Lido Land: How Britain Learned to Make a Splash

People are currently flocking to Britains lidos in their thousands. But this isnt the first time theyve made a splash.

Did you know that lidos facilitated post-Victorian moves towards female liberation through the shrinking of swimming costumes and the loosening of moral standards? Have you heard of the mayor who stripped off his ceremonial robes and chain before diving headlong into Guildford Lido? Or of Sean Connerys time as a lifeguard at Porty Pool?

Communities are once again gathering around their pools in all weathers, and its high time to dip into the lidos glorious history.

In this book, Tom Fort takes us on a fascinating journey around the UKs lidos past and present. He shows us, time and time again, the personal significance of the lidos communal spaces: the unmistakable cold of the first moments of full immersion, the sounds and smells of poolside sunbathing, the sun-baked tiles underfoot and the warm towel after a freezing dip. Fort, with his characteristic wryness and nostalgia, gathers memories and observations from the swimmers he meets along the way, interspersing these with historical fragments and moments from his own history. He laments the lidos we have lost, celebrates those saved by persistent community organising, and takes a frank look into their future.

This is a must-read for those looking to dive deeper into the emotional, cultural and national significance of outdoor swimming.