London is an incredible place to live, but it has one major downside: it becomes unbearable in the summer. According to the Mayor's website, the city is 'vulnerable' to extreme heat, making 'overheating a challenge'. When a heatwave hits, many Londoners try to escape the city for the coast. However, if you want to cool off with a dip, you don't have to leave the capital. Several spectacular rooftop pools around London do not require a membership to swim.
Where Is London's Best Rooftop Pool?
Welcome to The Slice, your weekly guide to what's happening in London. From restaurant reviews and drinks deals to new exhibitions, we have you covered. One of Metro's favourite spots is at art'otel in Battersea. This five-star hotel features a fabulous infinity pool on the roof, set against the dramatic backdrop of Battersea Power Station and its huge chimneys. The rooftop also offers stunning panoramic 360-degree views across London, so everywhere you turn, there is something new to see. If you are looking for a place to swim in the sunshine while enjoying spectacular sights, this is it.
Pool Access and Timings
The pool is open daily from 6am to 11pm, meaning that at the right time of year, you can enjoy a sunrise and a sunset. However, those who take a dip at golden hour will be swimming with an audience, as the rooftop is also home to JOIA bar, a hotspot for food and drinks during the summer. The earlier you go in the morning, the more likely you are to enjoy a serene swim. Metro's senior lifestyle reporter, Courtney Pochin, visited at 7am on a Sunday during a hotel stay and had the entire pool to herself for almost an hour. The pool is heated, and there is also a hot tub for chilly days.
Can Anyone Swim in the Pool?
Access to the rooftop pool is typically reserved for hotel guests, with prices starting from around £130 per night for a standard room. However, you can swim for a lower price by booking certain wellness classes at the hotel, such as aqua aerobics. This class costs £25 and runs regularly until December 17. Attendees also receive a complimentary hot drink, juice, and a pastry at the TOZI Counter.
Other Fab Rooftop Spots
There are other luxury London hotels with rooftop pools, though they cost more. The Berkeley in Knightsbridge has transformed its rooftop into a Capri-themed paradise for summer, with Aperol-led spritzes and seasonal cocktails. The rooftop bar is open to non-hotel guests, but there is a minimum spend of £50 per person. The bar is open Wednesday to Sunday from 7:30pm to 11pm, and bookings can be made up to 30 days in advance. To swim at The Berkeley, you must be a hotel guest, with rooms starting from £900 per night. Lower prices may be available during low season.
Another option is the 45th & 7th rooftop pool at Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch. The pool is smaller but effective. Again, you need to be a hotel guest to swim, with prices starting from £145 per night.
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