Charlton Lido, a 50-metre outdoor pool in South London, offers a quieter alternative to popular lidos like Brockwell and London Fields, with crystal blue waters and a sun terrace. Despite its relative obscurity, it attracts dedicated fans who appreciate its calm atmosphere.
Facilities and features
The lido includes a sun terrace, outdoor changing rooms, and four swimming lanes, though lessons may reduce this to two or three lanes. Heated during winter, the pool maintains a temperature of around 22°C, making it suitable for year-round swimming without a wetsuit.
Access and travel challenges
Charlton Lido’s main drawback is its difficult access. With no Tube station, visitors from Victoria can take a 25-minute direct train to Lewisham, then the 89 bus to Slade Green Station, alighting at Charlton Park Lane—a total journey of about one hour and eight minutes. From Brixton, two buses (415 and 53) take one hour and 15 minutes. These travel times can be a significant commitment during hot weather.
Availability and pricing
For the upcoming weekend, Friday slots are largely sold out, but Saturday and Sunday have availability except for three toddler splash sessions at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm in the teaching pool. Adult tickets cost £11.50, while junior tickets are £5.50.
Fan reactions
On Reddit, user @Rj-24 wrote: “Don’t tell everyone about it, they’ll all start visiting,” while @saleslime called it “our secret.” @NerdyNerdanel noted: “Charlton tends to be really quiet, but it’s a bit annoying to get to.” On TikTok, @appletoothpaste1 described it as “one of London’s most overlooked lidos, even though I think it’s one of the best.”
Other lido options
For those seeking alternatives, Brightlingsea Lido in Essex reopened last month, offering tidal saltwater swimming for £7.50 adult admission, with inflatables for £4.50 and sunbeds for £2.50. Brockwell Lido in South London ranked 19th globally in a study of cold water dip destinations. Additionally, Sea Lanes Canary Wharf, the city’s first floating swimming pool, opened last week with six lanes and poolside food and drink.
