Top Ten Swimming Pools In London

From modern swimming pools with endless facilities to historic and ornate swimming baths, London has an indoor pool for everyone. Whether you are a serious swimmer simply looking for somewhere to swim lengths, or a family searching for the perfect activity-filled leisure centre pool to keep the children happy, our capital city has plenty of options. So, from luxury hotel pools to family-oriented leisure centres, here is our round-up of top ten pools in the capital worth exploring.

1. The Berkeley Hotel, Knightsbridge

The only rooftop pool in West London, the swimming pool at The Berkeley Hotel Health Club & Spa is open to both residents and non-residents alike. The heated pool has the fantastic advantage of offering amazing views over Hyde Park and the rest of London, and on sunnier days, the roof can be retracted to turn the pool into an amazing outdoor swimming experience. This one is a definite must see if you ever get the chance to pay The Berkeley Hotel a visit.

2. London Aquatics Centre, Stratford

The now iconic London 2012 Olympic venue is open seven days a week, and offers a choice of three indoor pools under a beautiful wave-shaped roof. Designed for swimmers of all abilities, prices are around the same as those charged by standard leisure centres. This is a great opportunity to swim in a state-of-the-art venue where world records have been broken and amazing times have been achieved.

3. The Peak Health Club & Spa, Central London

On the ninth floor of Jumeirah Carlton Tower just off Sloane Street, you'll find a 20m stainless steel pool with a tropical look thanks to its palm tree décor. Here there really is a true oasis of calm, perfect for those who wish to swim and relax.

4. Archway Leisure Centre, Islington

One for the children, Archway Leisure Centre's leisure pool features a sloped beach, and also includes a flume to keep children entertained. In addition, you'll find two spa pools, along with water jets, a river run and a wave machine – perfect fun for the little ones and their parents too!

5. Leyton Leisure Centre, Leyton

While adults can enjoy swimming lengths in the leisure centre's 25m pool, children will find plenty to keep them entertained too. Facilities include a teaching pool, a flume and an aqua play area for those aged under eight. You'll also be able to book swimming lessons and SwimFit sessions: designed to improve your fitness through swimming and aimed at those aged 16 and over. 

6. Waterfront Leisure Centre, Woolwich

This South East London leisure centre features two pools, to keep all audiences happy. The 25m fitness pool offers four lanes for those looking to swim lengths, whilst the leisure pool features a 65m snake slide, in addition to a waterfall, a volcano, a wave machine, a five lane water slide and water jets. The waterfront leisure centre pool really is fun for the whole family.

7. Central YMCA, Great Russell Street

This 25m central London pool is often used for pre- and post-work swims due to its location, and thanks to its incredibly low membership costs. The heated pool is divided into lanes which are based on ability, and those using the pool can also take advantages of classes such as learning to swim and water aerobics. The pool even hosts canoeing classes!

8. Oasis Sports Centre, Covent Garden

Right in the heart of central London, the Oasis Sports Centre offers a 25m pool with the capacity for lane swimming. In addition, the centre features a large heated outdoor pool, meaning that those looking for some serious swimming in the summer should find that the children are all outside instead.

9. The Landmark London Hotel, Marylebone Road

The Landmark's spa and health club offers the perfect calm and serene location in which to enjoy a swim after work. The 15 metre pool is not chlorinated, and is instead semi ozone treated. The peaceful atmosphere is added to by fantastic lighting, and the Landmark's jacuzzi will make you feel even more pampered.

10. The Chuan Health Club at The Langham Hotel, Regent Street

Amazingly, the swimming pool at the beautifully refurbished Langham Hotel was a bank vault in a previous life. Now, it is a stunning 16m heated swimming pool which is beautifully decorated. You'll also be able to enjoy the use of their Vitality Pool, sauna and steam rooms or the intriguing salt sauna too.