There’s just nothing like taking a wee swim in the fresh Scottish air, as long as it’s not one of those “all four seasons in one day” days. Thankfully, we don’t always have to face the waves in the sea, with plenty of outdoor pools to check out near and far from Glasgow, depending on how far you want to go.
1. Gourock Outdoor Pool
Gourock Outdoor Pool is one of our favourite outdoor pools, located under an hour from Glasgow in Gourcok, close to the train station. Guests can enjoy awesome views over the Clyde Estuary, and the pool itself is heated up to 29 degrees!
2. St Monans tidal pool, Fife
Tidal pool enthusiasts can head to St Monans tidal pool in Fife for a more adventurous swim, moving with the waves and the tide. It was unusable until 2021, until a group of locals cleared the pool, so visitors could swim in it again. Swimmers should also keep in mind that not only will you be sharing the pool with local wildlife, such as crabs, but the pool is not professionally maintained. So, swim at your own risk!
3. Tamar Manoukian New Cumnock Pool, East Ayrshire
Tamar Manoukian New Cumnock Pool is around an hour’s drive from Glasgow, and is loved by the local community as well as visitors. Adults and children are offered swimming lessons and fitness classes, with a colourful timetable with activities, such as Aqua Fit, school lessons and After School Club. While a single swim costs £3.50 for adults, swimmers can also purchase a monthly pass for £30, with other prices and the full timetable available here.
4. Gateway Swimming Pool, Jupiter Artland, Edinburgh
Now this is one of the quirkiest outdoor pools on the list! Jupiter Artland is home to the ‘Gateway’ by Joana Vasconcelos, which is an artwork within a fully functioning swimming pool. Guests can not only have a swim in this super instagrammable outdoor pool, but also explore other exhibitions within the sculpture park, such as an actual amethyst cave.
“Gateway is a big splash that invites the public to immerse in a joyful and spirited dimension, leading to a connection with the energy of the Earth. It’s like a threshold to another universe that we’re not conscious of but through which we can flow.”, said Joana Vasconcelos.
5. Stonehaven Open Air Pool, Aberdeenshire
The last two outdoor pools on the list are a wee bit further out, yet still worth the trip. The Stonehaven Open Air Pool is the UK’s only art deco Olympic-sized seawater lido, well worthy of a mention. The summer is exceptionally exciting at the venue, with things to do like Aqua Zumba, live music, plenty of inflatables and even a chute. However, all the fun comes at a price: adults pay £10 for a day ticket, while children aged 6-18 pay £6.60. For further information, check out their website.
6. The Trinkie Tidal Pool, Wick
Located all the way up North in Wick, The Trinkie Tidal Pool underwent some renovations last year, welcoming visitors to experience a seawater swim at its best. People have been enjoying the pool for 70 years now, bringing some much-needed joy on those sunny days.