Swimming in Havant
Pools, open water and aquatic activities
Swimming is available in Havant through the leisure centre pool and, for those willing to travel, through the beaches and open-water swimming spots along the south coast. Havant Leisure Centre provides the main indoor swimming facility for the town, with a pool that caters to lane swimmers, fitness swimmers, families and learners.
The leisure centre pool hosts public swimming sessions throughout the week, with different sessions designated for lane swimming, general swimming, family sessions and aqua aerobics. Swimming lessons for children and adults are run by qualified instructors, with courses covering beginners through to advanced stroke development. The lessons are popular, and booking in advance is advisable, particularly for children's courses.
Havant Leisure Centre is managed on behalf of the borough council, and membership options provide regular swimmers with a cost-effective way to access the pool and the gym. Pay-as-you-go sessions are also available for occasional visitors.
Open-water swimming has grown in popularity, and the south coast offers several options within easy reach of Havant. The beaches at Hayling Island, a short drive or cycle over the road bridge, provide sea swimming in the summer months. West Wittering, about twenty minutes by car, has a sandy beach and relatively sheltered waters. Open-water swimming carries risks that pool swimming does not, including cold water shock, currents, tides and the absence of lifeguard cover at many locations. Swimmers are advised to check conditions, swim with others and take appropriate precautions.
Langstone Harbour is not suitable for swimming. The harbour is shallow, silty and subject to strong tidal currents, and the mudflats that are exposed at low tide make entry and exit difficult and potentially dangerous.
Swimming clubs in the area provide competitive training for those who want to develop their skills beyond recreational swimming. Junior swimming clubs run squads for children of different ages and abilities, with training sessions at the leisure centre pool and competition in local and regional galas.
For those who prefer the social and fitness aspects of water-based exercise without the competitive element, aqua aerobics and water fitness classes are available at the leisure centre. These classes are popular with older adults and those recovering from injury, as the water provides support and resistance without the impact of land-based exercise.
For those who prefer the social and fitness aspects of water-based exercise without the competitive element, aqua aerobics and water fitness classes are available at the leisure centre. These classes are popular with older adults and those recovering from injury, as the water provides support and resistance without the impact of land-based exercise. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for all ages and abilities, and the facilities in Havant, while not extensive, provide the essential access that the community needs. For those who want more variety, the pools in Portsmouth, Waterlooville and Chichester offer additional options within easy reach.