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The 10 Best Swimming Pools in Manchester
Manchester isn’t just about the bustling streets, the music, or the football; it’s also a haven for those looking to dive into some aquatic fun. Whether you’re a serious swimmer chasing those laps or just looking to make a splash with the family, there’s a pool for you.
In this guide, we’ll plunge into the top swimming spots across Manchester, ensuring you know exactly where to go for your next swim session.
Manchester Aquatic Centre
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Website: Manchester Aquatic Centre
Address: 2 Booth St E, Manchester M13 9SS, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 161 275 9450
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6AM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 7AM-8PM
Right, so you’re looking for a spot to swim that’s got a bit of everything? Manchester Aquatic Centre is your answer.
It’s like the Swiss Army knife of pools – two massive 50m pools for the serious swimmers, a diving area that’ll have you feeling like Tom Daley, and a leisure pool that’s got a lazy river. It’s not just for the swim heads; they’ve got water polo and synchronized swimming too.
And if you’re feeling a bit more workout-y, there’s a fitness suite and health suite waiting for you. It’s pretty much an all-you-can-swim buffet in the heart of Manchester.
| Pro tip: Family swim sessions here are a steal and a half. Great for keeping the kids entertained without breaking the bank. |
Withington Baths
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Website: Withington Baths
Address: 30 Burton Rd, Manchester M20 3EB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 161 478 1181
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6:30AM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 9AM-5PM
For those looking to add a splash of history to their breaststroke, Withington Baths is the spot. This Edwardian gem, originally built in 1913, isn’t just a place to swim; it’s a dive into the past, being celebrated as Manchester’s last working Edwardian Pool.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of the community, who rallied together after the city council closed it in 2015, this 23-metre pool was not only preserved but is now a fully functional haven for lap swimming.
But it’s not all about doing laps. The heated pool is perfect for those looking to unwind with a relaxed float, echoing the leisurely pace of its early days, yet equipped with modern-day comforts like WiFi and decent showers.
| Pro tip: Don’t skip the sauna. It’s like the cherry on top of a great swim session |
Hough End Leisure Centre
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Website: Hough End Leisure Centre
Address: 480 Princess Rd, Manchester M20 1HD, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 161 641 6300
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-7PM
Next up on our tour of Manchester’s best swim spots is Hough End Leisure Centre. This isn’t your typical lap pool; it’s a community favourite that brings together fitness enthusiasts and families alike.
Boasting a “greenhouse swimming pool” with large windows, it offers swimmers natural light and a spacious feel, making every dip a delight. The centre doesn’t just cater to swimmers; it’s equipped with a full suite of fitness facilities.
Whether you’re in the mood for a gym session, a fitness class, or just a leisurely swim, Hough End has something for everyone.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to explore the sauna and steam room facilities for a relaxing end to your swim or workout session. It’s the perfect way to unwind and treat your muscles after all that activity. |
Life Leisure Grand Central
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Website: Life Leisure Grand Central
Address: Stockport SK1 3TA, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 161 474 7766
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6:30AM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 8AM-6PM
If you’re craving a bit more thrill than the usual lap swimming, Life Leisure Grand Central is your go-to aquatic playground. With slides that will send your heart into your throat and a wave machine that simulates surfing, it’s a splashy adventure for all ages.
But the excitement doesn’t stop at the waves and slides. Life Leisure Grand Central boasts an impressive setup with a 50-metre swimming pool for those serious about their swim time. Add to that two 50-metre flumes that promise a whirlwind of fun for both kids and adults.
And for those looking to perfect their swimming techniques, there are lessons available to master everything from the doggy paddle to the butterfly. Beyond the water, the venue caters to fitness enthusiasts with a gym and various fitness classes.
| Pro tip: The slides are a right laugh, but they get busy on weekends. Pop by when it’s quieter if you fancy more goes without the queue. |
Hyde Leisure Pool
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Website: Hyde Leisure Pool
Address: Walker Ln, Hyde SK14 5PL, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 161 368 4057
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6:30AM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 9AM-5PM
Hyde Leisure Pool, right, it’s not just your run-of-the-mill swim spot; this place has something for everyone. Looking for a bit of excitement? They’ve got this mad slide that’ll have you yelling louder than on derby day, I’m telling you.
And it doesn’t stop there. Part of the Active Tameside gang, this leisure pool’s got more tricks up its sleeve than your average gym pool. Fancy riding some waves without getting sand everywhere?
Their wave machine’s got you sorted – it churns out waves, rapids, and even gushing geysers if you can believe it. It’s proper fun for the thrill-seekers among us. For the kiddos, there’s a splash zone that’s all sorts of fun.
| Pro tip: The wave sessions are a right laugh, great for kids and adults alike. Check the timetable to catch them at the best times. |
The Pelican Centre
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Website: The Pelican Centre
Address: Castle St, Tyldesley, Manchester M29 8EG, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 1942 882722
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6:30AM-9PM
- Sat – Sun 8AM-2PM
The Pelican Centre in Tyldesley might not be the flashiest spot on the map, but their pool’s just the right size for knocking out a few lengths or just having a relaxed bob about. They’ve got lessons for both kids and adults, running seven days a week, so you’re sorted.
But it’s not just about swimming here; there’s a gym packed with everything you need to smash your fitness goals, and they’re not stiff with the payment options either. They’re all about flexibility, making it easier for you to get stuck into a healthier lifestyle without the fuss.
Plus, with a range of fitness classes on offer, you’re never short of ways to keep active. And here’s a kicker – you can hire the pool for your own bash, complete with giant inflatables for an epic pool party.
| Pro tip: They often run special sessions and classes, so it’s worth following them on social for the latest scoop. |
Huddersfield Leisure Centre Splash Park
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Website: Huddersfield Leisure Centre
Address: Spring Grove St, Huddersfield HD1 4BP, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 1484 766269
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6:30AM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 8AM-5PM
Now, I know Huddersfield’s a bit of a trek from Manny, but their Leisure Centre Splash Park is well worth the trip. It’s like they’ve taken a bit of the seaside and plonked it in Yorkshire.
The Splash Park is an absolute gem for the kiddos, with slides, water features, and loads of splashy fun to be had. And for the grown-ups? There’s a 25m pool that’s perfect for doing your laps in peace.
Plus, the centre’s got a state-of-the-art gym and loads of classes if you fancy working up a sweat on dry land. It’s a cracking day out for families or anyone looking to make a splash.
| Pro tip: The Splash Park is a hit, especially on weekends and school holidays. Book ahead to avoid disappointment and secure your spot for fun times. |
Pendle Wavelengths Swimming Pool
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Website: Pendle Wavelengths
Address: Leeds Rd, Nelson BB9 9TD, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 1282 661717
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6:30AM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 8AM-4PM
Pendle Wavelengths isn’t just a swimming pool; it’s a mini water adventure. The main attraction? A wave pool that brings the beach vibes right to you.
But that’s not all – there’s also a wicked slide that’ll have both kids and adults queuing up for another go. And if you’re after something a bit more relaxing, the centre also boasts a sauna and steam room to unwind in after your swim.
Whether you’re training, relaxing, or just having a laugh, Pendle Wavelengths has got something for everyone. It’s a brilliant spot for a wet and wild day out without leaving the city.
| Pro tip: The wave sessions can be the highlight of your visit, so make sure to check the schedule before you go. |
The Leisure Centre Keighley
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Website: The Leisure Centre Keighley
Address: Hard Ings Rd, Keighley BD21 3JN, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 1535 681763
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 6:30AM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 8AM-6PM
This placeThe Leisure Centre Keighley pool that measures a tidy 25m x 10m, and even a SHOKK Junior Fitness Centre for the young ones. There’s also the Clubactive Fitness Centre for the grown-ups, a massive sports hall, not to mention the sauna and steam rooms.
The pool itself is ideal for all sorts, with a learner pool for the newbies and a whopping 40m waterslide that ends in a plunge pool for a bit of excitement. They’ve got ‘Swim 4 All’ sessions, so everyone can get in on the action.
And if that wasn’t enough, there’s a ton more for the kids to get stuck into, like badminton, table tennis, squash, and a special SHOKK gym for 8 to 15-year-olds.
| Pro tip: If you fancy throwing a party, they’ve got you covered with options like ‘Swim and Slide’, Football, Bouncy Castle, and even a private inflatable pool party. |
Calypso Cove Waterpark
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Website: Calypso Cove Waterpark
Address: The Metrodome, Queens Ground, Queens Rd, Barnsley S71 1AN, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 1226 730060
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-7PM
Next up, but by no means least, is Calypso Cove Waterpark; this place is a treasure chest of fun, located a bit out of Manchester but definitely worth the voyage. It’s packed with slides, flumes, and pools for all ages, making it a perfect family getaway.
There’s even a pirate ship for the little buccaneers. For those looking to swim, there’s a competition pool as well.
And when you’re done making a splash, there’s a café to refuel and relax. Calypso Cove offers an escape to a tropical paradise, no passport required.
| Pro tip: The waterpark can get busy, especially during school holidays. Booking your tickets online in advance is a savvy move to guarantee your entry into paradise. |
