Do I need to book tickets or a swimming slot online in advance?

No online booking is required. The event is open to the public on a walk-in basis with payment taken at the gate on the day.

Are children under the age of 12 free to enter?

Yes, admission to the outdoor fair attractions is completely free for children under 12. The 50p gate fee is only for individuals aged 12 and over.

Is there parking available on-site during the fair?

No, the pool car park is closed to vehicles to host the stalls and inflatables. Visitors should park on surrounding residential streets or high street car parks.

Shirley Swimming Pool Summer Fair

31 May 2026

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Dive into the sunshine and experience a classic neighbourhood celebration as the annual Shirley Swimming Pool Summer Fair 2026 opens its doors on Sunday 31 May 2026. Hosted directly in the pool’s main car park on Kentish Road, this highly anticipated public event brings together families, neighbours, and local traders for a vibrant day of community entertainment. Whether you are looking to browse unique local stalls, treat the children to a bounce, or enjoy a refreshing dip, this family-run venue offers something special for everyone. It is a fantastic, low-cost weekend activity that highlights the very best of Shirley’s community spirit, welcoming everyone from on or off Facebook to come down, relax, and make the most of the summer season.

Quick Summary: Shirley Pool Summer Fair

The Shirley Swimming Pool Summer Fair is an open-to-the-public community festival combining outdoor market stalls with discounted indoor pool access. It is designed as an accessible, family-friendly day out.

Affordable Admission: Entry to the outdoor fair grounds is only 50p for individuals over 12 years old, making it one of the most value-focused events in the city.
Inclusive Swim Upgrades: For just £3.00, visitors can buy a combined ticket that grants full admission to the summer fair attractions alongside entry to the swimming pool.
Traditional Fair Attractions: The car park arena will feature a massive bouncy castle, professional face painting, independent gift stalls, and local food vendors.

Outdoor Fair Attractions and Family Fun

The Shirley Swimming Pool Summer Fair 2026 transforms the facility’s main outdoor space into a bustling festival lot. Designed to keep children entertained and parents relaxed, the car park layout features a great selection of traditional attractions:

Giant Bouncy Castle: A massive inflatable jumping zone located safely within the secured car park perimeter, perfect for children to burn off some weekend energy.
Professional Face Painting: Local artists will be on hand throughout the day, transforming young visitors into their favourite superheroes, animals, or mystical creatures.
Independent Craft & Gift Stalls: Browse a lovely variety of tables run by local crafters and businesses, offering everything from handmade jewelry and custom gifts to home-baked goods.

Local Tip: Many of the independent stallholders may only be able to accept cash payments. It is highly recommended to draw out some money before arriving so you do not miss out on any unique local treats.

Indoor Family Swimming Sessions

Inside the facility, the pools will be open to run alongside the outdoor festivities, giving families a wonderful opportunity to cool down and splash around.

The Combined Upgrade: For just £3.00, your ticket grants full entry to the outdoor fair stalls plus direct access to the indoor swimming sessions.
A Warm Welcome: Known for its lovely warm water temperatures, the pool provides a highly comfortable, reassuring environment for younger swimmers and toddlers alike.
Safety First: Fully trained lifeguards will be on duty across all public sessions to maintain a safe, relaxed environment for everyone in the water.

Local Tip: Lockers are available inside the changing village to store your dry clothes and fair purchases securely while you are enjoying your swim session.

Summer Food and Refreshments

No summer fair is complete without delicious treats, and the Shirley Pool event ensures visitors have plenty of sweet and savoury options to choose from:

Hot Food Vendors: Grab a classic bite to eat from local food stalls serving up festival favourites like burgers, hot dogs, and vegetarian options.
Sweet Treats & Ice Creams: Keep cool in the sunshine with a selection of refreshing ice creams, lollies, and independent sweet stands.
Drinks Station: Hot coffees, teas, and plenty of chilled soft drinks will be available to keep everyone fully hydrated throughout the afternoon.

Admission and Ticket Pricing

The fair operates on an incredibly accessible pricing model, ensuring a fantastic day out that will not break the bank.

Standard Fair Entry: Only 50p for anyone over the age of 12. Children under 12 can enter the outdoor car park fair completely free of charge.
Combined Fair & Swim Ticket: Just £3.00 per person. This covers your outdoor gate admission and allows you to head inside for a public swimming session.
Booking Status: There is no need to register or purchase tickets online in advance. Simply turn up with your friends and family on the day and pay at the main entrance gate.

How to get to Kentish Road

The event is hosted at Shirley Swimming Pool, Kentish Road, Shirley, Southampton, SO15 3GR.

By Car: Accessible via the main Shirley High Street (A3057). Turn onto park-facing residential links or navigate via Romsey Road to access Kentish Road smoothly.
By Bus: Excellent local bus routes run consistently down Shirley High Street. Get off at the nearest central Shirley stops, leaving you with a short 5-minute walk to the pool.
On Foot: Conveniently located close to Shirley Common and local residential quarters, making it an easy stroll for neighborhood families.

Where to Park

Because the main Shirley Swimming Pool car park is being completely utilised to host the bouncy castles, stalls, and food vendors, alternative parking is required.

Surrounding Streets: On-street parking is available along sections of Kentish Road and nearby residential avenues, but please check local signs for restrictions.
Shirley High Street Car Parks: Several public pay-and-display car parks are situated just behind the main high street shops, a brief walk away from the pool gates.

Local Tip: Parking directly outside the pool gates will be impossible on the day. Utilizing public transit or parking a few streets away near the high street shops will save you time and prevent local traffic congestion.

Join the Shirley Community Spirit

Gather your friends and family for an afternoon of local stalls, splashes, and smiles. Discover more of what’s on in Southampton and support your local pool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book tickets or a swimming slot online in advance?: No, there is no advance booking required for this event. The summer fair is fully open to the public on a walk-in basis. You can pay your 50p entry fee or your £3 swimming entry directly at the main entrance gate on the day.
Are children under the age of 12 free to enter?: Yes, entry to the outdoor car park fair grounds is completely free of charge for children under 12 years old. The 50p entry fee only applies to individuals aged 12 and over.
Can I use the swimming pool if I only pay the 50p admission fee?: The 50p admission fee only covers access to the outdoor fair attractions, bouncy castle, and stalls. If you or your children wish to go swimming, you must purchase the £3 entry ticket, which includes both the fair and pool access.
Will the fair stalls accept card or contactless payments?: While the main swimming pool reception can accept card payments, many independent local stallholders, face painters, and food vendors may only be able to accept cash. It is highly recommended to bring cash with you to avoid disappointment.
Is there a parking space available at the swimming pool?: No, the main Shirley Swimming Pool car park will be entirely closed to vehicles as it is being used to host the bouncy castle, food traders, and stalls. Visitors driving to the event will need to utilise nearby street parking or public car parks near Shirley High Street.