Get your goggles on!

East London offers amazing open-water and wild swimming experiences, mainly through managed docklands and filtered reservoirs rather than natural rivers (to provide safety and clean water). It can be a great day out with friends, especially now that the weather is getting warmer.

London Royal Docks

If you're up for a big swim in Urban open water, why not try London Docks? You get to swim in the historic waters of Royal Victoria Dock, right across from the City Hall Building, with unique views of the Emirates Air Line cable cars. You can book tickets online with Love Open Water, and you will need a NOWCA Membership here, which is £20 for a whole year - that's like £1.50 a month!

Eden Dock, Canary Wharf

Swimming at Eden Dock is a brilliant choice and a bit surreal as you're surrounded by iconic skyscrapers. It's bookable through Love Open Water, like London Royal Docks, and you will still need a NOWCA Membership.

Hampstead Heath Ponds

Hampstead Heath is home to some of the best outdoor swimming spots in London, including its 3 ponds: Kenwood Ladies' Pond, Highgate Men's Pond, and Hampstead Mixed Pond. It's great if you're having a solo swim or if you've got a big group of you! You do have to get tickets, but if you pay-as-you-go, it's only £5 each, which is very cheap.

West Reservoir Centre

Dive into the open water at the West Reservoir Centre. It features a 100m warm-up course and a full 300m loop, and you can complete your swim with the on-site cafe! It's a great spot if you just want a relaxing swim or if you and your friends want to cool off on a hot day.

Swimming in general can do so much not just for your physical health but for your mental health, too. And add your mates into that and a coffee stop afterwards - sounds perfect!

If you love being around water, why not check out this article on exploring the city by paddleboarding?