With Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands braced for yet another heatwave over the weekend, finding ways to cool off will once again be a challenge to us all.
In the absence of a coastal breeze, those of us here in the centre of the centre of the country often feel the heat more than most.
Thankfully, there are ways and means of cooling off over the weekend that don’t involve a two-hour trip to the coast.
Swimming is a great way to cool off during times of hot weather - and it just so happens that the East Midlands is blessed with quite a few amazing outdoor pools.
Even if swimming isn’t your thing, take a picnic and a book to relax while others cool off in the water.
Ahead of the sizzling weekend, we’ve chosen 4 of the best outdoor pools and lidos in and around the East Midlands that you should consider visiting.
Discover these 4 top-rated pools in the gallery below:
1. Hathersage Swimming Pool - Oddfellows Rd, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1DU
Hathersage Swimming Pool offers stunning views over the Peak District. Hathersage has been dubbed the UK’s most scenic swimming pool, and it’s easy to understand why. Swimmers enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills and traditional stone cottages, which goes some way to justifying the reasonable £8 entry fee. Booking online is advised. | Hathersage Swimming Pool Photo: Hathersage Swimming Pool
2. Bourne Outdoor Swimming Pool - Abbey Lawns, Abbey Rd, Bourne PE10 9LN
The Bourne Outdoor Swimming Pool has been operated and maintained by volunteers since 1990. The 50-yard near-Olympic size heated pool is one of the largest of the few surviving outdoor pools in the country. Admission if £7 for adults and £5 for children. | Bourne Outdoor Swimming Pool Photo: Bourne Outdoor Swimming Pool
3. Jubilee Park Swimming Pool - Stixwould Rd, Woodhall Spa LN10 6QH
Situated in the Lincolnshire town of Woodhall Spa, Jubilee Park Swimming Pool offers a safe place for all ages to cool off. Entry is priced at £7.50 for adults and £6.50 for children. Booking online is advised to avoid disappointment. | Jubilee Park Swimming Pool Photo: Jubilee Park Swimming Pool
4. Ashby Leisure Centre & Lido - North St, Ashby-de-la-Zouch LE65 1HU
The outdoor pool at Ashby Leisure Centre has been used by swimmers from far and wide since 1929. The 30m by 10m heated main pool is available for fun public swimming sessions throughout the summer season. Whether you want to enjoy the cooling water or relax by the poolside, it’s ideal for everyone, especially children and families. Entry is £5.90 for adults and £3.90 for children. | Ashby Leisure Centre & Lido Photo: Ashby Leisure Centre & Lido