Northcroft Lido - The Best Place to be in a heat wave

A Lifesaver Right on Our Doorstep! How has everyone been keeping cool in this heatwave?

We have now visited Northcroft Lido in Newbury twice already this week, and honestly, we have had the absolute best time on both visits. It has quickly become our favourite place to spend a sunny day with the kids and friends and given it's literally just down the road, we feel pretty lucky.

The Lido is a heated 50m outdoor pool set in the grounds of Northcroft Leisure Centre on Northcroft Lane. It is easy to find, and there's parking on site, though it can fill up on hot days. The parking is free for 3 hours but you need to be registered on the parking app. If the main car parks are full, there's additional parking at Northcroft Lane Car Park.

Even when it's at full capacity, it somehow never feels overwhelmingly crowded. One thing worth knowing: it's very popular when the sun's out, so booking in advance is a must. You can book through the Everyone Active app, website, or call 01635 31199.

As well as the pool, there's an interactive splash pad and slides, plus a lovely decked area with colourful beach huts to give it a real seaside feel. The splash pad is brilliant and kept both kids entertained for ages. The spiral flume is nearly six metres high, with the racer slides around three metres which is perfect for the slightly older or braver little ones! One of the things I really love is that there are so many different spots to set up at for the day. Whether you want to sit on the grass, find some shade under the trees, or grab a place on the decked area by the pool.

On the pricing front, prices are dependent on the length of the session. They have some 1,2 and 3 hour sessions and 3 hour sessions. A one-hour swim costs £5.50 for adults, £3.85 for juniors, and just £1.30 for under 3;s. The prices vary according to peak and off peak, as well as length of session. For a better idea, check the app or website. For a full afternoon of fun in the sun, we think it's great value. (They also offer West Berkshire residents discounts, so do sign up for this on their website.

There is also a café plus an ice cream stand, which definitely helped keep everyone happy throughout the day.

The season runs until September, so there are still plenty of warm months left to take advantage of it. If this weather continues, we will definitely be back many more times before the summer is out.

Honestly, it's just the best fun. The atmosphere is so lovely, the facilities are fantastic, and it feels like such a gem to have right here in Newbury. If you haven't been yet, what are you waiting for?