Can you hear the splash? That’s Jesus Green Swimming Pool, one of the longest outdoor pools in Europe. Welcome to Jesus Green. It is a vibrant park in the heart of Cambridge. This green space is north of Jesus College. It offers a refreshing escape.
Jesus Green wasn’t always a park. Once, it was part of Midsummer Common. In 1890, Victoria Avenue was built. This separated Jesus Green from the larger common. After that, grazing was no longer a priority. Jesus Green transformed into the park we know today.
The River Cam flows along the northern edge of Jesus Green. You might spot rowers gliding along the water. Many residential boats bob gently. Their occupants form a community. They call themselves the Camboaters. North of Jesus Lock is sometimes called the lower river. The stretch between Jesus Lock and Baits Bite Lock is much used for rowing.
The Jesus Green Swimming Pool is a major attraction. This lido opened in 1923. It is one of the few remaining lidos from that era. These open-air pools offered space for many activities. The pool’s length is remarkable. It stretches 100 yards. That is about 91 meters. Its design mimics swimming in the nearby river. Jesus Green is only 15 yards wide. Despite its narrowness, it is one of Europe’s longest.
The pool has a depth of 1.2 meters at each end. The maximum depth is 2.5 meters in the center. Diving is allowed in the central section. There is a dedicated lane for fast swimmers. The other two-thirds are for recreational swimming. The water is unheated.
The Cambridge Beer Festival moved to Jesus Green in 2001. Every May, beer enthusiasts gather here. They can sample a wide variety of brews. The festival adds a lively atmosphere to the park.
Jesus Green boasts avenues of London plane trees. Horse chestnut trees are here too. These trees provide shade and beauty. The park also includes tennis courts. There is a children’s play area. A skate park is available for skaters. Free table tennis is a popular option. For those who enjoy outdoor cooking, there is a barbecue area. Public toilets and a refreshments kiosk add to the convenience.
The Jesus Green Association works to protect the park. They are an independent group.
A short film titled “Jesus Green Pool” was produced in 2004. It shows a summer at the pool. The film captures the seasonal nature of the lido. It shows the pool from its opening in spring to its closing in autumn.
So, take a stroll through Jesus Green. Enjoy the open space. Feel the history beneath your feet.