Summer season preparations are underway at Riverside

The maintenance checks to the site have started ready for the pool and splash pad to open to visitors on Saturday 23 May, just in time for the half term break.

Pool users will be treated to some great activities over the summer, including aqua aerobics, swimming lessons and swim for dogs will be back at the end of the season which will be in early September.

The campsite next to the pool opens a few weeks earlier on Friday 1 May with twenty pitches available and bookings are already being made from eager visitors to this popular area in South Oxfordshire.

Cllr Pieter-Paul Barker, Cabinet member for Finance and Property Assets at South Oxfordshire District Council said: “We had such a great summer last year and we’re hoping to see a repeat of the same for 2026. There’s something for all ages to enjoy, whether it’s a splash around in the splash pad, which is free to use, an early morning swim before work or an exercise class, the Riverside facility really does cater for all. I will be popping along, and I know many of our councillors will be here for a dip too.”

Kevin Williams, GLL Partnership Manager – South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse said: “Following an exceptionally busy 2025 season, boosted by the summer heatwave, we are delighted to be reopening the outdoor pool and splash pad next month. Preparations are already well underway to ensure both the pool area and campsite are ready to welcome visitors for the 2026 season.”

Bookings for the pool will open a week before opening. Keep an eye on the Better UK website and Riverside Park and Pools Facebook page for details.

In 2025 a range of accessible improvements were made to the site, including the installation of Changes Places facilities and work was carried out on the existing access path, roadway, ramp and moorings to provide easy access for people with disabilities and to enhance the whole riverside site for visitors use and enjoy.

Last summer the site had 22,000 visitors coming to enjoy the popular facility which was a 45 per cent increase compared to 2024.

South Oxfordshire District Council continue to invest in the other leisure facilities across the district. Work is ongoing to improve the dry side changing areas at Didcot Wave, the lower gym and dry side changing area at Thame Leisure Centre is also getting a revamp and there are plans to update the hall floor at Abbey Sports Centre this year.