It is the second time the pool’s opening dates have been extended into the autumn and winter months
The heated outdoor pool will remain open from October through to March.(Image: Tonbridge Swimming Pool)
Kent swimmers have shared their excitement as an outdoor swimming pool will remain open for use for the rest of the year.
For the second year running, Tonbridge Swimming Pool’s heated outdoor facility will welcome guests throughout the autumn and winter months.
The extended season will be running from October to March, with the outdoor pool to be maintained at temperatures of between 20C and 21C during the chillier seasons.
Alongside allowing the public to enjoy outdoor swimming beyond the usual summer months, the Tonbridge Swimming Pool team say that the extended opening season will provide an opportunity for open water swimmers to maintain their training.
Avid swimmer Annie recalled her experiences using the pool last winter when the opening dates were extended for the first time. She said: “I want to say a massive thank you for keeping the outdoor pool open – you’ve totally changed my life.”
“I really struggle with my mental health at this time of the year, and I’m definitely affected by SAD. I started open water swimming in the summer and fell in love with it. So, when I heard about you keeping the outdoor pool open I was so excited.
“I’ve been coming at least three times a week and it’s making such a difference. I wake up in the morning looking forward to ‘my time’ – getting out in the cold, enjoying the swim and then warming up and treating myself to the lovely spa facilities and sauna.”
The team adds that an estimated 7,000 swimmers used the outdoor facility between October and March. Meanwhile, Tonbridge Swimming Club also hired the pool for a weekly session during this period.
Emma Wood, Chief Executive of tmactive which operates the site, said: “The response to the outdoor pool remaining open beyond the summer months has shown us how much our customers value having this option.
“We’re pleased to be continuing it for a second year, giving people the opportunity to enjoy the pool throughout the autumn and winter, whether they’re training, staying active or simply enjoying being outdoors.”
News of the extended opening season has been met with a wave of enthusiasm from local swimmers. Responding to the announcement on social media, one commenter said: “Yes! That’s the most awesome news I’ve heard.”
Another responded: “Excellent. Glad it’s going to be these temps.” Between October and March, the outdoor pool will operate with the following opening hours, subject to demand:
- Weekdays: 6.30am to 10am
- Tuesday and Thursday evenings: 4pm to 7pm
- Weekends: 7am to 11am
