Although it’s only a few miles down the road, I had been avoiding Ilkley Lido for a few years. I had the impression that it wasn’t particularly suited to lap swimming and was quite crowded. The pandemic also meant that the pool was closed for a substantial period. This year has been different and I have been surprised at what a gem it is. 88 years young! It’s still a bit awkward in terms of shape, but there have been efforts to accommodate lap swimming with arrows and a lane. The early morning opening sessions from 7am are fairly well attended, but there are no large crowds. The swimmers I have met have been incredibly friendly, different ages and in various attire from full wetsuits to just hardcore short swimsuits. Early morning swim prices are reasonable while a day at the lido on the weekends is a bit more pricey and are generally designed for a day out with kids. A family price might be a good idea. The temperatures in the lido so far in 2023 when I have swam have ranged from 12 – 18 degrees. The cold water buzz is still very much in swing. The pool is run by Bradford City Council and it is highly recommended. There is an indoor pool as well and the lido has own Friends of Ilkley Lido Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofIlkleyLido