Highgate Bathing Pond – Wild Swimming on Hampstead Heath

Highgate Men’s Bathing Pond on Hampstead Heath is one of London’s most popular wild swimming spots. The natural pond offers a unique open-water swimming experience all year round, surrounded by trees and wildlife. Facilities are managed by the City of London Corporation to ensure safety and accessibility for all swimmers.

Facilities and Accessibility

• Qualified lifeguards on duty during opening hours

• Changing areas, showers, and toilets available on site

• Stepped access into the water via ladders

• Assisted access available via a hoist

• Smooth, road-like surface from the entrance gate to the water

• Access from the main road to the gate is along an unmade track

Highgate Bathing Pond provides a safe, natural environment for those looking to enjoy wild swimming in London.

Opening Times

The Bathing Pond is open all year round, including Bank Holidays, with seasonal opening hours.
See our Swimming Opening Times page for current schedules.

Tickets and Prices

Visit Swimming Tickets for full details on Pay-As-You-Go and Season Tickets.

• Carers swim free when accompanying a disabled swimmer who requires support.

• Under 16s and over 60s swim free before 9:30am with proof of age.

• Cashless payment is preferred; correct change may not be available for cash payments.

Bookings

A booking system operates during the summer months only.
See Booking for Swimming for information and availability

Capacity and Popular Times

During busy drop-in sessions, entry is managed at the gate once the Bathing Pond reaches capacity.

Children and Family Swimming

• Only children aged 8 and above can swim at Highgate Bathing Pond.

• Children aged 8–15 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• Each adult may supervise up to two children.

• A Swim Test is required for children swimming for the first time or after a break.

• Non-competent swimmers are encouraged to use the Hampstead Heath Lido instead.

Swimwear and Equipment

• Appropriate swimwear must be worn.

• Modest clothing is permitted if made from swimwear materials.

• Neoprene wetsuits, gloves, and boots are allowed.

• Snorkels, swimming masks, and flotation aids are not permitted at the Men’s Pond.

Lockers

No lockers are available at the Bathing Pond. Please leave valuables at home or at your own risk.

Open Water Swimming Safety

Highgate Men’s Bathing Pond offers genuine open-water swimming in a deep, natural environment.

Key safety information:

• Suitable for competent swimmers only

• Life rings are available for resting

• Water is untreated and natural, with varying microorganism levels

To reduce health risks:

• Avoid swallowing pond water

• Shower before and after swimming

• Consult a doctor if you feel unwell afterward

Blue-green algae: Naturally occurring blooms may appear during warmer months. Notices will be displayed, and the ponds may close when levels are high.

Water quality testing:

• Weekly (May–September) by the Environment Agency

• Fortnightly (October–April) by Public Health England

Results are available on the Environment Agency website.

Winter Swimming

Winter swimming at Highgate Bathing Pond is a long-standing tradition for experienced wild swimmers.
Cold-water induction sessions are not provided, but swimmers are strongly encouraged to read our Cold Water Swimming Guidelines.