Portsmouth's Historic Hilsea Lido Set for Grand Reopening After Major Revamp
Portsmouth's iconic Hilsea Lido, a cherished landmark on the southern coastline since 1935, is poised to welcome swimmers once again after a comprehensive £7.6 million refurbishment. The 90-year-old freshwater lido, which closed to the public in 2022, will officially reopen on 2 May 2026, marking its first public access in four years. This timely revival aligns perfectly with the upcoming summer season, offering a refreshed aquatic experience for the local community and visitors alike.
Extensive Upgrades and New Amenities
The multi-million pound revamp has transformed Hilsea Lido into a modern leisure destination while preserving its historic charm. Key improvements include the installation of a brand-new filtration system, replacing outdated pool equipment, and structural enhancements using over 80 tonnes of steel and 30 lorry-loads of concrete to stabilise the pool base and walls. Additionally, the original shallow lagoons have been meticulously restored to their former glory.
New amenities have been introduced to elevate the visitor experience. These include a sauna, pop-up food and drink offerings, and fully accessible toilet and shower units, such as a Changing Places toilet. However, the spectator stand at the north of the site was removed due to safety concerns. The lido will now feature recovery zones and social spaces, alongside family activities, aiming to foster a vibrant community hub.
Membership Options and Pricing Details
To celebrate the reopening, Hilsea Lido is offering an exclusive membership deal for the first 500 people who sign up before it opens. This includes unlimited swimming and sauna use for £40 per month on a 12-month contract, with no joining fee. Other membership tiers will be available, such as swim and sauna from £48 a month or swim-only for £32 a month. For casual visitors, pay-per-session options are priced at £8 each for swimming or sauna use.
Historical Significance and Cultural Impact
Hilsea Lido holds a special place in British cultural history, recognisable from scenes in the 1975 feature film Tommy, based on The Who's rock opera album. Originally one of Britain's deepest outdoor pools at 4.6 metres, it now maintains a generous depth of 2.6 metres. The Art Deco design adds to its architectural appeal, making it a beloved site for generations.
Management and Community Vision
The lido will be operated by Sea Lanes Brighton in partnership with South Downs Leisure, with both organisations recruiting nearly 30 new roles ahead of the reopening. Judit Kollat, General Manager at Hilsea Lido, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The work that Portsmouth City Council has done to refurbish Hilsea Lido has enabled us to regenerate it. It is more than a pool, it's a place with history and heart. We aim to create a vibrant hub for the local community, a centre for both mental and physical wellbeing. The Lido will offer something for everyone."
This reopening not only restores a piece of Portsmouth's heritage but also promises to enhance community wellbeing through recreational and social opportunities, solidifying Hilsea Lido as a cornerstone of local life.
