The reopening will introduce a new sauna and pop-up food and beverage offerings alongside the historic unheated pool, bringing fresh life and activity back to the site ahead of the full regeneration in the future.
Portsmouth’s iconic Hilsea Lido opening date announced
Hilsea Lido, one of Portsmouth’s most loved community landmarks, will reopen on Saturday 2 May 2026 and begin an exciting new chapter as a year-round destination for health, wellbeing, and community activity.
Visitors can look forward to family activities, open-water swimming, recovery zones, social spaces, and events, whilst supporting local jobs and businesses.
Building on the pool refurbishment by Portsmouth City Council, which was funded by the UK Government, the visionary team behind Sea Lanes Brighton, in partnership with South Downs Leisure, will pioneer the future regeneration of the area. Together, they are bringing new energy, expertise, and a bold vision for the future of Hilsea Lido.
Sea Lanes and South Downs Leisure have begun recruiting for nearly 30 new roles as they build the team who will help create an amazing experience for all those that visit the lido.
Judit Kollat, General Manager at Hilsea Lido, said:
“As Hilsea Lido celebrates its 90th birthday, we are proud to be leading the next chapter in its history. The work that Portsmouth City Council has done to refurbish Hilsea Lido has enabled us to regenerate it. It is more than a pool, it’s a place with history and heart. We aim to create a vibrant hub for the local community, a centre for both mental and physical wellbeing. The Lido will offer something for everyone.
“With just a couple of months to go until we open the doors on 2 May 2026, please do mark the date in your calendars.”
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said:
“We’re over the moon that Hilsea Lido will open its doors in just a couple of months. This milestone comes as Portsmouth proudly marks 100 years of city status, making 2026 a truly special year. The reopening of Hilsea Lido will transform the north of the city, following the successful launch of the KGV Football Complex and ahead of the North Portsea Coastal Scheme finishing this year.
“As a council, we’ve invested over £40 million in sport and leisure facilities, including the Mountbatten Centre, Pyramids, the new Bransbury Park leisure centre and the KGV Football Complex, because physical activity brings clear benefits for mental and physical wellbeing. We look forward to seeing the lido thrive under an experienced team, creating a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike.”
Local residents are invited to become Founder Members of Hilsea Lido, gaining unlimited swimming and sauna use. More details available https://hilsealido.co.uk/membership/
For updates and community engagement opportunities, visit hilsealido.co.uk.