Open water swimming is back at Canary Wharf‘s Middle Dock for a second summer.
Open seven days a week when weather permits, the dock will provide a clean water course for anyone looking to cool off in the capital.
The 220-year-old Middle Dock, where dozens of ships were once loaded with exports, has 600sqm of open water to swim in set against the backdrop of the One Canada Square and Newfoundland apartment block skyscrapers.
The initiative began last year in conjunction with the Canal and River Trust and swimming operator Love Open Water.
The Middle Dock is open to swimmers of “all levels”, Canary Wharf Group said, “from advanced swimmers to those who are at the start of their open water journey”.
People can swim 200m or 400m.
“The water in Middle Dock is crystal clear and regular testing has shown it is excellent quality, in accordance with EU Bathing Standards,” Canary Wharf Group said.
“Love Open Water will continue water testing throughout the summer to ensure it is safe to swim.
“Every session is lifeguarded and can be enjoyed by competent swimmers as young as 10 years old.”
To use the Middle Dock, Londoners and visitors must buy an annual National Open Water Coaching Association (NOWCA) membership for £15. This will grant users access to more than 40 locations across the UK, as well as personal accident and injury insurance.
Swims at Canary Wharf cost £8.50 per visit. People can make a booking via the ACTiO app.
Lucie Moore, Associate Director Arts+Events at Canary Wharf Group said: “We’re excited to be welcoming back open water swimming to Middle Dock, providing people with the opportunity to swim in an iconic part of London.
“Last year’s reception to open water swimming was incredible and seeing so many people choose Canary Wharf as a spot for their swim session has allowed us to continue the partnership with Love Open Water and Canal & River Trust.”
There are a number of other open water spots across London, including the West Reservoir Centre in Hackney, the Hampstead Heath Ponds in north London, and the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park.
There are also a swathe of lidos and outdoor swimming pools perfect for a dip, including at Brockwell Park and London Fields.
