Parliament Hill Lido

I love this lido. I love the size, the metal flooring on the pool, the on site café, the decent toilets.
But the ghetto teen crowd is too much. Last time I was there, a fight was started. A FIGHT. People are acting like they’ve never seen a nice day and simultaneously been around water. Oh, wait…
While this lido is convenient to me, I’m going to explore other lido options for now. Personal preferences are one thing but safety issues are on a whole other level!!!

This is a lovely Lido situated close to Gospel Oak overground station on Hampstead Heath. But be aware for young parents/​infirm people that the Gospel Oak platform is very high and served by steps only. The lido is one of the biggest in London with a pool that is around 90m long by 30m wide. The lido is divided into a children’s section on the sunniest third of the pool complete with slides and slopes down to the water to allow for safer bathing. There is a fountain at this end but its enclosed to prevent people from climbing onto it.
The pool is popular with families and young people who come to sunbathe on its terrace and to splash around. So for those who like do lengths may be frustrated by the frolicking adults and children. There are plenty of life guards around to keep order.
The Lido is served by a café which sells smelly burgers and obviously has not been updated since the complex was built in 1938. Its crying out for a refurbishment to improve the facilities. The range of food needs to be improved as tastes have radically changed since the thirties. So it loses a star for that.
The changing rooms/​cubicles are gloriously retro painted in bright colours. But for those seeking a bit of privacy while changing may feel little embarrassed. A lovely lido to enjoy a hot summer day without ever having to worry about planes!