Where and how to swim during a global pandemic may be the least of many people’s worries at present, but the act of swimming can also be the key to maintaining mental sanity during these difficult times. For this very reason, I found it nearly impossible to remain patient for the announcement of permission for pools to reopen. However, with the magic date now having arrived, the availability of both outdoor and indoor pools continues to remain patchy. However, Hathersage Pool in the Peak District has well and truly got its act together and was ready to welcome swimmers back at the first opportunity. It offers a lovely outdoor 30 metre pool (heated, but not overly so) and a clear system for maintaining social distancing pre and post swim. There is an online booking system for places and demand is brisk, but it is easy to see why. My first pool swim in 4 months was joyful experience with sunlight peaking through the clouds and dancing reflections across the water. Thank you Hathersage!