Pells Pool - Lewes

Pells Pool is the oldest freshwater outdoor public swimming pool in the UK. Each year, between May and November, we welcome thousands of people to our unique lido in the historic town of Lewes, in East Sussex.

​First opened in 1861, Pells is an unheated, spring-fed pool, 50 yards (46m) long and 25 yards (23m) wide. As well as the main pool, there’s a paddling pool for kids, a sun terrace and a beautiful tree-lined lawn, where you can picnic and relax after an invigorating plunge.

​The pool is heated by the sun, so the water is usually cool at the start of our season in May, but soon warms up as the weeks go by. Wetsuits can be worn and we usually have at least one lane available for lap swimming.

​There are male and female changing areas, toilets and five open-air showers (four warm, one cold). We ask everyone to shower before entering the pool to help us keep the water clean.

​We also have an accessible toilet, shower and changing room and a ramp so anyone with mobility needs can get into the pool easily. You can also use our wheelchair, should you need to.

​We serve tea, coffee, soft drinks, snacks and ice creams at our kiosk, and you’re welcome to bring your own food and drink to enjoy on our lawn and sun terrace. There’s also a water fountain for you to refill your water bottles and customers bringing their own cup get a 20p discount on hot drinks.

​We have an online booking system for all sessions. If you don’t have internet access, you can book a swim at our kiosk. You can also turn up to swim and pay at the kiosk but, unfortunately, if the session is full, we won't be able to sell you a ticket.