Putting Reading on the Map, Thames Lido, sponsors Jacobs the Jewellers and The Purple Turtle
The restored 1902 Grade II listed historic open-air swimming pool Thames Lido was opened in 2017 and draws people from London, Winchester, Oxford, Wigan and as far as Australia.
Now it has been nominated for the Pride of Reading award Putting Reading on the Map and the Hospitality Award.
A nominator said: “It is a staging post for users of the Thames Path.
“Its spa, glass-walled restaurant and bar looking out to the pool is a unique combination.”
They pointed to reviews in national media singing the praises of the Lido’s facilities, with its Scandi vibe, its accessibility from London, especially via the Elizabeth Line, emphasising Reading as a destination.
“It appears in Secret London in 2024. National and regional reviews include: The Guardian, The Telegraph, Express, Country and Townhouse,” said its nominator. It was Muddy Stilettos best Day Spa Award in 2021 & 2022, they added.
“Berkshire Life commented ‘a stunning addition to Reading’. It was listed in the Michelin Guide in 2021,” they said.
“In 2018, Thames Lido received Commendations in national heritage competitions: Civic Voice Award for the ‘Quality of the restoration and re-imagining of a building’ and Historic England Andrew Lloyd Webber Angels Awards ‘Best Rescue of an Historic Building or Place’, raising Reading’s profile in the heritage world.”
Thames Lido has also been nominated for the Hospitality Award, inspired by and in memory of Hilary Scott and sponsored by Cream Design.
A nominator said: “The restaurant is a delight – not only for its varied cuisine, with a changing seasonal menu, but also the excellent staff – welcoming, efficient and friendly.
“While the lido has memberships, it is open to all. There are one-off swims, day spa packages and ‘swim and eat’ packages available to non-members.”
Putting Reading on the Map is sponsored by Jacobs the Jewellers and The Purple Turtle.
