Thousands of people headed to the outdoor pools in Hitchin and Letchworth over the bank holiday weekend as soaring temperatures helped both lidos sell out every public swimming session.

More than 8,000 visitors used the two North Herts lidos across the three-day opening weekend, which began on Saturday 23 May, with the UK experiencing some of the hottest May temperatures on record.

At Hitchin Lido, based at Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre, 4,934 visits were recorded across the weekend, while Letchworth Lido welcomed 3,362 visitors.

Public swimming sessions at both sites sold out each day as families and swimmers made the most of the sunny weather, with temperatures reaching around 30C locally.

The facilities are run by Everyone Active on behalf of North Herts Council.

Tim Melvin, contract manager for Everyone Active in North Herts, said: "What a way to start the season. To be fully booked across every single session at both lidos on our opening weekend is just fantastic, and the atmosphere was brilliant throughout.

"Credit goes to our teams who worked incredibly hard to make sure everyone had a great experience in what were exceptionally warm conditions.

"There are still sessions available at both sites for the rest of the week, so if you haven't had a chance to get in yet, don't miss out - it's the perfect way to make the most of the sunshine."

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Cllr Amy Allen, Executive Member for Environment at North Herts Council, added: "It's been wonderful to see the sunshine arrive in time for opening weekend, with both Hitchin and Letchworth lidos so busy.

"These much-loved facilities are a real highlight of the summer in North Herts, and it's fantastic to see people returning as well as welcoming new visitors."

She also thanked staff for working in very high temperatures to ensure visitors had a safe and enjoyable experience.

A packed programme of events is planned at both lidos throughout summer 2026, including floating sound baths and solstice swims. Hitchin Lido will also host sunrise and sunset swimming sessions.

Lane swimming, family swims and other sessions can be booked via the Everyone Active website.