Dive into London’s Lidos: A Guide to the City’s Best Outdoor Pools

Londoners are spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor swimming. While the city may not have a beach, its lidos offer a vibrant and refreshing alternative to chlorinated indoor pools. These open-air swimming spots are a fantastic way to cool off, get some exercise, and soak up the sun.

A Lido for Every Londoner

Whether you’re a serious swimmer looking for lane space or a family seeking a fun day out, there’s a lido in London to suit you. Here are some of the most popular:

1. London Fields Lido (East London):

• The Vibe: Trendy and vibrant, this Hackney lido is a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
• The Specs: A 50m Olympic-sized pool heated to a comfortable 25°C all year round.
• The Perks: Floodlit for evening swims, a sun deck for lounging, and a cafe for post-swim treats.
• Don’t Miss: The lido’s popular morning lane sessions.

2. Brockwell Lido (South London):

• The Vibe: A relaxed and friendly atmosphere with a dedicated community of swimmers.
• The Specs: A 50m unheated pool in a Grade II listed Art Deco building.
• The Perks: A lido cafe, a gym, and a sundeck with stunning views of Brockwell Park.
• Don’t Miss: The Lido’s lively social events and film screenings.

3. Parliament Hill Lido (North London):

• The Vibe: A classic lido with a no-frills approach to outdoor swimming.
• The Specs: A 60m unheated pool on Hampstead Heath with separate lanes for fast and slow swimmers.
• The Perks: It has a sauna by the pool – this is an essential during the cold months.
• Don’t Miss: A bracing morning swim followed by a walk on the Heat

4. Tooting Bec Lido:

• The Vibe: A South London institution with a lively and diverse crowd.
• The Specs: The largest freshwater lido in the UK, measuring a whopping 91.5m.
• The Perks: A spacious sundeck, a cafe, and a paddling pool for children.
• Don’t Miss: The lido’s annual Christmas Day swim.

5. Serpentine Lido:

• The Vibe: A picturesque lido in the heart of Hyde Park.
• The Specs: A designated swimming area in the Serpentine Lake with a roped-off section for safe swimming.
• The Perks: A sandy beach, a cafe, and boat hire.
• Don’t Miss: A refreshing dip after a stroll through the park.