FIVE OF THE BEST OUTDOOR POOLS
HAMPSTEAD HEATH SWIMMING PONDS, NW5 1QR
Unlike anything else in London, the Hampstead Heath ponds are three distinct oases of nature and calm just a few kilometres from the centre of the world’s largest cities. Swim amid the lilies, willows and assorted plant life in one of three ponds that date back to 1860: one is strictly ladies’, (the most tranquil and lovely), one is men’s only (with a well-known gay element), and then there’s a slightly hectic mixed pond (pictured above right). Hunker down for some seriously bucolic sunbathing – that said, hardcore locals swim in the ponds year round, rain or shine. All have changing facilities. Access is via Millifield Lane, N6. Gospel Oak or Hampstead Heath railway stations.
www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/hampstead
LONDON FIELDS LIDO, E8 3RH
This heated, Olympic-sized pool is beloved for its famously colourful lockers, its eclectic mix of hardcore swimmers and splashing families, and its lovely park location. Even when it gets busy, there are enough lanes to enjoy a proper swim. An area at one end with tables and chairs is dedicated to groups that just fancy a natter without getting wet. An outdoor café serves good food. London?Fields Park. London Fields rail. www.hackney.gov.uk/c-londonfields-lido.htm
TOOTING BEC LIDO, SW16 1RU
At 91.5m, this is the second largest pool in Europe and the largest fresh-water pool in England. An Art Deco lido, it is a glorious addition to the south London community. With a paddling pool, a sunbathing area and a café, this is the kind of place you could pass whole weekends at a time, and, should you desire, become extremely fit while you’re at it. The lido is also home to the South London Swimming Club, one of England’s oldest swimming clubs, founded in 1906. (See www.slsc.org.uk for more info).
Tooting Bec Road. Tooting Bec Tube.
www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk
BROCKWELL PARK LIDO, SE24 9BN
South London’s iconic lido (left) has been a summer stalwart and pillar of the community since 1937. The pool is a 50m Olympic-size beauty, attached to a Grade II-listed building housing state-of-the-art fitness and spa facilities. A modern café serves fresh and seasonal delights. Brockwell Park, Dulwich Road. Herne Hill rail station or Brixton Tube.
www.brockwelllido.com
SHOREDITCH HOUSE, E1 6AW
For those who feel they’re a cut above the family-tastic, ice-cream smeared scene of the public lidos, get a member of Shoreditch House – East London’s media-centric club – to invite you in for a day at the rooftop pool. The scene atop the unassuming building off Bethnal Green Road is one of complete hedonism as the world’s beautiful people cavort and lounge in their bikinis, briefs and perfect suntans, sipping champagne and reading the weekend papers. It’s like walking into Miami Beach – or perhaps Ibiza. It’s certainly one way to pass a sunny day. Ebor St. Liverpool Street Tube. www.shoreditchhouse.com