The wait is over for fans of outdoor swimming as Ware Priory Lido has re-opened following a £500,000 refurbishment.
More than 80 years after first opening its doors to the public, the lido has undergone a makeover which includes new changing rooms with large family cubicles and disabled facilities, a new grassed area and new paving and surfacing around the pools. The space within the lido building has been reorganised to create a new room which can be used for shelter and as a party room for private pool hirers.
The project was funded by Ware-based GlaxoSmithKline to mark their 300th Anniversary and was officially re-opened by the chief executive of GSK and the mayor of Ware, Jonathan Kaye, on May 27th.
Lidos around the UK are enjoying a revival as outdoor swimming grows in popularity, and with the pool water at the Priory lido heated to up to 806F (30C), swimmers can take a dip even on chilly days.
Ware Lido opened in 1934 and is situated in the grounds of Ware Priory, close to the town centre. It was substantially altered in the 1970s and is now one of the last open-air pools in the area. It comprises a 30m main outdoor pool and a smaller learner pool as well as a nearby refreshment kiosk.
The golden age of lidos in the United Kingdom was in the 1930s, when outdoor swimming became popular, and 169 were built across the UK as recreational facilities by local councils. Many lidos closed when foreign holidays became less expensive, but those that remain have a dedicated following.
The term Lido is an Italian word for "beach" and forms part of the place name of several Italian seaside towns, such as Lido di Venezia, the barrier beach enclosing the Venetian Lagoon.
Ware Lido is open now until Sunday, September 6. Fully qualified RLSS Pool Lifeguards and a First Aider are on duty at all times.
The Lido is in Priory Street, Ware, beside the Priory Park. There is free parking for approximately 10 cars (and a cycle rack). Alternative pay and display car parks can be found in Priory Street, or in Burgage Lane (known as the ‘library’ car park), off Ware High Street. Limited on street parking is available at the weekend.
Ware Town Lido - tel: 01920 460703.
For the 2016 Ware Lido season leaflet visit: www.waretowncouncil.gov.uk
Friends of Ware Lido
If you would like to join a local group of regular Lido users who support the Lido with a variety of duties and help, please email FOWLIDO@gmail.com or leave your details with the Lido reception staff.
