With school holidays kicking off and a glorious weather forecast promising sunshine in Cornwall from Friday, now is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing dip in an outdoor pool.

Despite our often unpredictable weather, the UK boasts a collection of open-air lidos and outdoor pools that come alive when the sun shines.

Many of these were built in the 1930s, with 169 pools springing up across the country during the decade.

However, demand for these public pools waned with the rise in popularity for overseas holidays, which suddenly became affordable for a mass market with the introduction of the package holiday in the 1960s and 70s. 

Fortunately, many of these beautiful pools remain. The Telegraph has highlighted some of the best outdoor swimming pools in the country, and two Cornish gems have made the cut: best outdoor swimming pools in the country, and two Cornish gems have made the cut:

Bude Sea Pool

The part-natural, part man-made pool in Bude has been named as one of the best in the UK The part-natural, part-man-made pool in Bude has been named one of the best in the UK (Image: Martini Archive)

This unique "part-natural, part man-made" pool nestled in the rocks at Summerleaze Beach in northern Cornwall offers a truly special swimming experience.

The Telegraph describes it as being "about as close to the sea – and the experience of swimming in the sea – as it gets." The 88-metre pool is topped up twice a day by the waves of the Atlantic, creating a truly natural and invigorating swimming experience.

It notes that while the pool's location is perfect, its maintenance relies on donations from organisations, grants, and the dedication of volunteers.

Jubilee Pool, Penzance

Jubilee Pool in Penzance has become a popular with locals and visitors Jubilee Pool in Penzance has become a popular with locals and visitors (Image: Martini Archive)

Located on the seafront in Penzance, Jubilee Pool has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. It's the largest seawater lido in the country, offering stunning views out to the Atlantic.

The Telegraph praises the pool's "cubist-style" changing rooms, sure to delight art enthusiasts.

There's also a designated toddler pool for the little ones to enjoy.

Also featured in the top 20 list are a rooftop pool in Somerset and a seawater lido in Hampshire - you can see the full list here: 20 of the best outdoor swimming pools and lidos in the UK (telegraph.co.uk)

For More Information:

Bude Sea Pool: https://www.budeseapool.org/

Jubilee Pool: www.jubileepool.co.uk.