Brockwell Lido

Brockwell Park, Dulwitch Road, Lambeth, Greater London, SE24 0PA, England
1-90 Years
Paid

Description

Brockwell Lido is a historic outdoor swimming pool nestled in the corner of Brockwell Park, offering a classic open-air experience for families in South London. As one of the best things to do with kids in Herne Hill, this Olympic-sized lido and leisure centre provides a refreshing escape with its unheated 50-metre pool. Known locally as "Brixton’s Beach," it is a focal point for the community where children can practice their swimming skills in a beautiful Grade II listed setting.

Prices for standard lido swim sessions and gym sessions are £9.50 for adults and £6.00 for juniors. Various discount rates may be available for local residents with a "Lambeth Card" and for those visiting during off-peak hours.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines fitness with fresh air, Brockwell Lido is a top-tier choice. It provides a perfect environment for an educational day out where kids can learn about water safety and historic architecture while having fun in the water.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

What makes Brockwell Lido unique?

The lido is distinguished by its stunning Art Deco architecture, which creates a nostalgic and stylish atmosphere for an afternoon swim. Unlike modern indoor pools, it offers a sensory play experience with the natural light and open sky, making it feel like a holiday destination in the middle of London. The facility also includes interactive exhibits of healthy living through its on-site fitness studios and the popular "400 Rabbits" cafe.

  • Olympic Sized Pool: At 50 metres long, it offers plenty of space for both lane swimming and family splashing.
  • Grade II Listed: The historic buildings surrounding the pool are beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into 1930s design.
  • Community Hub: It is more than just a pool; it is a wellness centre with a gym, sauna, and group exercise classes.

Top 5 Highlights

  • The 50m Outdoor Pool: The main attraction where kids can enjoy a big, open-air swim that feels much more adventurous than a local leisure centre.
  • Art Deco Entrance: The beautiful symmetrical frontage is a great spot for a family photo before you head in.
  • 400 Rabbits Cafe: A quirky pizza and craft beer spot where families can refuel with sourdough pizza right next to the pool.
  • The Sunbathing Area: Large poolside terraces where parents can relax while older kids take another dip.
  • Lush Park Surroundings: Since it is inside Brockwell Park, the views from the pool are filled with green trees and local wildlife.

Brockwell Lido features the following facilities and activities:

  • 50-metre Outdoor Pool (Unheated, open year-round).
  • State-of-the-art Gym (Located in the pool buildings).
  • Group Exercise Studio (Hosting yoga and HIIT classes).
  • Indoor Cycling Studio (For high-energy workouts).
  • Sauna and Steam Room (For post-swim relaxation).
  • Treatment Rooms (For sports massages and therapy).
  • Poolside Cafe (Operated by 400 Rabbits).
  • Swimming Lessons (Available for children and adults).
  • Swim Fit Sessions (Structured lane swimming).
  • Family Fun Swim (Designated times for children to play).

Beyond the Main Attraction: The surrounding Brockwell Park offers a massive children’s playground, a miniature railway, and a walled garden, perfect for extending your day out. Just a short walk away is the Herne Hill Market, which hosts local food stalls and crafts every Sunday.

Facilities

  • Toilets & Changing: Large changing rooms with hot showers and accessible toilets are available on-site.
  • Lockers: Secure lockers are provided for valuables; you usually need a padlock or a coin to operate them.
  • Buggy Parking: There is space for buggies within the changing area, though it can get tight during peak summer hours.
  • Food Options: The cafe serves pizza, ice cream, and drinks with both indoor and outdoor seating.

What to see

What Visitors Love

  • Beautiful Setting: Parents frequently mention that the pool is one of the most picturesque places to swim in London.
  • Great Cafe: The on-site pizza is a huge hit with kids and makes for an easy post-swim lunch.
  • Vibrant Atmosphere: On a sunny day, the lido has a high-energy, "holiday" feel that keeps children entertained.

What Visitors Don't Like

  • Cold Water: Since the pool is unheated, some parents find it too cold for very young toddlers except in the peak of summer.
  • Booking System: The online booking app can sometimes be tricky to navigate during high-demand periods.

Targeted FAQ

  • Is it worth it for toddlers?: The lido is great for toddlers in high summer, but the unheated water can be a shock for them. It is best to visit when the air temperature is high so they can enjoy the sunbathing area as much as the water.
  • How long does a visit take?: A standard swim session usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes, though you can spend longer if you visit the cafe afterwards.
  • Where is the best place to park?: Parking is very limited near the lido. The best option is to park slightly further into Herne Hill or use public transport, as street parking near the park entrance is restricted.

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Fitness

  • Fitness Class: Adult £9.50 
  • Gym Session: Adult £9.50 / Junior £6.00
  • Lido Swim: Adult £9.50 / Junior £6.00
  • Christmas Day Swim: Adult £12.00 

Memberships

Essential: £55 monthly

  • Use of the pool
  • Use of the gym
  • Group exercise classes
  • Use of the health suite
  • Single site access

Core: £45 monthly

  • Use of the pool
  • Use of the gym
  • Group exercise classes
  • Single site access

Concession: £45 monthly

  • Use of the pool
  • Use of the gym
  • Group exercise classes
  • Single site access

Junior (10–15 years): £25 monthly

  • Use of the pool
  • Use of the gym
  • Single site access

Pricing URL: http://www.fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/brockwell-lido/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Opening Hours

  • Monday - Thursday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Friday: 06:30 - 20:00
  • Weekends: 07:30 - 18:30

Lido Opening Hours

  • Monday - Friday: 08:00 - 15:00
  • Weekends: 08:00 - 15:00

Sauna & Steam

  • Monday - Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
  • Friday: 07:00 - 19:00
  • Weekends: 08:00 - 18:00

Bank Holiday

  • Friday 3rd April: 08:00 - 16:00
  • Saturday 4th April: 08:00 - 16:00
  • Sunday 5th April: 08:00 - 16:00
  • Monday 6th April: 08:00 - 16:00
  • Monday 4th May: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Monday 25th May: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Monday 31st August: 06:30 - 21:00

Address: Brockwell Park, Dulwitch Road, Lambeth, Greater London, SE24 0PA, England

Post Code: SE24 0PA

Council: Lambeth

County: Greater London

  • Train: Herne Hill station is a 6-minute walk away, served by Southeastern and Thameslink.
  • Bus: Routes 3, 37, 196, and 322 stop right outside the park entrance.
  • Car: There is no dedicated lido car park. Limited "Pay & Display" parking is available on Dulwich Road and surrounding streets.

5.00

0 Reviews

Rating breakdown

5
80% Complete (danger)
0
4
80% Complete (danger)
0
3
80% Complete (danger)
0
2
80% Complete (danger)
0
1
80% Complete (danger)
0

Get the best blog stories into your inbox!