Anyone fancy a swim? Just because the sun has gone away for the year, and Birmingham is about as far as can be from the seaside, that doesn’t mean you can’t still get the swimsuit out and have a splash around. There are a ton of interesting swimming pools in Brum to dip your toes into; here are just a few.
University of Birmingham
Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a student to enjoy this pool. Although there are discounted rates for students to use the pool at the University of Birmingham fitness centre, it is open to all members of the public. In keeping with the educational theme, they teach swimming lessons for both children and adults, as well as swimming clubs and fitness sessions. But the crowning glory of this pool is the fact that it is the first (and, currently, only open) Olympic-size pool in the city, at a grand 50m long.
University of Birmingham Sport & Fitness , Bristol Rd, Birmingham B15 2TT
Moseley Road Baths
First built in 1907, Moseley Road Baths is the oldest Grade II listed swimming pool in the UK, and the only one that is still open for public use. Designed by William Hale and Son, it is an Edwardian building with ornate details such as the arching beams. In 2017, Birmingham City Council wanted to close the pool off, but due to its cultural significance, a group of local advocates successfully campaigned to restore it and keep it going. Now, it is maintained by charity donations and is open daily for regular swimming as well as more unique activities such as their therapeutic “Healing Waves” sessions and one-off events.
497 Moseley Rd, Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12 9BX
The Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Sports Centre
Another one for the history buffs! The Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Sports Centre houses a pool built in 1902, making it the oldest operating pool in Birmingham and one of the oldest in the country. It shares the arched beams of Moseley Road Baths, but keeps more Edwardian-style woodwork, which makes it feel all the more cosy. Run by Aston University, it is open to the public, although students swim at a discount, and don’t require a membership to enjoy. There is also a sauna and steam room if you feel like treating yourself after an hour or two of exercise.
Aston University, Woodcock St, Birmingham B4 7ET
Cocks Moors Woods Leisure Centre
Lane swimming in a historic building is all well and good for some, but if you want a fun day out with the kids, Cocks Moor Woods is one of the best places to go. There are family splash sessions and lessons, but let’s be honest, you’re going for the flume. Although the pool is a standard 25m, the water flume is 50m, and is the best part of the pool. Surrounding it is what is essentially a wet playground, with water spraying out of everything from cones to mushrooms. And while you’re there, watch out for the siren, because that means the waves are coming! Grab a floaty and be taken by the current, or sit back and watch your kids from the dry safety of the seating area.
Alcester Rd S, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 6ER
Edgbaston Priory Club
This one is just for the members. Edgbaston Priory Club is a private members club that lies withing 14 acres of greenery, just outside of the city centre. In addition to the warm indoor pool, there is also a heated outdoor pool that can help you pretend that you’re holidaying in Spain for a little while. At nearly £90 a month (not including the entrance fee), this club is definitely on the pricey side, but if you want to splash the cash, you’ll benefit from access to both pools, a sauna, a stream room, and an outside spa.
Sir Harrys Rd, Birmingham B15 2UZ
New Hall Hotel & Spa
Did you know that you often don’t need to be a guest to enjoy the facilities at a hotel? New Hall is an incredible hotel in a medieval building, surrounded by Sutton Coldfield countryside. On the grounds, they have a spa and health club, with a relaxing 14 metre swimming pool that can be used by guests or club members, or can be visited for a day by anyone who fancies it. After your dip, sit in one of the loungers outside and take in the beautiful scenery while you dry off in the sun. It is definitely worth the trip.
Walmley Rd, The Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield B76 1QX
Crystal Leisure Centre
Okay, this one is a bit of a cheat. Just off Stourbridge high street, Crystal Leisure Centre is just outside of Birmingham, but it’s too much fun to ignore. A popular day out for families, this pool has recently gone through a refurbishment. There is a standard 25m pool for those who just want some exercise, but the leisure pool is where all the fun resides. Wading into the pool, you could be greeted by the frequent waves from the wave machine, or you might choose to trip your luck in the rapids. For a simpler splash about, there are sprays dotted around the pool, and a small indoor slide. When coming up to the building, you may have noticed a yellow pipe sticking out of a wall. That’s the huge covered slide for the bravest among you to try.
Bell St, Stourbridge DY8 1AE
COMING SOON: Sandwell Aquatics Centre
Built for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Sandwell Aquatics Centre joins the University of Birmingham as one of two Olympic pools in the city. It isn’t open to the public until 2023, but watch the skies, because will also have a 10m high dive tower with dive pool, and full leisure facilities. Get ready to live out your professional athlete fantasies next year!
Londonderry Lane, Smethwick B67 7EP
