25 Best Places for Swimming in London, United Kingdom | Pools, Lidos & Open Water

London, a city rich in history and vibrant culture, offers a surprising array of swimming spots. From serene natural settings to lively public pools, this city caters to all preferences. In this guide, we will explore 25 of the best swimming spots in London.

London , United Kingdom Travel Guide

Natural Swimming Spots

1. Hampstead Heath Ponds

Wide angle view of Hampstead Heath Ponds surrounded by lush greenery — Hampstead Heath Ponds, a natural swimming haven in London

Hampstead Heath features three beautiful swimming ponds: the Men’s Pond, the Women’s Pond, and the Mixed Pond. These spots are encircled by lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling life. From May to September, the ponds are open for swimming, with many visitors enjoying a refreshing dip amid nature.

2. Serpentine Lido

Eye-level view of Serpentine Lido with sunbathers and swimmers — Serpentine Lido, a popular outdoor swimming destination in London

Located in Hyde Park, the Serpentine Lido features a 100-meter swimming area that accommodates swimmers of all levels. With incredible views of the park, this lido also offers sun loungers and a charming café. Visitors can enjoy a swim followed by a refreshing bite to eat, making it a perfect summer destination for families and friends.

3. The Thames

High angle view of the River Thames with swimmers enjoying the water — The River Thames, a unique swimming experience in London

While not conventional, swimming in the Thames is possible through organized events and swimming clubs that prioritize safety. Events like the annual Thames Swim attract adventurous swimmers eager to experience the river. In 2019, around 2,500 swimmers participated in this popular event, showcasing just how much the community enjoys this unique swimming opportunity.

4. Crystal Palace Park Ponds

Close-up view of the Crystal Palace Park Ponds surrounded by greenery — Crystal Palace Park Ponds, a tranquil swimming spot in London

Crystal Palace Park offers several scenic ponds, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Although swimming is not officially approved, the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty attract many sunbathers and nature lovers who come to unwind in this lovely park.

Public Swimming Pools

5. London Fields Lido

Wide angle view of London Fields Lido with swimmers and sunbathers — London Fields Lido, a vibrant outdoor swimming pool in London

London Fields Lido is an outdoor heated pool in Hackney that spans 50 meters. It is a favorite destination for fitness enthusiasts and casual swimmers alike. The ample sun loungers and café allow visitors to relax before or after their swim, making it an ideal spot for enjoying sunny days.

6. Clapham Common Lido

Eye-level view of Clapham Common Lido with swimmers and trees — Clapham Common Lido, a family-friendly swimming destination in London

Family-friendly Clapham Common Lido features a sizable swimming area, a children’s pool, and plenty of sunbathing opportunities. Set within gorgeous parkland, the lido is perfect for family outings, offering a fantastic way to combine swimming with a day in the park. The facility sees thousands of visitors each summer, making it a popular local hotspot.

7. Islington Swimming Pool

Close-up view of Islington Swimming Pool with swimmers — Islington Swimming Pool, a modern indoor swimming facility in London

Islington Swimming Pool is a contemporary indoor pool featuring a 25-meter swimming area and a children’s pool. Year-round access ensures that swimmers can enjoy a comfortable environment, regardless of weather. The facility also includes a fitness center, making it a hub for health enthusiasts.

8. The Porchester Centre

High angle view of The Porchester Centre swimming pool with swimmers — The Porchester Centre, a historic swimming venue in London

Located in Bayswater, the Porchester Centre offers a beautifully designed 25-meter swimming pool along with a sauna and steam room. This historical venue combines modern comforts with a sense of old-world charm. It is a great place to relax and enjoy a swim in a tranquil setting.

Unique Swimming Experiences

9. The Floating Cinema

Wide angle view of The Floating Cinema on the water with people swimming nearby — The Floating Cinema, a unique swimming and film experience in London

The Floating Cinema offers an innovative experience where you can swim while watching films on a floating screen. This extraordinary concept combines cinema and swimming, making for a memorable evening. In the summer, tickets often sell out, so it’s wise to book in advance.

10. The London Aquatics Centre

Eye-level view of The London Aquatics Centre with swimmers — The London Aquatics Centre, a world-class swimming facility in London

Built for the 2012 Olympics, the London Aquatics Centre is a state-of-the-art swimming facility featuring two competition pools and a diving pool. Regular public swimming sessions allow visitors to enjoy a world-class venue that has welcomed thousands of swimmers since its opening. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner, the Aquatics Centre is a must-visit.

11. The Thames Clippers River Roamer

High angle view of The Thames Clippers River Roamer with swimmers nearby — The Thames Clippers River Roamer, a unique way to explore London by water

While not a swimming venue per se, the Thames Clippers River Roamer provides a unique way to explore London by water. Passengers can hop on and off at various points along the Thames, granting easy access to numerous swimming spots, parks, and attractions. This scenic journey adds a dimension of adventure to any outing.

Indoor Swimming Pools

12. The Queen Mother Sports Centre

Close-up view of The Queen Mother Sports Centre swimming pool with swimmers — The Queen Mother Sports Centre, a popular indoor swimming facility in London

The Queen Mother Sports Centre, located in Westminster, features a 25-meter swimming pool and a children’s pool, making it perfect for families. With an on-site fitness center, the facility supports a healthy lifestyle for local residents.

13. The Oasis Sports Centre

Eye-level view of The Oasis Sports Centre swimming pool with swimmers — The Oasis Sports Centre, an urban indoor swimming pool in London

In Covent Garden, The Oasis Sports Centre offers an urban indoor pool experience. The center features a 25-meter swimming pool and a children’s area, along with a sauna to unwind post-swim. Its central location makes it popular among both locals and tourists.

14. The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Pools

High angle view of a swimming pool in Kensington and Chelsea with swimmers — Kensington and Chelsea Pools, a collection of indoor swimming facilities in London

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea boasts multiple indoor swimming pools, including the Kensington Leisure Centre and the Chelsea Sports Centre. These facilities cater to swimmers looking for a comfortable and modern environment throughout the year.

Outdoor Swimming Pools

15. Tooting Bec Lido

Wide angle view of Tooting Bec Lido with swimmers and sunbathers — Tooting Bec Lido, the largest outdoor swimming pool in London

Tooting Bec Lido is the largest outdoor swimming pool in London, stretching 91.5 meters in length. This hot summer spot attracts locals eager to soak up the sun, swim, and enjoy the poolside café. On busy weekends, it can welcome over 1,200 visitors.

16. Brockwell Lido

Eye-level view of Brockwell Lido with swimmers and trees — Brockwell Lido, a historic outdoor swimming pool in London

Located in Brockwell Park, Brockwell Lido features a 50-meter pool surrounded by ample sun loungers and a café. The historic lido serves as a popular venue for relaxation and swimming, benefiting from its picturesque park setting.

17. Parliament Hill Lido

Close-up view of Parliament Hill Lido with swimmers — Parliament Hill Lido, a scenic outdoor swimming pool in London

Parliament Hill Lido, set in Hampstead Heath, is an outdoor heated pool that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding park. This lido is popular among both casual swimmers and serious athletes, often hosting swimming events during the summer months.

Family-Friendly Swimming Spots

18. The Splash Zone at the London Aquatics Centre

High angle view of The Splash Zone at the London Aquatics Centre with children playing — The Splash Zone at the London Aquatics Centre, a fun area for kids in London

The Splash Zone at the London Aquatics Centre is designed for children, featuring shallow pools and water play areas. With slides and interactive water features, this area provides a fun and safe environment that children love.

19. The Waterworks Nature Reserve

Wide angle view of The Waterworks Nature Reserve with children swimming — The Waterworks Nature Reserve, a natural swimming area for families in London

The Waterworks Nature Reserve is a hidden gem that offers families a chance to swim in a natural setting. Surrounded by nature, this area features designated swimming spots ideal for children and adults, providing an enjoyable experience for everyone.

20. The Clapham Leisure Centre

Eye-level view of The Clapham Leisure Centre swimming pool with families — The Clapham Leisure Centre, a family-friendly indoor swimming facility in London

The Clapham Leisure Centre boasts a family-friendly indoor swimming pool equipped with a children’s area. This facility focuses on providing a fun and safe environment for families, hosting various activities that cater to all ages.

Seasonal Swimming Spots

21. The Serpentine Swimming Club

Close-up view of The Serpentine Swimming Club with swimmers — The Serpentine Swimming Club, a seasonal swimming spot in London

The Serpentine Swimming Club, located in Hyde Park, is a seasonal swimming club allowing members to swim in the Serpentine Lake during summer. This club dates back to 1864, and its membership has remained strong, with over 200 active swimmers enjoying this unique opportunity.

22. Open Water Swimming at the Docklands

High angle view of open water swimming at the Docklands with swimmers — Open Water Swimming at the Docklands, a seasonal swimming experience in London

During the warmer months, the Docklands area offers open water swimming opportunities. Swimmers can enjoy stunning city skyline views while experiencing a refreshing swim in the water, making it a memorable and adventurous option for aquatic enthusiasts.

Discover London’s Swimming Gems

London hosts an impressive variety of swimming spots catering to different preferences and skill levels. From peaceful natural ponds to modern indoor pools and exciting experiences, there is something for everyone in this bustling city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these swimming venues offers a refreshing escape and an opportunity to enjoy London’s vibrant beauty. So grab your swimsuit, make a splash, and experience these fantastic swimming locations!

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