Your Guide to Cheltenham Lido

Cheltenham Lido offers a unique day out for the whole family. With its water slides, children’s pool and exciting events, the lido is ideal for creating new memories with your little ones. 

Sandford Park Lido rests in the heart of Cheltenham, and is a fantastic place to spend quality time together. Set to reopen in March, we have answered all of your questions ready for a day at the lido.

Continue reading to find out more about Cheltenham Lido…

About

Built in 1935, Cheltenham Lido, is one of 98 lidos left in the country, making it a must-visit. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed dip or an upbeat class, this outdoor pool has something for everyone.

 

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Home to a paddling pool, slides and a children’s pool, you and your family can have a splash in the sun. Whilst here, you can refuel your excursions with light refreshments from the snack bar too.

How big is Sandford Park Lido?

Sandford Park Lido is a whopping 50 metres, ideal for events, parties, and activities. With its two lanes, which are reserved majority of the time, this lido is great for training.

Cheltenham Lido is the one of the largest outdoor pools in England, attracting many visitors throughout the year.

Is Sandford Lido heated?

This open-air, fun facility is heated in spring and Summer but not during the winter months.

 

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History

Opened to the public in 1935 by the mayor, this Lido in Cheltenham has seen a lot of change throughout the years.

During the 1980s, the lido struggled to remain open due to a lack of funding from authorities. But with the help from the local community and Charitable Trust, enough funding was raised to save the pool.

In 2006, the lido received an impressive grant, which included a refurbishment and a maintenance plan. Then in 2012, Cheltenham Lido was used for Olympic training by the Malawi team.

Cheltenham Lido opening

Pack your swimming costumes and towels because Sandford Park Lido is reopening the 27th of March! Make the most of the beginning of Spring with a day lounging by the pool sipping refreshing beverages.

Sandford Lido Events

To join in amusing events, we have compiled a list of the best events happening at the lido throughout 2023.

Cheltenham Lido dog swimming

Jump in the water with your furry friend for the Cheltenham Lido dog swim! This family-friendly event takes place on the 7th and 8th of October.

 

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Get down to Cheltenham Lido from 9.30am-16.30pm and have a paddle with your canine.

Season Ticket Holders’ Pre-Season Swim

Be the first to dip into the pool ahead of the opening date! On the 24th of March, season ticket holders can take advantage of the 50m pool for leisurely or training purposes.

Easter Eggstravaganza

Enjoy a family day filled with fun this Easter at Easter Eggstaravganza. The little ones can meet the Easter Bunny, as well as take part in various games and activities.

From hook-a-duck and slides in the water to a large bouncy castle, your children will be spoilt for choice! The Easter Eggstravaganza takes place the 8th of April at 11am- 5pm (entrance cost to be considered).

World’s Biggest Aqua Class

On the 1st of May, get together for aqua aerobics at the World’s Biggest Aqua Class. Don’t worry about breaking a sweat as you will be kept cool by the water.

 

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This upbeat event is from 10am-10.30am, with entry costing £5 and £3.50 for season ticket holders.

A Rockin’ & Swingin’ Summer’s Evening with Pete Gill & The Good Time Charlies

If you’re a lover of live music, get down to the lido in Cheltenham and tune into rock and roll. Dance around with family and friends as Pete Gill & The Good Time Charlies perform their favourite songs.

 

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This Sandford Parks Lido event is on Saturday the 10th of June and starts at 7.30pm-10pm.
For even more events, click here.

Sandford Lido opening times

Now, only the main pool is open. But times will change when Cheltenham Lido officially opens in Spring. Then, the opening times will be longer and the children’s pool and café will be available also.

 

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Main pool: Wednesday 11am-12pm & 12:15pm-1:15pm, Saturday & Sunday 9:30am-10:30am & 10:45am-11:45am.

Any changes with opening times can be found on the Cheltenham Lido website here.

Do you have to book to go to the Lido?

Yes, you can book online here. However, to book the children’s pool be sure to book that directly as a main pool booking does not give access to the child’s pool.

How much is parking at Sandford Lido?

The parking at Sandford Park Lido starts at £2 for just one hour.
2 hours – £3.80
3 hours – £5.10
4 hours – £6.20
5 hours – £7.80
6+hours – £10.60

 

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At this car park, you can pay with either coins, card or phone. Although, if you have a season ticket, you park for free for up to 4 hours if you are using the lido.

Cheltenham Lido tickets

Season tickets for 2023 are now available. With a season ticket you get many perks, including priority entry, discount to classes, unlimited visits and much more! Click here to secure a 2023 season ticket.

 

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Where to find Sandford Lido in Cheltenham

Address: Keynsham Road, GL53 7PU, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

How to contact

Phone number: 0124 524430

Instagram: sandfordparkslido

Twitter: @lidocheltenham

 

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Places to stay nearby

Settled on the edge of the Cotswolds, Sandford Park Lido is near wonderful places to stay. Whether you want to stay in the heart of Cheltenham or escape to the rural village of Bourton-on-the-Water. You are also within easy reach of the market towns of Stow-on-the-Wold and Moreton-in-Marsh.

If you want to take a dip in Cheltenham Lido this year, we hope this guide has helped with your planning.

For more fun things to do on your staycation, discover our blog, ‘Lacock Abbey: Everything you need to know!‘ Or immerse yourself in The Magic of Summer Solstice at Stonehenge.