A warm summer’s day spent at the Lido – who can resist? Take your pick from these outdoor London pools and treat the family to a day of splashing around and cooling off, far from the busy streets.
A Lido in London refers to an outdoor swimming pool (heated or unheated) pond or lake. Check each venue’s website to get details of opening times and other important info. Don’t forget the suncream!
COOL POOLS
Parliament Hill Lido is unheated, with plenty of historic, art deco charm left over from it’s 1938 construction. Recent improvements and innovations make this North London pool as popular as ever.
Pools by the Park Richmond is also unheated and is located right next to the beautiful deer park in Richmond Park. There is also a heated indoor pool at this venue.
Tooting Bec Lido is a long, good sized fresh water pool ideal for those who enjoy lap swimming and aim to get a good workout whilst in the water.
COMFORTABLY HEATED
The aply named Oasis Swimming Pool in Covent Garden is heated, with a nice tiled area alongside for sunbathing and lounging. Pop in for a refreshing swim after a central London shopping trip.
London Fields Lido in central Hackney has enjoyed recent refurbishment and you can use this heated, 50 metres long pool all year round. It is floodlit for night time swims and has a cafe and sunbathing facilities.
Hampton Pool has a grand total of two heated pools to enjoy, one of them especially designed for younger children as a learner pool. The lovely Royal Bushey Park is right alongside.
LOVELY SWIMMING PONDS
Enjoy the natural delights of the famous Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds, which are are always popular. There are 3 ponds to choose – one for men, one for women and a mixed pond. All 3 have life-guards.
Swimming in the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park means you may pass a duck or two – all part of the fun! The water here is well tested for safety and there is a special children’s swim and play area and a cafe.
ON THE OUTSKIRTS
You may find an outdoor pool just that little bit further out from central London to be the most pleasant on busy, hot days. Brockwell Lido in south London’s Herne Hill lies alongside a beautiful art-deco building with an award winning cafe inside. They offer various other outdoor activities for children.
Charlton Lido, also in south London is another outdoor pool that has enjoyed extensive refurbishment. This heated pool has sun terraces, a cafe and fitness studios.
Uxbridge Lido is now better known as Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Centre after it’s recent modernisation. Enjoy fountains, cascades and a heated pool for children, as well as pool-side space for lounging.
