Everybody loves a comeback, and this scenic seaside spot could soon be making a rather hefty one. What was once the Marina Bathing Pool in Ramsgate is now used as a (fairly drab and dreary) cliffside car-park. But a non-profit organisation has recently revealed that there are ‘early discussions’ being had about giving the site a rather swim-pressive makeover.
The Marina Bathing Pool set up shop in the charming town of Ramsgate back in 1935. Boasting an Olympic-sized swimming pool complete with a diving area and accompanying dance hall and skating rink; it was a pretty popular spot. It sadly closed its doors to the public in 1975 after encountering some structural issues, and the site was paved over and turned into a car park not too long after. But now – over 50 years later – there’s talk of the beach-side bathing spot being restored to its former glory.
Heritage Labs Ramsgate took to Instagram to float the idea of a new outdoor swimming pool complex being built on the site. The organisation has approached Thanet District Council (who currently own the site) with proposed plans to give the cliffside spot a new lease of life. The complex could potentially come complete with saunas, cafes, and social spaces; transforming the site into a ‘year-round destination’.
Offering history, charm, and nostalgia by the bucket-load; Ramsgate has had somewhat of a resurgence in recent years. Home to the only Royal Harbour in the UK, a fascinating underground labyrinth of war tunnels, and the largest Wetherspoons in the country; there’s already plenty of reasons to add Ramsgate to your must-visit list. But the addition of a shiny new lido might just be the cherry on top.
Heritage Lab Ramsgate said in their Instagram post: “Thanet has a thriving sea and open-water swimming culture, with people of all ages swimming year-round for wellbeing, connection and community. Outdoor swimming isn’t niche anymore – it’s a movement. Pair it with saunas, cafés or social spaces and you create something truly special: a year-round destination for locals and visitors alike.”