Last Updated on April 8, 2026
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!View this post on Instagram
Serpentine Lido – A Royal Park Classic
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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 summerView this post on Instagram
Oasis Sports Centre – A Rooftop Pool
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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
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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.View this post on Instagram
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.View this post on Instagram
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.View this post on Instagram
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 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)View this post on Instagram
Canary Wharf London
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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.
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.View this post on Instagram
Uxbridge Open Air Pool – West London’s Hidden Gem
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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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