Q: What is the temperature of the pool?
A: The natural geo-thermal spring feed enters the shallow end at a constant 19.8 degrees Celsius (around 68 degrees F). The feed is a continuous flow and therefore holds a good temperature throughout the pool but due to exposure to air temperature, the main body of water varies between 15 degrees C in the depth of winter and 23 degrees C on a very hot Summers day. The most typical range though is 17-19 degrees.
Q: Is the pool really naturally spring fed?
A: Yes. Nothing added and nothing taken away. The spring water from exiting the ground is very simply gravity fed toward the shallow end and continuously flows through the pool and is then routed to the River Derwent. The perfect quality, purity and balance of the mineral rich water has been recently proven by a Doctor in Hydrogeology.
Q: What is the size of the pool?
A: Originally constructed in 1934 with imperial measurements, the pool measures Forty yards in length by Fourteen yards in width. Length equates to approx. 36.5metres.
Q: Is the pool heated?
A: No is the short answer to this very frequently asked question. There is no artificial boosting of the pools temperature although the spring water exits from deep underground before feeding the pool, hence the term ‘Geo-thermal’. Before entering the pool for the first time however, we strongly urge swimmers to consider and manage their expectations. For those not used to swimming at this temperature, the environment can feel very cold indeed and duration of swim time and aftercare should be considered in order to avoid hypothermia.
Q: What is the maximum capacity of the pool?
A: 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).
Q. Is it free for hotel guests to use the pool?
A. Yes it is free for hotel guests to use the pool. Just present a room key to the Lifeguards on duty and sign in at the Pool entrance.
Q: Are children allowed to swim?
A: No. We currently operate with an over 18 only policy.
Why?: Pool temperature, pool depth etc. and safety measures in place, currently do not lend themselves to being a very child friendly environment. This policy is subject to change however so please keep an eye on our announcements. We have not ruled out occasional, adequately supervised, family sessions in the summer months. Our current concession to this rule is a Family Friendly hour at 4-5pm during School Holidays only.
Q: How deep is the pool?
A: 2.7 metres maximum depth in the end closest to the entrance/exit. The shallow end measures approximately 1 metre in depth and very gradually slopes down toward the deep end where at two thirds of the pool’s length, there is a sudden slope to the maximum depth.
Q: Do you have changing facilities?
A: 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.
Q: Can you wear a Wetsuit?
A: Yes, of course. This is very much a wetsuit friendly pool and very often advised if not used to swimming at these temperatures.
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Please refer to the current timetable on this website. The timetable is subject to change with slightly reduced hours during the Winter months.
Q: Do I need to book a swim?
A: Yes. Please book your swim session online
Q: What is the cost to use the pool?
A: Pay as you Go tickets are available from the One Journey booking system for £10 per session.
Q: Can I cancel a ticket after it is booked?
A: If for whatever reason you are no longer able to make your booked swim then please contact us on poolside, leisure@newbathhotelandspa.com to rearrange the time or refund if necessary.
Q: How do I become a member?
A: Please check out our pool membership page on this website or contact us at the Pool for any membership enquiries, leisure@newbathhotelandspa.com.
Q: Do you offer swimming lessons?
A: 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.
Q: Do you welcome swimming clubs?
A: We currently have very restricted hours available outside of the scheduled timetable but if you are a club, (swimming or other) looking for pool time, please get in touch and we will see if we can accommodate you. leisure@newbathhotelandspa.com.