Paddling Pools near London

5 locations
Ages 0–12

London's best-known paddling spots are genuine landmarks — the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain and the nearby Serpentine Lido, both in Hyde Park — alongside a handful of smaller neighborhood options further out. Like most outdoor water features, they're really a summer-only bet.

Locations

Coram's Fields

Coram's Fields

Playground · Ages 0–15

Seven-acre urban playground and park in the heart of Bloomsbury reserved exclusively for children under 16 and their adults. Features multiple adventure playgrounds with zip wire and climbing wall, paddling pool, giant sandpits, petting zoo, and wildlife garden with ponds and beehives. Also home to three 8-a-side football pitches, netball and basketball courts, and a cafe serving snacks and ice cream.
Serpentine Lido

Serpentine Lido

Swimming Pool · Ages 3+

Iconic open-water swimming in London's heart within Hyde Park, featuring a refreshing chlorine-free lake, gated family area with shallow chlorinated paddling pool, sandpit and swings. Cold freshwater lake shared with local ducks and swans; unheated but welcoming May through September. Adjacent Lido Café Bar offers waterside dining and refreshments.

Temporarily closed
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain

Paddling Pool · All Ages

A striking memorial fountain honouring Princess Diana, composed of 545 pieces of Cornish granite arranged in a 50m by 80m oval. Water cascades from the highest point down two sides—one smooth and gentle, the other featuring steps and curves—before meeting in a tranquil pool. Three bridges allow visitors to cross into the heart of the memorial.

Temporarily closed
Parliament Hill Fields Lido

Parliament Hill Fields Lido

Swimming Pool · All Ages

Historic Art Deco lido (opened 1938) on Hampstead Heath with a 60m unheated, chlorinated pool and dedicated paddling pool for under-fives. Stainless steel pool liner gives shimmering water; open year-round with longer summer hours and morning-only winter sessions. Scenic setting next to Parliament Hill with outstanding London skyline views.
Charlton Lido and Lifestyle Club

Charlton Lido and Lifestyle Club

Swimming Pool · Ages 0+

Olympic-sized heated outdoor pool open year-round in historic Hornfair Park. Soft play area with Toddlers World sessions for little ones, plus lane swimming and dedicated teaching pool for lessons. Group cycle studio and floodlit tennis courts add variety; café serves snacks and ice cream.

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