Join the Campaign to Support Britain’s Historic Pools

Historic Pools of Britain (HPB) is launching a new individual membership scheme for those with a passion for supporting the nation’s historic pools.

The new scheme will launch on Wednesday 11 March, inviting individuals to enjoy member benefits and, in doing so, also help to support the ongoing development of the organisation and its vision.

The UK has been celebrating a revival of historic pools and lidos in recent years, for the role they play in the well-being and health of communities, as well as their significance architecturally and as national historic treasures. Spearheading this movement has been Historic Pools of Britain, which was established in 2015 and now represents indoor and outdoor pools around the country.

Joe Stanhope, Manager of Jubilee Park in Lincolnshire, an historic outdoor pool, says: “It’s wonderful to see the positive influence that having a collective voice for historic pools is achieving. We are all united in sharing experiences, insight, awareness and support for historic pools projects across the country, the value of which cannot be understated.”

Historic Pools of Britain was created to give representation to all indoor and outdoor historic pools, reflecting the significant contribution they make to Britain’s heritage, as well as the vital role they play within communities. Up until now, membership of the organisation has consisted of the pools themselves and corporate members, but this is now opening up to individuals who have an interest in historic pools and who would like to discover more and support this special slice of social history.

Annual membership is available for £48, which includes an HPB pin badge and an invitation to attend two Historic Pools of Britain events each year, which take place at different member pools around the UK. The events give members the chance to find out more about the fascinating story of each pool, as well as featuring guest speakers who give an insight into a specific area of historic pools and their history. Members will also receive exclusive vouchers featuring free swims, discounts and tours from HPB member pools and lidos including Brockwell Lido, Hinksey Pool, Jubilee Park Woodhall Spa, Newcastle City Pool, Park Road Lido, Peterborough Lido, Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Centre and Victoria Baths.

Gill Wright, Founder of Historic Pools of Britain, says: “Since Historic Pools launched in 2015, we’ve had a lot of interest from individuals who share our vision. And whilst there has been much positive news for historic pools, some of which we are seeing being restored and re-opened, this has not been the case for all. There are huge challenges, but the rewards make these challenges worth facing. The support of more members will enable us to make the voice of Historic Pools of Britain even louder.”

Photographer, swimmer and lido volunteer, Amanda Harwood, says: “I’ve long been interested in the history of Britain’s historic pools and never miss an opportunity to photograph them. I’m also aware that many of the pools that I used to swim in are now sadly closed, so I am passionate about supporting those that remain or those that communities are trying to save. Becoming a member of Historic Pools of Britain gives me a chance to demonstrate my support for historic pools as well as take part in the fantastic events programme it puts on.”

Amanda Harwood has been photographing and cataloguing historic pools for the last 38 years, all of which will feature as part of The Swimming Pool Library book and archive.

To sign up to become a Historic Pools member visit historicpools.org.uk/product/individual-membership/

Further information can be found at historicpools.org.uk, or by emailing info@historicpools.org.uk