Hunsonby village is just a 16-minute drive from Penrith and M6 Junction 40, and tucked within it is a charming outdoor swimming pool that feels wonderfully local. It is one of five brilliant community-led outdoor pools in Cumbria (Shap, Greystoke, Askham, Hunsonby and Lazonby)
What3Words: ///alarming.harmonica.iteration
It’s one of those places you almost don’t want to share. Not because it’s unwelcoming, but because it has that “if you know, you know” feel. Still, I suspect hardy outdoor swimmers are already on the case. When I was leaving, two others turned up mid–Cumbrian outdoor pool tour, just like me.
Opening Times & Prices
Hunsonby Swimming Club is open daily from 9am–8pm.
Adult-only swims: Monday & Thursday, 7–8pm (Thursday is an Aquarobics session, bookable in advance)
Children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Season memberships:
- £120 Family (2 adults & 2 children, +£20 per extra child)
- £65 Adult
- £55 Secondary school age child
- £45 Primary school age child
- Pre-school children: Free
Day Swim Membership:
- £6 Adult
- £4 Child
Holiday Makers Weekly Pass:
- £18 Adult
- £12 Child
- No fee for spectators.
There’s a small on-site shop, but it’s not always manned. If it’s closed, you can complete a membership form on poolside and pop it into the honesty box with your payment. Booking isn’t required, though if the pool is full, you may be asked to wait.
Parking
The pool is part of Hunsonby Community Centre, which has ample parking. When I visited, I was the only car there. So quiet that I wondered if it was even open. If the car park does fill up, there’s on-street parking a short walk away.
The Swim Experience
It might look closed when it’s quiet, but step inside and you’ll find a peaceful, well-kept pool. Hunsonby isn’t the largest outdoor pool, but it’s full of character. Colourful bunting lines the fencing, and on the changing block wall, there’s a lovely 2022 Jubilee mosaic that looks to be a community creation, all adding to the charming community feel of the pool.
The facilities are simple but clean. There’s tiered seating and picnic tables for spectators, making it a sociable spot on busier days. I can’t confirm the full range of the shop as it wasn’t open during my visit, but I suspect it has some tuck shop-style treats.
When I visited, I had the pool completely to myself. A rare and amazing treat. On a personal safety level, I let someone know my plans before heading over, and it was reassuring to see security cameras poolside keeping an eye on things.
Hunsonby Outdoor Swimming Pool has the kind of charm that’s impossible to manufacture. It’s run by and for its community, with an atmosphere that’s as relaxed as it is welcoming.
Whether you arrive on a lively summer afternoon or a peaceful weekday morning, it’s a place to savour. And if you’re local? I’m a little jealous. Having this on your doorstep is a real gift.
