Hitchin Swimming Centre

Hitchin's 50-metre outdoor lido is one of Hertfordshire's finest - a proper sun-trap with a heated pool, a shallow toddler pool, grassy banks for lounging, and an outdoor play area to keep little ones busy between dips. Open from late May through to September, it's the kind of classic British summer day out that families come back to every year.

Rain stopped play outside? No problem. The 25-metre indoor pool runs sessions 365 days a year, from early-morning lane swimming to family splash sessions and toddler classes. With AquaEd swimming lessons for children and adults, aqua fitness classes, and a full gym and fitness studios on site, there's always a reason to visit - whatever the weather.

Hitchin Swimming Centre is more than a pool. Pack a picnic for the lido's grassy areas, grab a bite at the Splash Café, and let the kids burn off energy in the outdoor play area while you soak up the sun on the terrace. With accessible facilities throughout and a toddler pool both indoors and out, it works for the whole family - from babies to grandparents.