Arundel Lido

Arundel Lido is a family-friendly outdoor swimming spot in Arundel, with a heated pool and a relaxed, calm feel that reviewers clearly love. It sounds more like a proper lido day out than a full-blown leisure complex: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking and watching the world go by with Arundel Castle in the background. The big wins here are the cleanliness, friendly staff, good lifeguards and the setting. Parents mention plenty of space to sunbathe and relax, hot showers, clean toilets, a handy hairdryer and even a small play area on site. It also sounds like a place that runs special events well, from New Year swims to evening sessions, which gives it a bit more personality than your average municipal pool. The downsides are mostly the usual lido caveats: facilities are described as basic, and one reviewer thought £8 for non-members was a little expensive, even if the heated pool and hot shower softened the blow. Cafe details are limited, so don’t arrive expecting a gourmet pit stop. In short: lovely for a swim and a sit-down, less so if you need bells, whistles and a blockbuster soft play.