Swimming is one of the best total body workouts; it is low impact and can do wonders for your mental as well as your physical health.
Throughout Ireland and the UK there are plenty of historic pools featuring stunning architecture and phenomenal views – and here are some of the best to visit…1. Saltdean Lido, Brighton
Even if you are not a big swimmer, Saltdean lido is worth a visit for the architecture alone. The Art Deco white building looks out over a crescent-shaped swimming pool, situated right next to the sea. The pool itself has been restored, and there are plans to do the same to the building, with the aim of making the whole complex sustainable.
The Baths at Clontarf, Dublin
Clontarf Baths first opened in 1886 and features a 900 square metre pool, awash with seawater to dive into. Along with the pool, there’s a terrace, bar and restaurant on-site. To swim at the baths, you’ll need to join the historic Clontarf Swim Club.3. Brockwell Lido, London
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Established in 1937, this unheated pool sits inside south London’s Brockwell Park. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city, known to have the odd duck paddling too, and was fully renovated in 2007 to suit modern users.
4. Bristol Lido, Bristol
If you were in the market for a more exclusive-feeling lido experience, head to Bristol’s outdoor pool. Bristol Lido is permanently heated to between 20-24 degrees C and certainly has a deluxe feel to it. It’s a relatively small pool surrounded by a restaurant and spa, which comes with a sauna, steam room and hot tub. 5. Belmullet Tidal Pool, County Mayo
Belmullet Tidal Pool is a pretty stunning spot for an outdoor swim. It’s a man-made pool built using modernist concrete, jutting out into the sea, and is free to splash about in.6. Gourock Outdoor Swimming Pool, Renfrewshire
This salt water pool hasn’t yet reopened, but hopefully soon will. It’s heated to a balmy 29 degrees Celsius, and once you’re done with your swim, you can sit on the terrace and enjoy the sweeping views out onto the Clyde Estuary.
