How to swim in the Serpentine, Hyde Park, London

Trying to find good and economical places to swim in London can be difficult. Gym memberships can be extortionate and are normally only on a monthly basis, local swimming pools are surprisingly expensive and if you are visiting London it can be frustrating not being able to continue training. Well there is a solution and not only is it cheap, it is also fantastically exhilarating - swimming in the Serpentine in Hyde Park.

The Serpentine is open for SSC members between 6.30am and 9.30am every morning all year long. The swimming area is approximately 200m long and there are unisex changing facilities and a cup of tea available.

While wetsuits are allowed, I think it is encouraged that you take the hardy approach of just a pair of trunks or a swimsuit, a swim cap and googles. While the water maybe chilly at times swimming with amazing views of London's largest park and with swans for company it's an experience that can't be missed.

To become a member of the Serpentine Swimming Club visit - http://serpentineswimmingclub.com/membership/ The cost is £20 for the year which equates to about 4 swims in a normal pool...

If you want to swim after 9.30am then you can pay a fee of £4.80. Visit here for more details - https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde-park/things-to-see-and-do/sports-and-leisure/serpentine-lido