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We are so back. Last week saw the return of the Hampstead Heath mixed bathing pond, just in time for a 22C scorcher. This Thursday, April 17 another of London’s outdoor swimming spots opens for the summer – Tooting Bec Lido.
The second half of April will see a limited number of outdoor swimming sessions at the historic lido. Then from May 1 the pool will be open daily, with two sessions per day.
Last summer Tooting Bec Lido re-opened after a massive £4 million renovation, with new pumping equipment, pipework and a pumphouse, as well as fresh paving around the pool and pool lining. Its colourful changing rooms remain a key feature of the beloved pool, which opened in 1906 as a bathing lake. The surrounding landscaping was also enhanced, to make it a better spot for sunbathing and socialising.
A warning: the lido is not heated, with water temperatures expected to be a cool 12C upon reopening. Not that this will stop the hardiest of swimmers, who will be enjoying the lido’s bracing 90 metres from Thursday (it’s the largest outdoor freshwater pool in the UK, FYI).
Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Environment, called Tooting Bec Lido the ‘jewel in the crown’ of South London's sports facilities. She said: ‘With a £4 million renovation safeguarding its charm and functionality for decades to come, this iconic lido promises endless fun in the sun for thousands of visitors this summer. Mark your calendars and get ready to make a splash!’
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