Woodstock Open Air Pool extends season following record-breaking summer
Following a summer of sunshine and sold-out sessions, Woodstock Open Air Pool is extending its season this year, with cool water swimming starting back up from 31 August and running until Sunday 27 September.
This summer has seen record numbers of visitors enjoying the much-loved outdoor pool, with more than 9,000 visitors attending by the end of July compared with 3,039 during the same period in 2025.
In recognition of the centre’s success, West Oxfordshire District Council and leisure partner, GLL, have confirmed that swimmers will be able to continue taking the plunge for the duration of September.
The extended period will see the centre return to its popular cool water swimming programme following the end of the summer activities and building on the popularity of the sessions offered earlier in the season.
Councillor Tim Sumner, Executive Member for Arts, Culture and Sports, said: “It has been brilliant to see Woodstock Open Air Pool enjoyed by so many people this summer, and I’m really pleased that we can now keep the season going into September.
“We know there is a real appetite for outdoor swimming, particularly from our cool water swimming enthusiasts, so I’m delighted this extension provides further opportunities for people to keep active and enjoy this popular community facility for even longer."
Ryan New, General Manager at Woodstock Open Air Pool, said: “It’s been an incredible season at Woodstock, we’ve loved seeing so many people coming through the doors, from regular swimmers to families enjoying the pool for the first time.
"Outdoor swimming is a fantastic way to stay active and there’s something really special about being able to keep this much-loved facility open to swimmers as we head into early autumn.
“We’ll be keeping a close eye on the weather too, and if conditions are on our side, we’ll explore opportunities to extend the season even further.”
Opening times during the extended cool water season will be available through the Better UK website and app. Residents and visitors are encouraged to check before travelling and to book ahead where possible.
For the latest opening times, activities and bookings, visit the Better UK website.