Thame Leisure Centre

As a serious swimmer, this is my pool of choice in this area (the other contenders being Princes Risborough, Henley, and High Wycombe). Temperature is both constant and "goldilocks" at 29ºC, though it could be a touch cooler. During lanes-only sessions there are five lanes available, except between 6 and 7:30 AM most weekdays when two of the lanes are reserved for the schools or swimming club. Lane discipline is generally pretty good. Pool design is such that the water is reasonably smooth, but can get a bit choppy when busy. Lane markers are just that; they are not the wave-suppression lines that help smooth the water. Changing and showering facilities are reasonable as council-owned-privately-managed pools in the UK go (facilities much better in the gym section which has been refurbished). Plenty of free parking. The pool has a nice light and airy feel to it, with large panoramic windows looking towards the Chiltern Hills.

This is a lovely pool, very popular and often busy at peak times. Good shower facilities. Helpful staff and lifeguards, and a happy, friendly atmosphere. The temperature is maintained at a constant 29ºC. and a few people find this too cool for their liking, unless they keep swimming or moving in the water, but that's what a swimming pool is for, surely! Café area for a welcome hot drink and chat post-swim.

It is nearly always too cold. They insist on keeping the pool to what they say is 29ºC (it feels colder). They say this is good for lane swimmers. But it’s too cold for children and over 50s.