Penzance Swimming Association and Water Polo Club was founded in the 1860s and is reputed to be the oldest swimming club in the country.

Origins and Heritage

Foundation: Established in the 1860s, the Penzance Swimming Association and Water Polo Club has served the local community for over 150 years.

Early Prodigies: The club and local waters fostered early athletic talents, such as 13-year-old swimming prodigy Phyllis Bottrell, who made headlines in August 1925 by challenging and matching the lady champion of Cornwall in a famous local race. 

Mid-20th Century: By the 1950s, the club maintained an active water polo and competitive swimming roster, deeply tied to the maritime identity of Penzance.

Associated Venues

Jubilee Pool: Opened in May 1935 to celebrate King George V's Silver Jubilee, this iconic triangular Art Deco seawater lido was designed by borough engineer Captain Frank Latham. It provided a premier open-air home for local bathing and aquatic events. The pool survived major storms in 1962 and 2014, and later added a geothermal heated section in 2019.

Penzance Leisure Centre: Located on St Clare Street (TR18 3QW), this indoor facility serves as the modern training base for the club's current coaching sessions, squads, and time trials.

Modern Operations

Programs: The club caters to all levels from 'Diddy Dolphins' starting at age 3, through standard Swim England stages, up to national-level competitive squads. 

Activities: Offers training in competitive swimming, water polo, and adult swim fitness, regularly competing in regional events like the South West Regional Championships and Cornwall Time Trials