Hilsea Lido set to reopen on May 2 after major renovation

Hilsea Lido in Portsmouth will reopen on May 2, 2026 after a £7.75m regeneration funded by the Levelling Up Fund; work restored the pool and added new facilities with operators planning a sauna and community events.

Hilsea Lido in Portsmouth is due to reopen on May 2, 2026 following an extensive restoration. The outdoor pool has served the north of the city for 90 years and had fallen into disrepair before the regeneration. A £7.75 million project funded by the Levelling Up Fund was carried out by contractors Beard to restore the pool and provide new facilities. Sea Lanes Brighton, in partnership with South Downs Leisure, will operate the site and has outlined plans for a sauna and community programming. Key details: - Opening date: Friday, May 2, 2026. - Project cost: £7.75 million funded by the Levelling Up Fund. - Contractors Beard rebuilt a fully functioning pool and added new changing rooms, benches, tables and a fountain. - Sea Lanes Brighton with South Downs Leisure will run the lido and expect to offer a sauna and a timetable of events and community activities. - A "Founder" membership has been launched, offering unlimited swimming and sauna access for early members. - Contractors removed the protective tent covering the lido and are completing finishing touches before the pool is filled. Summary: The reopening is timed during Portsmouth’s centenary year and is described by local officials as part of wider investment in sport and leisure across the city. Portsmouth City Council reports having invested over £40 million in local sport and leisure projects. Final works are underway and the lido is scheduled to open to the public on May 2, 2026.