Lake

Hampstead Heath (Mixed Pond)

Reviews

5.0

(1 review)

Great for a recreational swim in the summer with friends. Decent size pond, always a good vibe, and a pretty location. The water can get murky and the sides a little shallow (if you dislike the mud like me, swim horizontal on the edges to avoid feeling the muck! But my boyfriend who is not such a competent swimmer liked the ability to stand there for a bit), and it’s super busy on a warm day (1hr queue is regular at 10 am), but the easy of accessibility and Hampstead’s beauty make up for it. ☀️

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About

The Mixed Pond is one of a series of ponds in the south-west corner of Hampstead Heath formed by the damming of the Hampstead Brook. Access to the 4,270 square metre swimming area is via a concrete diving platform. There is a charge for swimming. There is no beach but there is a grassy sunbathing area next to the diving platform.

Location

What swimmers say

Activities

Swimming

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Plan your swim

Before you go

Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
Lake water can be much colder below the surface (thermocline)
Stay close to shore until you know the conditions
Watch for boat traffic and stay visible with a tow float
Check for blue-green algae warnings before swimming

Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this lake safe for swimming?

Check the Conditions tab for surface state and wind conditions. Review the Quality tab if this is a designated bathing water. Always read recent community reports for local advice.

How cold is the water?

Check the Temperature tab for the current estimate and 7-day trend. Lakes hold heat longer than rivers but can develop a thermocline. The water below the surface can be dramatically colder.

What should I bring?

A tow float for visibility (especially important where boats operate), warm layers for after, and consider a wetsuit in colder months. Check for designated swimming areas.