Outdoor pools are not a regular sight in Scotland, even though wild swimming has been on the rise. There is still time to visit Gourock Outdoor Pool this year, which elevates the swimming experience by a mile, offering a heated swim with views over the Clyde Estuary.
Gourock Outdoor Pool is just under an hour from Glasgow, located just an eight-minute walk from the train station. Part of Inverclyde Leisure, the facilities have been freshly refurbished as part of a £1.8m renovation project. As a result, the pool now boasts modern changing facilities, a new gym with beautiful water vistas and better accessibility.
Probably one of the best things to do with kids this summer, the heated saltwater pool has re-opened its doors for the season on May 3 at 4pm, 2024, with children able to travel for just £1 on ScotRail. Gourock Outdoor Pool is open until September 30 this year, and you can find the full swimming programme here.
When the sun is out, visitors will feel like they are on holiday with the water being heated to 29 degrees (and most like significantly warmer than the weather). What is more, there is a terraced area for guests to relax which is particularly enjoyable in the sun while kicking back, with chairs and sun loungers to relax on.
There is a big pool with proper swimming lanes, as well as a kiddie pool which is open between 12pm and 4pm on weekdays and between 11am and 3pm on weekends. The big pool’s opening hours are 7:30am to 7pm on weekdays and from 10am until 4pm on weekends.
Starlight Swim
The pool also hosts late-night swimming events under the starry skies, which tend to sell out fast. Usually held on Wednesdays, Starlight Swim sessions take place between 10pm and midnight and are on track to come back for 2024 starting in May 15 and taking place every Wednesday until the end of September. You can follow along for more dates and tickets on the Inverclyde Leisure website.