It’s not only in those rare moments of sweltering London heat that Brockwell Lido enjoys popularity. This grand art deco outdoor swimming pool has its fair share of loyal, gutsy fans whatever the weather. Built in 1937 to replace a much older bathing pond on the other side of Brockwell Park, the pool and Lido building is now London’s last surviving example of such elegant, pre-war Grade II listed design—and one of the most agreeable locations where you can soak up whatever available sun shines in South London.

Thousands of visitors hit Brockwell every summer, and many are plucky enough to take a dip in the historic unheated open air pool. In its early years the Lido hosted popular swimming and diving competitions, establishing it as a linchpin of the local community. This relationship still exists today, with Brockwell Lido remaining a much-loved institution by locals as well as those eager to catch a glimpse of its historic beauty. In recent years it has undergone a programme of modernisation, with the opening of a new Health, Vitality and Wellbeing centre including a gym, hydrotherapy area and an extensive range of fitness classes. With the addition of these new indoor attractions, even the most apprehensive amongst us can brave Brockwell.