Outdoor swimming pools in Kent

by Lauren Abbott

Looking for a place to cool off?

Keen on finding your holiday vibe without leaving the county?
We take a look at some of Kent's outdoor pools and splash parks open this summer:

Blossom Fentiman, 10 enjoying a swim at the re-opening of the Faversham outdoor swimming pool for the summer
Blossom Fentiman, 10 enjoying a swim at the re-opening of the Faversham outdoor swimming pool for the summer

Faversham

Faversham Pools boasts a 33m outdoor pool, fun pool, toddler pool as well as a grassed area for picnics, paved area, cafeteria and outside kiosk.

The outside swimming areas at the centre in Leslie Smith Drive opened for the summer season in May. And on days where the weather might be a shade inclement - there's plenty of indoor swimming facilities too.

For further information, prices and weekly opening times click here.

The Whirlpool and paddling pools after the re-opening of the Faversham outdoor swimming pool for the summer
The Whirlpool and paddling pools after the re-opening of the Faversham outdoor swimming pool for the summer

Tonbridge

Great indoor and outdoor swimming for all is promised in Tonbridge!

Tonbridge Swimming Pool has an outdoor pool which opens from April until the end of September.

The heated pool, just off Tonbridge High Street, has a water arch, beach area and a swim through channel to the indoor pools.

During busy periods a band system will operate and customers will be limited to a 2 hour maximum stay.

For further information visit the pool's website.

There are plenty of places to take the kids to cool off
There are plenty of places to take the kids to cool off

Swanley

Swanley Park, formerly New Barn Park, has a vast number of attractions for families including a large paddling pool with water features.

The area, which is sectioned off from the rest of the park, has access to the public toilets, cafeteria and bouncy castles.

The popular padding pool is just one of a number of attractions at the park.

There is also a boating lake, play areas, mini golf course, battery cars and a miniature railway.

For further information visit Swanley Town Council's website.

Medway

The Strand Pool in Gillingham is Medway's only open air swimming pool.

Nestled among the parkland and play areas, the lido comes into its own in the summer months.

The pool is open until September and boasts space for fitness swimming, slides and children's splash areas, paddling pools and a lazy river.

Other attractions at The Strand include crazy golf, inflatables and a miniature railway.

For more information visit The Strand Pool website.

The Strand Pool, Gillingham
The Strand Pool, Gillingham

Walmer

This traditional paddling pool has a very attractive setting on the Walmer Green surrounded by lawns and next to the beach.

Young families travel for miles to take advantage of the free facilities.

The pool has qualified lifeguards, a refreshment kiosk, changing rooms and toilets, and deck chairs for hire.

Opening hours can be subject to the weather so it is best to check in advance before heading to the pool.

More information can be found on the website or receive updates through its facebook page.

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