One of the single best things about living in Bristol is the opportunity to discover newness everywhere you go – whether that be the latest Cargo restaurant to open its doors on Wapping Wharf, or the historic Clifton pub that you stumbled upon last weekend, you can always guarantee that there’s always some fresh stomping ground to stimulate your mind (and tummies) on the horizon.
Amongst our cities eclectic mix is one of the oldest outdoor swimming facilities in the UK. Distinctively paired with an award-winning restaurant and tapas bar, The Lido boasts style, substance and relaxation to wondering guests near and far. Recently featuring on Michael Roux’s ‘Hidden Restaurants’, this Grade II listed beauty is certainly something worth a STRIPD shouting about.
Located just off Oakfield Place (a stones throw away from Whiteladies Road) nestled quietly amongst a row of pastel perfect townhouses, The Lido remains hidden from the bustle of the nearby Triangle area. Holding it’s own secluded whereabouts, this excursion requires a little bit of detection - but hey, that adds to the fun, right?
The Facilities
Stepping through the doors at The Lido feels like you’re stepping into a Narnia of tranquillity. Greeted by a substantially sized outdoor pool, sauna & steam room facilities and privately positioned hot tub (and that’s just the ground floor) – it’s hard not to feel slightly overwhelmed at where to begin your pleasure-seeking itinerary. If you’re not tempted by an alfresco splash, you can enjoy one of the spa treatments on offer – using bespoke Lido products to enhance the ‘exclusivity’ of your experience. With a number of combined day packages on offer, you can tailor make your visit to suit any budget and occasion. Once you’ve finished your chosen form of self-indulgence, you’ll have the choice to shower off in either one of the individual shower rooms or outdoor huts – complete with nostalgic British nautical colour scheme, in keeping with the rest of the venues quirk and charm.
The Food
Wood-roast scallops, sweet herbs & garlic butter | £11.50
Hake a la Gallega | £19.50
Wood roast snails, new season garlic bomba rice, chorizo, asparagus | £19.50
As with many of the establishments in the city, the food on offer at The Lido is evidence to why Bristol is dominating the culinary scene in the UK. Head Chef Freddy Bird showcases his ‘Moorish and Mediterranean’ menu - heroing locally sourced food that warrants sharing and enjoyment. Think tapas plates of Boquerones, Chorizo and morcilla and Wood baked goat’s cheese, honey, thyme, walnuts – all paired with a few robust slices of freshly baked bread to absorb any forgotten flavour. Should your appetite call for something grander, the A la Carte restaurant (situated upstairs) also features some notable dishes worth trying (the Snail & Chorizo Risotto was a surprise favourite) – one would recommend considering side plates too. With reservations available for breakfast, lunch and dinner – you’ve got the opportunity to Basque in this perfectly picturesque poolside setting all day long. If fate aligns, you’re visit will fall under a day of fortunate weather to take full advantage of their floor to ceiling windows, outdoor tables and tempting selection of European wines.
So should your summer days call for some alternative fulfilment these coming months, mosy on down to one of Bristol's very own unique historic attractions - soak up the atmosphere, the flavours (and the wine) and treat yourself to a couple of hours of momentary bliss, this is one modern oasis that's worth splashing out on.
For more information on the Lido packages and menu, click here.
