Loving the Lido Life – Part 2
- Claire Champion
- Jun 29
- 2 min read
There is a lido venue that was closed for a number of years, but which was refurbished and given a new chapter. Namely the Thames Lido in central Reading. It was built in 1902 by John Bowen, Borough Engineer and Surveyor. At that time, it was named the Ladies Swimming Bath, blocked off from view to suit the sensibilities of the Edwardian era. It closed for public use in 1974 and remained closed until October 2017. This was when Arne Ringner and his management team from Bristol Lido worked their magic on it and transformed it for future enjoyment. In part I have them to thank for the experiences I will share here in the poem below.
Lido Life
The lapping of the waves, warming
my limbs as I swim some lengths,
the rhythm soothing the aches I hold.
The half-heard chatter of other
swimmers summons a soundtrack
that grounds me in its safe fold.
Oh yes, I’ll admit it to anyone
I’m obsessed with the pool
and its well-kept amenities.
A place that captures light and
an elemental essence.
Simple but with intricacies.
This treat is the Thames Lido,
nestled in the heart of Reading.
A past glory of the King’s Meadow.
Rebuilt, reshaped and restored
from its Edwardian origin.
Emerging from the shadow.
My husband and my mum,
can testify to its various charms
as they enjoyed it beside me.
At points through seven years,
they basked in the delights
of the pool, the cuisine, the scenery.
I know that whenever I go
to experience this beautiful,
blissful water-based site.
That the feelings it evokes
and provokes, are enriching
me in the softening light.
A special ingredient added
to the mix of the pool package
is the cuisine and drinks menu.
The chefs create a three-course
feast for diners, which comes served
by the friendly waiting crew.
The memories and images
of the lido linger, leaving
the need for another trip.
Call of the sauna, steam room
and hot tub, before I
take another cooling dip.
Comments