Few experiences can beat diving into a pool in the fresh air, swimming with blue skies above you. And outdoor swimming has suddenly become very fashionable.

Boris has given the go-ahead for reopening from March 29 and summer will come eventually. So whether it's you taking the plunge, or you're just looking for a day out with the kids, here's the best lidos and outdoor pools in Oxfordshire.

A well-loved open-air swimming pool is Chipping Norton Lido (below) which opened in Fox Close in 1970.

With its heated 25 metre pool and toddler pool, slide and café, the Lido is an oasis in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, whether you’re a serious early-morning swimmer or a family looking for an afternoon’s outdoor fun.

The Lido Café serves lovely homecooked food.

Run by local people as a charity since 2004, it describes itself as a "pool with a social conscience".

In 2010 its new eco-efficient energy system became fully operational. Solar electricity is now generated from 60 photovoltaic panels on the roof.

It is hugely supported by local resident Jeremy Clarkson.

Claire Jarvis, the treasurer, said: "We are currently starting to wake the pool up and get ready for re-opening in April but are not yet in a position to confirm exact dates or timetable - not least because we’re waiting for government guidance on the conditions under which pools will be able to operate.

"In a couple of weeks’ time  we should have a much clearer idea of what we’ll be able to offer, a timetable and a link to our new online booking system."

Oxford Mail:

Woodstock Lido (below) is usually open from April to September and will be open this summer on a date to be confirmed.

Whatever the weather, the heated pool is open to the public for morning, afternoon and evening swimming. It is surrounded by a large grassed area which is ideal for relaxing and picnics on a sunny day.

The main pool is 25 metres long, with four lanes heated to 29 degrees and changing rooms on the poolside.

The pool has a diving springboard available to competent swimmers during certain sessions.

Oxford Mail:

Hinksey Heated Outdoor Pool (below) is run by Oxford City Council, in partnership with Fusion, a sports and leisure charity.

The large heated pool is located in Hinksey Park and has a shallow fun area for children and a deeper section for serious swimmers, plus water features, a large grass sunbathing area and a cafe.

The pool usually opens one hour later at 8am at weekends and Bank Holidays. Children aged 16 or under are able to participate in free swimming sessions, organised by Oxford City Council. There is only limited parking.

Oxford Mail:

Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool in Abingdon (below) is on the banks of the River Thames and possibly the most picturesque location of any outdoor pool in the UK. It will open later this summer.

Activities include inflatable play sessions and there are grassed areas with sun loungers for rental. Available for parties, there are picnic tables by the pool, overlooking the river – perfect for an apres swim ice-cream from the snack kiosk.

It is one of the few pools in Oxfordshire where poolside diving is allowed as it is sufficiently deep.

There is two hours’ free parking in nearby Abbey Meadows car park. Open seven days.

Oxford Mail:

Riverside Park and Pools in Wallingford (below) is a 20 metre heated outdoor pool with a Splash Park for children. Situated by the side of the river, on the Crowmarsh Gifford side of Wallingford, there is a free paddling pool, a kiosk selling ice creams, snacks and drinks, a large car park and for those who want to stay longer a campsite. Picnics are allowed. It will open later this summer.

Oxford Mail:

Woodgreen Leisure Pool in Banbury (below) is a pristine 50 metre outdoor swimming pool with flume for a splash about and some water skill development.

They also have an outdoor aquasplash area with fun interactive water play so the smaller kids can run in and out of the spray.

Attached to a leisure centre, so other sporting activities are available.

Check the website for news on reopening.