New Bath Lido
About
History of New Bath Lido
The outdoor lido at the New Bath Hotel and Spa in Matlock Bath is a rare and historic gem, first opened in 1934 during the golden age of outdoor swimming. Fed directly by the site’s natural geothermal spring, it is the only lido in England heated by spring water, with temperatures naturally ranging from around 15 °C in winter to 23 °C in summer. Stretching an impressive 40 yards, the pool was once a glamorous leisure destination, its grand opening attended by Olympic swimmers and film stars, and it has retained much of its 1930s charm. Surrounded by lawns, gardens, and dramatic limestone scenery, the chlorine-free pool continues to offer a unique, restorative experience—combining history, health, and relaxation in a setting that has been cherished for generations.
Our Team
Our Lifeguard Team
Your safety is our top priority at the New Bath Hotel and Spa lido, and we’re proud of the dedicated team who make that possible. We always have at least two qualified lifeguards on duty at the pool at all times, with additional cover on busier days to ensure everyone can swim and relax with complete peace of mind. Our lifeguards are not only highly trained but also known for their cheerful and welcoming approach, often receiving praise from first-time visitors for their friendliness and professionalism. Leading the team is our pool manager, Jason “Skip” Skipper, who is almost always on hand at the lido. Skip is not only responsible for day-to-day safety but is also a fountain of knowledge…he is always happy to share stories about the lido’s history and explain the unique spring water that feeds the pool.
Opening Hours
Our opening hours are subject to change. We also close the lido for 2 days each month for cleaning.