The Best Outdoor Swimming Pools, Lakes and Lidos in London

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Last Updated on June 21, 2025

In the summer months, the heat in London can be stifling!

There’s no better way to cool off than with a dip in one of the city’s many outdoor pools, lakes or lidos. Whether you live in London or are visiting as a tourist, there are plenty of options.

From leafy Hampstead to just outside Covent Garden, Londoners are spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor swimming spots.

We’ve gathered the best recommendations straight from the locals, with a mix of much-loved favourites and hidden gems. It’s worth noting, it’s almost always required to book your swim in advance, especially if it’s a hot sunny day. Outdoor swimming spots get booked up quickly. Some pool booking systems open their slots two days before, for others you can book weeks or even months in advance.

Whether you’re after a tranquil pond, a rooftop pool, or a lido with a view, here’s where to go.

Brockwell Lido

Located in South London’s Herne Hill, Brockwell Lido is a beautiful Art Deco open-air pool with plenty of space to swim and sunbathe. Take the train from Victoria or Blackfriars to Herne Hill. It’s unheated, so brace yourself, but it’s worth it!

Serpentine Lido – A Royal Park Classic

If you fancy a swim in central London surrounded by greenery, head to the Serpentine Lido in Kensington Gardens (within Hyde Park).

It’s a historic open-water spot with sunbathing areas and changing rooms.

In the summer you can book morning or afternoon slots on the website. 

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. Open year‑round (summer full‑day sessions, winter early‑morning swims), it features a unique stainless‑steel lining, changing rooms, warm showers and a sauna during colder months, with booking required in summer

Oasis Sports Centre – A Rooftop Pool

Hidden in plain sight just minutes from Covent Garden and Holborn, the Oasis Sports Centre boasts a heated rooftop pool, very central and part of a leisure centre that backs onto a block of flats.

It’s ideal for city dwellers seeking a quick dip. You definitely have to book in advance, especially if it’s going to be a scorcher.

Pools on the Park, Richmond – Swim with a View

In leafy Richmond, Pools on the Park features an outdoor pool with a grassy area for sunbathing. It’s a great choice if you fancy combining a swim with a stroll by the river or a visit to Richmond Park.

London Fields Lido

In vibrant Hackney, the London Fields Lido is a popular choice. This Olympic-size heated pool is open year-round and has a real community feel.

Tooting Bec Lido

South London's crown jewel, the Tooting Bec Lido, boasts the title of the UK's largest outdoor lido. This vast outdoor pool in South London is a local legend. With colourful changing huts and plenty of space to splash about, it’s great for serious swimmers and families alike. Like all lidos in the South East, it will be very busy on sunny weekends.

Hampstead Heath Ponds

Top of many lists are the Hampstead Heath bathing ponds, located in one of London’s most loved green spaces. With separate ponds for men, women, and mixed bathing, these spring-fed pools offer a natural swimming experience. Take the bus to Parliament Hill for the easiest access, then enjoy a walk up to the ponds. Don’t forget to check out nearby Kenwood House while you’re there.

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

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Love Open Water Swimming run open water swimming sessions at the scenic and historic London Docks. Swimmers need to become a member of NOWCA before they swim which is £20 per year and allows you to swim at 40 different venues across the UK (including at Canary Wharf London - see more information below and which is open in the summer months)

Canary Wharf London

Try open water swimming at Canary Wharf. It opens up to swimmers in early June.

You’ll need to purchase a NOWCA band before you can swim. Then you book on the app.

Find out more details here. 

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. There are swimming sessions and paddleboarding too. 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.

Uxbridge Open Air Pool – West London’s Hidden Gem

This open-air pool might not be as well-known as others on the list, but for those in West London, it’s a welcome retreat.

They have a range of activities and events here including outdoor water aerobics and adult swimming lessons to help improve technique.

Find out more at Uxbridge Lido

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