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David Lloyd Swimming Pool: Sizes, Opening Times, Membership & Facilities
David Lloyd swimming pools are available at many clubs, with facilities that can include indoor pools, outdoor pools, dedicated lane swimming, and family swim sessions. Pool size, opening times, and access rules vary by club, so check your local club before visiting before visiting.
This guide covers the main details people usually want to know before swimming at David Lloyd, including typical pool sizes, opening hours, membership access, indoor and outdoor facilities, family swimming, and what you can expect around the pool area.
What does David Lloyd offer for swimming?
Whether you want a few gentle lengths, an energising class or a lesson, there’s a pool session to match. Indoor pools run all year, while outdoor pools add a seasonal treat.
- Swimming lessons for kids and adults at every ability level
- Aqua classes set to music
- Heated indoor and outdoor pools
- Dedicated swim times for different groups
- Poolside spas and spacious locker rooms
Is Swimming Included in David Lloyd Membership?
Pool access is part of every David Lloyd membership. The official swim page confirms that swimming is included in all membership types, while lessons come at an additional cost.
That means the entry-level plan and the premium plan both open the same indoor pool. Some extras, such as certain spa areas, depend on the tier.
- Indoor pool use is included on every tier
- Outdoor pool use is included where the club has one
- Splash pool use is included where the club has one
- Swimming lessons are charged on top of the monthly fee
- Some outdoor areas sit behind Platinum, such as the Spa Garden pool at Wickwoods
Transition: Since lessons are the one swimming cost outside membership, here is how that part works.
How Much Do Swimming Lessons & Coaching Cost?
Lessons are usually sold as a continuous monthly course rather than drop-in sessions. The programme runs roughly 50 weeks a year, with a break over Christmas and New Year.
| Service | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pool access | Included | All tiers |
| Aqua fitness classes | Included | All tiers |
| Kids' lessons (Swim Stars) | £15–£25/session | Sold as a monthly course |
| Adult group lessons | £15–£25/session | Small groups |
| Adult one-to-one coaching | £25–£50/session | Individual coaching |
| Parent & Baby / Toddler | £15–£25/session | Monthly course |
| Monthly lesson course | £25–£28/month | Continuous enrolment |
| Youth Swim Squad | Club-specific | Extra monthly fee |
- Figures are approximate and vary by club
- A parent on Mumsnet reported classes of up to three children, which is worth confirming at your club
What Pools Are Available At David Lloyd?
Most clubs combine several pool types, each with its own purpose.
| Pool type | Where | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Heated indoor pool | Every club | Lanes, lessons, family swims |
| Heated outdoor pool | Most clubs | Seasonal recreation and lengths |
| Splash / kids' pool | Most clubs | Toddlers and young children |
| Hydrotherapy pool | Select clubs | Warm-water therapy |
The indoor pools stay open year-round, which keeps training on track through winter. Most clubs also have a poolside spa area next to the pool.
Example 1: Exeter
The pool page lists a 25m indoor pool, a 20m heated outdoor pool, an indoor kids’ splash pool and an outdoor terrace. The outdoor pool is described as heated all year.
Example 2: Derby
Derby has a 25m indoor pool, a 20m outdoor pool and both an indoor and outdoor splash pool for kids. There is also an outdoor pool bar and terrace, which makes it more of a day out than a lengths-only setup.
What Size Are David Lloyd Swimming Pools?
David Lloyd pool sizes vary slightly from club to club, but many locations have both a 20-meter pool and a 25-meter pool. In some clubs, the larger pool is indoors, while at others it may be outdoors.
| Club | Indoor Pool | Outdoor Pool |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiff | 25m | 20m, seasonal |
| Leeds | 25m | 20m |
| Acton Park | 20m | 25m |
| Birmingham | 20m | 20m, seasonal |
| Cheadle | 25m | 25m |
A 20m or 25m pool gives you enough space for regular lap swimming, fitness sessions and general swimming. Many David Lloyd clubs also have a separate children’s or splash pool near the main indoor swimming area.
The exact setup can differ between clubs, so check the facilities page for your nearest David Lloyd location to confirm its pool size and whether an outdoor pool is available.
Does every David Lloyd have an outdoor pool?
Most do, but not all. Larger, newer or refurbished clubs are likelier to have a full outdoor area with terraces and loungers.
- Oxford, Poole, York, Cheadle and Brighton are among clubs with outdoor pools
- Smaller urban clubs may have indoor pools only
- The season generally runs from late March or April to October
- Some clubs heat their outdoor pools into colder months
- Check your club’s facilities page if an outdoor pool matters to you
What are the outdoor pool opening times?
Outdoor timetables depend on the club and the weather. The pattern below is typical for summer.
| Session | Typical slot |
|---|---|
| Weekday early adult swim | 6:00–10:00 AM |
| Weekday family swim | 10:00 AM–6:00 PM |
| Weekday evening adult swim | 6:00–8:30 PM |
| Weekend morning adult swim | 7:00–10:00 AM |
| Weekend family swim | 10:00 AM–6:00 PM |
| Weekend evening adult swim | 6:00–8:00/8:30 PM |
- These are approximate patterns, not guarantees
- Hours shrink in March, April, September and October
- The outdoor pool may close on cooler days
- The David Lloyd app shows the live schedule
How does the pool timetable work?
Timetables rotate through five session types during the day. Winter and summer schedules differ, mostly around outdoor access and lesson times.
- Lane swimming: marked lanes for lengths
- Family swim: open to all ages with supervision rules
- Adult-only swim: quiet sessions for members aged 16+
- Lesson time: lanes or sections reserved for lessons and squads
- Aqua class time: sections reserved for classes, with other pools unaffected at multi-pool clubs
Timetables sit on the club page at davidlloyd.co.uk and in the app.
What's the difference between adult-only and family swim?
The right session depends on your goal. Adult-only suits training, family swim suits shared time with children.
| Session | Who | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Adult-only | Members 16+ | Lane training, quiet swims |
| Family swim | All members | Family visits, play |
| Lane swimming | Usually 16+ | Fitness, technique |
| Lessons | Enrolled participants | Structured learning |
What Swimming Lessons Does David Lloyd Offer Adults?
Adult lessons cover everything from a first stroke to stamina and confidence. Swimmers can pick one-on-one coaching, group lessons or a class led by Swim England qualified instructors.
Lessons sit on top of the pool access already included in membership. A beginner can build water confidence, while a regular swimmer can work on a specific stroke or a longer distance.
- Group lessons suit beginners and improvers
- One-to-one coaching suits a specific goal, such as a charity swim or a triathlon
- Instructors hold Swim England qualifications
- Ask the club’s swim team about availability and current fees
What Is David Lloyd Swim Stars for Kids?
Swim Stars is the children’s learn-to-swim programme. David Lloyd says it teaches thousands of children to swim every week, with instructors who build confidence alongside core skills.
Lessons suit a wide range of ages and abilities. Progress is built step by step, so a child can move from water confidence to proper strokes.
- Lessons are led by Swim England qualified instructors
- Group and one-to-one formats are available
- Enrolment is arranged through the club’s swim team
- Ask about waiting lists early, as popular age groups can fill
What Are Parent & Baby and Parent & Toddler Sessions?
These sessions are the starting point for the youngest swimmers. David Lloyd describes them as a way for little ones to learn safety skills and discover how fun water play can be.
A parent or guardian joins the child in the pool. Sessions take place in warm water and focus on comfort, movement and safe habits.
- Parent & Baby suits the youngest swimmers
- Parent & Toddler suits children who are gaining independence
- The kids’ splash pool is the usual home for early sessions
- Check each club for session days and fees
What Are David Lloyd Aqua Classes?
Aqua classes are music-led workouts in the pool. David Lloyd describes using the water as resistance while you dance and move, building muscle and mobilising joints.
Water takes pressure off joints, which makes aqua a low-impact option. The NHS lists water aerobics as a moderate-intensity activity.
- Most fitness classes are included in membership, though some need Platinum or Diamond
- Check the club timetable on the website or in the app
- Class timings change between clubs and seasons
- Pool space used by a class is not available for lengths at that time
What Should You Wear to the David Lloyd Pool?
Swimwear is the essential item. Goggles, a swim cap and indoor-only flip flops are recommended but not essential, according to David Lloyd.
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Swimwear | Essential |
| Towel | Bring your own unless your club says otherwise |
| Goggles | Recommended for lengths |
| Swim cap | Recommended, especially for long hair |
| Indoor flip flops | Recommended for the pool deck |
- Keep outdoor shoes off the pool deck
- Wear purpose-made swimwear, not everyday clothing
- Check the club for any nappy requirements for babies and toddlers
What Are the Pool Rules at David Lloyd?
Rules follow the club’s Membership Terms and signage. The core ones are standard across UK pools.
- Shower before entering the pool or spa
- Follow lifeguard and staff instructions at once
- Walk on the pool deck and do not run
- No diving into shallow areas
- Children must be supervised according to the club’s age rules
- Use lane etiquette: pick a lane for your speed and let faster swimmers pass
Age limits for unaccompanied swimming, adult-only sessions and spa use are set in the Membership Terms. Read those or ask reception before a family visit.
What Facilities Come With the David Lloyd Pool?
The pool area connects to the rest of the club, which is a large part of the appeal. Heated indoor and outdoor pools, dedicated swim times, poolside spas and spacious locker rooms are all highlighted on the official swim page.
- Spacious locker rooms
- Poolside spa areas at most clubs
- Spa Retreats and Spa Gardens at select clubs
- Hydro pool, sauna and steam room at some clubs
- Terraces and loungers at clubs with outdoor pools
Example: Member experience
Members at York and Cheadle describe outdoor swims and outdoor aqua classes as a highlight. A Brighton member praised the floats and equipment available for grandchildren.
Can Non-Members Swim at David Lloyd?
Access for non-members depends on the club and the pass on offer. Lessons and classes need an active membership.
| Route | Notes |
|---|---|
| Guest of a member | Subject to the member’s guest allowance |
| Day or trial access | Offered at some clubs, so ask first |
| Lessons | Membership needed |
How Do You Book Swimming at David Lloyd?
You should primarily use the official David Lloyd Clubs App to book swimming at David Lloyd.
- Check the day’s timetable on the website or in the app
- Book aqua classes through the app or club timetable
- Join lessons through the club’s swim team or reception
- Ask about one-to-one coaching at reception
Is the David Lloyd Swimming Pool Worth It?
For regular swimmers, the combination of year-round indoor pools, outdoor pools at most clubs and poolside spa areas is a strong draw. Swimming also supports national activity targets.
Statistic 1: UK guidance recommends adults aged 19 to 64 do at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, and the NHS lists swimming as vigorous and water aerobics as moderate.
Statistic 2: One in four people in England is classed as inactive, meaning less than 30 minutes of activity a week.
- Best for regular lengths swimmers and families
- Less suited to someone who swims twice a year
- Test the club first, as pool times differ
FAQs
Can I Pay Just to Swim at David Lloyd?
There is generally no separate swim-only ticket. If temporary access is available, it is more likely to be through a wider day pass, guest visit or trial that includes other club facilities.
Does Every David Lloyd Club Have an Outdoor Pool?
No. Outdoor swimming facilities depend on the individual club. Some locations have indoor and outdoor pools, while others have a different setup.
Are David Lloyd Swimming Pools Heated?
Many David Lloyd pools are heated, including outdoor pools at clubs where they are available.
Can Children Use the Swimming Pool?
Yes, children can swim during permitted family sessions. Many clubs also have dedicated splash pools and swimming lessons for younger members.
Can Adults Take Swimming Lessons?
Yes. Adult swimming lessons are available at many locations for beginners and people who want to improve technique.
Is Lane Swimming Available Every Day?
Lane swimming is commonly offered, but the number of available lanes may change when lessons, classes or family sessions are taking place.
Conclusion
David Lloyd swimming pools offer a mix of indoor and outdoor options, with pool size, access times and extra facilities depending on the club. Some locations also include children’s splash pools and cold plunge facilities.
Before visiting, check your local club’s pool timetable, guest access rules and available facilities. This will help you know when you can swim, which areas are open and whether you need a membership or pass.
