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Wondering where to spend a hot sunny weekend in London this summer? Outdoor swim spots are going to be the best places to cool down if jetting off to the French Riviera isn’t an option. Here’s our guide to the best places to swim outdoors in the city (and a bit beyond!)

Hampton Pool – Hampton
A popular destination for outdoor swim enthusiasts, it may be quite a challenge to pick up a slot at Hampton Pool. Situated in the borough of Richmond, this heated outdoor pool is a great place to build up your laps and get an amazing alfresco workout in. They also offer moonlight swim events where you can paddle under the stars!

Kenwood Ladies Pond – Hampstead Heath 
Situated on Hampstead Heath, Kenwood ladies pond is one of the three ponds on offer providing a women’s only option to cool down during London’s heatwave. Being unheated, unchlorinated and being the home the local ducks and swans a dip here will offer a beautiful alternative setting to visit. When drying off perch yourself on top of Parliament Hill and enjoy the breath-taking views of the city around you. Arguably one of the prettiest neighbourhoods in London with its village-like feel, Hampstead in the sun is not one to be missed.  

The Berkley Hotel rooftop pool – Knightsbridge
Central London’s answer to the Italian Rivera can be found at ‘La Dolce Vita’, The Berkeley. What better way to soak up the sun in London than to sit poolside surrounded by lemon trees with an Aperol Spritz in hand? Preparing for a total revamp set to launch in time for summer 2021, a taste of indulgence at The Berkeley is the place to be. If views from the rooftop terrace of the city below don’t tempt you enough, then head to the spa for complete tranquillity. The Bamford Haybarn Spa promotes a holistic approach using pure, natural and organic products from British-made Bamford and Oskia, leaving you feeling rejuvenated. 

The lake in Beckenham Place Park – Lewisham 
Looking for something new? Beckenham Place Park has recently refilled the forgotten lake Offering a fresh new place for Londoners to head to. Now that the summer is in full swing, there is no better time to take the plunge. 

Serpentine Lido – Hyde Park
Located in London’s most famous park the Serpentine Lido is the perfect place for an afternoon dip. This popular year-round swimming destination should always be at the top of places to visit in the summer sun. Surrounding Hyde Park offers plenty of space to set up your towel and soak up the summer sun. Stop at one of the many nearby juice bars such as Crussh or Joe &the Juice en route for the perfect summer cooler. 

Pools on the Park – Richmond
A trip to Richmond and located next to the deer park is Pools in the Park boasting the choice of either an indoor or outdoor swimming option. Richmond in summer truly shows quintessential England. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful borough, why not take a picnic to have on the green, or visit some of the independent shops and cafes on offer.  No.1 Duke St. is a short 10-minute stroll from Pools in the Park and offers alfresco dining whether that be anything from brunch to social snacking or even just catching up over a cocktail with friends. 

Tooting Bec Lido – Tooting
London’s answer to Bournemouth with primary-coloured cubicle doors you will be sure to feel as though you are at the seaside. Being the largest freshwater swimming pool in the UK, Tooting Bec Lido may provide more serenity than some of the others that the Capital has on offer. Whilst in the area head to Flotsam & Jetsam Café for a leisurely brunch before taking the stroll over to cool down ready for a day of relaxing.  

Ruislip lido – Ruislip
Feel like a trip to the beach but don’t want to leave London, then Ruislip Lido is the place to go. Although a small trek may be required nothing beats being on a beach basking in the British summer sun. 


READ MORE: Summer Staycation: Beautiful Cottages + Homes To Book

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