As temperatures rise and London begins to melt under what might be the hottest year on record, there’s never been a better time to plan your next outdoor swim.
While the city has no shortage of lidos and wild swimming spots, one historic gem just outside the capital has quietly undergone a glow-up and it’s well worth the short trip.
This 1930s Art Deco lido near London has just undergone a huge refurbishment
Tucked away in Hertfordshire, Hitchin Lido is a charming slice of 1930s nostalgia that has been drawing swimmers since it first opened in 1938.
Built during the golden age of outdoor swimming, when lidos were popping up across the UK, the pool remains a much-loved summer staple and now, it’s looking better than ever.
The 50-metre outdoor pool is the star of the show, complete with a spacious terrace that transforms into a suntrap on warmer days.
It’s the kind of place where you can swim a few lengths, stretch out with a book, and almost forget you’re just a short train ride from London.
Hitchin Lido unveils upgraded facilities after major refurbishment including a sun-soaked terrace, 50m pool and space to unwind
Entry is affordable too, with tickets starting from around £8.
The pool is now heated from mid-May and remains open through the summer season until early September, making it far more inviting than in decades past when swimmers braved icy waters regardless of the weather. There’s also an indoor pool on-site, offering flexibility for less predictable British days.
Recent refurbishments have given the site a welcome refresh, with upgraded changing rooms, new lockers, modern sinks, mirrors, and improved flooring.
The improvements were made possible thanks to a heartfelt contribution from a local resident, Hazel Jacobs, who left a donation to the lido in her will after her passing in 2024.
A regular swimmer and familiar face around the pool, Hazel was part of a close-knit community that made the lido feel more like a social hub than just a place to swim.
Her legacy lives on in the upgraded facilities, ensuring future visitors can enjoy the space just as she did.
Locals have long sung the praises of Hitchin Lido, not just for its facilities but for its atmosphere. Many recall childhood summers spent poolside, with generations returning year after year.
How to get to Hitchin Lido
Getting there couldn’t be easier. Direct trains from Finsbury Park take just 26 minutes, while routes from London Bridge connect through key stations including St Pancras and Farringdon, reaching Hitchin in under an hour. It’s a straightforward, stress-free escape from the city, no car required.
For Londoners craving a dose of sunshine and open-air swimming, Hitchin Lido ticks all the boxes.
