Gourock Outdoor Pool

cc-by-sa-2.5: Dave souza at Wikipedia.

This is definetly Deep South but it is such an interesting place and I was surprised by how few people know it exists, so we thought it worth writing about.

Built in 1909 the Gourock Swimming Pool is rather unusual. Its outside! One of only two outdoor pools remaining in Scotland it occupies a pretty spectacular location, right on the banks of the River Clyde and looking across to the Argyll Hills. Its location is not just for show though as the water that fills the pool is actually taken from the Clyde itself. It goes through a process of filteration and cleaning during which it is also heated to a lovely warm minimum temperature of 30oC. Like a nice bath.

The idea of going for a swim outside is always nice and when we were in Hungery not so long ago we went along to the public baths where people sit themselves down in the morning sun and soak in pools of warm water. Getting to do so in Scotland and in such a interesting setting sounds great and its funny that the pool is not better known or more widely advertised. I'd imagine bus loads of students and tourists being up for a trip down the Clyde for an outdoor swim. It doesn't even really matter if its sunny or raining as you're going to get wet anyway and the water is heated.

It seems it is with attracting people from further afield that the pool have organised some fun sounding events. On Wednesday 28 July and 11 August (doors open 9:45pm) the pool will have an extended opening until midnight. With a nice clear night, you'll be able to go for a swim in the Clyde under the stars.

Gourock Outdoor Pool
Albert Road
GOUROCK
PA19 1NQ
Tel 01475 631561
gourockpool@inverclyde.gov.uk
Open May - September
Times vary but around 9am - 8pm most days. Check before travelling.
 
Links:
Offical Website
Gazetteer Article about the pool
Aerial Photos