Last Updated on June 10, 2025
Looking for the best venues for cold water swimming in London?
Discover ten cold water swimming spots which include both heated and unheated lidos, and open water swimming venues where you can experience the thrill of winter outdoor swimming in London.
Brockwell Lido
South London's gem, the Brockwell Lido is unheated and offers a year-round swimming experience.
Winter swimming events are organized by the South London Swimming Club. It's a popular spot for those seeking a cold water challenge.
Parliament Hill Lido
Perched on the edge of Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hill Lido first opened in 1938 and is open 365 days of the year. It's unheated so brace yourself for a cold dip.
It's run by the Parliament Hill Lido Users Group and is open between 7am and midday during the winter season.
London Fields Lido
Escape the urban hustle in Hackney's London Fields Lido. Managed by Better, this 50-meter heated pool also embraces the cold water swimming trend, opening all year round.
Tooting Bec Lido
South London's crown jewel, the Tooting Bec Lido, boasts the title of the UK's largest outdoor lido. Dive into its chilly depths, and you'll be sharing the water with the South London Swimming Club, a community that organizes events and fosters a love for cold water swimming.
Hampstead Heath Ponds
Discover the untamed beauty of Hampstead Heath through its three bathing ponds – mixed, men's, and women's. According to the City of London Corporation, these natural ponds, surrounded by lush greenery, attract thousands of winter swimmers annually.
Charlton Lido
Venture to South East London, and you'll find Charlton Lido, a hidden gem with a heated 50-meter pool. The Friends of Charlton Lido actively support this community hub, making it a welcoming spot for cold water enthusiasts.
Lake at Stoke Newington's West Resevoir
If you fancy a dip in a reservoir, head to Stoke Newington's West Reservoir Centre. Managed by Better, this location offers cold water swimming opportunities with the added charm of an urban reservoir setting.
London Royal Docks
Love Open Water Swimming run open water swimming sessions at the scenic and historic London Docks. Swimmers need to become a member of NOWCAbefore they swim which is £15 per year and allows you to swim at 40 different venues across the UK (including at Canary Wharf London - which is open in the summer months)
Beckenham Place Park Lake
Beckenham Place Park, located in the London Borough of Lewisham, has London’s first purpose-built swimming lake
It's approximately 285 meters long and reaches depths of up to 385 metres.
Open water swimming sessions are run by Ptp coaching. Book here. It's also the home of Beckenham Bobbers, a friendly and inclusive swimming group.
Pin Me For Later
You May Also Like…
Where to Stay in London with Teenagers: Top Hotels & Apartments for Families
Travelling to London with teenagers can be a lot of fun — there’s so much to do, and choosing the right place to stay can really enhance the experience. Choosing where to stay in London with teenagers can make a huge difference to your trip. Ideally, you’ll want a...
18 Amazing Afternoon Teas for Kids & Teenagers in London (Family-Friendly & Themed)
The Best Afternoon Tea for Kids and Teens In London Looking to induldge in the best afternoon tea for kids and teenagers in the heart of London? Afternoon tea is a brilliant treat for the whole family. With so many to choose from, it's not hard to find a theme that...
21 Fun Restaurants for Teens in London (Cool & Unique Places to Eat in 2026)
London is an incredible city for food but finding restaurants that teenagers actually get excited about can be tricky. If you’re travelling with teens (or live nearby), you’ll know it’s not just about good food. It’s about fun, atmosphere, and something a bit...
