We cooled off at these 9 top-rated pools in Dublin! So beat the heat with us!
Remember those scorching summer days as a kid? My cousins and I would spend hours planning epic pool parties. We’d dream up crazy water games, build the most epic water slides out of tarps and buckets, and argue over the best pool toys.
Fast-forward to now, and the summer heat is back with a vengeance. So, I decided to do some serious research to find the absolute best pools in Dublin, which would make even my childhood self jealous.
From hidden gems to luxurious escapes, I’ve uncovered a list of top-rated spots guaranteed to make this summer unforgettable. So, grab your swimsuit and get ready to dive in!
1. Markievicz Leisure Centre
– Media credit: sportsandfitnessmarkievicz
Website: https://www.dublincity.ie/residential/sports-and-leisure/sports-and-fitness-centres/markie vicz-sports-centre-timetables
Address: Luke St, Dublin 2, Ireland
Contact details: +35312226130
Operating hours: 7 AM–9:45 PM
Markievicz Leisure Centre has a big, inviting swimming pool with six lanes just begging for some serious swimming. The depth varies from 1.0 to 1.8 meters, so it’s pretty versatile for whatever you’re in the mood for.
It’s one of the few public pools in the city center, making it accessible for a quick dip or a more intense swim session. Plus, if you’re into mixing it up, there’s a fully equipped gym, sauna, and steam room.
I was also impressed with how affordable it is—entry fees are around €7.65, and they offer options for casual visits or memberships that can save you some cash if you go regularly. It’s perfect for a quick swim.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss out on their sauna after your swim! It’s a great way to relax your muscles and socialize with other patrons. Plus, if you bring your towel to sit on, you’ll find it much more comfortable—just a lip that makes your experience even better! |
2. Sean MacDermott Street Pool
Website: http://www.dublincity.ie/main-menu-services-recreation-culture-sport-and-recreation/swimming-pools
Address: Sean Macdermott Street Lower, Mountjoy, Dublin, Ireland
Contact details: +35318720752
Operating hours: 7 AM–8 PM
Sean MacDermott Street Pool is a community swimming pool that opened in 1979. It’s become a vital part of local life that everyone loves. The pool is 25 meters long, perfect for swimming laps or just splashing around.
It’s well-kept, which is a big plus, and you can see that they take pride in maintaining the lanes. Plus, there’s a crew of professional swim instructors, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your strokes.
They have this “Swim For A Mile” challenge that brings everyone together. They offer swimming lessons for kids as young as four and adult classes focusing on technique or just for pure enjoyment.
| Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle! The pool encourages hydration by allowing you to keep your bottle poolside, which is especially handy after those invigorating laps. |
3. Mespil Swimming Pool
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Website: http://www.mespilpool.com/
Address: Mespil House Flats, 4 Sussex Rd, Dublin, D04 H9T0, Ireland
Contact details: +353868567603
Operating hours: 7–9 AM, 12–2 PM, 5–7 PM
Mespil Swimming Pool is not like one of those overcrowded pools where you feel like swimming with a thousand people. There’s a lovely 20-meter pool with three lanes, perfect whether you’re a serious swimmer or just looking to splash around a bit.
One thing I appreciated was their adults-only policy. It creates a nice, calm vibe—you can focus on your swim or enjoy a peaceful moment without distractions. And trust me, it’s such a nice environment to unwind in.
They offer lessons for all ages, and the instructors are just fantastic—super patient, especially with kids. They have pay-as-you-go options and memberships that fit different budgets, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy pool time!
| Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a picnic on the grass right outside the pool after your swim! It’s a lovely way to soak up some sun and relax before returning to the city. |
4. Club Vitae
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Website: http://www.clubvitae.com/cardifflane/?utm_source=mybusiness&utm_medium=organic
Address: Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane, Cardiff Ln, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin, Ireland
Contact details: +35316439502
Operating hours: 6:30 AM–9:15 PM
Club Vitae has a heated swimming pool and a soothing jacuzzi waiting for you. Now, imagine taking a dip in one of the largest pools in the city, where the water is a comfy 29.5°C, and the depth is a constant 1.2 meters.
There’s a dedicated children’s pool, which is super cute and safe. It is just 35 cm deep and kept at a nice warm 33°C. It is reassuring to see kids splashing around while parents can relax nearby.
And after you’ve worked up a sweat, just slip into the jacuzzi to soothe your muscles. I have to say, I loved the aqua aerobics classes—there’s something really fun about them, and they give you a solid workout without killing your joints.
| Pro tip: Make sure to bring your swimming cap! While they are available for purchase on-site, having your own can save you time and ensure you’re ready to dive right into the fun without any delays. |
5. The Spencer Health Club
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Website: https://www.thespencerhotel.com/health-and-fitness/
Address: Excise Walk, North Wall, Dublin 1, D01 X4C9, Ireland
Contact details: +35314338877
Operating hours: 6 AM–9:30 PM
The Spencer Health Club has an 18-meter indoor swimming pool. It’s not just for lounging around — there’s a dedicated lap lane for those who want to get in a serious swim.
The pool area is a serene escape in the city’s heart. They ask you to wear a swimming hat, which may sound fancy, but it helps keep everything clean.
The gym is fully loaded with everything you need — from cardio machines to weights, it’s got your fitness bases covered. And if you’re considering making the most of your visit, they offer personal training sessions and various fitness classes to suit every level.
| Pro tip: They’re on an eco-friendly kick, so remember to grab a towel from your hotel room before you head over. It’s a small detail, but it does make your visit feel more personal. |
6. Turner Swim Dublin
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Website: http://www.turnerswimdublin.ie/
Address: Turner Swim Dublin The Marker Hotel Spa, Grand Canal Square, Dublin, Ireland
Contact details: +35316950016
Turner Swim Dublin offers rare private, one-to-one swimming lessons for adults. The pool is a real standout—it’s beautifully designed, and the atmosphere is so chill. It’s like having your oasis away from the bustling city.
The hour-long lessons are super focused. The instructors know their stuff and are incredibly supportive. They take the time to work on the essential techniques, so you start to feel more at home in the water.
And can we talk about the ambiance? It’s serene and inviting at the same time. The staff are so attentive, which makes everything feel right. I think it’s especially great for adults who might feel out of place in crowded public pools.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of the hotel’s amenities before or after your lesson! Enjoy a relaxing drink at the hotel bar or indulge in the spa facilities to make your day special. |
7. Trinity College Sports Centre
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Website: https://www.tcd.ie/Sport/
Address: The University of Dublin Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2, D02 C1F6, Ireland
Contact details: +35318961812
Operating hours: 7 AM–10 PM
The Trinity College Sports Centre has a 25-meter swimming pool that is deck-level and has six lanes. Its unique feature is the floating floor, which changes the depth from 0.5 meters to 2 meters.
But it’s not just about the swimming. I’ve seen folks using the pool for various aqua classes and club training sessions, so this lively space is buzzing with activity.
Walking into the Trinity Sports Centre almost feels like you’re entering a little community. There’s a sauna and steam room that I love. Plus, the changing facilities are spacious and equipped with everything you could need.
| Pro tip: The floating floor feature is particularly fun to check out if you have kids; they can experience different depths safely while learning to swim! |
8. 1 Escape Health Club
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Website: http://www.oneescape.ie/
Address: Smithfield Market, Block G, Smithfield, Dublin 7, Ireland
Contact details: +35314850700
Operating hours: 6 AM–11 PM
1 Escape Health Club has a swimming pool that’s 17.5 meters, and they have a lane just for swimming laps, plus a separate area for the kids, which makes it super family-friendly.
It’s not all about racing up and down the lanes. They have this quirky rule about wearing swim hats, which makes sense for keeping things clean and safe. If you forget yours, don’t worry—you can grab one there!
Alongside that gorgeous pool, there’s a gym packed with all sorts of cardio and resistance training equipment. After hitting the gym, I loved sinking into the indoor jacuzzi or chilling in the sauna and steam room and offering fitness classes like yoga.
| Pro tip: Make sure to take advantage of the hydro-spinning classes offered here. It’s not something you find everywhere, and it’s a fun way to combine cycling with the soothing effects of water—worth trying out! |
9. Templeogue College Swim Pool
– Media credit: tempswimpool
Website: http://www.tcsp.ie/
Address: Templeville Rd, Templeogue, Dublin, Ireland
Contact details: +35314901711
Operating hours: 7 AM–10 PM
Templeogue College Swim Pool is a well-maintained, clear, warm-water pool that invites you to dive in. It has a great schedule of public swimming times and offers many adult lessons.
What I appreciated most were the amenities they offer. They host aqua aerobics classes at prices that won’t break the bank, making it accessible for everyone looking to stay fit.
I remember participating in my first lesson and being pleasantly surprised by how supportive the instructors were, especially toward newbies like me. It felt like we were making progress together.
| Pro tip: Check their schedule for special events or holiday activities. They often organize fun community events that can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your swim day! |