As climate changes, finding a spot to cool down has become increasingly important for many of us. Especially when living in a city, it can be difficult to find a place where you can dip your toes in the water but Londoners are in luck as this year, open water swimming returns to Canary Warf.
Londoners longing for a new place to swim will be able to dive into Canary Wharf starting from 5 June 2025. Tucked in between the skyscrapers are the clear waters of Eden Dock, from where swimmers will be able to look at One Canada Square and Newfoundland. Eden Dock itself is a reimagination of the historic Middle Dock, with lush planting and floating gardens.
Love Open Water and the National Open Water Coaching Association (NOWCA) are teaming up once again to give people the opportunity to enjoy London from a different point of view. The water will be regularly tested and will meet “high levels of cleanliness as required by EU Bathing Standards”. Thanks to the toilets, changing rooms, and outdoor rinse shower at the base of the Cubitt steps nearby, swimmers will be able to get ready at the Dock. Access to the water is from the pontoon next to Humble Grape on Mackenzie Walk.
Open to all, but experience required
Contrary to some of the ongoing urban swimming projects such as those in New York and Lisbon, the swimming venue in London won’t be available to just anyone. In order to be able to dive in, swimmers will need to purchase a NOWCA membership for £15 (€18) per year. This will give them access to 40 NOWCA locations in the United Kingdom, including Eden Dock. An individual session will set them back another £9 (€11), and free NOWCA Swim events will be offered regularly to members.
Moreover, although the open water swimming sessions are open to all over the age of 16 with a NOWCA membership, only competent swimmers are advised to take part. With a minimum depth of three meters and no shallow areas, the sessions aren’t suited for those who are still learning how to swim. All of the open water swimming sessions will be lifeguarded and coloured headwear and a tow float are mandatory during the swim.
In order to dive in, those who are interested will be able to book a slot online from early June onwards.
