Minehead - Bathing Pool

The 165ft by 60ft pool saw Cheltenham thrashing out an exciting water polo match with Somerset - to eventually win 2-1.
The sea water pool was situated in ideal surroundings on the sea front. Patrons enjoyed floodlit bathing, a superb restaurant run by William Hancock and Co. Caterers, sun bathing and eating on the terraces, and regular swimming, diving and aquatic exhibitions including Britains former National 3 Metre Champion Betty Slade.

2000 people attended the opening of their magnificent bathing pool in June 1936.

Despite poor weather conditions and forecasts, the crowds were not deterred, and they were rewarded by a sudden weather change and a spectacular Gala. Sir Robert Horne payed tribute to “An Adventurous Spirit.” Other dignitaries and spectators were delighted with the aquatic entertainment.
Western Counties High Diving Champion 14 years old Jane Selby of the Bath Dolphins and Coate Swimming Club opened the programme by beautiful swallow diving from the top board 33 feet high, into the 15 ft.depth of shimmering crystal clear water.

Minehead’s top exhibition diver was Helen Orr.
The pool was equipped with top International diving facilities. In addition to teaching many children to swim, and Dive, school galas, inter-club galas, regional and National galas were staged.

International matches and many National Swimming /Diving Champions were decided in this beautiful pool. Hours and hours were spent basking in the sunshine, relaxing from the days toils, leaving problems back home, it was
a sad day when the pool eventually closed.
OUTCOME: This fine pool became derelict late 80’s.
site was cleared and was used as a car park (1996)

UPDATE August 2005
Luxury Apartments have now been built on the site.