How to have fun in the London sun
Summer was – for the third year running – something of wash out. On the plus side, the Met office are predicting that the rain will not only stay away throughout September, but that the monsoon like weather will give way to a dry and – dare we say it – hot spell. CD Traveller tells you how to keep your cool in the capital
Fancy a dip?
When the sun starts to shine, few things are as appealing as London’s open air swimming pools, with the Art Deco lidos – built in the first 30 years of the 20th century – of particular interest. Hampstead Heath’s classic Parliament Hill Lido is a fantastic place to venture for a swim in the summer months. Best of all, it’s absolutely free! The sunbathing area and paddling pool only adds to the attraction. Built in 1966, Tooting Bec was London’s first ever outside swimming pool and at 90 by 36 metres, it remains one of the largest in Europe. Given a face lift back in 2002, it now includes Jacuzzis and saunas. Brockwell Park Lido has also been subject to restoration in recent times. People flock to this Dulwich Road spot as much to admire the beautiful 1930s art deco design as to actually enter the water. Oasis is a hugely popular pool right in the heart of the capital. Don’t be deterred by the crowds; the experience of swimming outdoors on a roof must not be missed! Finally the fabulous Serpentine Lido, widely acknowledged as London’s ultimate pool, is usually open in August but do double check, as times are subject to change.
Need to know:
Parliament Hill Lido, Hampstead Heath, Gordon House Road, NW5
Tel. 020 7485 3873
Tooting Bec, Tooting Bec Road, SW17
Tel. 020 8871 7198
Brockwell Park Lido, Dulwich Road, SE24
Tel. 020 7274 3088
Oasis, 32 Endell Street, WC2
Tel. 020 7831 1804
Serpentine Lido, Hyde Park, W2
Tel. 020 7298 2100
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