near London wild swimming

Within London’s concrete sprawl, there are a surprising number of hidden green oases, and efforts by local authorities to prohibit swimming have catalysed a number of campaigns to reclaim wild-swimming rights.

From the historic ponds of Hampstead Heath to rivers and lakes across the wider South East, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the urban sprawl and get into open water for a wild swim in London.

Hampstead Heath swimming ponds

The Hampstead Heath swimming ponds are among London’s best-known outdoor swimming spots and have a long history of recreational swimming. There are three separate ponds on Hampstead Heath: the Mixed Pond, Men’s Pond and Ladies’ Pond. Each has its own character, making Hampstead Heath a unique place for wild swimming in London.

The Mixed Pond is particularly easy to reach and has a relaxed, sociable atmosphere. In summer, swimmers gather on the surrounding grass, meet friends, picnic and spend time in the water beneath the trees. The Men’s Pond is larger, while the Ladies’ Pond has a more secluded, natural feel. Both are further across the Heath and can be easier to reach by bicycle.

A long history of swimming, London

The ponds date back to the end of the seventeenth century when the Hampstead Water Company dammed two brooks that drain the Heath, piping the water down to the city in hollowed-out elm trees. When the ‘New River’ from Hertfordshire to Islington superseded the ponds, they became important for recreation, and a painting by Constable depicts people bathing at Hampstead as early as 1829. Given this long tradition, it’s not surprising that the Hampstead Heath Winter Swimming Club was up in arms when health and safety officials told them they could no longer swim there in the winter months. The club, which includes several prominent public figures, won their case to swim in a landmark ruling in 2005. The judge spoke out in favour of ‘individual freedom’ and against the imposition of ‘a grey and dull safety regime’. This 2005 ruling has inspired other swimmers to reclaim their London ponds too

Wild Swimming south of London

There are also opportunities for river swimming beyond central London. The River Medway, particularly around Tonbridge and Maidstone, has a long association with outdoor swimming.

River swimming in this part of Kent and the wider South East declined over the twentieth century as concerns about pollution, water quality and safety increased. In recent years, however, interest in outdoor swimming has grown again, with swimmers rediscovering traditional swimming places and seeking new ways to connect with local rivers and countryside.

Find wild swimming near London

Whether you’re looking for a historic swimming pond, a peaceful river spot or somewhere for a refreshing cold-water swim, there are plenty of places to explore within reach of London.

Before swimming, always check current access arrangements, water quality, weather and local conditions.

Ready to explore further? Discover more wild swimming and off-the-tourist-track places in Wild Swimming Britain, The Wild Guide London & South East, Outdoor Swimming London & Wild Swimming Walks Thames and West