While London’s summer weather is not necessarily guaranteed, that isn’t going to stop us from getting excited about what we think might just be London’s best-kept summer secret - the city’s outdoor swimming pools and lidos.
What we love about London is everything that makes it a city, from its energy and noise to its hustle and bustle. But we also love its green spaces (read about picnics in London) and what we love even more can be found within those green spaces - near-natural, outdoor pools in London.
One great example of this is Beckenham Place Park Swimming Lake. Not a pool, a lake. Maybe lake swimming in London is a little unexpected, but that is what makes this spot so amazing. Located in the Borough of Lewisham, this swimming lake is one of London’s newest wild-swimming locations.
It was created by refilling what was once a Georgian lake, made in 1800 by the former owner of the Beckenham Place Mansion. The restoration of the lake has seen it open as a place for swimmers. Originally it was intended for all sorts of purposes, including kayaking and other water sports, but this summer it is for swimmers only.
Numbers are limited at any one time, and you have to book your spot and time in advance (our new reality!). The lake has both lifeguards and changing facilities, so if you can get a spot this is the perfect place to come and do some laps amidst the greenery of Beckenham Place Park. This makes it good for the body but especially great for the soul.
Beckenham Place Park Swimming Lake. Image from Metro.
Caught the wild-swimming bug? You can also try the Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds. Two of the swimming ponds are public pools in London that are open year-round if you are brave enough to face the water in the winter. Take your outdoor swimming in London seriously? Consider joining the Hampstead Heath Winter Swimming Club.
There are three pools in total, made from old, disused clay pits. There is one pool for ladies only, one for men, and one that is mixed. Even in the summer, the water here is not warm. In fact, it’s downright cold all year round - but cold water swimming is supposed to be better for us anyway.
Don’t forget to book in advance to swim. Bookings can be made online and swimmers can book up to a maximum of three swimming sessions a week.
Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds. Image from Secret London.
Love the idea of swimming in outdoor pools in London but not able to brave their chilly water temperatures? For that, you need to head to the Hampton Pool run by the Poolside Swim and BBQ Club. One of the biggest draws to this pool is the fact that it is heated all year round. It is also surrounded by grassy areas for sunbathing and community events.
Originally built in 1922, this community pool was saved by residents in the 1980s who are still active in keeping the pool open and maintained. We love the community feel of this pool and the fact that anyone and everyone is welcome here. They also have moonlight swim sessions, and when it comes to summer swimming, nothing beats a nighttime dip.
Hampton Pool. Image from Secret London.
If these swimming options appeal and you're looking for a co living London apartment, you'll want to consider joining us. Take a look at our furnished flats to rent in Wembley, or flats to rent east London. Not sure London’s water temperatures are warm enough for you? In that case, maybe consider one of our 2 complexes in Dubai, which includes access to some great swimming pools and some even greater temperatures!
