London's best lidos and outdoors swimming pools

Uncover London's best places to cool off this summer, from the famed ponds of Hampstead Heath to the newly opened Middle Dock in Canary Wharf.

As summer heatwaves approach, there's no better way to beat the heat than with an invigorating outdoor dip. Luckily, London boasts an impressive collection of lidos, offering delightful swimming experiences amidst the urban landscape. Nestled within picturesque parks and surrounded by lush trees, these lidos serve as tranquil oases in the heart of the city. Whether it's the iconic Serpentine Lido, the tranquil Hampstead Heath Ponds, or the recently reopened Middle Dock in Canary Wharf, we've curated a list of the finest lakes, ponds, and lidos for your summer swim. So gather your friends and dive into the refreshing waters, making the most of a sizzling London summer.

Serpentine Lido

Image: Serpentine, Hyde Park, © MTotoe

#FLODown: Escape to Serpentine Lido, an iconic destination in Hyde Park cherished by Londoners for over a century. Dive into the swan-filled waters of the picturesque 40-acre Serpentine Lake. Members have exclusive access from 5 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., while during the summer season, the lido opens to the public, providing 110 yards of invigorating open water swimming. Lounge on comfortable deck chairs, indulge in the charming Lido Café with its outdoor terrace, and have yourself a quintessential London experience!

Location: The Serpentine, London W2 2UH. Price: from £1.50 – £7.40. Date: Weekends throughout May. Open seven days during June, July and August. Opening hours: 10am – 6pm. Website: royalparks.org.uk 

Hampstead Heath Ponds

Image: Hamsptead Heath Ponds, Amadeusz Misiak

#FLODown:Discover the hidden treasures of Hampstead Ponds, a cluster of historic reservoirs that offer unforgettable natural swimming experiences. Renowned as one of London's most celebrated open water swimming destinations, it comprises three enchanting ponds: Kenwood Ladies' Pond, Highgate Men's Pond, and Hampstead Mixed Pond, accompanied by Parliament Hill Lido. Nestled amidst a lush canopy of trees, these serene waters provide a haven of tranquility that is accessible year-round. It's the perfect place to unwind and bask in the London sunshine!

Location: Parliament Hill Lido, Gordon House Road, London, NW5 1LT. Price: from £1.40 – £7.80. Location: Kenwood Ladies Pond, Hampstead Heath, London, N6 6JA. Price: from £2.70 – £4.50. Location: Highgate Men's Pond, London, NW3 1BP. Price: from £2.70 – £4.50. Location: Mixed Pond, Hampstead Heath, London, NW3 1BP. Price: from £2.70 – £4.50. Opening hours: 7am-8.30pm. Website: cityoflondon.gov.uk

Beckenham Place Park Lake

Image: Beckenham Place Park Lake

#FLODown: Experience the thrill of Beckenham Place Park, boasting London's first purpose-built swimming lake. Spanning an impressive 285 meters with depths of up to 3.5 meters, this historic lake is nestled within the vast 237-acre grounds of a Georgian mansion. It is open for pre-booked swimming and paddle boarding sessions. To swim in the lake, visitors must book a one-hour slot in advance, which can be done online, by phone, or via email. The designated swimming days are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7am to 3pm, as well as Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 3pm.

Location: Beckenham Hill Road, Beckenham, England, BR3 5BS. Opening hours: Monday 7am - 3pm. Tuesday, Thursday closed. Wednesday, Friday 7am to 3pm. Saturday – Sunday 8am to 3pm. Price: from £3 – £5. Website: lewisham.gov.uk

Brockwell Lido

Image: Brockwell Lido, Brockwell Lido

#FLODown: Discover the ultimate haven for relaxation and indulgence at Brockwell Lido, an exceptional outdoor lido tucked away in Brockwell Park. With sunbathing terraces and an outdoor sauna, this hidden gem offers a touch of luxury with its sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi available in its gym facilities. Located near Herne Hill, this popular hotspot in South London is open year-round, inviting you to take a refreshing dip even during the chilly winter months.

Location: Dulwich Rd, London SE24 0PA. Opening hours: Sessions vary Monday – Thursday from 6.30am to 9pm. Friday 6.30am – 7pm. Weekends 7.30am – 6.30pm.  Price: from £5-£8. Website: fusion-lifestyle.com

Tooting Bec Lido

Image: @tootingbec_lido

#FLODown:Tooting Bec Lido, an iconic landmark among the UK's freshwater swimming pools, has been a staple among swimmers since its establishment in 1906. Spanning an impressive length of 90 metres, this pool offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to embark on long-distance swims while surrounded by the tranquillity of towering trees. The lido has vibrant changing rooms, expansive space, and a range of amenities including a delightful paddling pool, inviting café, and secure lockers. The lido is open to the general public in the summer and exclusively to members during the winter season. Currently closed for a £3.5m refurbishment since November 2022, the lido was initially expected to reopen this summer, but it seems to have been delayed further, and it was announced that it unfortunately won’t be opening this summer.

Location: Tooting Bec Rd, London SW16 1RU. Date: Dates TBC when Lido reopens. Price: from £5.20 - £8.30. Website: slsc.org.uk

West Reservoir Centre

Image: West Reservoir Centre @westreservoir_n4

#FLODown: Experience thrilling water sports at the West Reservoir Centre in Hackney. With activities like kayaking, sailing, and open water swimming, this hidden gem spans 23 acres. Take on the challenge with 400m and 100m loops. The Centre also offers certified courses and youth programs. Book through the Better app and enjoy the fresh water against the backdrop of towering high-rises.

Location: West Reservoir Water Sports Centre, Green Lanes, Woodberry Down, London N4 2HA. Date: All year. Opening hours: Saturday - Monday: 8am - 4pm. Tuesday - Friday 7am - 8pm. Price: from £5 for Better Gym members and £10 for non-members. Website: better.org.uk

Middle Dock

Image: Canary Wharf Open Water Swimming. Photo Credit Sean Pollock.

#FLODown: Dive into the inviting waters of Middle Dock, the renowned summer open swimming spot in Canary Wharf. Surrounded by towering skyscrapers, this urban oasis offers an idyllic location for a refreshing swim in the heart of the bustling district. With a watercourse spanning from 200m to 400m, swimmers of all levels can perfect their strokes and enjoy a cool respite. This initiative, in collaboration with the Canal and River Trust and Love Open Water, guarantees a safe and picturesque environment, ensuring a memorable experience for open water enthusiasts.

Location: Middle Dock, Canary Wharf, London, E14. Price: Swims cost £8.50 per visit. £15 for all sessions if you sign up to a  NOWCA membership.  Website: canarywharf.com

Charlton Lido and Lifestyle Club

Image: Charlton Lido

#FLODown: Indulge in a truly exceptional swimming experience at Charlton Lido and Lifestyle Club in South London. Following a remarkable £5 million refurbishment in 2013, this premier fitness destination is home to a fully heated 50m pool. Whether you're seeking a serene sun-soaked terrace or a dip, Charlton Lido provides the perfect setting to relax and enjoy year-round aquatic bliss.

Location: Hornfair Park, Shooters Hill Rd, London SE18 4LX. Date: All year. Opening hours: Monday 9am - 4pm. Tuesday - Friday 6.30am - 8pm. Saturday - Sunday 8am - 4pm. Price: from £5.60 - £11.50. Website: better.org.uk