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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Benjamin Roberts-Haslam

Memories of Southport's demolished 'treasure' Sea Bathing Lake

Southport was once the highlight of people's summers, with tourists travelling from across the country to the seaside town.

One ever-popular attraction was the town's open-air swimming baths, Southport's Sea Bathing Lake, that saw thousands flock to get a spot in the pool on hot summers days.

The iconic outdoor swimming baths by Southport Beach was sadly demolished by Sefton Council in 1993, as the site made way for the Ocean Plaza development.

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Share your memories of The Sea Bathing Lake in the comments below

Many people have recalled fond memories of the baths which was a highlight for families.

Sidney Allinson said: “The Sea Bathing Lake, Southport’s marvellous recreational treasure.

“Cheap holidays abroad aside, an afternoon dip in the Sea Bathing Lake was just an half-hour stroll away for Sandgrounders back then.”

Southport Sea Bathing Lake in the 1960s. Photo by Del Watkins (Southport Vister)

Stuart Isenberg said: “We uses to spend many days during the holidays at the Sea Bathing Lake - it always seemed to be sunny and hot!

“Even Southport Technical College allowed the students to spend a half-day at the pool during summer.

“Unfortunately most people go abroad more now for better weather and it’s doubtful if such an outdoor pool would prove economically viable.”

Julie Brookes said: “I spent all my summers there. Loved it diving under the boat in the middle.”

Steve Mitchell said: “Ah yes, I’m old enough to remember this place. Paying for a season ticket during the school holiday, those were the days.”

An English Rose contest heat, at Southport Sea Bathing Lake, in the Summer of 1966. Photo by Stuart Isenberg (Southport Visiter)

Andrew Johnson said: “I used to go in the ‘80s when the place was packed.”

Pauline Hadfield Graham said: “I was there all the time, I loved it.”

Amy Mckendrick said: “We need this back including all the rest we have lost in this town - fairground, rides, zoo and what else Blackpool has taken off us!”

Catherine Birchall 15 and Valerie Moody 16, at Sea Bathing Lake, Southport, Merseyside, 28th August 1966. (Mirrorpix)

Wendy Aspin said: “Many happy memories of when I used to spend the summer holidays there with my friends.”

Gail Bell said: “I used to have a season contract for school holidays. It cost about £10 then which was quite a lot but cheaper than paying every time.”

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