Thames Lido

The Thames Lido stands in King’s Meadow, Reading, beside the River Thames. It began in 1903 as the Ladies Swimming Bath, the oldest surviving outdoor municipal pool from the early Edwardian era. The pool measures 37 metres by 14 metres, built near the site of a larger men-only pool from 1879. Original features include locally made changing booths, showers and detailed architecture. Water once came straight from the Thames before mains supply replaced it in the 1950s. The site fell into disrepair after closing in 1974 and was used by a sub aqua club in the 1990s. A local campaign saved it from becoming a hotel. Restoration started in 2015 and reopened in 2017 with a restaurant, small spa and private dining rooms. The building gained Grade II listed status in 2004 for its historic importance. Visitors now find an open-air pool surrounded by original Edwardian tiles and fittings. The restaurant overlooks the water, and the spa offers private treatments. King’s Meadow’s riverside setting provides a quiet spot beside the town centre.