If you're looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life, nothing beats an invigorating outdoor swim. London offers a range of historical lidos and picturesque swimming ponds, providing the perfect getaway. Perhaps you're considering making this aquatic adventure a more significant part of your weekend? If so, why not extend your stay and experience the city nearly as much as the lidos? To do this, you'll need a comfortable place to rest after your watery exploits. To view a range of top-class London apartments to make your stay more enjoyable, feel free to view more. Our writer delves into the experience, exploring ten of these hidden gems in a single action-packed weekend. These oases within the bustling metropolis promise to create unforgettable memories as well as provide the perfect setting for some much-needed rest and relaxation.
Embark on a visual journey: Take a visual tour across London's ponds and lidos, capturing the essence of each unique location. From tranquil lidos to enchanting swimming ponds, immerse yourself in the beauty of these natural oases.
Share your favorite: Have we missed your go-to London lido? Let us know in the comments below and make sure to tip us off about your hidden gem. We'd love to hear about your treasured swimming spots in the city.
London, once a city with a rich history of outdoor swimming, has seen a decline in its swimming culture over the years. However, Caitlin Davies' book, Downstream, sheds light on the fascinating tales of famous swimmers such as Charles Dickens, Stanley Spencer, and Margaret Rutherford, as well as the daring Victorian women who defied societal norms in the mid-1800s.
In the 1930s, the river was dotted with bathing houses, floating baths, and beaches, along with a multitude of lidos spread across the capital. Sadly, swimming in the Thames downstream of Putney is now considered unsafe, leaving only 17 lidos and outdoor pools in London.
However, there is hope for a resurgence of open-air swimming in the heart of the city. The planned Thames baths and the recent opening of Kings Cross Pond have sparked renewed interest in this cherished pastime. These initiatives may pave the way for more similar projects in the future.
With the increasing popularity of London's lidos and the Outdoor Swimming Society's membership skyrocketing from 300 in 2008 to an impressive 25,000, it's clear that more individuals are embracing the water. While we may not be on the cusp of a second golden era of swimming just yet, there's no denying that the tide is starting to turn.
As an outdoor swimming enthusiast, I had the opportunity to embark on an exhilarating adventure through London's lidos and ponds. Eager to explore beyond Europe's largest freshwater pool, Tooting Bec Lido, I devised a plan to immerse myself in the city's diverse swimming spots.
Starting my aquatic escapade at Hampstead Heath and making my way across the capital using public transport, I ventured from north to east, south to west, experiencing the thrill of diving into ten distinct pools over the course of just two days. This journey unveiled the remarkable gems that London has to offer, with each swimming spot boasting a tight-knit community of devoted regulars.
Throughout my expedition, I discovered that while London may not possess the same outdoor swimming culture as Scandinavian or northern European cities, it unquestionably delivers in terms of fantastic swimming opportunities. In a remarkable twist, I also realized that waiting for the elusive sunshine was unnecessary as cloudy days allowed me to relish these glorious stretches of water almost entirely to myself, aside from the occasional playful duck.
Hampstead Mixed Pond
When I arrived at Hampstead mixed pond, I was greeted by a dreary and damp day. The water was fairly empty, with only two swimmers braving the chilly 18C temperature without wetsuits. As a first-time swimmer of the day, I hesitated to join them without protective gear. Little did I know, my apprehension was misplaced. Bathing in this pond calls for a different approach - one that appreciates the surroundings and embraces the slower pace. So, I embraced the change and decided to take in the beauty surrounding me. The branches of trees dipped gracefully into the water, and a coot glided by as I floated along. The golden brown water gave an ethereal touch to my hands, seeming almost ghostly beneath the surface. It was a rare moment of immersion in nature that felt worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street, a mere four miles from Hampstead Heath. If I weren't on a tight schedule to swim in another five pools that day, I would have gladly stayed in the water longer.
Plan a visit to Hampstead mixed pond and experience this unique oasis in London. The entrance fee for adults is £2, but you can also opt for a membership for wider access throughout the year. Summer membership costs £66, while an all-year membership is priced at £125, covering all three ponds: ladies, mens, and mixed. You can reach the pond by taking the Hampstead Heath overground or Hampstead overground.
Kenwood Ladies Pond, Hampstead Heath
If you're looking for a truly unique swimming experience in London, take a step away from the hustle and bustle of city life and dive into the ladies pond on the northern side of the heath. This hidden gem has been a haven for women since the 1920s, offering a serene and secluded setting that feels like stepping into a bygone era. As you make your way along the leafy, flower-lined path, you can't help but feel the weight of history that ripples through the waters.
Chair of the Kenwood Ladies' Pond association, Jane Shallice, who has been swimming here since the 1960s, describes it as not just a place to swim but a place where you can witness the changing seasons and embrace the beauty of nature. From kingfishers gliding above the water to the breeze rustling through the trees, every swim brings a new experience. Surrounded by trees, irises, and honeysuckle, it's a place that nurtures your mind, body, and soul.
Unlike traditional swimming pools, the ladies pond offers a sense of freedom and acceptance, where women of all ages and sizes can enjoy the water without feeling scrutinized. It's a space that allows you to embrace your natural self, to swim without judgment. So leave your wetsuit behind and take the plunge in just your costume, immersing yourself in the invigorating waters. Brace yourself for the initial shock, a reminder that you're truly alive and connected to the elements.
Shallice passionately explains the significance of the women-only space, "In our society where appearances often take precedence, it's refreshing to find a sanctuary where aesthetics hold no importance. Moreover, it serves as a refuge for those weathering tough times in their lives, with many asserting that swimming here has been their saving grace. The environment is ultra secure, free from infringements, and provides an opportunity for individuals to bond through engaging conversations and sharing of experiences. The overall feeling one gets from this place is incredibly invigorating."
The past imminent closure, a decade ago, of the pond by the City of London was met fiercely by public dissent, vindicating its importance in the community. The good news is, for now, it's far from any closure threats. However, any future threats wouldn’t be welcomed either. The association vigilance continues as they keep an eye on the plans to renovate the changing room. The regular visitors are fond of the existing facility, a simple shed with a hot tap, with no interests for any grandeur, sophisticated changes that might overwrite the current pond’s atmosphere. “None of us is interested in a fancy new building," emphasized Shallice. "We want it to maintain its humble, low-key charm.”
The Highgate Men’s Bathing Pond is strategically positioned a couple of hundred yards south of the ladies pond.
Parliament Hill Lido, Hampstead Heath
After exploring Kenwood, I decided to head east towards Parliament Hill Lido, which is also located on Hampstead Heath. I took a well-deserved break at the nearby cafe, indulging in a comforting cup of tea before continuing my journey. This remarkable outdoor pool was constructed in 1938 and has been awarded Grade II-listed status. What sets it apart is its remarkable stainless steel lining, making it a truly unique swimming experience. As I plunged into the water, I couldn't help but feel like I was diving into a colossal, gleaming metal bowl.
Fortunately, the typically grey and chilly weather turned out to be a blessing in disguise. While London's lidos were brimming with visitors during the recent heatwave, during my visit, there were no bustling crowds to contend with. Notably absent was the sight of regular swimmer Charles Dance. Instead, I had the privilege of enjoying the vast shimmering expanse of water almost entirely to myself.
If you plan to visit Parliament Hill Lido during early mornings or evenings, tickets are priced at £2.50 for adults and £1.50 for concessions. Alternatively, if you prefer spending a full day there during the summer, adult day tickets are available for £6. Families can enjoy a day out for £15, while an adult and child combined ticket costs £8. The nearest stations to the lido are Gospel Oak overground and Tufnell Park underground.
Kings Cross Pond
Introducing Kings Cross Pond, an artistic marvel amidst the bustling urban redevelopment of London. This awe-inspiring pond, adorned with vibrant flowers, is a unique fusion of art and nature. It provides a refreshing escape, inviting you to gather your friends and indulge in the tranquil waters surrounded by reeds.
As you take a dip in this charming pond, you will experience a surreal sensation, with cranes, apartment blocks, and piles of rubble serving as the backdrop. It's an unconventional beauty that captivates the senses. During my visit, I witnessed a young girl who, despite the initial cold, found warmth and fell in love with the experience. However, her mother yearned for the serenity of a picturesque lake.
The Kings Cross Pond inspires us to reimagine the possibilities of urban spaces. Its presence within the ongoing construction serves as a testament to the potential for open, swimmable water in the heart of luxury living. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this extraordinary art installation.
To join this captivating experience, make sure to book your tickets in advance. Morning sessions are available from 6.30am to 8.30am for £3.50, while afternoon sessions run from 9am to 4.30pm, priced at £6.50. The nearest station is King's Cross, accessible via overland and tube routes.
Charlton Lido, south-east London
Embarking on an outdoor swimming adventure in London can lead you to unexpected gems, like the Charlton lido. Located in a less glamorous part of the city, this sparkling facility offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle. Opened in 2013, it underwent refurbishment to become London's newest and most enticing lido.
After a dip in Hampstead's ponds and lido, diving into Charlton's heated waters (maintained at a comfortable 25 degrees Celsius year-round) brings a sense of relief. As I submerged myself, the sun finally peeked out, casting a stunning array of blues on the pool's bottom like a mesmerizing kaleidoscope. Although the café's offerings were uninspiring, I grabbed a cup of tea to enjoy on my hour-long journey back to north London.
This hidden gem welcomes visitors from early morning (6.30am on Mondays) until late evening (closing at 8pm, except on Sundays when it closes at 5pm). Adult tickets can be purchased on-site for £6 (or £5 if booked online). The nearest station, Charlton overland, ensures easy access for those eager to explore this unique aquatic haven in the heart of London.
London Fields Lido, Hackney
London Fields has become a beloved swimming destination in London, thanks to successful local campaigning efforts. Originally opened in the 1930s, the lido was revitalized and reopened in 2006. Situated in the lively Hackney area, this popular spot can get busy on warm sunny days. However, the lido is open year-round until 9pm, featuring a heated pool that allows visitors to enjoy a swim even without hot weather. Photographer Madeleine Waller's captivating winter photos of swimmers at London Fields reveal an enchanting sight as steam rises from the water, creating a magical ambiance amidst the bare trees.
While Hackney may be known as hipster central, where you can find an artisan flat white for a hefty price, the prices at the lido cafe are reasonable. Treat yourself to a cup of tea for just £1, coffee starting from £2.30, or indulge in a delicious toastie from £3. Unfortunately, the cafe was closed by the time I finished my swim, but there's a convenient vending machine offering a selection of healthy drinks and snacks. I celebrated completing day one of my swim marathon with a refreshing ginger beer.
If you're planning a visit, the admission fee for adults is £4.80, and £3.34 with a membership (£37.40 per year). Children can enter for £2.85. London Fields lido opens from 6:30am to 9pm. The nearest overground stations are London Fields or Hackney Central.
The Serpentine, Hyde Park
My journey into London's outdoor swimming scene saw me plunge into the Serpentine in Hyde Park on the second day, beneath a cloud-cloaked sky. Though renowned as a hotspot for triathlon training due to its 100-metre length, the imminent rainfall had left the lake largely deserted, save a flock of swans, by the time I ventured to the water's edge. The Serpentine Swimming Club, which holds the prestige of being the oldest in the nation, organised the first documented Christmas Day races back in 1864. However, the adrenaline rush is a year-round affair for the club's courageous members who embark on races each Saturday. Encased within their swimwear, they valiantly brave the open-air climate and their website clearly states their view on using wetsuits, citing that it strays from the ethos of year-round open-air swimming. Nervous about the sensation of submerged vegetation brushing against my skin, I was grateful for my wetsuit giving me at least the illusion of protection, though I'm sure Serpentine's regulars would just shake their heads at my caution. Regardless of my qualms about the lake's natural inhabitants, the water was absolutely unpolluted and transparent, making it an absolute delight to swim in. Apart from their lack of shower facilities, it felt surreal swimming in a lake, while families leisurely pedalled by on pedal boats and the ever-vigilant swans supervised from the sidelines.
Admission for adults is £4.80, while children under 16 are charged £1.80, with the condition that they must be supervised by an adult. The lake is open for swimming from 10am-6pm during the months of June, July, and August, and only on weekends in May. The closest tube station is Knightsbridge.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the Serpentine lake initially started as a recreational boating lake in 1730? And it's also interesting to note that the water of the Serpentine comes from the Thames, using a pump installed in 1834 at Chelsea Waterworks which is still in use today.
Tooting Bec Lido, south London
After my encounter with the Serpentine, I moved south across the river to what is hailed as the largest outdoor pool in Europe. As a resident of Tooting, I'll admit I'm a bit partial, but the lido is genuinely remarkable here. There's something captivated about the sight of the vast 90-metre water body, fringed by brightly colored changing rooms. For the past century, this site has been the hub for the renowned South London Swimming Club, marking it as the heart of cold-water swimming in the country. An attempt at a winter swim in the chilling 2C waters left me shuddering for a good three-quarters of an hour after mere minutes of immersion.
Despite the refreshing 18C temperature, I was fully equipped in a wetsuit to confidently glide through the water, enjoying the solitude of having the pool almost entirely to myself. The size of this expansive pool ensures that, even during bustling sunny days with sunbathers lining the concrete poolside, there is ample space for a tranquil and uninterrupted swim.
For those interested in experiencing this exceptional outdoor swim, admission prices are £7.80 for adults and £5.20 for children aged 5 to 15. You can easily reach the location by taking the Streatham Overland train or the Tooting Bec tube.
Brockwell Lido, south London
If you're looking for a refreshing outdoor swimming experience in London, I highly recommend checking out Brockwell Park. Situated in south London, this hidden gem boasts a stunning Grade II-listed art deco building that houses a charming cafe. With its own private entrance, this cafe stands out as the best among the other pools in the area.
During my visit to Brockwell Park, the sky gradually turned ominous, adding an air of intrigue to my swim. As I completed my laps, the darkness intensified, creating a unique atmosphere. Just as I hurried to the shower facilities – which incidentally are the most impressive across all ten pools – the heavens opened, adding a touch of drama to my experience.
For those interested in visiting, the pool charges £5.95 for adults and £3.40 for children aged 5-16. The nearest stations to Brockwell Park are Brixton tube and overland, as well as Herne Hill overland.
Experience the splendor of outdoor swimming at Brockwell Park, where an extraordinary setting and excellent amenities await you.
Hampton pool, south-west London
If you venture out to the western part of London, you'll find yourself on the outskirts of Bushy Park, close to Hampton Court, where Hampton Pool awaits. Despite a sudden downpour, swimmers in the pool hardly seemed to mind, as the water remained a comfortable 28 degrees Celsius. This family-friendly attraction not only offers a main pool but also features a warmer paddling pool for little ones, thrilling water slides, and a spacious grassy area for relaxation. However, the allure of Hampton Pool doesn't stop at swimming alone; it has established itself as a versatile venue by hosting a variety of events such as concerts, gigs, and theater shows. This summer, their lineup is already packed with sold-out performances by renowned artists including the Stranglers, Kid Creole and The Coconuts, and Joan Armatrading.