Photo: Moritz Leick, Stadt Essen
Ruhr idyll and clear rules
Essen, Kettwig, May 5, 2026. With the start of the warm days, the Kettwig outdoor pool is also officially opening its doors for the 2026 summer season. Starting Thursday, May 14, the outdoor area of the combined pool will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for all swimmers. This marks the beginning of the longed-for time in Kettwig for swimming laps under the open sky, sunbathing on the lawn, and relaxing hours by the water.
Scaffolding from August – actual work from September
First, the contracted specialist company is to erect the necessary scaffolding in August. The first of a total of five construction phases should then start in September. This will begin on the Kupferdreher side and work its way towards Heisingen A key factor for the time planning is material delivery times. The oak wood needed for the renewal of the wooden structure, in particular, requires longer lead times.
Indoor pool closed until the end of the season
During the outdoor pool season, the indoor pool at the Kettwig swimming center – as well as the indoor pool at the Oststadt combined swimming facility – will remain closed. The other Essen indoor pools, such as the indoor pool Kupferdreh and the indoor swimming pool remain available at the usual times.
Swimming at the lake
Already on May 1st, many water sports enthusiasts enjoyed the best weather at the traditional opening swim at Seaside Beach Baldeney at Baldeneysee celebrated the unofficial start to the outdoor season. With water temperatures that required more courage than comfort, the event sent a sporting signal before the official opening of the municipal outdoor pools.
Proof of identification for security
As in the previous year, the Essen Sports and Baths Operations are pointing out that an identification requirement will apply in all Essen outdoor swimming pools in 2026 as well. Visitors must therefore carry a valid identification document. According to the operators, the measure is intended to contribute to safety and has proven its worth.
Information about the Kettwig swimming center
| Schwimmzentrum Essen-Kettwig – Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Location | In the Essen-Kettwig district, near the Ruhr and easily accessible via Mintarder Straße | |
| Facilities | Indoor pool, outdoor pool area, multi-purpose pool, children's pool, sunbathing lawns, exercise rooms | |
| Opening hours | Seasonal; outdoor pool usually open from May, indoor pool open all year round | |
| Special features | Family-friendly, courses for all age groups, modern water treatment, low-barrier access | |
| Course offerings | Swimming lessons, Aqua fitness, Rehab sports, Swimming training for children & adults | |
| Transport links | Bus lines to Essen-Kettwig & Werden; good connections to A52; parking available on site | |
| address | Mintarder Straße 82, 45219 Essen-Kettwig | |
| Admission prices | Vary depending on the area (indoor pool/outdoor pool) and tariff; discounts for children & families | |
| Suitable for | Family, swimming, recreational swimming, rehab sports, school and club swimming | |
| More information | Official website of the swimming center | |
All statements without guarantee.
Conclusion
With the opening of the Kettwig outdoor pool, almost the entire Essen outdoor pool network has now started its season – the best conditions for a sunny, sporty, and safe summer on the Ruhr.
