London isn’t renowned for outdoor swimming; in fact, taking a dip in the River Thames is usually viewed as a bad thing. But if you’re a fan of paddling in nature and in search of somewhere near London, the best spots are definitely located in Hampstead Heath.
Hampstead has three natural bathing ponds and a large open-air swimming pool. The ponds have been well-loved for decades and remain an integral facet of Hampstead Heath.
However, there are a few rules, regulations and ticketing options you need to know before visiting.
So, I’ve collated the ultimate guide for using Hampstead Heath ponds – keep reading to learn more!
The 3 Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds
Hampstead Mixed Pond: Fun For Everyone (Aged 8+)
Hampstead Mixed Pond welcomes everyone over the age of 8, as long as you are a strong swimmer. Men, women, and kids can all enjoy this pond together, so it’s a great family activity. However, an adult must accompany children between the ages of 8 and 15.
If you’re bringing little ones with you, please note that you are allowed to supervise a maximum of two children per adult. The kids will also be asked to complete a swim test to show their competency in the water – safety first!
The water can be extremely cold, even in the autumnal months, so only venture in if you’re a confident swimmer.
There are lifeguards on duty, changing rooms, toilets and outdoor cold showers if you want to rinse off after a dip. However, there aren’t any lockers, so try not to bring too many valuables!
You also have to wear swimwear, so no nude dipping, please. And you aren’t allowed to bring dogs unless they’re assistance dogs.
The pond is closed during the winter, but otherwise, it’s open from 7 am to 8:30 pm daily.
How to Get There
The Mixed Pond is located near East Heath Road on Hampstead Heath. There is parking available at East Heath Car Park if you’re driving. Otherwise, you can get off the Overground Line at Hampstead Heath and walk 7 minutes to the pond. Or, get off at Hampstead on the Northern Line and walk 13 minutes.
Address: Mixed Pond, Hampstead Heath, London, NW3 1BP
Related: 20 Things to Do in Hampstead
Kenwood Ladies’ Pond: For the Gals
All three ponds share the same rules and regulations about etiquette and entry for children and have very similar facilities. However, the additional rule of Kenwood Ladies pond is that this pond is for ladies only – who would’ve guessed it?
Kenwood Ladies’ Pond is open all year round, but with shorter opening times over winter. Between the 28th of November and the 5th of February, the facilities are open from 7:30 am to 3 pm. Otherwise, the pond is open from 7 am to 8:30 pm the rest of the year.
Read more about Kenwood House.
How to Get There
The pong is located near Millfield Lane, where there is on-street parking. Otherwise, get off the Overground Line at Gospel Oak station, and walk 23 minutes to the pond. Or, when on the Northern Line, get off at Highgate and walk 26 minutes.
Address: Ladies’ Pond, Hampstead Heath, London N6 6JA.
Highgate Men’s Pond: For the Gents
The men’s pond has the same facilities and regulations, but only guys can take the plunge there. Kids are welcome as long as regulations are followed. The men’s pond also has the same opening times as the ladies, but is located slightly further away.
How to Get There
Highgate Men’s Pond is located near Millfield Lane, on Hampstead Heath, where there is on-street parking. If you’re coming by public transport on the Overground Line, get off at Gospel Oak and walk 17 minutes. Or, on the Northern Line, get off at Kentish Town and walk 26 minutes.
Address: Men’s Pond, London, NW3 1BP
Hampstead Ponds Booking
Initially, the ponds were all free to enter, and you could voluntarily donate to the facilities. However, the ponds grew in popularity during the lockdown, and so to monitor their usage and maintain the facilities; the council began ticketing entry.
The price of entry for a session is £4.25 per adult or £2.55 concession. You will be asked to show proof of your concession before booking, for example, student card, ID, disability card etc. They accept cash or card, but please note that they only accept correct change!
During high season, in the warmer months, the council advises users to book online before coming in. Whereas during winter, pre-booking is unnecessary, as the ponds are relatively quiet.
If you’re over the age of 60, you are eligible to swim for free between 7 am and 9:30 am – score!
Carers are also able to accompany a swimmer for free.
5 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting the Ponds in Hampstead
1. Book During Summer, and Visit on a Weekday/Early Morning
There aren’t many outdoor swimming spots in London (well, not ones you’d enjoy swimming in any way), so the Hampstead ponds get extremely busy during the Summer months. Try to book online, or visit during quieter periods.
The lifeguards are (understandably) very strict on the capacity of the ponds and won’t let people in once the pond has reached its maximum capacity. They will, however, use a ‘one in, one out’ rule once the pond is full.
2. Check the Opening Times
The ponds open at different times throughout the year, depending on the weather. So, to save disappointment, check the government website to ensure you’re visiting at the right time
3. Consider Visiting Hampstead Heath Lido Instead
The ponds are only child-friendly if your kid is a very strong swimmer. So, if you want to enjoy open-air swimming with the family without stressing, consider visiting the Hampstead Heath Lido Instead.
The Hampstead Heath Lido is an outdoor swimming pool located near Parliament Hill.
4. Find a Sunbathing Spot
In the summer, the ponds can be very crowded. It is not ideal when you’re wandering around, soaking wet, looking for somewhere to lay down your towel, sunbathe and dry off. Trust me – I’ve been there.
Instead, I’d recommend choosing a nice grassy area before you head in for a swim. This way, you can relax and get super toasty, go for a dip, and then return to your spot to sunbathe. Although, please be careful of your belongings!
5. Expect a Bit of Nudity
Of course, I don’t mean anything crazy. But, in the sunshine, many ladies at the Kenwood pond enjoy relaxing topless. And likewise, at the men’s pond, the guys open wear very tiny speedos.
Try to be open-minded when heading for your open-air swim, and don’t be too taken aback by the scantily clad swimmers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Swim in the Ponds?
This is an excellent question and worth asking! Despite the murky appearance of the ponds, all three ponds are safe to swim in. The water has been tested to ensure its safety.
Aside from the murkiness of the water, it can be freezing. Hypothermia, cold shock and Sudden Immersion Syndrome are genuine risks, so take the necessary precautions to remain safe:
- Don’t swim too far initially. Focus on getting in the water and acclimatising your body and breathing first.
- Make sure you have a towel and warm clothing for afterwards. Sip a hot beverage, and warm up with plenty of layers.
- Avoid diving into the water, especially if you are new to cold water swimming.
- Know your limits and leave the water if you don’t feel well or if you are advised to by the lifeguards.
- Talk to your GP about any medical conditions before swimming.
Lifeguards are on hand to ensure everything goes smoothly, but try to look after yourself first!
Are the Showers Warm?
No, the facilities at all of the ponds are pretty basic. Don’t expect any swanky leisure centre facilities here. The showers are cold, and the changing rooms are standard. But, despite this, they are totally useable and very useful!
How Cold Are Hampstead Ponds?
The Hampstead Heath Twitter page provides regular updates about the pond. They update followers on the temperature, events and any useful information about the facilities.
Generally, the ponds can reach about 2 degrees Celsius in the colder months and around 20 degrees in summer – nice!
