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ABOUT US

THE FRIENDS OF JESUS GREEN LIDO CHARITY

The Friends of Jesus Green Lido is a registered charity (No. 1203117) founded to help protect and celebrate one of Cambridge’s most loved outdoor spaces.

Formalising the work of the volunteer group with the same name, the charity is working alongside Cambridge City Council (the pool owner) and the pool operator (GLL / Better) to help actively shape the next century of swimming at Jesus Green Lido – a precious community asset used by thousands of people every year.

WHY JESUS GREEN LIDO NEEDS A CHARITY

A POOL AT A PIVOTAL MOMENT

For more than a century, Jesus Green Lido has been woven into the cultural and recreational life of Cambridge.

Generations have learnt to swim at this special place. Countless people find physical and mental renewal at the pool each week.

In an increasingly busy and pressured city, the Lido remains one of the few truly inclusive and accessible spaces for wellbeing and connection. But this treasured space now stands at a pivotal moment…

A busy bank holiday in summer at Jesus Green Lido.
A CHARITY ON A MISSION

SECURING FUTURE INVESTMENT

While the future of the Lido is not at risk, its ageing infrastructure and outdated facilities mean investment is needed to secure its long-term future for generations to come.

Without improvement, deterioration risks undermining both the experience and the viability of the Lido – and ultimately, its survival.

We have established a dedicated Charity to help ensure this does not happen.

PROTECT, ENHANCE & FUTUREPROOF

OUR pURPOSE

Working together with Cambridge City Council and the pool operator – GLL (Better) – our aims are:

• To help protect, enhance and future proof Jesus Green Lido as a thriving, inclusive and sustainable community asset for generations to come

• To promote the wider benefit of outdoor swimming.

OUR VALUES

The Friends of Jesus Green Lido Charity is run by a committed team of trustees and supported by an enthusiastic group of volunteers and a wider community of Friends.

Our values guide everything we do at the charity, shaping how we support our community of swimmers and create meaningful, lasting impact.

COMMUNITY

AN IMPORTANT SOCIAL SPACE

Jesus Green Lido is a special place for many people. It’s a place for swimmers and for those who want to spend time in nature. It’s a place for families and for those who come alone. It’s a place to meet old friends and make new ones; to relax and read; to rest and recuperate.

Whatever you need, the lido and its community is for you.

VOICE

HELPING SWIWMERS HAVE THEIR SAY

We aim to provide a voice for all who use Jesus Green Lido. Through regular meetings with Cambridge City Council and the pool operator, we are committed to improving how the lido looks and operates.

From lobbying for longer opening hours and working on practical incremental improvements such as fundraising for a new sauna, to planting spring bulbs, installing benches and bird feeders, and planning events and activities, we turn ideas into action.

Sign up for regular updates from The Friends of Jesus Green Lido Charity – or click the button below to find out how you can get involved with our work.

LEGACY

PROTECTING THE LIDO’S FUTURE

For over 100 years, Jesus Green Lido has been woven into the fabric of Cambridge. It’s an enduring place of enjoyment, wellbeing, and community.

We are committed to protecting that legacy, ensuring the Lido remains vibrant, sustainable, and accessible for many years to come.

By caring for the Lido today – alongside its owner and operator – and by working to deliver incremental improvements, we can help secure its future for the enjoyment of forthcoming generations.

SUPPORT THE CHARITY

HOW YOU CAN HELP…