The future of one of London's most cherished outdoor swimming spots is under review, with plans that could see it welcome swimmers throughout the entire year. Hampstead Heath's Mixed Pond, currently open only from April to October, may soon align with its neighbouring single-sex ponds by offering a year-round swimming season.
Popularity Drives Potential Schedule Change
The driving force behind the proposed change is the explosive growth in the popularity of open water swimming. Alderman Gregory Jones KC, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood and Queen’s Park Committee, confirmed the review is a direct response to this rising demand. The aim is to assess the current arrangements for the Mixed Pond, including its access, facilities, and opening hours.
The City of London Corporation, which manages the Heath as a registered charity, has outlined this review in its updated draft five-year business plan covering 2026/27 to 2030/31. A specific action listed states: “Review seasonal use of the Mixed Pond and determine if all-year use is warranted, and if so, whether possible to staff with existing resources.”
Current Arrangements and Planned Improvements
Currently, the Mixed Pond stands apart from the Kenwood Ladies’ Pond and the Highgate Men’s Pond, which are both already open to swimmers every day of the year. During the winter months when the Mixed Pond is officially closed to the public, only members of the Hampstead Heath Winter Swimming Club have access under a long-standing arrangement.
The Corporation's business plan includes several other key actions for the bathing ponds, which are:
- Re-landscaping the area around the Mixed Pond.
- Improving the outdoor space at the Ladies’ Pond.
- Installing automatic temperature gauges for all the ponds.
The review itself is scheduled to begin sometime during the 2026/27 financial year, though a precise start date has not yet been set. The draft plan will be discussed by the Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee next week, with formal approval expected at a separate committee meeting in early February.
Aligning with London's Outdoor Swimming Culture
Alderman Jones emphasised that the goal of the review is to bring the Mixed Pond's operations into line with other major facilities like the Parliament Hill Lido and the single-sex ponds. This potential shift recognises the important role these historic ponds play in London's health, wellness, and community life, catering to a growing number of enthusiasts who swim in all weathers.
The Mixed Pond is currently closed for the winter and is set to reopen as usual in the spring. However, if the review concludes positively, swimmers may soon have the option to take a dip in its waters regardless of the season, cementing Hampstead Heath's status as a year-round destination for outdoor swimming in the capital.
