Plymouth’s Tinside Lido wins Heritage Property of the Year Award

Plymouth’s Tinside Lido wins Heritage Property of the Year Award

This week we are celebrating one of Plymouth’s most iconic landmarks, Tinside Lido, following the success at the Michelmores Property Awards, where it was named Heritage Property of the Year. This is a fantastic accolade for such an important part of Plymouth’s heritage.

As part of Plymouth City Council and Sound National Marine Park’s mission to connect residents with the sea, Tinside Lido has undergone a major renovation to secure its future. The project by LHC Design enhances the site’s year-round offer while carefully preserving its Grade II listed heritage for generations to come.

A landmark on Plymouth Hoe since 1935, Tinside required sensitive renewal after decades of exposure to the elements and underused spaces. The project has combined heritage conservation, adaptive reuse and marine-resilient design to protect this iconic site and strengthen Plymouth’s connection with the water throughout the year.

The refurbishment has transformed Tinside Lido from a summer-only destination into a vibrant, year-round, multi-use community hub, improving access and enabling more inclusive enjoyment of the waterfront.

This award-winning renovation was made possible thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (Horizons Project), the Youth Investment Fund, the Levelling Up Fund and Plymouth City Council. The improvements include:

• A new multi-purpose space for youth, community use and events on the previously derelict first floor
• A revitalised building between the lido and Tinside Cove, now providing a base for youth workers, rangers and volunteers
• A renewed terrace featuring public seating, a coffee pod and an event space overlooking Plymouth Sound

These new and enhanced spaces are designed to attract new visitors, support youth engagement and generate income through commercial events and conferences. They also provide a safe and inspiring environment for young people to explore the benefits of “blue health” and develop skills in blue technology, innovation and the creative industries.

Its reopening in summer 2025 was marked by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, now proudly displayed at the Lido coffee pod.

Stuart McLeod, Director (London & South), The National Lottery Heritage Fund commented;

“We are delighted to see Tinside Lido recognised with the Michelmores Heritage Property of the Year Award. Investing in heritage means investing in the people and communities it belongs to.

By supporting the renovation of Tinside Lido through Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, we are not only preserving an important historic asset, but also helping to create lasting positive change for future generations. Thanks to National Lottery players, this project is empowering local people to celebrate, protect and connect with the incredible marine and natural heritage on their doorstep.”

Rhys Jones, CEO, Plymouth Active Leisure commented,

“We are absolutely delighted that Tinside Lido has been recognised as Heritage Project of the Year at the Michelmore Property Awards. This award is a testament to the vision, dedication and collaboration of everyone involved in bringing this iconic Plymouth landmark back to life. Tinside holds a special place in the hearts of our community, and this recognition celebrates not only the careful restoration of its unique heritage, but also its future as a vibrant, inclusive destination for generations to come.’’