to be “one of the best outdoor swimming complexes in the country” with a 25- metre main pool, fun pool with fountains, stepping stones and awhirlpoolo, and a separate paddling pool.

Riverside Park and Pools in Wallingford will open this weekend as well and is located directly next to a campsite, making it the ideal weekend escape.

Woodstock Lido in Oxfordshire will also reopen on Saturday Credit: Facebook

Swim sessions cost £7 per person to swim and you can stay in the neighbouring campsite for £35 a night.

Other lidos reopening on Saturday include:

  • Letchworth Lido, Hertfordshire
  • Hitchin Lido, Hertfordshire
  • Aldershot Lido, Hampshire
  • Bathurst Pool, Gloucestershire
  • Bourne Outdoor Swimming Pool, Lincolnshire
  • Clyst Hydon Lido, Devon
  • Eversholt Swimming Pool, Bedfordshire
  • Finchley Outdoor Lido, London
  • Greystoke Lido, Cumbria
  • Hayle Lido, Cornwall
  • Brightlingsea Lido, Essex
  • Salcombe Lido, Devon
  • Shap Lido, Cumbria
  • Tinside Lido, Devon
  • Woodstock Lido, Oxfordshire

Sunday May 24

Three lidos are set to reopen for the season on Sunday.

The first is Chagford Lido, near Dartmoor in Devon, which will celebrate with a barbeque from 2pm.

Having originally opened back in the 1930s, the lido can be found on the banks of the River Teign and is heated to 27C.

Chagford Lido near Dartmoor National Park will reopen on Sunday Credit: Facebook/ChagfordSwimmingPool

There is also a Tea Shed for refreshments and snacks as well as a toddler pool.

You don’t need to book to visit, and sessions cost from £6.50 for an adult swim or £3.50 per child.

Also opening on Sunday in Devon is Dartmouth Lido, which is heated to 28C and stretches 25 metres by 8.5 metres.

There is also a small shop onsite and two-hour sessions cost from £7 per adult and £5 per child.

Over in York, Helmsley Lido – Yorkshire‘s only open air pool – will also open on Sunday.

Sessions cost from £6.25 per adult and £3.95 per child.



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The cool English campsite that ‘transports you to the Caribbean’ is right by the UK’s best beach

THE sun is making more of an appearance and the temperature is warming up, so there couldn’t be a more perfect time than now to book a camping holiday.

And what better place to go to than a campsite that is right by the UK’s best beach?

Henry’s Campsite is family-run and right by one of the best beaches in England Credit: Henry’s Campsite

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Henry’s Campsite is family-run and can be found at the most southerly point of Cornwall and some visitors have even said it feels like being in the ‘Caribbean‘.

On the site, there are a variety of different pitches including ones with a sea view.

Each has an electrical hookup, with some also surrounded by exotic plants.

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As for facilities, the campsite has four showers, seven toilets, hot water, washing up facilities, a large washing machine and the showers cost 40p for three minutes.

For some quick essentials, there’s an onsite shop too that sells BBQ charcoal and even local cider.

Pitches are surrounded by exotic plants and some spots even have sea views Credit: HENRY’S CAMPSITE

Each pitch also comes with bricks, in case you want to create a firepit during the warm summer evenings.

To book, keen campers will need to email Henry’s Campsite directly with as many details as possible to secure a spot.

For those who would opt for glamping over camping, there’s the option to book the Bell Tent which comes with either a double bed and single beds, a lamp, rug, and a trunk.

The seaside campsite and its location is such a hit with travellers that it’s even been said to look like it belongs elsewhere.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “A campsite with a real difference – designed with thought, flair, and so many little touches that make you smile.

The campsite is 25-minutes from Kynance Cove on the Lizard peninsular Credit: Alamy

“We stayed on the 16th and 17th of September when the wind was howling and the rain pouring down, yet the ambience around the site (especially the main facilities) transported us to the Caribbean!”

Another called it an “outstanding site… such a gem I don’t want to share it!”

Adding to its beauty is the fact that it’s under half an hour away from Kynance Cove.

The beach was recently named the 26th best beach in Europe, according to Europe’s Best Beaches 2026 awards – and was the only one in England to make the list.

The beach is known for its soft white sand and bright blue waters – and it’s also one of the warmest stretches of coastline in the UK.

Aside from beaches, guests nearby can visit Lizard Village – it’s a great spot to grab a bite to eat whether that be the seaside staple fish and chips, to Cornish pasties or a cream tea.

The fishing village of Cadgwith Cove known for its pretty thatched cottages and shingle beach is just three miles away.



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Eight of the best free things to do across the UK as country to be hotter than GREECE during bank holiday weekend

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Aerial view of the coastline of Bude Bay with the Bude Sea Pool and Crooklets Beach in North Cornwall, England, Image 2 shows An overhead view of Dreamland Margate amusement park with a Ferris wheel, several roller coasters, and various rides, Image 3 shows Burford Garden Centre in Oxfordshire, England, showing a large indoor space with numerous plants, a long table with four chairs, and a rattan canopy

WITH the UK heating up this month, it can be tempting to splash the cash and make the most of the sunshine.

During the May Bank Holiday, the UK could hit highs of 25C according to the BBC – compared to just 23C in Santorini that day.

From garden centres to pools, there are lots of free things to do to make the most of the weather Credit: Google maps

BUT there are still lots of fun things you can do to make the most of the weather without having to spend a penny.

This includes everything from outdoor swimming pools and playgrounds to markets and hikes – so here are eight of the best ideas for how to make the most of the weather.

1. Hit up a lido

Lots of outdoor swimming pools are free across the UK – if you know where to find them.

In Swansea there is Blackpill Lido, while many seapools like Shoalstone Seawater Pool in Devon has no entry charges either, along with Bude Sea Pool.

COAST ALONG

Top 10 beach bars that make you feel like you’re abroad as UK to hit 24C


MAYDAY

Latest UK Met Office weather forecast for the early May bank holiday

There are lots of sea pools – like one in Bude – that are free to visit Credit: Alamy

2. Go to a huge adventure playground

While most small playgrounds are free, there are some bigger adventure ones that don’t cost either – there’s the Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone, which is the biggest in the southeast.

Or in London there is the Tumbling Bay Playground in the Queen Elizaeth Olympic Park.

3. Head to a seaside theme park

Did you know that a lot of theme parks on the coast are free to visit?

One’s like Dreamland in Margate or Adventure Island in Southend-on-Sea have free entry – instead you pay to go on the rides (so non riders can get all of the vibes without the cost).

Theme parks like Dreamland only charge you to go on the rides Credit: Alamy

4. Go to a museum

The UK is one of the best in the world for having free museums, so you’re spoilt for choice.

In London there is everything from the Natural History Museum and Science Museum to the Tate Modern and V&A Museum; in York there is the National Railways Museum while the Museum of Liverpool and the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford are all free too.

5. Explore some castle gardens

History buffs can explore some beautiful castle grounds without having to reach into their wallet.

Try Liverpool Castle (weirdly not in Liverpool but in Lancashire) or Cardiff Castle in Wales (although you will need a ticket go into the castle itself).

The UK has a huge range of free museums to go to Credit: Alamy

6. Try a garden centre

With everything from animals to playgrounds, why not take the kids to a garden centre?

There’s the celeb-popular Burford Garden Centre in the Cotswolds or Bridgemere Garden Centre in Cheshire, which is the biggest in the UK.

7. Plan a hike

If you love a good walk, the UK has lots of them.

There is the recently opened King Charles III Coastal Path, running along the Kent coast; a short option of Hadrian’s Wall that takes just a few hours; or part of the Thames Path from Windsor to Eton which is around four miles.

Plan a beautiful hike, like part of Hadrian’s Wall Credit: Alamy

8. Explore some markets

If you can avoid wanting to spend, then a beautiful market is often the place for stunning architecture and even sometimes some live shows.

Grainger Market in Newcastle is known for its food, while Leadenhall Market in London is beautiful just to look at.

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