Lido Ponty was originally built in 1927 in a style that was typical of its time, bringing a strong Mediterranean mood to the South Wales Valleys.
Long before he found fame and fortune, Pontypridd’s very-own Sir Tom Jones was a regular visitor to the Lido.
It was also the place where a young Jenny James first found her talent for swimming at the age of seven, going on to forge a career as a swimming coach and a lifeguard, saving more than 100 lives.
While working as a lifeguard at the Lido, Jenny also used the venue for her physical training in her early years.
She entered the Guinness Book of Records after becoming the first Welsh person to swim the English Channel in a time of 13 hours 55 minutes on August 16, 1951, at the age of 24. Jenny James sadly passed away in 2014, at the age of 87.
The story of Lido Ponty, the National Lido Of Wales, is told in great detail at the Visitor Centre. Marvel at our history and learn all about the massive regeneration project of the only remaining open-air Lido left in Wales.
The Lido Ponty Visitor Centre, with full disabled access, is situated above the Waterside Café and is open to the public daily, all year round. Opening times vary due to the seasons.
Lido Ponty is as proud of its heritage as it is the present day. It is the place where old memories are relived and new memories are made.
Join us at the Visitor Centre as we celebrate our past, present and our future... It is the place where the fun never stops, whatever the weather
Walking Trail
While visiting Lido Ponty, the National Lido of Wales, why not take a trip around the historic town centre of Pontypridd, with its fine array of shops, eating places and much more.
A traditional old market town steeped in history, use our unique Pontypridd Audio Trails to guide you on your journey.
From the famous Brunel Viaduct to the memorial to the father-and-son composer and writer of the Welsh National Anthem, Pontypridd is proud of both its industrial and cultural past.
Take in the sights and learn all about the landmarks that make this a truly unique town.
View the Pontypridd Walking Trail
View the Pontypridd Audio Trail