Ilkley Lido to celebrate 90 Years with community picnic and fun day
- Nick
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Ilkley’s beloved Lido turns 90 in 2025, and this incredible milestone will be marked with a huge community celebration.
On Sunday 11 May 2025, everyone is invited to join the Lido’s 90th Birthday Picnic, a day filled with community-driven fun and entertainment at the historic outdoor pool. From live music and street food to a best dressed competition, organisers say this will be a birthday party to remember.
Opened in 1935 as part of King George V’s Silver Jubilee celebrations, Ilkley Lido has long been a jewel in West Yorkshire’s crown. Designed by architect Percy D. Tempest, its striking Art Deco design and unique mushroom shape have made it one of the most beautiful outdoor pools in the country. Generations of families have splashed, swum, and sunbathed here, making it a special place for the community.
But the 90th birthday milestone comes after a period of uncertainty when the Lido faced potential closure due to council budget constraints. The overwhelming support from the local community and Lido users from across Yorkshire, has been instrumental in bringing it back from the brink, showing how important the Lido is for people’s wellbeing, and how fundamental it is for Ilkley's heritage and social fabric.
The Ilkley Pool and Lido Community Group, formed in April 2024, has been collaborating with Bradford Council to secure the pool’s future. Their joint efforts have led to a series of engaging events for 2025, supporting Bradford Council in the 90th Birthday Picnic is just the start. The LIdo events calendar will also be busy with a series of full moon swims, outdoor cinema and Bollywood meets Hollywood as part of the Bradford 2025 City of Culture celebrations.
To celebrate its 90th anniversary, the Lido team is pulling out all the stops with a jam-packed day of entertainment:
Live Music – Enjoy performances from local favorites, including Ilkley Grammar School bands, Ilkley Live, and Two Rivers swing band
Street Food & Sweet Treats – Sample delicious offerings from Ilkley Kitchen cakes, Lister Coffee, Farsley Fire & Smoke, Dig In’s Hut, and an ice cream van.
Raffle Prizes – Win fantastic goodies from local retailers.
Best Dressed Competition – Show off your best fun, funky or retro swimwear for a chance to win prizes.
Selfie Photobooth – Strike a pose with fun props and capture memories of the day.
"Lido Through the Years" Display – Take a trip down memory lane with a fascinating exhibition showcasing the Lido’s past.
“Rookie Lifeguard” Sessions – Learn CPR, spinal work, and bandaging from swim development officer Paul.
Bradford "Draw Tour" – Let the kids unleash their creativity by drawing their own version of the lido.
The event will be split into two sessions: 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Becky Malby, Chair Ilkley Pool and Lido Community Group, said:
“Ilkley Lido provides a unique experience for people from across West Yorkshire, who find the warm welcome of other swimmers, the beauty of the moor as we swim, and the benefits of swimming on cold and warm days a key part of their year. The Lido months are ones to treasure. When we were worried about the future of the pool, hundreds of people got in touch to tell us how important it is, and to offer to help the Lido to continue to be a fantastic experience for so many.
"This anniversary is about more than just a birthday, it’s a celebration of community spirit. Ilkley Lido has been a place of joy, relaxation, and connection for 90 years. Now, thanks to the incredible support from locals, it has a bright future ahead.
"So grab your best swim attire, bring the family, and join us for a fantastic day at Ilkley Lido. Let’s make history together."
Booking for the Ilkley Lido 90th Birthday Celebrations is via Bradford City Council Leisure Hub
(Select Ilkley Pool & Lido > Go to 11th May > Go to Ticket Activities)
