Darrick Wood Swimming Pool

The pool at Darrick Wood sits just outside Warlingham in Surrey - a proper local facility that serves the community well without any pretence. You get a decent swimming area, changing facilities, and the kind of no-frills setup that means you're paying for water time rather than Instagram moments.

It's the sort of place families actually use rather than gawk at. Kids can splash about in the shallow end while serious swimmers get their lengths in. The changing rooms are functional rather than fancy, which is fine - you're here to swim, not lounge about.

For a stay at Milberry Green Meadows five miles away, this works as a rainy day option or if you fancy a proper session rather than mucking about in a lido. Book ahead if you can - they do have timetabled sessions and you'll want to check what's on before you arrive. Admission costs a few quid, as these places do.

If you're spending a week in the area, it's worth knowing about, but don't plan the whole holiday around it. Combine it with walks around the Warlingham area or nearby parks for a proper day out. During summer holidays it can get busy, so aim for quieter times if you're after a relaxing swim rather than dodging toddlers with inflatables.