Frequently Asked Questions

Our lido is fed by a natural geothermal spring that enters at a steady 19.8°C (around 68°F) at the shallow end. Thanks to this continuous spring flow, the water maintains a stable temperature throughout the pool. However, since it's open to the elements, the overall water temperature does vary with the seasons — typically ranging from 15°C in the depths of winter to around 23°C on the hottest summer days. Most of the year, you can expect a refreshing swim in the 17–19°C range.

Yes, it truly is. The water comes straight from a natural spring and flows into the pool by gravity—nothing is added, and nothing is taken away. It continuously moves through the pool before being directed into the River Derwent.

The pool was originally built in 1934 using imperial measurements and measures 40 yards long by 14 yards wide. That’s approximately 36.5 metres in length, offering plenty of space for both leisurely swims and more active lengths.

In short, no — the pool is not artificially heated. The water comes from a geothermal spring that rises from deep underground, which is why it enters the pool at a naturally warm 19.8°C. However, because the pool is open to the elements, the overall water temperature can feel quite cool, especially to those not used to swimming in natural spring water.

We are currently operating the pool with an online booking system. This is to ensure we avoid overcrowding. The usual configuration of the pool is with three wide lanes and with no more than ten swimmers per lane. This leaves one narrow lane marked as a Disability lane which we like to leave empty for anyone that needs it. (This set-up is subject to change but never to the detriment of what we consider unsafe or uncomfortable for our swimmers' experience).

Yes it is free for hotel guests to use the lido. Just present a room key to the Lifeguards on duty and sign in at the lido entrance.

No. We currently operate with an over 18 only policy. This policy is subject to change however so please keep an eye on our social media pages for announcements.

The lido has a maximum depth of 2.7 metres at the end closest to the entrance/exit. The shallow end starts at approximately 1 metre deep and gradually slopes towards the deeper section. About two-thirds of the way along, there is a noticeable drop to the lido's maximum depth.

The original 1930’s Hut still exists but does not provide ample changing facilities. There are two toilets and a sink on site. There are plans to expand the facilities in due course and to include Showers.

This is very much a wetsuit friendly lido and very often advised if not used to swimming at these temperatures. However, this is entirely at your own discretion. We do, however, require that swimming caps be worn, for hygiene purposes.

Please refer to the current timetable on this website. The timetable is subject to change with slightly reduced hours during the Winter months.

Yes, if you are not a hotel guest. Please book your swim session online or by calling the hotel directly.

Pay as you go tickets are available from the One Journey booking system for £10 per session.

Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be cancelled.

Please check out our lido membership page on this website or contact us at the lido for any membership enquiries, leisure@newbathhotelandspa.com.

Yes. For any help with Swimming, either lessons or coaching, whether it’s to learn Front Crawl, or any help with technique, stroke correction or planning towards a swim challenge, then please have a word with the Lifeguards or email leisure@newbathhotelandspa.com. Our lifeguards are experienced swimming teachers from Level 2 ASA to Level 3 Coaching in Triathlon.

We currently have very restricted hours available outside of the scheduled timetable but if you are a club, (swimming or other) looking for lido time, please get in touch and we will see if we can accommodate you. leisure@newbathhotelandspa.com.