On a scorching summer’s day, Droitwich Spa Lido is packed with families cooling off in the sunshine. Sunbathers stretch out on towels, children splash in the water, and the smell of sun cream hangs in the warm air.
For generations, scenes like this were a familiar part of British summers. But today, they have become increasingly rare.
Once there were more than 300 public outdoor pools across the UK. Now, an estimated 125 remain, with Droitwich Spa’s believed to be the last traditional public lido in the West Midlands.
Its success has shown the rest of the region – and the nation – that this early 20th Century tradition can still thrive.
More than 6,000 extra people visited in July compared with the same month last year, making it the busiest July since the pool reopened in 2007.
“As soon as the sun’s out, you could be at a lido and mistake yourself for being in Spain,” manager Seb Parker said. “It’s a complete suntrap and a beautiful setting.”