Swimming in Hampstead Heath’s Ponds
The Heath is blessed with three swimming ponds, which, along with the unheated Lido, form some of its key recreational attractions.
All the ponds are lifeguarded. Children aged 8-15 must be accompanied by an adult. Younger children can swim at the Lido or paddle at the paddling pool, which is open during the summer.
Contact us if you are new to the ponds and would like support to try them out.
For seasonal opening hours and prices click here.
Support our Swimming Pond planting appeal!
Do you love the swimming ponds? The Men’s and Mixed Ponds have recently been undergoing accessibility improvements, and these have left lots of bare concrete and rubble. Help us transform these areas into beautiful biodiversity-boosting planted zones by donating today!
All donations will go to purchasing materials for raised beds and planters, native and wildlife-friendly flowers and plants and then running volunteering sessions to put everything in place.
The Men’s Pond
The Men’s Pond is the largest of the three swimming ponds, and the only one boasting a diving board. It is also the location for the famous Christmas Day swim, when women are also allowed in.
Check the current opening hours and entry fees on the City of London’s website.
Click here for a map.
The Ladies’ Pond
Secluded and with its own enclosed meadow, the Ladies’ Pond is a peaceful haven, unlike the historical photo above!
Check the current opening hours and entry fees on the City of London’s website.
Click here for a map.
The Mixed Pond
The only swimming pond on the Hampstead side of the Heath, the Mixed Pond is easy to access - a 10 minute walk from Hampstead Heath overground station.
Check the current opening hours and entry fees on the City of London’s website.
Click here for a map.