London Rd, Hilsea, Portsmouth PO2 9RP
Hilsea Lido
Hilsea Lido is a freshwater lido at Hilsea, Portsmouth, England. The lido was closed for a number of years but reopened undergoing refurbishment under the control of Hilsea Lido Pool for the People.
Location
About
Hilsea Lido is a public swimming pool located in the city of Portsmouth, England. It is one of the most popular attractions for tourists visiting the area, and for good reason. With its beautiful surroundings, range of facilities and welcoming atmosphere, Hilsea Lido is an excellent place to spend a day out.
History of Hilsea Lido
Hilsea Lido was first opened in 1935 as part of a larger leisure complex in the area. It quickly became a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, with its large outdoor pool and surrounding parkland offering a perfect setting for a day out in the sun.
In the years following its opening, Hilsea Lido underwent several changes, including the addition of an indoor pool and a range of other facilities. However, by the turn of the 21st century, the Lido had fallen into disrepair and was closed to the public.
Fortunately, in recent years, a group of volunteers have worked tirelessly to restore the Lido to its former glory, with the pool reopening in 2017 after a major renovation project.
What to Expect at Hilsea Lido
Today, Hilsea Lido offers visitors a range of facilities, including a 50-meter outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a paddling pool for younger children, and a range of water features.
In addition to the swimming facilities, Hilsea Lido also has a large grassy area surrounding the pool, complete with picnic benches and plenty of space for families to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
For those who prefer to stay active, there is a range of sports facilities available, including tennis courts, basketball courts, and a skate park.
Finally, there is a café on-site, serving a range of snacks and refreshments throughout the day.
Visiting Hilsea Lido
If you are visiting Portsmouth and looking for a fun day out in the sun, Hilsea Lido is an excellent choice. The pool is open throughout the summer months, from May to September, with daily admission fees starting from just a few pounds.
To make the most of your visit, it is recommended that you bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and a towel, as well as any swimming equipment you may need. The grassy area surrounding the pool can get very busy on hot days, so it is advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Overall, Hilsea Lido is a fantastic destination for families and visitors to Portsmouth. With its range of facilities, stunning surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere, it is no surprise that it is so popular with locals and tourists alike.
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Things to do nearby
Hilsea Lido is a beautiful outdoor swimming pool located in the city of Portsmouth, England. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, especially during the summer months. However, there is more to do and see in the surrounding area. In this article, we will explore some of the best places to visit and things to do near Hilsea Lido from a tourist perspective.
1. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. It is home to several historic ships, including the HMS Victory, which was Lord Nelson's flagship during the Battle of Trafalgar. Other highlights include the Mary Rose Museum, which showcases the remains of a Tudor warship that sank in 1545, and the National Museum of the Royal Navy, which explores the history of the Royal Navy.
2. Southsea Seafront
Just a short distance from Hilsea Lido is the Southsea Seafront, a popular spot for a relaxing day out by the sea. The seafront is home to several attractions, including the Southsea Castle, a 16th-century fort, and the Southsea Model Village, a miniature world featuring scaled-down versions of landmarks from around the world.
3. Gunwharf Quays
If you are in the mood for shopping, Gunwharf Quays is the place to be. It is a waterfront shopping center that features over 90 designer outlets, as well as several restaurants, bars, and cafes. There is also a cinema and a bowling alley, making it an excellent destination for families.
4. Spinnaker Tower
Located in Gunwharf Quays, the Spinnaker Tower is an iconic landmark that offers breathtaking views of Portsmouth Harbour and beyond. The tower stands at 170 meters tall and features a glass floor, which is not for the faint-hearted. You can also enjoy a meal or a drink at the tower's café or restaurant, which offers panoramic views of the city.
5. D-Day Museum and Overlord Embroidery
The D-Day Museum and Overlord Embroidery is another fascinating attraction in the area. It is home to an impressive collection of artifacts, including vehicles, uniforms, and personal items that belonged to the soldiers who took part in the D-Day landings. The museum also features the Overlord Embroidery, a 272-foot-long tapestry that depicts the events of the D-Day landings.
6. Fratton Park
For football fans, a visit to Fratton Park is a must. It is the home ground of Portsmouth Football Club, one of the oldest football clubs in England. If you are lucky enough to be in town on a matchday, you can experience the passion and excitement of the local fans firsthand.
In conclusion, there is no shortage of things to do and see near Hilsea Lido. Whether you are interested in history, shopping, or just enjoying a day out by the sea, there is something for everyone in Portsmouth. So, if you are planning a visit to the area, be sure to check out these fantastic attractions.