Lidos serve as a vital gateway for individuals transitioning from traditional pool swimming to the exhilarating world of outdoor swimming. They are invaluable assets to any community fortunate enough to have them, and the village of Greystoke is one such lucky place.
A Rich History
The origins of Greystoke’s swimming pool trace back to 1929, when Lady Mable Howard inaugurated the Greystoke village bowling green. This green was a beloved fixture for many years, but during World War II, it fell into disuse and was never restored. Decades later, the land was entrusted to the villagers, with the Greystoke Football team taking residence. Then, in April 1969, a public meeting sparked the idea of converting part of the playing field into a swimming pool. After years of dedicated fundraising, the Greystoke Swimming Pool was officially opened on May 19, 1973, by Mr. and Mrs. Mason from Blencow. At that time, season tickets were just £2.50, with daily admission set at 15p for adults and 10p for children. Over the years, the pool has seen several upgrades, the most recent in 2019 at a cost of £170,000.
Location and Access
Greystoke’s swimming pool is conveniently located just 5.3 miles from Penrith, a brief 11-minute drive along the B5288. The pool is adjacent to the playing field, with parking available along the road.
Admission and Facilities
The pool operates from May to September, with two afternoon sessions: 1:00 pm - 3:15 pm, followed by a 30-minute lifeguard break, and then 3:45 pm - 6:00 pm. Booking in advance is recommended.
- Adults: £8
- ‘Silver Swimmers’ (Over 60s): £7
- Children (4-16 years old): £5
- Preschool Children: £3
- Spectators: £1
Season tickets are also available, granting access to the Adult Swimming Club, which allows members to use the pool outside public hours. However, these sessions are not lifeguarded, so solo swimming is prohibited.
My Experience at Greystoke Lido
I arrived early for my 3:45 pm session at Greystoke, where I was warmly welcomed by a friendly volunteer managing the quaint community café. After checking me in, she kindly walked me through the available facilities.
While there are no lockers, guests are advised to keep their belongings poolside. The pool itself was pleasantly heated to 25°C during my visit—comfortable enough to swim laps but not colder than the lakes, offering a perfect balance for challenging lane swimming in a swimming costume. The changing facilities were clean and well-maintained, with male, female, and family areas, as well as hot showers.
Greystoke & District Swimming Pool had long been on my list to visit, and it did not disappoint. The facilities were pristine, and the staff were exceptionally welcoming. I enjoyed several peaceful laps before the pool became busier. At one point, I found myself floating leisurely, taking in the sights of the open-air pool. From one end, the view of St. Andrew’s Church, with its 13th-century turrets, gave the scene a castle-like ambiance. My attention then shifted to a flock of starlings soaring overhead and the moon, already visible at 4 pm, eerily reminiscent of the Death Star.
The atmosphere in the pool was cheerful and courteous. I overheard one father gently reminding his children to be mindful of other swimmers, a gesture I silently appreciated. One woman I spoke to looked like she was struggling with the 25 degree waters, so I told her the trick I use when submerging into much colder lake waters. “Splash yourself to prep your skin, then take a deep breath in, and as you breathe out, submerge.” I carry on with my length and when I turn, she has a big smile on her face “oooh that worked!”
A Community Treasure
I have a deep affection for volunteer-run lidos like Greystoke and Shap. They are more than just swimming pools; they are community hubs that foster human connection and a sense of belonging. The café alone offers a space for locals to gather and socialise. The pool is maintained and operated by volunteers, who are constantly fundraising and seeking new members to join their team. If you’re a local who can lend a hand, consider reaching out via email at greystokepool@gmail.com, posting on their Facebook page, or speaking to a volunteer during your next visit. Or simply make a habit of swimming there regularly. In these challenging economic times, community-led initiatives like this need support more than ever. Pools are expensive to run, but they are worth every penny for the joy and well-being they bring to a community.
Thank you, Greystoke. I’ll be back!
