Top Tips for Visiting Clifton Lido

Clifton Lido remains one of Bristol’s best-kept secrets – a beautifully restored 1850s Victorian outdoor pool tucked away behind residential terraces. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning guest, here’s the most up-to-date guide to help you plan your visit.

Note: All prices and information are correct as of May 2025. For the most current details, please visit the official Clifton Lido website.

Where Should I Park?

Clifton Lido is nestled within a residential area, so parking can be limited. If you’re visiting on a weekend, consider parking on Oakfield Road (in front of Six Agency), which is about a three-minute walk to the lido. Parking here is free on weekends, but you’ll still need to print a free ticket using the pay machine, as there’s a maximum stay of four hours—ample time to enjoy your visit.

Bristol Clean Air Zone (CAZ) Update

Bristol’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) has been in effect since November 2022. While much of Clifton sits outside the CAZ boundary, it’s advisable to check your route in advance. You can verify if your vehicle is compliant and view the CAZ map on the Bristol City Council’s website. You do not need to pay before you drive in it, you can pay up to 6 days after here.

How Much Does It Cost?

As a non-member, you can pre-book a 2-hour session (swim, sauna, steam, and hot tub) for £25 (Monday–Thursday) or £30 (Friday–Sunday).  However, the best way to experience Clifton Lido is with a Swim & Eat package. These packages include two hours of facility use followed by a meal in the poolside restaurant.

Here are the current packages (prices correct as of May 2025):

• Swim & Breakfast – £40pp
  Includes a 2-hour swim session starting at 8am, followed by breakfast at 10am. Breakfast includes one course, a juice, and a hot drink.

• Swim & Lunch – £50pp
  Choose between an early swim at 10am with lunch at 12pm, or a late swim at 12:30pm with lunch at 2:30pm. Includes a two-course à la carte lunch.

• Swim & Dine – £50pp
  Evening sessions with swim times at 4pm or 6:30pm, followed by a two-course dinner at 6pm or 8:30pm, respectively.

• Swim & Small Plates – £45pp
  Available on Sunday evenings from May to October. Includes a 2-hour swim session followed by three small plates and a sourdough flatbread.

Towel and robe hire are available at £3 and £5, respectively.

How Does It Work?

Clifton Lido offers open-air, open-plan facilities, including a 24-meter outdoor pool heated between 20–24°C, a sauna, steam room, and hot tub. The charm lies in its back-to-basics approach, featuring outdoor showers and changing facilities.

Upon arrival, you can use the indoor or outdoor changing areas. Lockers are available near the entrance and operate with a code—no coins needed. It’s recommended to bring your towel with you; there are cubbies and hooks available for storage while you swim.

Please note that the restaurant operates separately from the spa facilities, so reserving a table while using the facilities may not be possible. However, guests often enjoy a coffee in their robes if a table is available. The restaurant overlooks the pool, so if you’re a bit shy, keep this in mind.

Changing Facilities

The changing facilities are charming but may be unexpected for first-time visitors. Indoor facilities are dimly lit, with individual cubicles containing a toilet and shower. Outdoor facilities feature changing rooms with barrel-operated showers. All showers are stocked with complimentary body and hair washes.

After changing, head upstairs to the Boudoir—a plush room equipped with hairdryers, straighteners, and mirrors with a view of the pool. It’s an excellent spot to apply makeup if you’re heading elsewhere afterward.

The Restaurant

The award-winning restaurant at Clifton Lido offers an informal vibe, perfectly complementing the location. Floor-to-ceiling doors provide an up-close view of the pool. The menu is seasonally sourced and utterly delicious. Even if you’re unfamiliar with some dishes, take the plunge—you won’t be disappointed.

Clifton Recommendations

If the on-site restaurant isn’t to your taste, Clifton boasts many other wonderful food options:

• Kibou Sushi

• Anna Cake Couture

• The Dirty Bird Cocktail Bar

• The Met

• Bristol L’Eclair

For more cocktail bars, check out my Bristol cocktail bar guide and head to the Clifton section