Stonehaven Open Air Pool

The sea fret rolls in hard off the North Sea, and you're standing at the edge of what has to be one of Britain's most gloriously mad swimming pools. Stonehaven Open Air Pool sits right on the coast south of Aberdeen, a 1930s heated saltwater lido that locals have been using for decades - and frankly, it's the kind of place that makes you admire Scottish hardiness.

You get proper sea views from the heated pool, which takes the edge off jumping into water that's genuinely cold even with heating. The Art Deco design is lovely if you're into that sort of thing, all curves and period detail. In summer it's actually quite pleasant, and families with confident swimmers tend to enjoy the novelty. Weaker swimmers and very small children might find it daunting - it's not shallow or particularly forgiving.

This works brilliantly if you're camped at Stonehaven Queen Elizabeth Park (literally next to the town) or at Upper Crawton Park a few miles inland. It's the kind of thing that breaks up a caravan holiday nicely, especially on a decent day. Don't come expecting Caribbean warmth or even pleasant English lido vibes. Come for the experience, the Scottish coastal views, and the bragging rights.

Worth checking their website before you visit - opening hours shift seasonally and admission charges apply. Allow an hour or two if you're swimming, less if you're just having a look.