There are hundreds of swimming pools across London, including lots
of brilliant lidos. KBPT client and founder of Deakin and Blue swimwear, Rosie, reveals her
top five.
1. The London Aquatics Centre, Stratford
If you feel like pretending you’re swimming for a Gold medal, this is the place for you.
There’s a 25m training pool and the 50m main pool, which you might recognise from the
2012 Olympics. With 10 lanes, it never feels too busy and, even though it’s famous for its
elite training facilities, everyone is welcome. Rosie says: “It’s a completely democratic environment with a range of abilities that mean I
never feel under-qualified or out of place."
Visit the website ://bit.ly/2kQYwgc
2. London Fields Lido, Hackney
Only a short walk from the KBPT studio, we love this outdoor pool. Thanks to a recent
renovation, the shiny new 50m pool, smart changing facilities and sunbathing area make it
the go-to place for locals and others all week long. At the weekends, why not wander
down to Broadway Market after your swim?
Rosie says: “What we have always loved about this pool remains exactly the same: the
surreal serenity of an outdoor heated pool in the middle of bustling Hackney… “magical”
doesn’t even come close.”
Visit the website http://bit.ly/2m3WSbh
3. Parliament Hill Lido, Hampstead
The iconic Parliament Hill Lido celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2018. If you can brave
the cold (the water is unheated and often below 12 degrees), you’ll join seasoned outdoor
swimmers in this fantastic pool. It’s wetsuit-friendly so a great choice if you’re training for a
competitive swim or a triathlon.
Rosie says: “The silvery base of the pool means the water constantly glitters so it's always
incredibly inviting, even when you know how chilly it is. What's more, there's a sauna to
warm you up once you emerge – perfect.”
Visit the website http://bit.ly/2mbHJo1
4. Thames Lido, Reading
OK, so it’s not in London… but it’s definitely worth the 40-minute train journey for a
weekend swim at Thames Lido. Described as an “urban retreat”, it’s all about relaxing,
unwinding and indulging. Go for a swim in the heated outdoor pool, then make the most of
the luxurious spa before hitting the poolside bar.
Rosie says: “Heated pool, hot tub, ice buckets, saunas and steam rooms – it’s actually
more of a dreamy spa trip than a weekly swim location and we're not complaining.”
Visit the website http://bit.ly/2l3cgnQ
5. Oasis Sports Centre, Covent Garden
Tucked away near Tottenham Court Road, you might have walked past this swimming pool
many times! It’s the only heated outdoor pool in central London and is surrounded by patio
areas where you can relax after your swim. As its name implies, it really is an oasis in the
middle of our busy city.
Rosie says: “This lovely pool is small but toasty and usually very quiet. We've taken to
swimming here on Saturday mornings before heading for brunch nearby and it's the
perfect start to the weekend.”
Visit the website http://bit.ly/2m7Mdw3
Swimming can be a great way to exercise in between your personal training sessions so
we’re all for it. Thanks very much for those fantastic recommendations, Rosie. We’re
grabbing our cossie and goggles right now!
Check out the Deakin and Blue website http://bit.ly/2m7oYSO
