Looking for an affordable way to cool off with the kids this summer? Good news! You can still enjoy a swim for just $2 per person at four Newcastle swimming pools. City of Newcastle has confirmed that $2 entry will continue at Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend swimming pools for the 2026/27 swimming season.
The reduced admission fee was originally introduced as a trial in 2025/26 to make swimming more affordable for local families. Following the trial, Newcastle councillors voted in June 2026 to continue the $2 entry fee for another season.
All four pools reopened on Saturday 26 September 2026, just in time for the spring school holidays.
For a family of four, that means a swimming outing costs just $8. Pack a picnic, bring your swimmers and enjoy a budget-friendly day out.
What about Lambton Pool? Lambton isn’t included in the general $2 entry scheme, but concession card holders can now enjoy $2 entry. Standard admission fees apply to other visitors.
Here’s where you can enjoy a swim in Newcastle this summer without spending a fortune.
Beresfield Pool – $2 entry
The Beresfield Swimming Pool is the place to go when the weather warms up. It offers a large range of aquatics, leisure and sporting options for the entire community. It features a heated 50m, learners pool and toddlers pool.
There’s also playground equipment and grassed areas plus barbecues and shaded seating. Read the Newy with Kids review of Beresfield Pool.
Mayfield Swimming Centre – $2 entry
Located in Dangar Park, Mayfield Pool features a 50m outdoor solar heated pool plus a learners pool. Check out the shark mural created by Trevor Dickinson on the side of the building. It’s a top spot to cool off and also includes playground equipment and grassy area for kids to play on when they get out of the pool.
Stop by the kiosk for some snacks or cook some food up on the barbecues. As this pool is used for school swim carnivals, there’s a fair amount of room as well as shaded seating. Read the Newy with Kids review of Mayfield Pool.
Stockton Swimming Centre – $2 entry
Located on the harbour at the end of the cycle path in Stockton, Stockton Swimming Centre is a great place to swim. It features a 50m outdoor solar heated pool plus a learners pool.
Families will enjoy playground equipment, barbecues, picnic tables, shade structures, lighting upgrades and accessible footpaths.
There’s also playground equipment and grassy area for kids to play on when they get out of the pool. If you get hungry, Stockton Pool features a kiosk or duck out to the local butcher or IGA and cook up some food on the barbecues. Read the Newy with Kids review of Stockton Pool.
Wallsend Swimming Centre – $2 entry
Located not far from Wallsend CBD, this neighbourhood pool is a gem.
It features a 50m outdoor solar heated pool plus a learners and toddler’s pool.
There’s also playground equipment and grassy area for kids to play on when they get out of the pool.
Bring some snags to cook up as Wallsend Pool also has barbecues and shaded seating. Don’t want to bring food? Order some instead from the kiosk. Read the Newy with Kids review of Wallsend Pool.
Lambton Swimming Pool – $6 all-day entry
Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre is Newcastle’s largest inland swimming complex and a popular destination for families.
Although Lambton isn’t included in the general $2 entry scheme, City of Newcastle has introduced $2 admission for concession card holders for the 2026/27 season. Other visitors pay the standard entry fee.
Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre is not included in the $2 pricing to reduce the risk of overcrowding at that facility, and with a waterslide, aquatic playground and four pools, its
$6.20 all-day entry fee ensures it remains the most affordable pool with similar facilities in the region.
With large grassed areas, barbecues and shaded seating, there’s plenty of room for social distancing. The swim centre features a 50m outdoor heated pool plus a learners and toddler’s pool.
For those wondering about the status of the Lambton dive tower, read the statement from the City of Newcastle.
Don’t forget to visit the kiosk hot chips and ice creams. It’s part of the tradition of going to Lambton Pool. Read the Newy with Kids review of Lambton Pool.
When are Newcastle swimming pools open?
Lambton Swimming Pool reopened on 24 August 2026, while Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton, Beresfield and Wallsend reopened on 26 September 2026. Opening hours vary between pools and throughout the season, so check before heading out. Also check for school swim carnivals. With four pools offering $2 entry, a family swim is one of the most affordable ways to keep cool in Newcastle this summer.
For current opening hours, admission fees and other information, visit the Newcastle Pools website.