Thames Lido Reading
Historic outdoor pool with Mediterranean dining and spa facilities, offering a unique relaxation experience in Reading.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Thames Lido Reading
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic outdoor pool with Mediterranean dining and spa facilities, offering a unique relaxation experience in Reading.
"The food, drinks and service was impeccable. Can’t wait to come back again!"
🚗 Parking Tips
Lido parking is limited; use the public Ringo car park nearby if needed. :car:
🧖♀️ Spa Package Value
Spa packages with lunch offer great value and a full day of relaxation. :massage_tone1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Heated Outdoor Pool
Main Pool Area
A beautifully restored 25m outdoor pool, heated year-round for a refreshing swim experience.
Mediterranean Dining
Restaurant
Enjoy delicious tapas and mains in a stylish, glass-walled space overlooking the pool.
Spa Facilities
Spa Area
Relax and rejuvenate in the sauna, steam room, and hot tub after your swim.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Pack Smart for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Lido parking is limited; use the public Ringo car park nearby if needed. :car:
🧖♀️ Spa Package Value
Spa packages with lunch offer great value and a full day of relaxation. :massage_tone1:
🏊♀️ Pool Temperature
The 26.5°C pool feels cool on warm days but refreshing after a few lengths. :cold_face:
🍽️ Delicious Food
The Mediterranean food is a highlight, with excellent service and tasty dishes. :forkandknifewithplate:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Lido parking is limited; use the public Ringo car park nearby if needed. :car:
🧖♀️ Spa Package Value
Spa packages with lunch offer great value and a full day of relaxation. :massage_tone1:
🏊♀️ Pool Temperature
The 26.5°C pool feels cool on warm days but refreshing after a few lengths. :cold_face:
🍽️ Delicious Food
The Mediterranean food is a highlight, with excellent service and tasty dishes. :forkandknifewithplate:
💧 Outdoor Showers
Embrace the unique outdoor showers with stripy curtains for a fun experience. :shower:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Thames Lido offers a highly-rated spa and swim experience, praised for its beautiful historic setting, delicious Mediterranean food, and relaxing heated pool. While the hot tub can get crowded and the steam room may need updating, the overall value and friendly service make it a favorite for many seeking a tranquil escape. Minor points like limited parking and the pool's temperature on very warm days are noted but don't detract significantly from the positive experiences.
"I had such a lovely spa day package including lunch yesterday.
So starting from the beginning:
Parking: is very limited depending what time you go. There’s a public Ringo paid for car park out the front which is where I ended up going but if you can get into their car park I think it’s free or cheaper.
The setting itself is quirky and buzzy and I loved it, the pool was a great temperature and the sauna was wonderful.
The jacuzzi was always busy and a little small and the steam room wasn’t very steamy and in need of an update. The cold bucket was fun after the sauna too.
I wish they provided some flip flops as I forgot mine (even if they’re paid for) and wish there was more comfortable seating around to read a book as this seemed limited but didn’t detract from my overall experience.
I also got very cold from being wet and sat outside before my massage and even after I showered I wish I’d brought an extra towel so I wasn’t sat back in a wet robe (didn’t think ahead).
I had a full body massage and the massage rooms sit above the edge of the pool. You can hear the indistinct chatter and clanging of cutlery but I actually found this to be really relaxing rather than it being so quiet with a bit of spa music. The massage was amazing and I came out feeling so relaxed and the masseuse took me to the tea room and offered a selection of herbal teas after and it helped warm me back up.
The lunch was unbelievable - service was good and quick and very tasty.
All in all - such an amazing value spa day and really well done - there’s a few minor things that could be done to make the experience 5* overall but you can’t knock it!
Thank you so much"
Jordan Moore
"Haven’t done a package at the Lido for a few years. Went this week for the swim and breakfast and was not disappointed. Staff are friendly and helpful. Breakfast was delicious with a good selection on the menu and the mint and cucumber cooler was amazing."
Nicole Packer
"Thames Lido never disappoints. The swim and sauna were incredibly relaxing. Lunch was a highlight: the Cornish fish was beautifully cooked and full of flavour, and the pudding was a proper treat to finish. Highly recommend the Swim & Lunch package for anyone looking to recharge."
elizabeth BEVERLEY
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thames Lido is located at Napier Rd, Reading RG1 8FR. If driving, parking is limited, so consider the nearby public Ringo paid car park. Public transport options to Reading town centre are readily available, followed by a short walk or local bus to the Lido.
Parking at Thames Lido is very limited. It's recommended to use the public Ringo paid car park located out front if you can't secure a spot in their own car park, which may be free or cheaper.
Cycling is a great option to reach Thames Lido, with bike racks available. It's a scenic route, especially if you're coming from other parts of Reading.
The nearest train station is Reading Station. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Thames Lido, which is a short journey away.
Yes, Thames Lido is accessible by public transport. Reading has good bus links, and the Lido is a manageable distance from the town centre and train station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry prices vary depending on the session and package. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing for general swim sessions, swim and breakfast/lunch packages, and spa treatments.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times like weekends and spa packages. This ensures you secure your preferred slot.
Opening hours vary by season and day. It's advisable to check the Thames Lido website for the most current opening times before your visit.
Thames Lido has a restaurant and bar, and it's generally expected that you'll dine there. Outside food and drink policies may apply, so it's best to confirm directly with the venue.
Yes, Thames Lido offers various packages including swim and breakfast, swim and lunch, and spa day packages that combine treatments with pool access.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Thames Lido features a heated 25m outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, sauna, steam room, and a restaurant. Changing rooms and showers are also available.
Yes, the 25m outdoor swimming pool is heated throughout the year to a temperature of approximately 26.5 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for swimming in all seasons.
The pool is maintained at a constant 26.5 degrees Celsius. While it feels cool on very warm days, it becomes refreshing after a few lengths.
Yes, lockers are available in the changing rooms for securing your belongings during your visit.
While Thames Lido is a tranquil retreat, it's primarily geared towards adults. Specific policies regarding children's access, especially during certain times or for specific packages, should be checked on their website. Some reviews mention no kids being present during evening swims.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Thames Lido serves Mediterranean-inspired tapas and mains. The food is consistently praised for being delicious and well-presented.
The restaurant receives excellent reviews, with many visitors highlighting the food as a major highlight of their experience. Service is also noted as good and quick.
Yes, Thames Lido offers swim and breakfast or swim and lunch packages, which are highly recommended for a combined experience.
While specific menu details aren't always listed, Mediterranean cuisine typically offers a good range of vegetarian options. It's best to check with the Lido directly for current vegan and vegetarian choices.
The Lido offers a selection of drinks, including herbal teas after massages and a range of beverages at the restaurant and bar.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but be mindful of other guests' privacy. Avoid intrusive photography, especially in changing areas or during spa treatments.
The entire venue offers beautiful photo opportunities, from the poolside with its unique architecture to the stylish restaurant and spa areas. The outdoor showers also make for quirky shots. 
Yes, you can take photos in the pool area, but always be respectful of others. Capturing the ambiance of the heated outdoor pool is a popular choice.
Drone photography is typically not permitted at venues like Thames Lido due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check with management if you have specific needs.
Focus on capturing the unique blend of historical architecture and modern relaxation. Shots of the pool, food, and spa facilities are popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Consider booking a couples' spa treatment or enjoying a leisurely lunch or dinner at the restaurant, which offers a charming ambiance with views of the pool. day-trippers
Combining a visit with exploring other Reading attractions can make for a full and enjoyable day. The Lido offers a unique experience that stands out from typical day-trip activities. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Dip into History: The Thames Lido's Revival
Its design was unique, intended for privacy with no windows facing the pool, and it was once filled directly from the River Thames. After falling into disuse, the Lido underwent a beautiful restoration in 2017, transforming it into the vibrant Mediterranean-inspired destination it is today. This Grade II listed building now seamlessly blends its rich past with contemporary leisure facilities. The restoration has been widely praised, preserving the architectural charm while enhancing the visitor experience. The 25m heated pool remains the centerpiece, offering a refreshing escape year-round. The surrounding facilities, including the restaurant and spa, are designed to complement the historical setting, creating a unique atmosphere that draws visitors seeking both relaxation and a connection to local heritage. The Lido's revival is a success story, demonstrating how historical sites can be revitalized to serve modern communities.
The Thames Lido Experience: Swim, Spa, and Dine
Beyond swimming, the Lido boasts a range of spa facilities. Guests can enjoy the sauna, steam room, and hot tub, which are consistently described as clean and well-maintained.
Sustainability at Thames Lido
This initiative highlights a commitment to renewable energy sources and reduces the venue's carbon footprint. It's a fantastic example of how local businesses can integrate with environmental solutions. This integration with Reading Hydro not only supports sustainable energy but also connects the Lido's operations directly to the natural flow of the river it borders. It’s a subtle yet significant detail that adds to the venue's unique character and appeal for environmentally conscious visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit