6 of the Best Places To Cool Off
Ladies and gentleman, what a time to be alive. In the last few days, we have being lucky enough to witness a true modern miracle…a London that is almost too hot to handle. If cold drinks from Costa, copious ice creams and minimal clothing hasn’t being enough to cool you down in this baking heat, then there is only one thing left to do. Yes, that’s right, it’s time to strip off and make the most of the best outdoor pools and beaches that London has to offer. Check out our guide to the best places to cool off below…
Shoreditch House Rooftop Pool
Panoramic views and blue pools
This open-air, blue-tiled, 16-metre pool is surrounded by plants, fully heated (although they’ve probably turned that off for now) and open all year round from 7am until 10pm. There are changing rooms on the rooftop, poolside daybeds with umbrellas and blankets, and a bar. Plus the views of London are insane, just make sure to match your swimwear to the funky red and white lounge chairs.
Where: Ebor Street, London, E1 6AW
Website: https://www.shoreditchhouse.com/house/pool
Tooting Bec Lido
Vintage aquatics
Popular open-air fresh water swimming pool, which #funfact is the second largest swimming pool by surface area in the United Kingdom. Surrounded by cool multi-coloured changing rooms, this pool is the perfect place to cool off and throw it back to the 50’s, when outdoor pools were all the rage. See, your Mum was right, fashion always come back around.
Where: Tooting Bec Rd, London, SW16 1RU
Website: http://www.placesforpeopleleisure.org/centres/tooting-bec-lido/
Ruislip Mini Beach
Sunny shore
This huge 60-acre lake comes complete with sandy beaches, so you can convince yourself you are actually abroad, instead of in the middle of a working week. This lake and mini beach is perfect for a day out with family or friends, as there is a restaurant and tea room on site. So why not get down to Ruislip and pretend you’re in the Med…although the water probably won’t be as warm.
Where: Ruislip Lido, Reservoir Road, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 7TY
Website: http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/ruisliplido
Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds
Ponds without the ducks
This cooling off spot has three pools which are open to the public. There is a men’s, women’s and mixed pool to choose from and this is a great way to escape the bustle of London life and get back in touch with nature. The ponds aren’t heated, which would normally be a disadvantage, but in this weather, it’s a bloody godsend.
Where: Hampstead Heath, London, NW5 1QR
Website: http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/green-spaces/hampstead-heath/Pages/default.aspx
Serpentine Lido
Scenic seas
For most of the year, this section of the Serpentine Lake is exclusive to the Serpentine Swimming Club (which we would join, but we wouldn’t want to make the other swimmers look bad with our stellar skills). However, in the summer months, it opens up to the public. Be prepared to get in touch with your wild side though, as this is an open air lake and you’re likely to find yourself sharing a dip with the ducks and swans. Additional benefits include a private sunbathing area, with sun loungers for hire, as well as a service which allows you to order from the popular Lido Café next door, perfect for those summer days of sweet nothing, when even getting your own food is too much effort.
Where: Hyde Park, London, W2 3XA
Website: http://www.serpentinelido.com/
Kings Oak Lido
Luxury lounging
This striking 1930s lido in the heart of Epping Forest is perfect for any swimmers looking to make their dip a touch more decadent. There are champagne beds, a tiki bar and a beach club are all nearby which are great for post-swim relaxation. Plus, you can stay on the pool terrace and order food straight to you, so you never have to reluctantly seek out the shade.
Where: Kings Oak Hotel, Paul’s Nursery Road, High Beach, London, IG10 4AE
Website: http://www.kingsoakhotel.com/
