Helmsley Open Air Swimming Pool, Helmsley Town Council

Gentle Waters (2025)
Helmsley Open Air Swimming Pool, North Yorkshire

Workshops
Fri 21 March, 10-12noon
Sun 23 March, 11-1pm
Helmsley Arts Centre, 1, Meeting House Court, Helmsley, York YO62 5DW

What are your memories of Helmsley Open Air Pool? Did you hear the explosions as the pool foundations were dug by dynamite? Did you have your first cold water dip, or swim in the moonlight? Perhaps your first ever swim was in the pool, or your grandparents were lifeguards. Whatever the story, no matter how big or small we would love to hear it.

During the coffee mornings we will collect stories, memories, photographs, memorabilia and everything in between of the pool. We will be creating a story of the pool from the experiences of local people. The project will result in a celebration event and artwork for the pool later in the year. 

Come along to two drop in coffee mornings and share your memories. 

You're welcome to bring photographs and other materials with you, we will be able to scan them on the day and give them back to you. 

On Friday Helmsley Arts Centre operates the cafe and you can buy drinks on site. On Sunday the coffee is on us, and we will have some simple colouring and craft activities for children. 
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If you can’t make it but want to get involved email [email protected] 


Project Description
​A project unpacking the history of Helmsley Open Air Swimming Pool, a rural pool in North Yorkshire. The project explores how swimming has been an accessible working class leisure and healing activity. Looking at the site as a place for wellbeing and social history. Capturing the micro stories of people’s feelings and experiences in the pool, and the larger events and activities such as the opening ceremony in 1968, Solstice Swims, and the many group activities. 

Starting the project a series of workshops both in and out of the pool will capture stories, photographs, memorabilia. Leading towards the creation of a celebratory event and artwork for the pool in the Summer.

If you would like to contribute photographs, memories, stories, or hear more about workshops email [email protected] 

​Supported and funded by Historic England