Warwick School Swimming Pool

The pool at one of England's oldest independent schools isn't exactly a tourist destination - and therein lies its appeal. This Victorian institution's swimming facilities are tucked away on Myton Road in central Warwick, part of a school that's been educating boys since 914 AD. While public access is extremely limited, the pool serves the local community through various clubs and school holiday programmes.

Families staying at nearby sites might find opportunities during school breaks when community swimming sessions occasionally open up. The facility itself is proper old-school - think functional rather than flashy leisure centre. Don't expect flumes or wave machines; this is about serious swimming in a traditional setting.

Warwick's town centre location makes it handy if you're based at Knight's Village at Warwick Castle, just under a mile away. The pool works better as part of a broader Warwick visit rather than a destination in itself. Check directly with the school about public access - availability is patchy and booking essential when sessions do run.

Honestly, most families will get more bang for their buck at the leisure centres in nearby Leamington Spa or Kenilworth. But if you're after something different and can secure access, there's something rather special about swimming where generations of schoolboys have done their lengths.