Eversholt Swimming Pool

The lido at Eversholt isn't going to blow your mind, but it's a solid community pool that does exactly what it says on the tin. You get a proper outdoor swimming experience without the pretence - a main pool for lengths, a shallow end for younger kids, and if you're lucky with the weather, it's genuinely pleasant on a summer afternoon.

It's worth knowing that opening hours vary seasonally, so check ahead before you make the drive from Milton Keynes - about twenty minutes or so. The place fills up with families at weekends and school holidays, which is fine if you don't mind the chaos, but early morning visits pay dividends if you want actual swimming space.

Families with younger kids will get a couple of hours' value here, though older swimmers might find the facilities a touch tired compared to some newer leisure centres. There's the usual shallow pool and decent changing facilities, but don't expect frills.

If you're staying at The Old Dairy Farm Camping and Caravanning just down the road - and it's a proper five-star spot - Eversholt works as a rainy day backup or a way to burn off energy when the kids need cooling off. On its own merits, it's the sort of place you'd pop to if you were already in the area, not necessarily plan a trip around. Admission's reasonable, but confirm current pricing before you head over.