The swimming pool here is absolutely bonkers in the best way. We’re not talking a sad rectangle with lane ropes. We’re talking a lazy river, water slides, and a wave machine that actually makes you feel like you’re at the seaside, minus the sand in your trousers.
There’s a dedicated lane swim area for the serious goggles-wearing types, but also a massive leisure pool for splashing about like a happy seal. Seriously, I saw a grown man screaming with joy on the rapids slide. No judgment, sir. No judgment.
Kids? They’ll be entertained for hours. You? You can float in the lazy river and pretend you’re on a tropical island. Just ignore the fact that you can see the M32 from the window. It’s called imagination.
When You’re Done Feeling Like a Prune
Right, you’ve had your swim, your fingers are pruny, and you’re hungry. The on-site café, Hengrove Park Café, is a total game-changer. It’s not your typical leisure centre vending machine snack situation. We’re talking proper coffee, paninis, and cake that makes you forget you just exercised.
I recommend a bacon butty and a cuppa. It’s the official post-swim reward. And if you’re feeling virtuous, they do smoothies too, but where’s the fun in that?
