Outdoor swimmers in Hitchin and Letchworth will be able to keep enjoying their heated lidos for longer this year, after both sites confirmed extended opening dates following a record summer season.

The much-loved pools, run by Everyone Active in partnership with North Herts Council, had been due to close on Sunday 7 September. But with decarbonisation works planned across the district's leisure centres, the lidos will now stay open later, giving residents more opportunities to swim outdoors while other facilities undergo improvements.

Hitchin's lido at the Swimming and Fitness Centre has already welcomed 27,901 visits this summer and will remain open until Friday 31 October. Earlier this year it also trialled a two-week cold-water swimming pilot in May, which proved so popular that operators are considering starting it earlier in 2026. From mid-May onwards, the pool has been fully heated and will continue to be throughout the extended season.

Letchworth Lido – which celebrated its 90th anniversary in July and recorded 46,678 visits this summer – will now stay open until Tuesday 30 September. The site will then transform into its festive ice rink from late November to January. Last year's rink drew thousands of visitors and included inclusive sessions for under-5s, seniors and people with additional needs.

Tim Melvin, Contract Commercial Manager at Everyone Active, said:

"This has been a fantastic summer at both Hitchin and Letchworth, with more than 74,000 visits so far. It's clear just how much these facilities mean to local people. By extending the seasons, we can give even more residents and visitors the chance to experience our heated lidos, whether that's through lane swims, family sessions or simply enjoying the unique atmosphere of outdoor swimming. Letchworth's winter ice rink also means the community can enjoy this unique space year-round."

Cllr Amy Allen, North Herts Council's Executive Member for Environment, added:

"We're delighted to be extending the season at both Letchworth and Hitchin lidos this year. With the pools being heated, it's a great opportunity for residents to enjoy some outdoor swimming before the end of the season, and a perfect way to make the most of the late-summer sunshine."

For timetables and booking details, visit:

• Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre
• Letchworth Lido