Wondering where to go swimming in Leeds? We’ve got you covered for family-friendly and fitness-focused pools.
Whether you’re chasing a new PB in the pool, teaching the kids to swim or planning a family day out, there’s a venue here to suit. From historic baths and modern leisure centres to outdoor lidos and adrenaline-fueled waterparks, here’s where to go swimming in and around Leeds.
Quick picks: Where to go swimming in & around Leeds
Pools in Leeds
Local pools for low impact exercise, learning to swim and having fun with the family.
Bramley Baths
Credit: Lizzie Coombes
Bramley Baths is one of the most beautiful swimming pools in Leeds. It dates from the Edwardian times, and has period features like wrought iron railings and an arched window.
Everyone is catered for here. There are general and lane swim sessions, as well as ‘Fun Swim’ sessions for kids, where the pool gets filled with loads of exciting floats to play with. You can also do low-impact exercise with their aqua zumba and aqua aerobics classes.
Best for: Budget friendly swimming in beautiful Edwardian surroundings.
Where? Bramley Baths, Broad Lane, Bramley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS13 3DF.
When? 6:30am to 9pm Monday to Friday, and 7am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday.
How much? An adult’s general swim session is £6, children are £4 each and under-fives go free. You can also get a family ticket – two adults and two children – for £15.
Kirkstall Leisure Centre
Kirkstall Leisure Centre is one of the most convenient swimming pools in west Leeds, with a 25-metre pool, learner pool and a packed programme of family-friendly sessions.
There are swimming sessions for all abilities, from disability swim to family fun swim and aqua aerobic classes. Out of the pool? You could grab one of the four bookable courts for a game of netball or squash, or get moving in a fitness class ranging from yoga to circuits.
Best for: Families and beginners.
Where? Kirkstall Leisure Centre, Kirkstall Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3BE.
When? 7am to 10pm Monday to Thursday, 7am to 9:30pm on Friday, 8am to 3:30pm on Saturday, and 9am to 5pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Ilkley Pool and Lido
Ilkley Pool and Lido has an indoor and an outdoor pool, with the unheated outdoor pool being open from May to September. It’s a picturesque set up, making it perfect for cooling down kids (and adults!) on hot days.
That’s not all – there are picnic tables, a fountain, a cafe, tennis courts and a putting green to keep you entertained. And if the weather takes a turn for the worse, there’s still the warm waters of the indoor pool.
Best for: Outdoor swimming in summer.
Where? Ilkley Pool and Lido, Denton Road, Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 0BZ.
When? Indoor pool open year-round. Outdoor lido open May–September. Check the latest timetable before visiting.
How much? £7.25 for an adult swim, £3.75 for a junior under 16, and under-threes go free. Swims in the lido cost £12.30 for adults, £6.35 for juniors and under-threes go free.
Armley Leisure Centre
Looking for local swimming facilities in Leeds? Armley Leisure Centre has got everything you need. There’s a 25-metre pool to take a dip in, with lane sessions perfect for getting some gentle exercise in. They have a shallow learner pool too, which comes in at 10 metres by 8 metres, ideal for kids as they learn to love the water.
If you’re in need of extra TLC, there’s a hydrotherapy pool, perfect for relaxing in after a hard session of intense swimming.
Best for: Local swimming and hydrotherapy.
Where? Armley Leisure Centre, Carr Crofts, Armley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS12 3HB.
When? 7:15am to 10pm Monday to Thursday, 7:15am to 9:30pm on Friday, 8am to 6pm on Saturday, 8:15am to 7:15pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Kippax Leisure Centre
Kippax Leisure Centre has one 25-metre pool, but it’s a great one if you want to practise your diving. The deep end has a sharp drop-off down to four metres, one of the deepest in the city. They have plenty of lane sessions in the timetable, so getting in your regular exercise here is a breeze.
Their green credentials are pretty good, too. Solar panels help heat the pool and the building, so when you take a dip in the water, it’s eco-friendly!
Best for: Diving and deep water swimming.
Where? Kippax Leisure Centre, Station Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 7LQ.
When? 12pm to 8:45pm on Monday, 7:15am to 9:45pm on Tuesday, 1:30pm to 9:45pm on Wednesday, 7am to 9:45pm on Thursday, 1:30pm to 9pm on Friday, 8am to 3pm on Saturday, and 8:45am to 1:30pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
John Charles Centre for Sport
The John Charles Centre for Sports has a state-of-the-art aquatics centre, making it one of the best places for serious swimming in Leeds. It boasts a 10-lane, 50-metre Olympic-sized pool, as well as a 25-metre pool.
They hold lane swims here, but if you’re looking to train for competitions, there are regular ‘Master’ sessions too. There’s a diving pool so you can practice your double somersaults too – they’ve got four diving platforms and two springboards.
Best for: Serious swimmers and training. Looking for more ways to get active? Check out our guide to the best gyms in Leeds.
Where? John Charles Centre for Sport, Middleton Grove, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 5DJ.
When? 7am to 10pm Monday to Friday, and 8am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Rothwell Leisure Centre
Following a major refurbishment, Rothwell Leisure Centre offers modern swimming facilities for both families and fitness swimmers. Whether you want to take your kids to the pool so they can learn the basics of doggy paddle, or you’re looking for lane swimming, there’s a session to suit all needs.
There are two pools – a 25-metre pool with a two-metre deep end, and a shallow beginner-friendly learner pool to splash about in. Other facilities include five courts, a spin studio and 111-station gym.
Best for: Families and beginner swimmers.
Where? Rothwell Leisure Centre, Wakefield Road, Rothwell, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 8EL.
When? 6:30am to 9:30pm Monday to Thursday, 6:30am to 9pm on Friday, 7:15am to 4:30pm on Saturday, and 8:30am to 5:30pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
The Edge
The University of Leeds’ swimming pool has got something to offer everyone. The floor moves, which means that it can raise up for fitness classes and learner swimmers or go down to two metres for advanced swimming. They’ve got a really comprehensive swimming programme, ranging from kids lessons to one-to-one specialist instruction.
You can enjoy modern changing rooms with underfloor heating, as well as a sauna and a steam room. Don’t worry – you don’t have to be a student to use the pool.
Best for: Modern facilities and flexible swim sessions.
Where? The Edge, University of Leeds, Willow Terrace Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9JT.
When? 6:30am to 9:30pm Monday to Thursday, 6:30am to 9pm on Friday and 7:15am to 4:30pm on Saturday and 8:30am to 5:30pm on Sunday.
How much? Public swims start from £7.75, it’s £6.75 for students and staff, and swimming is included in the cost of Edge membership.
Morley Leisure Centre
Learning to swim? Whether you’re an adult or a child, you can learn to feel comfortable and confident in the water at Morley Leisure Centre. They’ve got a 25-metre pool for lane swimmers, adult learners and fitness classes like aqua aerobics.
There’s a smaller, shallower pool for kids and tiny tots to enjoy being water babies in a safe environment with their families. Both have step access, if cannonballing or a high jump isn’t for you.
Best for: Learning to swim.
Where? Morley Leisure Centre, Queensway, Morley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS27 9JP.
When? 7am to 10pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 6:30pm Saturday and Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Quarry House Leisure Centre
Quarry House Leisure Centre is just a stone’s throw from Leeds city centre, perfect for an after-work swim. They have both a 25-metre swimming pool and a learner pool.
Got a child learning how to swim? They’re a Swim England partner, teaching the Learn to Swim programme. They also run regular classes, but half-term sees intensive crash courses for faster progress.
Best for: City-centre swimming.
Where? Quarry House Leisure Centre, Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7UA.
When? 6:30am to 10pm on Monday to Thursday, 6:30am to 9pm on Friday, and 8am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.50, children can swim from £3.50.
Fearnville Leisure Centre
Fearnville Leisure Centre combines two swimming pools with free parking and a range of fitness facilities, making it a popular choice for active families. There are two pools – a 25-metre pool with dedicated lane swims dedicated lane swims, and a smaller pool that’s often dedicated to learners and school swimming lessons.
You can use their gym, play tennis on one of three outdoor tennis courts and even have a game of squash. Situated just 15 minutes north east of Leeds city centre, it’s a great choice for swimming and leisure.
Best for: Swimming and fitness facilities.
Where? Fearnville Leisure Centre, Oakwood Lane, Fearnville, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 3LF.
When? 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm on Saturday, and 8:30am to 5pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Holt Park Active
Swimming at Holt Park Active means that you have access to three different pools. There’s the 25-metre pool for beating your personal best, the smaller one for learners and the hydrotherapy pool for relaxing in.
Their facilities are fully accessible, with spacious changing rooms, a pool hoist and shower chair, as well as adapted equipment in their gym. Hungry? Grab a protein hit post-workout or a bite to eat with the kids at the on-site cafe.
Best for: Accessible swimming and rehabilitation.
Where? Holt Park Active, Holtdale Approach, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 7RX.
When? 7am to 9:30pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm on Saturday, and 8am to 7:30pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.60, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
John Smeaton Leisure Centre
Whether you’re training for fitness, joining an aqua class or planning a family swim, John Smeaton Leisure Centre offers one of the broadest swimming programmes in east Leeds. The 25-metre pool is available for lane swimming, family fun and fitness classes. You can work on your backstroke technique, enjoy a day splashing about with the kids or get some social exercise with aqua aerobics.
The other sports facilities are great too, with an outdoor Astroturf pitch, four courts and two halls available to play everything from badminton to basketball.
Best for: Fitness swimming and aqua classes.
Where? John Smeaton Leisure Centre, Smeaton Approach, off Barwick Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS15 8TA.
When? 6am to 9:30pm on Monday, 6am to 10pm Tuesday to Friday, 8am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.30, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Pudsey Leisure Centre
Pudsey Leisure Centre is one of the best pools in Leeds for a focused swim. There’s a 25-metre pool with plenty of lane swimming scheduled in. The deep end has a depth of four metres and there’s a diving board too, so if it’s your dive skills you want to concentrate on, this could be the perfect pool for you.
If you’re looking for lessons, there are regular slots in the weekly schedule to get the kids making a splash in no time, along with aqua aerobics classes.
Best for: Lane swimming and diving practice.
Where? Pudsey Leisure Centre, Market Place, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 7BE.
When? 6:45am to 9:30pm Monday to Thursday, 6:45am to 9pm on Friday, 8:15am to 5pm on Saturday, and 8:45am to 6:30pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.30, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Wetherby Leisure Centre
With two pools and a packed programme of lane swims, lessons and public swimming sessions, Wetherby Leisure Centre great for family days out. If you’re swimming for fitness, there’s 25 metres of pool for you to enjoy, with daily lane swims before, during and after work hours.
Prefer fun sessions? There are plenty of general swims, fun hours and the 10-metre learner pool to get your kids enjoying the water safely. There are lessons for children here too, including adult and toddler sessions.
Best for: Family swims and swimming lessons.
Where? Wetherby Leisure Centre, Lodge Lane, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 5FN.
When? 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm on Saturday, and 9am to 6pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults can swim for £6.30, juniors for £3.15 and tots under three go free. There are discounts for Leedscard holders and off-peak swims.
Swimming pools near Leeds worth the drive
Looking for something special? These pools are definitely worth the longer trip!
Eccleshill Pool
With 150,000 people visiting Eccleshill Pool every year, you might be wondering what makes it so good. Well, we could talk about the two pools (learner and main), the diving board, the modern baby-changing facilities, the roomy family cubicles and the swimming lessons, but really, it’s the slide that keeps people coming back.
It’s a whopping 20 metres of whooshing adrenaline, guaranteed to send you whirling into the pool below. How can you resist?
Best for: Families and waterslide fun.
Where? Eccleshill Pool, Harrogate Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD10 0QE.
When? 7am to 9pm on Monday, 9am to 9:30pm Tuesday and Wednesday, 7am to 9:30am on Thursday, 9am to 8:30pm on Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm on Saturday, and 9am to 4:45pm on Sunday.
How much? It’s £7.25 for adults, £3.75 for juniors and under-threes are free. There are discounts for Bradford Leisure Card holders.
Calypso Cove
Calypso Cove at Metrodome in Barnsley is one of the biggest and best waterparks in the UK. Even if you‘re new to swimming, you’ll still have a ball. It’s pirate themed, and you can expect slides, slides and more slides. There’s Terror Torrent, the biggest and the fastest of all the flumes in the complex – maybe even the UK!
Under-8s can enjoy the calm waters and mini-slide of Barnacle Bay, and braver kids can walk the plank or fire the pirate ship’s water canons.
Best for: Waterpark adventures.
Where? Calypso Cove, The Metrodome Leisure Complex, Queens Ground, Queens Road, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S71 1AN.
When? 10am to 5pm daily.
How much? Waterpark tickets cost £13 for over 11s, £11 for kids under 11 and £4 for under-threes.
Shipley Pool
Shipley Pool in Bradford is the perfect pool for getting your laps in or improving your confidence in the water. There are no kiddie slides here, just three pools dedicated to nailing your technique. It’s a centre of world-class diving excellence and its dedicated diving pool has a total of four boards.
If you’re a newbie, there’s a whole host of swimming lessons and a teaching pool so you can put your feet on the ground at any time.
Best for: Technique training and diving.
Where? Shipley Pool, 5 Alexandra Road, Shipley, West Yorkshire, BD18 3ER.
When? 9am to 6:30pm on Monday and Tuesday, 9am to 8pm on Wednesday, 9am to 9:30pm on Thursday, 9am to 5:30pm on Friday, 8am to 3:30pm on Saturday, and 8am to 4pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults swim for £7.25, it’s £3.75 for juniors and under-threes go free. There are discounts for Bradford Leisure Card holder.
Splash Park
Splash Park in Huddersfield is well worth the trip out of Leeds, especially if you’ve got kids in tow. Try out the exhilarating Sidewinder – hop in your rubber ring and plummet down the near-vertical water slide, only for it to send you flying up the other side!
If you’re feeling like something a little more sedate, take a trip down the lazy river, floating gently around the bends. Don’t fancy the slides? Play with the buckets, jets and enjoy the fun pool.
Best for: Thrill-seekers and younger children.
Where? Splash Park, Huddersfield Leisure Centre, Spring Grove Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 4BP.
When? Opening times and slide opening times vary based on whether it’s term time or school holidays.
How much? Adult prices are £5.40 when the slides are open, and it’s £3.50 for kids. You can save money by booking online or by purchasing a family ticket.
Keighley Leisure Centre
Keighley Leisure Centre is packed with sports facilities. As well as a 25-metre main pool, a learner pool and a thrilling 40-metre waterslide with a plunge pool, they boast a sports centre, gym, sauna, steam room and a cafe.
The pool has lots of different sessions, so whether you’re a serious swimmer working on your lap times, a parent with kids to keep happy, or someone looking for a class to help you keep fit, you’ll find something to suit you here.
Best for: Waterslides and all-day family visits.
Where? Keighley Leisure Centre, Hard Ings Road, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 3JN.
When? 6:30am to 10pm Monday to Thursday, 6:30am to 8:45pm on Friday, 7:30am to 6:30pm on Saturday, and 7:30am to 5:30pm on Sunday.
How much? Adults pay £7.25 and kids (under 15 years) £3.75. Under-threes go free.
Swimming pools in Leeds FAQs
What is the best swimming pool in Leeds for lane swimming?
John Charles Centre for Sport is one of the best options for lane swimming thanks to its 50-metre Olympic-sized pool and regular training sessions.
Are there any outdoor swimming pools near Leeds?
Yes. Ilkley Pool and Lido is one of the most popular outdoor swimming venues near Leeds, with an outdoor pool open during the summer season.
Which swimming pools in Leeds are best for families?
Family-friendly options include Bramley Baths, Kirkstall Leisure Centre and Rothwell Leisure Centre, while Calypso Cove and Splash Park are popular for waterslides and water-based attractions.
What is the cheapest place to go swimming in Leeds?
Bramley Baths is typically one of the most affordable options for adult swimming in Leeds, although prices can change so it’s worth checking before visiting.
Can I get discounted swimming in Leeds?
Many Leeds City Council leisure centres offer discounted admission for Leedscard and Leedscard Extra holders. Check eligibility before visiting to see if you could save on admission costs.
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