Tinside Lido, a jewel in Plymouth’s crown and a favourite spot for locals to escape the swelter of a heatwave, has been an integral part of the city since its opening on October 2, 1935.
Originally serving as a “ladies’ bathing place” with entry costing just a penny, it wasn’t long before plans were hatched to transform the foreshore into a saltwater lido, catering to the throngs of people seeking leisure by Plymouth’s waterside.
However, by the 1980s and ’90s, Tinside Lido saw a decline in visitors and fell into disrepair, leading to its closure in 1992. The community’s passion for the lido sparked a formidable campaign for its restoration, spearheaded by the dedicated Tinside Action Group.
Their efforts culminated in one of Plymouth’s largest petitions, amassing 70,000 signatures and even catching the Queen’s attention in London aboard a battle bus in 1999. Thanks to their relentless advocacy, the lido was awarded Grade II Listed Building status in 1998 and underwent a £3.4 million refurbishment.
In 2003, the lido made its grand comeback and has been cherished by residents and visitors alike ever since. Delving into our archives, we’ve unearthed 26 nostalgic photographs charting the lido’s journey from its inception to the present day.
Take a trip down memory lane with these evocative images below.