An exact date has been set for the re-opening of a popular lido in Medway where kids can swim, slide and splash to their heart’s content. The Strand Lido in Gillingham opens to families every spring and is the only open air pool found across the Medway towns.
As the weather begins to warm up, it has been announced that the historic pool near the River Medway will welcome back visitors from Saturday, May 23. Listed as the UK’s only riverside salt water pool, the team at the lido is currently working to filter in the river water, which is then thoroughly chlorinated, vacuumed, swept and tested to ensure it is safe for public swimming.
Once re-opened in May, the pool will initially only operate on weekends, before opening seven days a week during the school summer holidays, which for most will begin on Tuesday, July 21. Two sessions will be running every day the pool is open – 10.30am to 1.30pm, then 2.30pm to 5.30pm.
Sessions will need to be pre-booked online in advance, costing £8.15 for adults, £5.35 for juniors and seniors, while children aged under three can enter for free. Those holding Medway Sports memberships that include swimming can use the lido without needing to pay.
The lido has pools perfect for all ages, plus slides, a lazy river and water jets. -Credit:JASONDODDPHOTOS
The Medway pool dates back 130 years and features six 25-metre lanes, a toddler paddling pool, plus a 300-metre lazy river, elephant slides and water jets to keep younger guests amused.
In 2025, The Strand welcomed a number of exciting new additions, including a new free-to-use splash pad, as well as the refurbished tennis courts which are open for the public to book.
The splash pad follows the same opening times as the lido and is designed for children aged three to 11, featuring 30 sensor-activated waterjets in a beach-themed play area. No booking is required to use the splash pad.
Visitors to The Strand can also book to use the newly refurbished tennis courts. -Credit:JASONDODDPHOTOS
Around The Strand, visitors can also find a café, a mini train ride, crazy golf, children’s play areas, a parkour arena and scenic riverside walks. There is a pool inflatables shop available onsite, as well as changing facilities, a pool-side café and toilets.
Guests heading to the lido are advised that seating and sunbeds are not provided onsite, but you can bring your own. Pay-and-display parking is available onsite, and The Strand can also be easily accessed via bus.
The splash pad opened at The Strand in 2025 and will be available for guests to use for free between 11am to 5pm on days that the lido is open -Credit:JASONDODDPHOTOGRAPHY/Medway Council
Visitors should note that The Strand is cash-free and only accepts card payments. Full details on booking a slot for the Gillingham lido can be found here.
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