Kent’s Loveliest Open Air Swimming Pools
By
3 weeks ago
Happy splashing
Looking to make a splash in Kent? Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly haven or an invigoratingly icy dip, the garden of England offers a wealth of open air swimming options. From serene outdoor pools to thrilling wild swimming spots, read on to find the perfect swimming pool in Kent for you.
Best Outdoor Swimming Pools In Kent 2025
Faversham Pools, Faversham
First opened in 1964, Faversham Pools is an iconic spot offering swimming year-round across two indoor pools (with a Jacuzzi to boot) in natural light-filled spaces, and summer swims in three outdoor pools. Fuel up in the Tide Cafe with fresh coffee, homemade meals and tasty cake. Plus, if you’d like to romanticise your life, the 33 metre heated outdoor lido is open year-round for Sunset Swims.
Address: Leslie Smith Drive, Faversham ME13 8PW
Prices: £8.30 for adults, £6.70 for children aged 15 and under, £1 for children aged 2 and under.
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Tonbridge Swimming Pool, Tonbridge
Originally built in 1910, this lovely outdoor heated swimming pool is now open year-round in response to increased demand from visitors. It used to be a summer-only spot, with a neighbouring pool inside, as well as a spa with sauna and steam room. The pool is nice an spacious with a fun water arch to please youngsters. Lounge in the beach area after your swim, where you can also grab something tasty to eat.
Address: Castle Street, Tonbridge TN9 1HR
Prices: £9.50 for adults, £5.90 for children, £1.40 for under 3s.
The Strand Lido & Leisure Park, Gillingham
This riverside tidal saltwater swimming pool in Kent was first opened in 1896, and is the only remaining pool of its kind left in the country. Expect six 25 metre lanes for fitness swimming, alongside an outdoor leisure pool, 300 metre lazy river, and paddle pool and slides, perfect for kids. Open on weekends from May onwards, then every day during the summer holidays.
Address: Pier Road, Gillingham ME7 1TT
Prices: £7.80 for adults, £5.15 for kids over 3 years old.
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Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, Margate
Built and opened in 1937 and now Grade II listed, this four acre tidal pool – thought to be the UK’s largest tidal pool – reaches depths of 6ft in places, perfect for a refreshing swim. There are no toilets or lifeguards and the pool can get rough at high tide, so tread carefully. Situated right by popular Margate’s Old Town, embark on some post-swim explorations, or a stroll along the beach.
Find It: Walpole Bay, Hodges Gap, Margate CT9 2JN
Prices: It’s free to swim in Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, and you don’t need to book ahead.
Bewl Water, Wadhurst
Open water swimming fans should try Bewl Water where you can enjoy natural recreational swimming or improve your athletic performance with the help of experts if you wish. Meanwhile, kids will have a blast at the summer Aqua Park where an inflatable obstacle course takes over a portion of the lake. Elsewhere at Bewl, make a day of it with pedalos, paddle boarding, and plenty of scenic strolls.
Address: Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Wadhurst TN3 8JH
Prices: Swimming is £8pp, with a minimum age of 14 years. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Aqua Park tickets are £25pp.
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Walmer Paddling Pool, Deal
Got little ones you’re looking to make a splash with? Located by the beach, Walmer Paddling Pool is part of an adventure golf site – but is perfect for a cool off on a hot day. There are also deck chairs for hire, hot snacks and ice cream.
Find It: Marine Road, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DN
Prices: Walmer Paddling Pool is free to visit, and is open 10am to 5pm throughout the summer season.
