Hidden gem swimming spot to get £3.5million makeover with new cafe, changing rooms and green space
The West Reservoir Centre in Stoke Newington that's been open to swimmers for 20 years is getting an upgrade.
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Found in north London the West Reservoir Centre sees thousands descend on the reservoir for open-water swimming, sailing and kayaking courses.
While the reservoir is about to undergo a transformation, the actual water isn't - because it's a reservoir.
Instead, the surrounding area will become much more accessible and greener, too.
The goal is to create "a more welcoming destination for both local residents and visitors."
Designs reveal a new cafe, reception area, grass edge and two accessible entrances.
Other additions include modern changing rooms and cycle parking spaces to encourage biking to the reservoir.
There will be new accessible bridges built over the north and south parts of New River.
Plus, a new walkway on the east side of the reservoir will be created.
The website states that the centre will remain open throughout the project "for the thousands of people who visit the site each week for open water swimming and water sports."
The work is expected to be completed by summer 2026 at a cost of close to £3.5 million.
New £4million lido to open in UK next year
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It's all being funded by the Greater London Authority as an effort to improve community spaces and create a better space for the people of Stoke Newington.
Caroline Woodley, Hackney mayor, said that the changes are "about so much more than bricks and mortar".
She continued to describe the centre as "one of Hackney's hidden gems, a place where communities connect with nature, get active and enjoy some of the borough's most stunning open-water views."
The reservoir has a number of swim courses ranging from a 100m warm up lap to a 300m loop.
As it's an outdoor course, they are dependent on weather conditions and water temperature.
At West Reservoir Centre, the cost for a single open water swim is £10 for non-members and £7.70 for Pay As You Go members.
Another popular lido is Brockwell which the AA revealed to be the best in the country.
The south-west London lido features a 1930s art deco, Grade II listed building, a large 50m pool and even it's own cafe.
Anyone not keen on swimming can visit the sauna, and there are plenty of spots to sunbathe too.
Plus, I've found the little-known .
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