Swimming in the Serpentine

The Serpentine is a large man-made lake in Hyde Park. Although it is common to refer to the entire body of water as the Serpentine, strictly the name refers only to the eastern half of the lake. Serpentine Bridge, which marks the boundary between Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, also marks the Serpentine's western boundary; the long and narrow western half of the lake is known as the Long Water. There are many recreational facilities around the Serpentine, as well as boating on the lake itself. In 1860 the Serpentine was to be modified into a skating pond with formal edges. This scheme was not implemented. Among the landmarks near the lake is the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.

Among other activities available on the water, there’s a swimming section known as the Lido. Roped off with buoys, it’s a lovely place to spend a summer afternoon. The water that feeds the lake comes from 3 bore holes and is tested every week, so you can be sure it’s clean. After a brisk swim you can relax on the sun loungers, have a drink in the café and take the kids to the playground. There are also rowing boats on the opposite side of the lake. All in all, swimming in the Serpentine is really one of the best stuff going on in summer in London.

Address: The Serpentine, Hyde Park, London W2 2UH, UK

Opening hours: June – September, daily from 10 am to 6 pm

Phone: +44 (0)20 7706 3422

Price: £4.80 for adults and £1.80 for children

Website: www.serpentinegalleries.org

Google rating: 4.8/5.0