The £4-a-go swimming pool in Greater Manchester with ripster slide, rapids, wave machine and more

When it comes to waterparks Manchester is seriously lacking.

The new Therme attraction is now being built near The Trafford Centre, but that's not expected to open until 2025.

There is however one local swimming destination that attracts families from miles around - and that's Hyde Leisure Pool.

It's certainly not your typical baths. It features a ‘Red Ripster’ aqua slide, wild water, water cannons, wave machine, bubble beds and geysers.

Read more: Things to do with the kids in the Easter holidays

The Active Hyde site, part of Active Tameside, actually opened in 1987.

In 2009, the pool shut for almost a whole year for a refurb of the steel framework, extension of the fitness suite, the refurbishment of the changing facilities and the building of the new health suite.

This also allowed for the popular Red Ripster ride to be installed, and for a new cafe and spectator area to be created. Anyone 1.1m or taller can use the slide.

More recently, in July 2021, a brand new six-lane, 25m tank pool opened its doors there too and provides space for school swimming and learn to swim sessions. It also welcomed back Hyde Seal Swimming club which was ousted from the old Hyde Baths back in 1984.

The new pool boasts a pool pod and changing spaces changing and shower rooms to enable those with disabilities to enjoy the pool.

It's the prices that help pull in the crowds too. Although there has been a slight rise from April 1, it's still just £4.10 for children, aged five to 16, and £6.40 for adults. For under fives it's £2.30 and you can get a family ticket, for either two adults and two children, or an adult and three kids, for £16.80.

During Swim, Slide and Waves sessions, under fives must be accompanied by an adult aged 16