Swimming in Camden

A women-only bathing pond on the east side of Hampstead Heath, set aside for women and girls since 1926 and ringed by trees and reeds. The water is deep and opaque, with tethered life rings to rest on and lifeguards on duty every day of the year. In summer the afternoon and evening sessions are booked online up to a week ahead, so the 7am to 11am drop-in is the simplest way in.

Men have swum in this pond off Millfield Lane for more than 150 years, and it stays open with lifeguards every day of the year. The water is deep and opaque, reached by a jetty and ladders, and a low diving board remains from the days of the old tower. If you are new to winter swimming, follow the City's advice: keep the first dips short, avoid diving in, and warm up slowly afterwards.

Opened in 1938 and now Grade II listed, this 60-metre unheated lido on the edge of Hampstead Heath is open every day of the year, a few minutes' walk from Gospel Oak station. Its stainless-steel lining dates from a 2005 refurbishment. In summer the morning and afternoon sessions are bookable; in winter it opens from 7am to early afternoon, and a sauna runs through the colder months.

The only one of the three Hampstead Heath bathing ponds open to everyone, the Mixed Pond is the top pond of the Hampstead chain near East Heath Road, and it opens from April to October. The water is deep, opaque and lifeguarded, and floats, masks and snorkels are not allowed. Hampstead Heath station is about ten minutes' walk; on hot days drop-in sessions fill fast, so arrive early.

Open Water Safety

Risk assessment, gear, and emergency procedures

Reading Conditions

Waves, tides, currents, and weather patterns

Ocean Swimming

Waves, rip currents, and a progression plan

Cold Water Swimming

Acclimatization, gear, and safe exposure