Historic Pools of Britain Event News

On Wednesday 29 May, Historic Pools of Britain will be hosting an event at Jubilee Park in Woodhall Spa as part of the national launch for The Lido Guide.  This event is open to members and non-members.

Author Janet Wilkinson will share a fascinating insight into the experiences that she and Emma Pusill have gone through to write the book.  Hot off the press, this will be a chance to find out about the stories behind the research they’ve undertaken to bring the dream of writing this guide to reality.

Jubilee Park is a lido whose history goes back to 1935 when it was opened to commemorate the Jubilee of George V.  Amarylis Midgley, who is one of the trustees from the charity that has been running the pool since it was saved from closure by the parish council in 2014, will talk more about this fascinating story.  Manager Joe Stanhope will talk about the success of the operation and the vital role that the lido plays for Woodhall Spa as a visitor attraction.

A theme running throughout the event is the importance of pools to their communities. The fact that in recent times we’ve seen an increasing number of communities around the country campaigning to save historic pools is testament to the level of this importance. Historic Pools of Britain is therefore delighted that two of our guest speakers represent lidos that have communities to thank for their ongoing survival.

Phil Bradby, chair of Save Grange Lido, will give an insight into the community campaign being led to try and restore and reopen as a swimming pool this Art Deco Grade II listed lido. The campaign has been making waves nationally, both in the news and on TV (even playing a starring role in ITV’s The Bay) and has huge local support.

Sharing the same year of opening as Grange Lido, 1932, Brightlingsea Lido is now being run by community volunteers. This transfer of management from Tendring District Council took place following the threat of closure in 2017. Now being run by a charitable trust, its chair Rachel Fletcher will talk about these experiences, learnings and the plans going forward after a successful first year under community management.

The morning talks will take place at Petwood Hotel, where guests will enjoy lunch before a short walk through the gardens to Jubilee Park, where as well as a tour of the facilities, Janet will be taking part in a book signing, including swimmers at the pool.

The day ends with the opportunity for a swim!

For further information or to book a place please email info@historicpools.org.uk