Cleveland Pools, the UK’s oldest public outdoor swimming pool located in Bath, is set to reopen to visitors for one day only this weekend, although swimming activities will not resume. The historic lido, which dates back over 200 years, will welcome guests on Sunday, 13 September, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the site’s caretakers and learn about future plans.
After being closed for four decades, Cleveland Pools underwent a major restoration project costing £9.3 million and reopened in 2023. However, despite being engineered to be completely flood resistant, the lido suffered flooding twice between January and March 2024, leading to another indefinite closure.
The flooding incidents coincided with the wettest February ever recorded in South England, with rainfall exceeding typical levels by 78% during that month. Since then, the pool has remained closed to swimmers.
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In a recent statement, a spokesperson for Cleveland Pools expressed gratitude for the public’s patience and support, emphasising that the organisation is entering a “brand-new chapter” and intends to maintain closer communication with the community as it plans the way forward. They confirmed that control of the site has returned to the trustees, who are now exploring the best path to reopening the lido as a valuable community asset.
The forthcoming Cleveland Pools Open Day, taking place from 10:30am to 4pm on 13 September, will provide an opportunity for visitors to meet the trustees, engage in discussions about the venue’s future, and contribute ideas. Although swimming will not be available, this event will allow members of the public to visit the Grade II* listed site and participate in shaping its next phase.
Attendance is free, and while registration is not mandatory, visitors can express their interest online ahead of the event. This initiative marks a hopeful step towards ensuring the long-term preservation and community use of Cleveland Pools.