Where to Swim in the UK: Pools, Lidos & Coastal Escapes

Ama Thea The Label
May 7
5 min read

In a country known for its rain more than its Riviera vibes, it may come as a surprise just how many beautiful swimming spots exist across the UK. From historic lidos in London to wild coastal coves in Cornwall, swimming here can be a deeply grounding experience—whether you’re gliding through cool freshwater or diving into icy waves.

At Ama Thea The Label, we believe in designing swimwear for real, moving bodies—bodies that deserve to feel beautiful, held, and free wherever they choose to swim. That’s why our collections are crafted not just for poolside posing, but for true moments of connection with water, nature, and self.

Here’s our curated guide to the best places to swim in the UK—complete with a few suggestions for which Ama Thea The Label pieces to pack for the journey.

1. Hampstead Heath Ladies’ Pond, London

Best for: Solitude, sisterhood, and cold-water joy

Tucked within the rolling woodlands of Hampstead Heath, the Ladies’ Pond is a sanctuary of serenity. Open year-round and exclusively for women, it’s not only one of London’s most iconic swimming spots, but also a rare space where women can swim freely, surrounded by nature and a strong sense of community.

What to wear: The Janeiro Adjustable Front Tie Bandeau from Ama Thea The Label offers light support and effortless elegance—perfect for a float under the willows, or a bracing mid-winter dip.

White taxi and red double-decker bus on a London street, adorned with Union Jack flags. Historic buildings in the background, bright sky. — A bustling scene in central London with iconic red double-decker buses and classic black cabs navigating the streets, lined with historic architecture and adorned with Union Jack flags.

2. Penzance Jubilee Pool, Cornwall

Best for: Sea views and architectural beauty

As one of the most striking examples of Art Deco architecture in the UK, the Jubilee Pool is a visual and sensory delight. Its geometric lines and seafront setting make for an unforgettable swim. The pool features both fresh seawater and a new geothermally heated section for year-round swimming.

What to wear: Opt for the Cetus Triangle Bikini Top in Crinkle, paired with matching high-waisted bottoms. The textured fabric and adjustable design from Ama Thea The Label echo the elegant curves of the pool’s design—blending structure with softness.

Rocky coastal landscape with turquoise waves crashing against cliffs, a lone surfer in the sea, and overcast skies creating a serene mood. — Dramatic coastal landscape near Penzance Jubilee Pool in Cornwall, featuring rugged cliffs and the turquoise waves of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against rocky outcrops.

3. Ilkley Lido, West Yorkshire

Best for: Family-friendly summer swims

Surrounded by moorland views and with its distinctive circular shape, Ilkley Lido is one of the UK’s prettiest inland pools. During the summer months, it becomes a bustling hub for families and open water lovers alike. On quieter mornings, it’s an idyllic place to swim slow laps beneath the northern sky.

What to wear: The Ama Thea The Label sports-bra style bikini top (name coming soon!) offers support for active movement, making it ideal for breaststroke sessions or lounging poolside with a book.

Seagulls stand on a sandy shore with gentle waves, a blue fishing boat in the distance. Calm, serene ocean scene. — Seagulls gather on the serene shoreline at Ilkley Lido, West Yorkshire, with a fishing boat calmly anchored in the distance.

4. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire

Best for: A remote coastal escape

Often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Barafundle Bay feels like a secret. Accessible only by a half-mile walk from the nearest car park, the beach offers golden sands, turquoise waters, and a sense of solitude that’s rare in the UK.

What to wear: This is where Ama Thea The Label’s minimalist aesthetic shines. We recommend the Luna Scoop Neck One-Piece (coming soon), which combines simplicity with form-fitting elegance—designed to move with you as you swim, scramble, and sunbathe on sun-warmed rocks.

Cliffs and lush grass overlook a secluded beach with turquoise waters, surrounded by rocky formations under a partly cloudy sky. — Breathtaking view of Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, showcasing the serene turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

5. Tinside Lido, Plymouth

Best for: Retro charm and sea-fed refreshment

Tinside is a true British gem: a saltwater lido perched on the edge of Plymouth Sound, with semi-circular steps, striped parasols, and sweeping sea views. The atmosphere is nostalgic, and the saltwater is invigorating.

What to wear: Channel vintage glamour in Ama Thea The Label’s structured bandeau or halter neck designs. Crinkle fabrics and clean cuts nod to retro aesthetics, while modern construction ensures long-lasting comfort and support.

Sunset over a coastal cityscape with silhouetted buildings. People canoeing on golden water, warm hues in the sky, creating a serene mood. — Golden sunset over Tinside Lido in Plymouth, casting a warm glow on the water and silhouetting the iconic domed architecture.

6. Portobello Swim Centre, Edinburgh

Best for: A year-round indoor alternative

Not every day calls for braving the British elements. When you want the pleasure of a heated pool with Edwardian charm, Portobello Swim Centre delivers. Just a short stroll from the coast, this Victorian bathhouse offers a peaceful indoor retreat with stained glass, tile work, and history in every lane.

What to wear: The modular mix-and-match separates from Ama Thea The Label make it easy to transition from swim to spa. Pair the Flex Top (coming soon) with a relaxed button-down for post-swim tea and conversation.

Sunset view of a city skyline with a clock tower and spires. Warm, golden hues fill the sky, creating a calm and nostalgic atmosphere. — Edinburgh skyline at dusk, highlighted by the iconic clock tower and historic architecture, casting a warm glow over the city.

Durdle Door, Dorset

Best for: Iconic sea swims and scenic snaps

This limestone arch is one of England’s most photographed natural landmarks, and it makes for a dramatic backdrop to your wild swim. While the descent is steep, the reward is a clear, pebbled bay where you can float beneath towering cliffs.

What to wear: For swims that feel cinematic, we suggest the Ama Thea The Label Nova High Neck Top (launching soon)—a sleek, sculptural silhouette that complements the drama of the landscape.

Rocky arch at a sandy beach with azure waves gently lapping. Foreground shows grassy cliffs. Sky is partly cloudy, creating a serene scene. — A stunning view of Durdle Door on the Dorset coast, showcasing its iconic limestone arch framed by sandy shores and turquoise waters.

Why We Swim — And Why We Design the Way We Do

At Ama Thea The Label, we understand that swimming isn’t just exercise or leisure—it’s ritual. It’s the reset button you press after a long week, the cold shock that wakes up your creativity, the quiet moment that grounds you.

Our designs reflect this mindset. They are made for the woman who swims for herself. Who values comfort without compromising style. Who wants sustainable luxury that feels as good as it looks.

Each Ama Thea The Label piece is:

Made with high-quality, recycled fabrics sourced from trusted European mills
Cut to flatter and support real bodies in motion
Crafted in small batches, with deep respect for people and planet

So whether you’re diving into a freshwater pond or dipping your toes into the sea, we want your swimwear to move with you—beautifully, intentionally, and without compromise.

model wearing cobalt blue bandeau bikini top and low waisted simple bikini bottom in crinkle fabric — Adjustable bandeau bikini top and low waisted simple bikini bottom by Ama Thea The Label

Plan Your Next Swim with Ama Thea The Label

As you explore these UK swim spots, take Ama Thea The Label with you. Our curated range of swimwear is designed to travel well, feel soft against your skin, and empower you to take up space—whether in wild waters or tiled pools.

Explore the collection now at [https://www.amatheathelabel.com] or sign up to be the first to know about our upcoming launches, including new supportive tops, sculptural one-pieces, and more.

Because swimming should feel like freedom—and so should the swimwear you choose.