The new Abbey Fields swimming pool in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, will open its doors to the public at 7:30am on Saturday, July 11, offering free sessions throughout the opening weekend. The multi-million-pound facility, operated by Everyone Active, replaces the former outdoor lido that closed in 2021.
Free Opening Weekend Activities
On Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, visitors can enjoy 100% free water-based activities, including family swim sessions, inflatable fun, and lane swimming. The centre will be open from 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday, and 7am to 5pm on weekends.
Facilities and Features
The new centre includes two indoor pools and a conservatory-style cafe. It also features an enlarged changing village and a fully accessible changing area with a Poolpod lift for easy pool access. The project was delayed by the discovery of medieval ruins connected to Kenilworth Abbey.
Community Response
Some Kenilworth residents had campaigned to save the former lido, which had over 120 years of history. However, Warwick District Council stated that consultation showed a year-round pool would better serve schools and the local area, according to a BBC report.
A spokesman for Everyone Active said: "The wait is officially over! You are invited to join us for the grand opening weekend of Kenilworth’s brand-new, state-of-the-art Abbey Fields swimming pool. This project provides an all-new swimming pool perfectly suited to a variety of water-based sessions, from young children’s swim lessons to aqua and Hydrohex sessions, alongside a family pool which is perfect for those with younger children."
