River Thames Swimming during the 50s/60s.

The family Freebody lived in the house on the banks of the Thames in Caversham. 

River Thames  Swimming was shared between Freebody’s and Cawston’s Lidos. Freebody’s owned the boatyard and provided a “Lido.” The Lido provided many happy hours of enjoyment, swimming and diving.

There was much “showing off” outdoing one another, leaping from the spectacular high board.

People, who were going about their daily business stopped on the bridge for a minute or two. They gazed at the antics, which of course encouraged the divers more!

Frolics at Freebodys 1945

The river was very deep at this spot. Not only did Mr Freebody cater for river swimming,  but he hired out small boats.
Boat building took place in a corrugated shed just beyond the diving boards.
The area became very crowded in the hot summer months.  Many families spent the whole day river swimming and picnicing[…]

Across the river from Freebody’s Lido is Pipers Island and Fry’s Island.
Mr Cawston of Cawston’s Boatyard also provided a river swimming Lido. What bliss it was offering another  great paradise for river swimming and diving.[…]

Read more…Swimming in the Thames at Scours Lane

Past times

“Finals of the Summer Sports Girl Competition will be held Freebody’s Lido Caversham Wednesday 22nd July 1936”

“Finals of the Bathing Beauty Contest at Freebody’s Lido, Caversham Bridge Saturday 25th July 1936”

and…

“After a swim the freshness and absorbent softness of a perfectly laundered Bath Towel completes your pleasure. Also imparting a glow of healthy satisfaction.
“It is worthwhile employing a “Laundry of Quality”
Reading and Caversham Laundry June 1936″

OUTCOME: Due to health and safety the Lidos were not recognised as bathing places from the 70s

Aerial shot of Cawston’s and Freebody’s

Freebodys and Cawstons Sites. 55 – 61 maps. Will expand to full view ++

Freebody’s left and Cawstons right.

Back to Lido Index