A historic seafront lido that narrowly escaped being converted into residential flats has undergone a remarkable £11 million transformation, now offering dog-friendly swimming sessions. Saltdean Lido, an Art Deco pool in Brighton that first opened in 1937, faced closure and potential redevelopment before a dedicated campaign saved it.
Restoration and Features
The lido reopened in 2017, but extensive restoration work continued, culminating in a grand reveal in 2024. It is now the UK's only Grade II* listed coastal lido, retaining many of its original 1930s features. The renovation restored the café, library, ballroom, and offices. The facility boasts a 40-metre outdoor pool, spaces for yoga and live music, a gym, sauna, exercise classes, and event spaces for weddings.
Dog-Friendly Sessions
During the autumn, the lido hosts Dogtember on selected weekends, allowing dogs and their owners to swim together. The area is gated so dogs can roam freely off-lead. In 2026, sessions run on September 12-13 and October 3-4. Tickets go on sale May 1 and are expected to sell out quickly.
Visiting Saltdean
Saltdean, just outside Brighton's city centre, offers a quieter coastal village feel. Saltdean Beach features shingle shores and white cliffs, and is less crowded than Brighton's urban beach. Nearby attractions include Saltdean Park, the Sussex Downs countryside, and a small high street with independent shops and tearooms.
The summer season runs from May 1 to September 10, with reduced winter hours. The £11 million renovation was funded by National Lottery grants and community donations. A volunteer tour guide remarked, "It fills me with joy every time I come here, swimming in the pool of our Grade II*-listed lido, which is just magnificent."
