Belfast’s top swimming spots were worth every penny and every drop of water we splashed out!
When I decided to explore Belfast’s swimming pools, I didn’t think I’d end up with a whole team of lifeguards cheering me on as I tried—and failed—to gracefully dive into the deep end.
From epic water slides to tranquil lanes for the not-so-daring, these pools truly have it all. Whether you’re after a workout, family fun, or just a chance to float around pretending you’re on holiday, I’ve tested the waters (literally) so you don’t have to.
Ready to dive in? Keep reading for the ultimate guide to Belfast’s top swimming spots!
Dive Into Relaxation At Olympia Leisure Centre and Spa
– Media credit: better_uk
Address: Boucher Road
Contact details: +44 28 9521 9850
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6am to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 8am to 5pm
Olympia Leisure Centre is a gem that truly has it all. From a cutting-edge gym and energizing fitness classes to a welcoming swimming pool, it’s a hub for fitness and fun. The place is spotless, too.
The main pool is perfect for general swimming and comes with a cutting-edge semi-movable floor that adjusts to suit any swim session.
There’s also a cozy teaching pool, measuring 13 x 7 meters with a depth of 0.90 meters, making it absolutely ideal for family splash sessions or swimming lessons.
The facilities here are nothing short of fabulous, and the coffee shop serves up delicious bites with staff who not only are super friendly but seem to know their regulars by name.
While the pool can feel a bit tight during club sessions, it’s a fantastic spot for a solid fitness swim.
| Pro tip: Avoid match days unless you’re up for a parking adventure! Tim Hortons around the corner has parking, so it’s not the end of the world. |
Unwind by the Water at Falls Leisure Centre
– Media credit: better_uk
Address: 15-17 Falls Road
Contact details: +44 28 9521 3665
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:15am to 10pm
- Saturday: 9am to 4pm
- Sunday: 10am to 4pm
The Falls Leisure Centre is a top-notch facility that ticks all the boxes. Spotless and well-maintained, it boasts a fantastic 25m, 6-lane pool programmed for lane swimming, family sessions, lessons, and club swimming.
The pool is fully accessible, thanks to a Pool Pod that offers independent, comfortable access for all.
Whether you’re into fitness swims, water polo, or learning the ropes with their Falls Swim School for ages 4 to 16, there’s something for everyone.
Bonus: the Better Swim School membership even lets kids swim for free! Add in a great sauna, steam room, and multi-sports halls, and this leisure centre truly stands out.
| Pro tip: Sometimes you may have to ask for the swimming lane to be set up and it’s only available for a couple of hours a day. |
Cool Off with a Swim at Shankill Leisure Centre
– Media credit: better_uk
Address: 100 Shankill Road
Contact details: +44 28 9620 6150
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:15am to 10pm
- Saturday: 9am to 4pm
- Sunday: 10am to 4pm
This is a great spot—though a bit dated, it’s well-maintained and in great condition. The family rooms are spacious, and the changing areas are always clean and tidy. Best of all, the pool water is warm, making it perfect for small children since it’s not too deep.
The wave swimming is a highlight, offering endless fun for the kids, while the Jacuzzi, conveniently located beside the pool, is top-notch for a quick and relaxing switch.
The center’s family-friendly vibe continues with children’s play areas and sports courts, making it enjoyable for all ages. Don’t forget to swing by the on-site café for a quick bite or a relaxing break after your session.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning to hit the swimming pool, be sure to check the schedule for when the wave maker is in action. |
Splash Around with Friends at Templemore Baths
– Media credit: templemorebaths
Address: 96 Templemore Avenue
Contact details: +44 28 9693 0040
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 6am to 10pm
- Friday: 6am to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 8am to 5pm
Templemore Baths Leisure Centre is a fantastic gem where the swimming pools are spotless and designed to accommodate all ages and abilities. The beautifully restored historical features add a unique charm, and there’s even a heritage exhibition to explore during your visit.
A great asset for the Belfast community, the centre offers memberships for individuals and families, giving access to a range of facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and yoga classes.
With weekly and daily sessions at various times, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
| Pro tip: They offer weekly and daily sessions at various times—check their website for the full schedule and details! |
Experience Family Fun at Queen’s Sport
– Media credit: qubelfast
Address: Botanic Park, Stranmillis Embankment
Contact details: +44 28 9097 7070
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6:30am to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 6pm
Queen’s Sport has a six-lane main pool, with a depth of up to 1.8 meters, perfect for everything from serious stroke practice to leisurely swims. Three lanes are reserved for lane swimming, while the rest cater to recreational fun—something for everyone to enjoy!
For a deeper experience, our 3.6-meter diving pool is ideal for diving and aqua jogging during designated times, offering a unique and active way to stay fit.
And don’t miss the sauna, conveniently open whenever the pool is, for the ultimate post-swim relaxation.
| Pro tip: The pool and halls are frequently reserved for bookings, meaning members don’t have dedicated times. Plus, during student exam periods, several facilities might be off-limits. |
Escape the Heat at Grove Wellbeing Centre
– Media credit: better_uk
Address: 120 York Road
Contact details: +44 28 9521 3685
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30am to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 4pm
At Grove Wellbeing Centre, it features a fantastic 25m, 6-lane pool perfect for community use, swimming lessons, and training by top swimming clubs. For little ones and beginners, they also offer a learner pool.
They offer all-inclusive memberships, with no contract required, include access to swimming—making it a hassle-free option for staying active.
For toddlers, their pool is designed with a beach-style entry leading to a maximum depth of 0.9 meters, complete with step-down access.
Fun water features like a mushroom fountain, small slide, and water jets ensure kids can build confidence in the water while having a blast!
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring a £1 coin for the locker—it’s refundable, so you’ll get it back! |
Refresh Your Senses at Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre
– Media credit: better_uk
Address: Montgomery Road, Castlereagh
Contact details: +44 28 9693 0040
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 6am to 10pm
- Friday: 6am to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 8am to 5pm
Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre in Belfast is a top-notch facility and a great choice for families, with activities to suit kids of all ages. The children’s play area and swimming lessons are especially well-loved.
The centre boasts an impressive eight-lane pool, used by both the community and leading swimming and water polo clubs, as well as a diving and learner pool for beginners.
For avid swimmers, the single-activity swimming membership is a steal at just £23.90 per month, offering unlimited access to the pools.
| Pro tip: The car park is on the smaller side and tends to fill up quickly, but there’s additional parking available on the main road outside, so it’s not too much of a hassle. |
Recharge Your Energy at Crowne Plaza Hotel Pool
– Media credit: crowneplaza
Address: 117 Milltown Road
Contact details: +44 28 9092 3500
The Bodyscape Health Club at Crowne Plaza Belfast offers a 20m swimming pool complete with a bubble spa, sauna, and steam room. The pool is thoughtfully divided into an adults’ lane swimming zone and a family-friendly recreational area.
While swimming classes aren’t available, the bubble spa, sauna, and steam room provide perfect spots for relaxation and heat therapy.
Accessible changing rooms and family cubicles in the main changing area ensure convenience for all visitors.
| Pro tip: One thing to note: it seems the hot water doesn’t kick in until 6am. |
Soothe Your Mind at David Lloyd Clubs
– Media credit: davidlloyd.belfast
Address: 115 Old Dundonald Road
Contact details: +44 28 9041 3300
Operating hours:
Monday to Friday: 6am to 10pm
Saturday and Sunday: 7am to 9pm
David Lloyd Belfast offers exceptional facilities, including a spacious, modern gym equipped with everything you need and excellent indoor and outdoor pools.
The variety of fitness classes caters to all levels, thanks to the accommodating and enthusiastic instructors. Families will love the outdoor pools, sports, and classes designed to keep everyone active (and off those pesky iPads), plus a fantastic clubhouse serving food and drinks.
It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend the entire day. If you’re after a premium, clean, and spacious health club, this is the one!
| Pro tip: Great for families, but kids need to be at least 16 to swim without an adult, or 10 to use the gym solo. |
Make a Splash at Andersonstown Leisure Centre
– Media credit: andersonleisurecenter
Address: 132 Andersonstown Road
Contact details: +44 28 9521 9850
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 6am to 10pm
- Friday: 6am to 10pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 8am to 5pm
Andersonstown Leisure Centre is a fantastic destination for family swimming fun! Kids will love the large aqua play area, while thrill-seekers can enjoy the superb water slides that promise plenty of excitement.
For those looking to hone their surfing skills, the surfing pool with artificial waves is a unique highlight.
Hot showers for rinsing off after a swim are a welcome bonus. When it’s time to refuel, the on-site café offers delicious food and drinks, including hot meals.
The three big slides are fast and thrilling, and if you time your visit right, the queues aren’t too long. While waiting for your turn, don’t miss the stunning view of Cavehill.
| Pro tip: Sign up as a member for just £5, and you’ll get a reduced price for the entire year—it pays for itself after just three visits! |