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The UK lidos, sea pools and splash pads that are free to get into – perfect for the hot weather
Plus, the UK’s best outdoor water parks and lidos
AS Britain basks in highs of up to 25C, there is no better place to cool off than a lido, paddling pool or splash pad - and many across the country are free.
Most paddling pools and splash pads, often found in parks, are free across the UK.
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Lidos tend to charge for admission, but are usually under £10 per person.
Free to all
Free supersized paddling pools and splash pads can be found across the UK, in parks and near community venues.
For example, Hampstead Heath Paddling Pools reopens on May 24 and boasts a shallow pool, great for little kids.
Stoke Park paddling pool in Guildford is another option, with a large pool with wheelchair access.
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Splash pads, such as Great Hollands in Wokingham, are also great for little ones - this one features 13 water soakers, two bucket drenchers, fountain jets and water tunnels.
As for lidos, in Swansea, Blackpill Lido is free to all and booking is not required.
The site also has a children's play area, with a paddling pool, climbing rock and picnic area.
Sea pools are also a good free alternative to lidos, including Shoalstone Seawater Pool in Brixham, Devon.
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Set in The English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, Shoalstone Seawater Pool stretches 53 metres and is one of only a few tidal pools remaining in the country.
Alternatively, head to Bude Sea Pool - a semi-natural tidal pool on the edges of the Atlantic Ocean.
The UK lido compared to Australia with amazing sea views from the pool - Instagram shoalstonepool
Some locations also offer free passes for special occasions or promotional periods.
For example, Park Road Leisure Centre and Lido in North London offers a free day pass to test out the facilities.
In Cornwall, Jubilee Pool will soon be celebrating it's 90th anniversary and as a result is giving away free tickets.
Free for certain age groups
Many lidos, outdoor pools and attractions offer free tickets for under three-year-old's and over 60s.
It is worth checking whether the pool or lido near you offers this.
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Free for local residents
Depending on where you live, your local council might give out free swim passes or access to lidos in your area.
For example, if you are a Hackney resident under 18-years-old, over 60-years-old, disabled or a carer - you can swim for free at Britannia Leisure Centre, Clissold Leisure Centre and Kings Hall Leisure Centre.
Often you will need to bring proof of address and age to get free access, but it is worth looking into if you area offers such a scheme.
Free at specific times
A number of lidos will be free at specific times, for example Parliament Hill Lido is free to under 16s and over 60s before 9:30am.
Read More on The Sun
The Sun also created a list of the UK’s best outdoor water parks and lidos.
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