A beloved lido in Kent, often compared to pools in Greece and the Mediterranean, is set to reopen for the summer season in May, just in time for warmer weather.
Strand Lido: A Mediterranean Escape in Kent
Since opening in 1896, the Strand Lido in Gillingham has been a favourite among local families and now attracts tourists from further afield. With its crystal-clear blue waters, splashpad, and a 300-metre-long lazy river, the lido offers an experience reminiscent of an overseas hotel pool.
Located just over an hour from London, the Strand Lido is the only riverside saltwater pool in the UK. The pool is fed by the River Medway, then filtered and chlorinated to ensure safety for swimmers.
Features and Facilities
The lido boasts six 25-metre swimming lanes, a toddler paddling pool, and fun water fountains. The pool is unheated and operates seasonally. The opening date for 2026 is Saturday, May 23. Initially, it will open on weekends only, then daily during the school summer holidays, before closing in September. Tickets can be booked online via the Medway Council website.
The complex also includes sunbathing areas, a café serving food, and shaded picnic spots. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and inflatables. Changing rooms, poolside showers, and a shop selling inflatables are available.
Additional Attractions
The Strand Leisure Park features a miniature railway that operates seasonally, chugging around the park on sunny days, and offers numerous riverside walks for exploration.
One positive review stated: "We travelled from Suffolk and booked the afternoon session. Lovely day out. Pool has a lazy river, kids pool and adult pool, changing rooms, toilets, café. Lots of space to set up camp for the afternoon but not a lot of shade."
Another visitor commented: "Very good few hours. Looks like we are on holiday. Lazy river all around the outside (take a rubber ring)."
The Lido Guide described the Strand: "Nothing about the exterior gives away what lies within. What lies within is a riot of Mediterranean-resort-style colour and fun. Any children in the party will be completely unable to contain their excitement."
The guide added: "The whole thing is a freeform riot of bright white painted concrete, edged in royal blue, that gives the treated river water that fills the pool a hue that is more reminiscent of Greece than Kent."
