Ilkley Pool and Lido

Ilkley Pool and Lido is an Art Deco gem; its clean lines and geometric tidiness surrounded by the rugged outline of the Yorkshire hills. 

It’s run by Bradford Council but doesn’t have a municipal feel. Think more the vintage glamour of an Agatha Christie adaptation, only with more children in fluorescent swimshorts. (In fact Ilkley Lido has recently celebrated 90 years so the period feel is accurate).

Tennis courts and an indoor pool are open year-round but the lido is undoubtedly the main attraction – and it’s only open seasonally. The pool isn’t heated so the temperature depends on the weather. There is a Nordic Sauna though if you need to warm up afterwards.

Swim sessions are good value considering how lovely this place is, and there’s a picnic area so you don’t have to spend extra on lunch in the cafe if you’re on a budget.

Keep an eye out for special events such as summer solstice sunrise swims, floating sound baths and doggie days.