This weekend, the iconic Jubilee Pool celebrates 90 years of swimming, socialising, and heritage.
Opened in 1935 to commemorate King George V's Silver Jubilee, the Grade II-listed swimming venue is the largest of only five surviving seawater lidos in the UK. Located on the promenade in Penzance, it sits in a commanding position with views across Mount’s Bay to St Michael’s Mount.
Image: Jubilee Pool from the outside.
In 2014, the pool was hit by a devastating storm, resulting in significant damage. Upon its re-opening in 2016, it had become clear that a new plan was needed to secure the pool’s future. Jubilee Pool Penzance Limited, a charitable Community Benefit Society, was subsequently established to take control of the lido, ensuring that it would be run for the community, by the community.
In a move to secure a financially sustainable future for Jubilee Pool, the group later launched an ambitious project to develop the site and improve its facilities. The pool now includes both an unheated seawater swimming section and a geothermally heated section, extending its offering, while also maintaining its commitment to environmental sustainability. The wider facility has also been enhanced to include a poolside café, changing facilities, and accessibility features for swimmers of all abilities. The Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF) supported Jubilee Pool Penzance with significant long-term social investment, awarding one of its largest-ever loans towards this project.
Image: People using the geothermal pool at Jubilee Pool. Credit - Jubilee Pool Penzance.
With its place at the heart of Penzance's cultural and recreational life now secured, Jubilee Pool marks its 90th anniversary this weekend. The festivities will kick off with a spectacular splash on Saturday 31st May. This exciting event will include live music, food and drink, an exhibition showcasing the pool's history, and a birthday Singalong and Splash event, with 90 swimmers jumping into the pool together.
To find out more and learn how to get involved in celebrations, please visit the Jubilee Pool website.
The AHF offers a range of funding options, including grants and tailored loan finance, with competitive terms, to support not-for-profit organisations working on or based in historic buildings and sites across the UK. Our funding helps give historic buildings a sustainable future for the benefit of communities. To find out how we can support your project, visit our website today.
