The Best (Quirky) Swimming Pools in Somerset
Somerset has more to offer water lovers than just standard leisure centres. Scattered across the county are quirky, characterful pools with their own stories – From adventure pools with slides and splash zones, to special pools for disabilities. This is not just your local council or gym pools, these are the BEST independent pools.Â
Brean Splash Waterpark (Unity Splash), Brean
Excellent for families, with a 25m indoor pool, splash zone, mini slides and two larger indoor waterslides. Particularly good if you want more entertainment than a standard swimming pool.
Splash Waterworld – Butlin’s Minehead
More of a family waterpark experience than an ordinary pool. A strong choice for children who want exciting water-based fun as part of a day or break at Butlin’s.
Greenbank Pool – Street
A lovely traditional heated outdoor lido. The main 30m pool is heated to around 30°C, with a warmer children’s pool and grassed areas for relaxing and picnics. One of Somerset’s classic summer swimming spots.
Compass Wellbeing – Taunton
A smaller, more relaxed swimming environment centred around its hydrotherapy pool. Particularly suited to people with needs and disabilities as the pool is rented out privately.Â
Shepton Mallet Lido
A traditional outdoor community swimming pool that's great for a summer swim. It has the atmosphere of a proper local lido rather than a large commercial leisure centre.
Wivey Pool – Wiveliscombe
A much-loved outdoor community pool in Wiveliscombe Recreation Ground. Great for relaxed swimming and families wanting a smaller, friendlier alternative to the big leisure centres.
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The Dragon Pool – Aller, Langport
A particularly unusual option: a secluded private swimming pool in a walled-garden setting, giving it a peaceful feel that's very different from a public leisure centre. Important: its own website says it closed on 7 September 2026 until further notice, with hopes of reopening next spring.
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Water Adventure Play Park – Weston-super-Mare
Best thought of as a children's water-play attraction rather than a conventional swimming pool. Great for younger children who enjoy splashing and water play alongside an outdoor family day out.
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Somerset Swim Babies – Highbridge
Specialises in baby and young-child swimming, making it a great choice for introducing little ones to the water in a more controlled and supportive environment.
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