With temperatures reaching the highest they've been in years the lure of an outdoor pool couldn't be stronger.
Leeds may be inland but the surrounding county of Yorkshire is still blessed with places to swim, splash and relax.
So whether it's for exercise, entertaining the kids or simply cooling off in the heat these places are perfect for a dip.
Read More: 10 brilliant beaches near Leeds to make the most of the sunshine
Outdoor pools are something of a white elephant these days but thankfully there is Ilkley Pool and Lido nearby, not to mention swimming in a more 'natural' setting at Todmorden Beach.
There's another lido at Hathersage, in the Peak District plus Splash Zone, in Lytham St Anne's; Shap Swimming Pool, the highest heated outdoor pool at 330m above sea level; and outdoor pools at Filey.
Five fantastic outdoor pools perfect for sunny days
Ilkley Pool & Lido, Bradford
Travel time - 40 minute drive from Leeds
A heated indoor pool open all year round, plus a picturesque outdoor pool which is opened from may to September which has its own water fountain. Sessions in the pool vary but they try to offer variety from fun splash sessions for children to open air lane swimming and adult only swimming.
Admission: Adult (16+) swim £4.65; Junior (3+)/Senior swim £2.45.
Details: www.bradford.gov.uk/sport-and-activities/sports-centres-and-pools/ilkley-pool-and-lido/
Hathersage Lido, Peak District
Travel time - One hour and 15 minutes from Leeds
The outdoor pool, dubbed the best lido in the country, is heated to 28C. Set in a lawned enclosure amidst the glorious peak District scenery, it had a covered veranda to one side.
During the summer months it offers the opportunity for open air swimming or just water play.
There are special events throughout the year and for adults only there are night swims with live music.
Admission: Adult (18 - 64) £6.50; Concession (65 years and over, Disabled swimmers and Students) £5.50; Junior (Aged 4 - 17 years) £3.50; Under 4’s Free; Family (2 Adults & 2 Juniors) £18.00.
Details: www.hathersageswimmingpool.co.uk
Splash Zone, Lytham St Annes
Travel time - One hour and 30 minutes from Leeds
The Splash Zone will open in the Promenade Gardens and will be free to use. There’ll be water play equipment, spray loops, water sprays, bucket drops, water domes and space for paddling.
It’s suitable for children aged three to 12.
Admission: This is one for your diary, it’s scheduled to open late summer. It will be free.
Details: http://www.fylde.gov.uk/resident/gardens/promenadegardens
Filey
Travel time - One and 30 minutes from Leeds
Yes the beach is well-known, but there’s also a paddling pool on the promenade that’s perfect for little ones.
There’s also a fantastic park and boating lake nearby, plus the beachside funfair, cafes and chippy’s.
Admission: Free
Details: www.filey.co.uk
Shap, Lake District
Travel time - Two hours from Leeds
At just under 1,000 ft above sea level Shap Swimming Pool is the highest heated outdoor pool in the country.
There’s a 20-metre pool and a small paddling pool for toddlers, plus there’s picnic tables and a shop.
Admission: Adult (16 and over) £3.50; Child/Over 60 £2.50; Family day ticket (2 adults and up to 4 children) £10, Spectators: £1 adult/50 child.
Details: www.shapswimmingpool.co.uk
