Hampstead Heath Ponds
There are around 30 ponds dotted across Hampstead Heath, fed by natural springs. Many are man-made reservoirs, dug out in the 17th and 18th centuries to supply drinking water to London. The ponds are excellent wetland habitats supporting a great variety of species including amphibians, wildfowl, and insects such as dragonflies. Today, the Heath is one of the best places in London to go wild swimming.
Swimming in the ponds is a long-established tradition, but only became formally permitted at the Men’s Pond in 1893 and at the Kenwood Ladies’ Bathing Pond in 1926. Swimming on the Heath gained popularity in the 19th century, thought at this time few people were able to swim. Instead, they would immerse themselves in the water, for its restorative health qualities, rather than swim for exercise.
The Men’s Pond became known for its diving displays, with a board fixed 15 feet above the water. This was the first purpose built diving stage in the country.
The Mixed Pond was the first pond to be used for bathing in the early 1800s.
Swimming in Hampstead Heath’s 3 swimming ponds is one of the great highlights of recreation on the Heath. Get the lowdown.
Find out more about the underground river that feeds many of the Heath’s ponds.
Pondcam
In a partnership project with the Royal Free’s Oncology department, Hampstead Heath rangers have set up a webcam at one of the Hampstead ponds.
“Pondcam” has been set up at a pond which is a nature reserve rather than for swimming and has extra planting around for the wildlife. The camera focuses in turn on various locations around the pond, allowing patients and staff to see live images of the many species of birds and other animals.
