A stunning lido in the UK offers so much more than just the revitalising waters of its pool, visitors can also enjoy tapas and meze or cocktails and massages – in what has been described as a taste of the Med
A Grade II listed pool with its own spa, Georgian guesthouse and restaurant overlooking the pool has been hailed as an “oasis of relaxation” by one returning customer.
Britain has numerous lidos dotted up and down the country, many of which have been or are being lovingly restored from their former 1930s glory when they were built by local councils. Our increasing passion for outdoor and cold water swimming is spurring this rejuvenation on and they are once again becoming valuable community venues to enjoy exercise and social interaction in a safe environment.
While some lidos feature an on site cafe or eatery to grab a snack, there are few that provide a whole package of relaxation that includes spa treatments, a poolside bar, terrace restaurant and its own guesthouses. However the Bristol lido in historic Clifton sets itself apart by offering visitors so much more than a just refreshing swim.
It is tucked inside a courtyard of Georgian terraces and boasts a 24 metre outdoor pool that is heated throughout the year to allow for comfortable swimming at all times. But if it’s real warmth you’re after there is also a sauna, hot tub and steam room to kick back in.
For those in need of some extra relaxation, the spa offers tailor-made massages, using its bespoke own-brand Lido oils. “Whether you’re looking for deep relaxation, mood enhancement, body rejuvenation or simply a blissful facial, the talented therapists will find the perfect treatment for you,” says Visit Bristol.
When it comes to recharging, the poolside bar serves tapas and meze as well as cakes, pastries and coffee. Anyone who wants a more hearty meal can book a table in the restaurant which is situated in the old viewing gallery of the Clifton Pool. It still has many features of the Victorian building as well floor to ceiling windows that slide back to reveal a perfect view of the pool, which is dramatically lit up at night.
It serves a variety of dishes inspired by the flavours of Spain, Morocco and Turkey, many of which are made using locally sourced ingredients. There is also a selection of wine and cocktails available. Time Out said a visit to Bristol lido with its unique attractions and amenities is, “like taking a flight to some far-flung Mediterranean resort”. Special swim and dine packages are available and for those who don’t want to leave, The Lido Townhouse is a five-bedroom Georgian townhouse situated nearby. It has five renovated rooms available for guests to relax in.
One “impressed” visitor shared their time at the lido on Tripadvisor, writing: “Wow what a brilliant place to stay. Loved everything about Bristol Lido. The location, the vibe, the decor, the service. We stayed in Room 4, really impressive! We will definitely make this our first choice to stay when visiting Bristol next.”
Another opted to have a festive party there and were equally happy: “We chose the beautiful Clifton Lido for our small physio business Christmas gathering: Swim and Dine Package. It suited us down to the ground and we loved the christmassy lights and the magical feel of the Lido 🙂 We had the chance to relax and challenge ourselves with cold water, hot saunas and a cool swim in the dark before a gorgeous meal and wine. Thank you for such a great space for our team gathering, we loved every second (and thanks for lending me a decent swimsuit!!). I think we would all like to do the same next year!”
A third was a returning visitor who hailed the lido as an “oasis of relaxation”. They raved: As a former member returning after a long period away I wasn’t sure how I would feel about returning to the Lido until I did and as it always had been, was a perfect place to escape all the stresses and strains of life and dive into a little oasis of relaxation with a community feel to it. I have never found anywhere quite like it either before or since. The pool is great for swimming, sitting in the hot tub watching the clouds go past through the gorgeous floral hanging baskets has long been a favourite pastime of mine, and the ‘new’ (to me) sauna is quite spacious. Food as always was delicious – had been dreaming about the scallops and they didn’t disappoint. Didn’t really want to go home but then at the Lido you somehow never really do.”