Why London Fields Lido Is the Best Outdoor Pool Experience in London
If you’re tired of your regular gym routine and looking for something fresh, London Fields Lido could be the perfect place for you. Located in Hackney, this outdoor swimming pool is one of East London’s best-kept secrets. It’s more than just a pool—it’s a vibrant community space where people of all ages come to relax, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors.
London Fields Lido is a 50-metre Olympic-size pool that’s heated to around 25°C all year round. Whether you want to swim in summer sunshine or enjoy a warm dip in the middle of winter, this lido stays ready for action. It is fully floodlit too, so even when it gets dark early, you can still swim under the stars.
A Pool with a Rich History
The story of London Fields Lido goes way back to 1932. It quickly became a popular spot in Hackney, giving locals a place to cool off and have fun. But in 1988, the pool closed because of budget problems. Thankfully, the community came together and fought hard to bring it back. After years of campaigning, the pool finally reopened in 2006, and it’s been thriving ever since. What makes this pool extra special is how it’s been lovingly restored and improved. New upgrades are planned too, like the addition of a teaching pool that will help even more people learn to swim.
Facilities That Make Every Visit Comfortable
London Fields Lido is well-equipped to make your day out stress-free and fun. You’ll find clean changing rooms, showers, and accessible toilets. There’s even a poolside hoist and step-free access for visitors with mobility needs. If you forget something, don’t worry—there’s usually help at hand.
You can swim in dedicated lanes or just splash around in open swim areas. There’s also a large sun deck where you can sit, dry off, and enjoy some sunshine. The on-site café offers hot drinks, snacks, and meals—perfect for warming up or refueling after a swim. During summer, you can sit on the sun terrace and sip a coffee while watching people swim.
Swim Sessions for Everyone
No matter your age or ability, London Fields Lido has something for you. If you’re a serious swimmer, you’ll appreciate the clear lanes and calm environment. Casual swimmers can join open sessions and enjoy the water at a relaxed pace. Families with children will love the holiday inflatable sessions—it’s all about fun and laughter. There are also special timetabled swims like Women Only sessions, so make sure you check the schedule before visiting. You wouldn’t want to show up with your mates during a quiet hour!
Here’s a breakdown of the types of sessions available:
| Swim Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Lane Swimming | For swimmers focused on fitness and technique |
| Open Swim | Relaxed swims for all ages |
| Family Inflatable Swim | Holiday fun sessions for children and families |
| Swimfit | Guided fitness-based swim sessions |
| Women Only | Reserved times for women swimmers |
Lessons and Health Support
Whether you’re learning to swim or want to perfect your stroke, the lido has a swimming lesson for you. The Better Swim School offers classes for children and adults. They teach the basics and help build water confidence step by step. Swimfit sessions are also available. These are great if you want expert advice on fitness and swimming techniques. The friendly instructors are always happy to answer questions and guide you through your training goals.
Important Information for Your Visit
Planning your visit is easy, but a little preparation goes a long way. The pool opens every day from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, giving you lots of flexibility. Weekends and school holidays can get busy, so it’s a good idea to book your session online in advance.
Here’s what you need to bring:
- A £1 coin or token for the lockers
- Towels and swimwear (these are not available to rent)
- Flip-flops or pool shoes for walking on wet surfaces
A Hub for Community and Events
Beyond just swimming, London Fields Lido is a lively community hub. It hosts events, fitness meetups, and community swim sessions. One standout example is Swim Dem Crew, a friendly group that helps people become confident swimmers while having fun.
During the summer holidays, kids and families can take part in inflatable sessions. These events are full of energy and provide a great way to burn off some steam while staying cool.
Future Plans and New Features
Exciting changes are coming to London Fields Lido. Hackney Council is planning to add a new teaching pool with a floor that adjusts in depth. This will be ideal for children learning to swim and for those who need gentler water. It shows just how much effort is going into making the lido even better.
Conclusion
London Fields Lido is not just a place to swim—it’s a place to feel alive. It’s where you can reconnect with nature, boost your fitness, and spend time with your family. Whether you’re taking your first swim or just relaxing on the sundeck, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for the best outdoor pool experience in East London, look no further than London Fields Lido. Once you’ve been, you’ll definitely want to come back.
