Restoring an iconic Art Deco Lido

In North Aberdeenshire, there is a growing community movement underway to save the at-risk Grade A listed, Tarlair lido. Situated in a stunning landscape in Macduff, it is a fine example of Art Deco period architecture and considered by Historic Environment Scotland to be the best example of only three surviving outdoor seaside pools in Scotland.

Tarlair Lido is a disused outdoor pool at the base of a sea cliff just outside Macduff in Aberdeenshire. It’s laid in a state of decay for almost 30 years, but an 11-year fight by local community members is underway to bring the lido back into use. The Lido is a fine example of Art Deco period architecture and is unique in both visual and working design.

The Friends of Tarlair have a long lease on the site and plans for its restoration start with the pavilion building. We were one of its early supporters and our grant went towards the conservation, repair and restoration of the Pavillion workshop, roof terrace and shower/toilet facilities. In July 2022, the Friends reported that they had raised the £1.8m needed to bring the pavilion back into use as a much-needed facility for the local community. We are pleased our early support helped Friends of Tarlair Lido to move forward on this project. A BBC article shares the importance of the Lido to the local community and its plan to start works in summer 2023.  

This grant comes from our Preservation and Conservation grant programme. Within this grant programme, we support the preservation of historic buildings and structures that are historically and culturally significant.

Find out more about Tarlair Lido.