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Telegraph
2 days ago
- Health
- Telegraph
The best walking sandals for summer, tested on dog walks and long hikes
If you enjoy a hike in the summer but the idea of pulling on walking boots in the heat makes your toes curl, then finding the best walking sandals for your trip can be a good compromise. Whether you're taking your dog for a walk around the local footpaths, trundling over Hampstead Heath or hiking through the South Downs, walking sandals will help you avoid injury. Their supportive soles can help you grip onto wet grass, while their moulded footbeds keep you comfortable no matter how many miles you do. From the more expensive trainer-esque sandals like Hoka's, to the open foot casual designs of Teva, walking sandals can range from around £100 to under £50 and can be a handy alternative to your best walking boots. I've spent some very hot weeks testing the best sandals on the market and you can read my reviews below, followed by answers to some frequently asked questions. But if you're in a hurry, here's a quick look at the top five. The best walking sandals: At a glance How to choose the best walking sandals for you Walking sandals aren't just for hiking in the hills, they can come in handy for festivals, beach walks or simply hotfooting it around the city. Whatever you wear them for, it's important to find the right type of support. Sam Singh, consultant foot and ankle surgeon at London Bridge Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, says: 'A strap at the back of the ankle helps as it means that you don't need to grip with the toes to keep the shoe on. 'You also need a thick, strong sole on rough ground and arch support,' he says, adding that most of his patients find it more comfortable to wear a sandal with a slight heel because it helps relieve pressure from your Achilles tendon and arches. It's also important to consider your intended use. Sandals for city strolls differ from those needed for rugged hikes or water activities, where toe protection or water resistance might be needed. How we test walking sandals I tested 12 pairs of walking sandals while out with the dog in parks, on woodland trails and while trekking up and down hills in the South Downs. 11 of those were good enough to make this guide. I tested ladies' walking sandals, but nearly all of these are available for men too. Primarily I was looking at the comfort, cushioning and arch support I got from each pair and if I could feel how evenly my weight was distributed across the shoes. My second priority was the overall grip to make sure I wasn't slipping around, which can be dependent on the lug depth (how deep the tread is) and the outsole material such as rubber or EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), which you often find on running shoes. My dog can happily run through the woods for hours, so durability is an important factor for me, as is how breathable or waterproof the shoe materials are. I need to be sure I won't pick up any blisters while running after him either, so a good fit and an adjustable strap is a must for me. I tested the cheapest walking sandals to the most expensive, those with open and closed toes, and pairs with plush cushioning to barely any. I've also taken into consideration how they look – not the priority, but most of us still care. Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don't accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. From tents to walking boots, all reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The best walking sandals of 2025 1. Best Buy Walking Sandals: Hoka Infini Hike TC Hoka is best known for its ultra-cushioned running shoes and now that technology is available in a sandal, making it the most comfortable I have ever worn. The thick sole is bouncy and responsive. But despite the high level of cushioning, these Hokas have a wide base so they feel stable during wear. The durable Vibram sole (which you'll recognise from a good pair of Le Chameau or Hunter wellies) has decent lugs for traction and the shape helps to propel you along as you walk. They are among the lightest pairs I tested and my feet didn't get tired or sore after a full day of walking. If you've got wider feet, these could prove a good fit and are true to size, with half sizes available. They're not as protective as closed-toe sandals, so may not be your first choice for rocky or uneven terrain, but the edge of the outsole sits above the footbed which gives your toes a thin strip of protection. The W strap design adjusts for a close fit, as does the heel strap, and there's a soft panel of breathable material beneath the straps to reduce the chance of rubbing. The aesthetic is maximal – this is not a day-to-night sandal – but if you are eco-conscious then the materials may be more attractive to you. The outsole can be easily replaced if you wear it out, and Hoka has used natural and recycled materials like sugarcane in the rest of the shoe, including webbing made with a low water usage dying technique. The only downside is that I would prefer more colour options. Key specifications 2. Best Value Walking Sandals: Columbia Women's Peakfreak Rush Sandal LEA This mid-range Columbia sandal packs in a lot of technical features for the price. It's billed as a lightweight sandal-sneaker, which is a good description from my experience, because it has the cushioned feel of a trainer with the ventilation of a sandal. The midsole EVA cushioning is listed as medium but I'd say it's nearer maximal. It extends slightly beyond the back of the sandal for a soft heel landing as you walk. Unfortunately, the arch support is at the lower end of the spectrum, with the footbed sitting flatter than others I tested. That said, the footbed is still comfortable and well-shaped with a secure heel cup. There's also a subtle texture, which gives a secure tacky feeling underfoot. Although these sandals fit true to size, there are also three points of adjustment on the durable nubuck leather straps and soft material between them and the foot to prevent rubbing. And if you're a rain or shine (in other words, British) type of walker, you'll be pleased to know you can get these wet. While the leather on the straps takes a long time to dry, the lining means it's not in contact with your feet. The sandals' outsoles have great grip owing to the large lugs and I enjoyed taking them out on dusty trails up and down hills. The soles are also flexible enough for the foot to tread comfortably, heel to toe, still with support. Overall, this is a well-made sandal for light summer adventures. Key specifications 3. Best Walking Sandals for Long Hikes: Teva Grandview Max Sandal This comfortable sandal is an open-toed solution for multi-day hikes. This is true as long as the terrain isn't too rocky – I'd still choose a closed-toe sandal for that. The midsole cushioning is comfortable enough for all day wear; I enjoyed wearing the same shoes for a dog walk in the morning and a longer hike. The platform cushioning does take the foot high off the ground, which reduces ground feel, but its wide base retains stability. The arch support is excellent and, like an old slipper, I was comfortable from the moment I put them on. This wideness also means that your foot isn't sitting right at the edge of the sandal, which gives welcome protection from roots and debris. The webbing between the straps is soft and keeps out the worst of debris and there's a mudguard on the outer side. It feels breathable and my feet didn't get hot and sticky when I tested these during the May heatwave. The upper is also entirely made from recycled materials. There are several Velcro adjustment points which wrap around and across to hold the sandal securely to the foot, whether wide or narrow. The durable Vibram outsole is expectedly sturdy, with deep lugs for traction on both wet and dry surfaces. This sandal is on the heavier side, but this is because it's a sturdy shoe. Like our Best Buy Hokas, this sandal has a maximal, technical aesthetic, meaning they're not a day-to-night shoe. But this is an excellent technical sandal that I'd happily hike for hours in. Key specifications 4. Best Walking Sandals for Foot Protection: Keen Hyperport 2 Keen is one of the best known names in walking sandals and the Hyperport 2 is a bestseller. This is a robust sandal that's surprisingly lightweight, very comfortable and provides good arch support. It has a closed toe, bolstered by a strongly reinforced toe panel. The sides of the feet are also reinforced with padding. A soft stretchy mesh covers the top of the foot and heel and the laces are held by reinforced webbed panels that quickly and easily pull close to the foot with a bungee cord. This has a sliding adjuster, making it very easy to get on and off. The midsole has lots of cushioning and feels great to walk on, while the outsole is grippy and durable. The toe box is generous, suiting those with wide feet and it fits true to size. The aesthetic won't be everyone's cup of tea. This is a chunky technical sandal, but if performance and protection are what you're after, it's great. I found it best suited to walks where I got my feet wet, as the material dries quickly. I also managed to wear these on rockier, more uneven terrain than other sandals because of the stability and the fact that they protect my foot well. I'd still want the ankle support of a hiking boot for very technical terrain though. Key specifications In the same range: If you're after a slightly lower profile but similar sandal, the brand's heritage Whisper sandal is a great option for long hikes. It's less cushioned but ultra comfortable with a lovely wide toe box and excellent toe protection. 5. Best Walking Sandals for Travelling: Teva Hurricane XLT2 Although similar to the classic Original Teva, this is a more technical hiking sandal with extra cushioning and support. The outsole is made from durable rubber and, while the lugs aren't as deep as others I tested, there was plenty of traction for walking up and down the South Downs hills. There's a reasonable amount of flex so the sandal moves with your foot without sacrificing support. There is some arch support on the moulded footbed, but not as much as others. It's a wide sandal, with the foot sitting away from the edges, which I like for hiking because I find I'm less likely to bang the sides of my feet (or stub my toe on a wayward rock). Minimal ridging around the footbed means it's really only suitable for light trails rather than anything too rocky or uneven. The sandal is lightweight enough that it's easy to forget you're wearing it, with three points of adjustment, although it does run large, so I'd size down if you're between sizes. The quick-drying straps mean you can also walk through rivers, but Teva also makes the Hurricane Drift, which is a dedicated water shoe. Most of your foot is exposed, so ventilation isn't a problem and I like the minimalist aesthetic. If I could only take one pair of sandals camping or on an active holiday, it would be these, both for wearing on walks and to the bar. There's a wide range of great colour combinations to suit your taste. Key specifications 6. Best Walking Sandals for Ground Feel: Vivobarefoot Tracker This is the sandal for those who like the barefoot feel, but still want a bit of protection. It has a closed toe and wraps around the foot, leaving some ventilation over the top and at the heel. The material that covers the foot is breathable mesh, which keeps my feet cool during otherwise sweaty hikes. There's gentle reinforcement over the toes and the sides of the foot to protect from roots and rocks. I found I could wear them on uneven terrain, although given the brand's barefoot premise, there was little support. The z-shaped strapping system wraps the sandal to the foot securely, and there's adjustment at the soft heel strap. The footbed is smooth and comfortable with a hint of cushioning, and scores an eco point for being made from excess algae biomass. The outsole is durable and extremely flexible, as per the barefoot ethos, so much so that you can even bend the sandal in half. The deep lugs provide great grip, even on a slippery log that I climbed on in the rain, and the sandal dried quickly after getting wet. It does come up on the smaller side, so size up if in doubt. I'd recommend easing in and practicing wearing the sandal if you haven't worn barefoot shoes before (the brand has guidance on its website for how to do this) because our feet, ankles and legs need time to adjust to shoes with zero heel-to-toe drop and this level of flexibility. Key specifications 7. Best Walking Sandals for Narrow Feet: Ecco Offroad Roam As is the Danish way, this is a minimalist sandal with impressive technical features. I walked happily for miles along Hampstead Heath while wearing them. The material on the footbed is soft against the skin, although a little narrow and it didn't dry quickly on wet walks. Unlike others I tested, the foot sits against the edge of the sandal which doesn't provide the same protection against roots or rocks. The outsole is a durable rubber with decent lugs that provide traction. It's a flexible ride and you really feel your foot rolling through with each step, but it's not so flexible as to lose support. It offers excellent ground feel because it's the lowest profile sole of all the sandals I tested apart from the Vivobarefoot, and a firm midsole. I surprised myself by liking the thin straps of the upper, as thin straps often dig in, but these are well placed with three wrapping across the forefoot with Velcro adjustment and two points of adjustment around the heel and ankle. These will suit anyone not wanting a chunky sandal, and are best suited to long walks on dry, even trails. Key specifications 8. Best Walking Sandals for a Springy Push-off: FitFlop Neo-D-Hyker (XT) As with the Skechers pair above, this sandal has the APMA Seal of Acceptance thanks to its well-designed and comfortable contoured footbed. The arch support is ample and will suit you if you don't like the type of footbed that pushes up. It has FitFlop's neodynamic carbon-plate midsoles, like those seen in marathon running 'super shoes', which give a spring to your step and a sense of propulsion. It has a medium level of cushioning to take the pressure off your feet and balanced flexibility so that you can feel your foot roll as you step. As for fit, there are three points of adjustment and the straps fit well. A small niggle is that while there's thoughtful padding beneath the heel strap and toe strap, the toe section folds over itself with a Velcro adjustment and I was conscious of the fold on a long walk. This is not a major problem and it may just be because I have deep feet, but it feels unnecessary given that it has another Velcro adjuster over the top. It suits a wider foot and fits true to size. The sandal has a durable rubber outsole and lugs for decent grip, although they're not as deep or closely spaced as some we tested. It performed well in wet conditions as both the footbed and straps are water-resistant and dry quickly. I love the look, with a slight platform, and found I could easily wear these as an everyday sandal. I even chose to wear it on days where I wasn't walking. Key specifications 9. Best Walking Sandals for Wide Feet: Birkenstock Mogami Terra Better-known for its cork soles, Birkenstock has a lesser-known outdoor range, which features similar moulded footbeds, but uses technical materials and more secure straps. The Mogami Terra is my favourite for hiking. The footbed is sunken, leaving your foot to sit securely cupped. This means that while it is open-toed, your toes are afforded some protection against knocks by the ridge around the edge. The wide straps with buckles and Velcro adjuster on the heel strap do their best to ensure a good fit. That said, I'd only recommend this sandal for wide feet, as the sole is broad and there's no narrow fit available. The sole is fixed to the footbed in two layers, which makes it feel flexible, allowing for a natural roll through the foot as you walk. It has fairly deep lugs (much deeper than the average Birkenstock) for excellent grip. While the footbed and sole is waterproof, the straps are made of Birko-Flor. This has PVC (a durable type of plastic) on the outside and has a soft, breathable fleece on the inside. During my testing, I found they were durable and comfortable enough to wear against the skin for long periods, but water didn't repel as easily as the footbed and sole. There isn't much in the way of cushioning – just enough to take the pressure off your feet. It won't suit those who prefer more maximal cushioning, but I would happily take these on a city break as well as camping or on beach holidays. Perhaps just not a serious hike. Key specifications Weight: 338g Upper material: Birko-Flor Outsole material: Polyurethane (PU) Men's version available: It's unisex Half-sizes available: Yes In the same range: There's also a version without the ankle strap, the Birkenstock Mogami Terra Stealth (£85). They're ideal if you don't like the aesthetic of a heel strap, or struggle to bend over so need a slip on shoe. 10. Best Walking Sandals for City Breaks: Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit 2.0 - Annie This vegan sandal has an elegant, comfortable upper, a beautifully cushioned midsole and a well-designed footbed. It's the lightest of all the sandals I tested apart from the Vivobarefoot. It also has the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which means it's been deemed to promote good foot health, and has podiatrist-certified arch support. The midsole cushioning is responsive and particularly cushioned in the heel, which is useful for heavy heel-strikers. The outsole has grooves for grip, but the synthetic EVA won't be as durable as rubber, so you might want to keep these for city walks rather than mountainous hikes. The quick-dry knit upper is simple with only one Velcro point of adjustment at the ankle, but the toe strap has some elasticity and feels soft and supportive. This sandal could also be good for jobs where you're on your feet all day but want to keep cool in the summer months. It comes up true to size and is machine-washable, which is a bonus for summer sandals. Key specifications 11. Best Budget Walking Sandals: Regatta Haris Given the low cost, this pair of Regatta sandals are surprisingly sturdy and practical. With a durable upper and Velcro strapping with three points of adjustment and padding beneath the straps, there's not much to distinguish it from more expensive options. The contoured footbed cups the heel well, although it does lack arch support so I wouldn't recommend this for long hikes. The footbed also takes a while to dry after getting wet and there's not a lot of cushioning. The outsole is thermoplastic rubber, which is a combination of plastic and rubber and doesn't offer as much grip. I still found that the lugs provided reasonable grip in dry conditions, and the sandal has a good degree of flexibility when you walk. It comes up on the smaller side and best suits a wide foot. Key specifications Walking sandal FAQs Do walking sandals actually work? 'Yes, a good walking sandal has the chassis of a good shoe,' says Sam Singh, a consultant foot and ankle surgeon. 'It's a great alternative to walking shoes in warm weather.' What type of walking sandals do podiatrists recommend? 'The sole has to be sturdy,' says Sam. 'You especially need a sturdy sole for hiking, so you don't feel the rocks. The best ones are just an open version of what is a great shoe, like a convertible version of a good sports car. All the performance, just more open to the environment.' Can you hike in walking sandals? 'For tough terrain, the additional support that an ankle boot offers can't be matched but they are fine for most hikes,' says Sam. How should you keep walking sandals hygienic when you're wearing them barefoot? Most sandals, especially leather ones, should not go in the washing machine. It's better to wipe them down with a damp cloth. 'The hygeine benefits of airing your feet in warm weather may outweigh these drawbacks,' Sam says. Are walking sandals fine for people with foot conditions such as bunions? 'Absolutely,' says Sam. 'If anything, many of my patients with painful bunions can't wait for summer. Finally, they can have footwear that doesn't rub on their bunion or hammertoes.'
The Sun
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Inside the most A-list lido in London that only costs £5 to enter – with Harry Styles and Andrew Garfield as fans
THE weather is heating up, summer is on its way, and there is a UK lido where you can go for a swim as well as a bit of celeb spotting. Celebrity -loved places are often exclusive to high-end clubs or restaurants, but Hampstead Heath is one where even 'normal' folk can visit for less than a fiver. 5 5 Hampstead Heath has a choice of three ponds where visitors can swim for £4.80. There's the mixed pool, as well as Kenwood Ladies' and Highgate Men's pond - and there's Parliament Hill Fields Lido just down the road. The natural bathing ponds attract around 700,000 people every year and are often described as "a treasure" and one of "London's fantastic green gems" by visitors. Despite feeling quite secluded by those who visit, there are lifeguards on duty. None of the swim spots have changing facilities, so you'll have to wear your swim gear underneath your clothes. There are toilets and an outdoor shower. Lots of swimmers like to clamber out and enjoy a picnic on the grassy banks afterwards too. With lots of celebrities calling Hampstead Heath home, it's no surprise that a few familiar faces have been spotted cooling off in the ponds over the years. Harry Styles, the ex- One Direction star, has been seen multiple times enjoying the bathing ponds. One summer, he had temperatures soaring even higher when he practised his diving skills. One onlooker said: 'He kept a low profile and went mostly unrecognised. He was swimming laps and practising his diving.' Easter Sunday sunshine shots on Hampstead Heath and in Kings Cross 5 Hollywood A-lister Woody Harrelson, who's known for his roles in the Hunger Games and Zombieland, has enjoyed the water at the Men's Pond. According to Camden New Journal, Woody didn't bring a pair of swimming trunks with him, so he borrowed a pair of swimming trunks from a lifeguard. Comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, actor Benedict Cumberbatch and broadcaster Dermot O'Leary are also said to be frequent swimmers. Back in 2018, Kendall Jenner stripped off for a project that was filmed in the ponds for Love Magazine's 10th anniversary issue. Spider-Man, aka actor Andrew Garfield, also revealed he's a regular in the London waters. Talking to Time Out, he said: "I love swimming in Hampstead Ponds. You feel close to nature – it's such a rare, beautiful thing." 5 During busy periods in the summer months (starting May 26), you will need to book a slot before heading down to the ponds or pool. Tickets are available through Eventbrite for £4.60. Bookable slots are between the hours of 12pm and 6pm with each being for for a 50 minute swim session. Tickets are released through Eventbrite on Mondays at 12pm for the following seven days (Tuesday to Monday). The morning sessions between the hours of 7am-11.30am and the evening sessions between 6.30pm-8.30pm are on a first come first served basis. If it's busy, then there will be queues outside - which there often are when temperatures rise. The Highgate Men's Pond and Kenwood Ladies' Pond are open year-round. Hampstead Mixed Pond is open from mid-April to October and in winter it's only open to members of the Hampstead Heath Winter Swimming Club. For any regulars, it could be worth investing in a season ticket. For Parliament Hill Lido this costs £240 for 12 months. A year-long membership to the ponds costs £150, and a combined membership is £268. For anyone not in the capital, here are the UK's best outdoor water parks and lidos. outdoor swimmers in Portsmouth as the UK's deepest lido is reopening this summer. 5
The Sun
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
From 4am breakfasts to personal trainers – inside Liam and Noel Gallagher's bid to get fit ahead of Oasis reunion tour
THEY were once the poster boys for a rock 'n' roll lifestyle of cigarettes and alcohol. But with just 40 days until they kick off their Oasis reunion tour, I can reveal Noel and Liam Gallagher are putting their health first. As they gear up for their Live '25 shows, I am told Liam will be making the most of the swimming pool at his home in France — and jogging around Hampstead Heath, near his house in London, to work on his cardio. Meanwhile, Noel has employed a personal trainer to keep him in shape. A source said: 'Both brothers need to be in the best shape of their lives for the physical onslaught of touring. They're no spring chickens and are both in their fifties. 'Liam has politely declined personal trainers but brother Noel is taking all the help he can get. Liam loves jogging around Hampstead Heath and he wants to make the most of his pool. The insider added: 'Noel was keen to take on the extra help as he needs a bit more encouragement in the fitness department. 'He's not as motivated as Liam but realises he needs to be in the best shape possible for their tour.' The band are set to kick off their long-awaited on July 4. The move won't be such a shock for Liam as he's been living a much cleaner lifestyle in recent years. He revealed last year that he rises at the crack of dawn and enjoys a healthy breakfast. He said: 'I get up at four or five in the morning. Then I'm just waiting for something f***ing spectacular to happen. Inside Noel & Liam Gallagher's first Oasis show in 16 years at surprise venue where they enraged neighbour 'I have porridge for breakfast, then if I'm feeling really rock 'n' roll I'll have some almonds on it and a bit of honey.' The frontman underwent a major hip operation in 2023 after crippling arthritis left him with severe joint pain. Crippling arthritis Speaking about his new lifestyle last year, he said: 'You've got to undo all the bad work you've done through getting off your head. It's time to undo it all and get back to reality.' But Noel revealed that Oasis fans are unlikely to spot him at the gym. Speaking on BBC Radio 2 in 2023, he told Zoe Ball: 'I'd rather spend a fortune to put a gym in my house than go through the embarrassment of being in a public gym. 'Because if I ever get photographed coming out of the gym in gym gear — it's over. 'Nobody needs to see it, nobody will ever see it.' I can't imagine seeing Noel down the local PureGym either . . . ANAIS' BLUDY GOOD NIGHT NOEL GALLAGHER's daughter Anais and her rocker pal Yungblud are all smiles as they hit the town. The pair – who hope to watch the Oasis reunion together later this year – were spotted enjoying a night out in New York City. 9 9 Anais, who is currently dating actor Callum Scott Howells, looked hot in a baby pink cardigan while Yungblud opted for his signature eyeliner and a suit. Yungblud – real name Dominic Harrison – previously told me that Noel thought he was very mouthy. The singer said: 'I met Noel at a party when I was about 18 and he thought I was f***ing gobby, but I have not seen him since.' Asked about the Oasis tour, Yungblud added: 'I know Anais well so I will probably go with her.' ROD STEWART will be playing the Sunday Legends slot at Glastonbury this year. But he will be sailing quickly in and out of Worthy Farm – and does not plan on packing wellies. His wife Penny Lancaster told me: 'No, it's not really his thing. I'm sure there will be some kind of transportation that will prevent him getting his feet wet.' She also revealed that their teenage son Alastair, and Rod's daughters Ruby and Renee, will be attending but will not get the VIP treatment – despite their dad playing on the Pyramid Stage. Speaking at London's Chelsea Flower Show, Penny added: 'I won't be in a tent, but my son and two of Rod's daughters are going to be pitching up for five days. 'They're all going down en masse. I'll just be turning up with Rod on the day.' THEY are preparing to welcome their first child. But I can reveal Scottish DJ Calvin Harris and BBC Radio 1 host Vick Hope are jetting off on a babymoon before the little one arrives. 9 Her stylist Jennifer Michalski-Bray told me: 'Now Vick is on mat leave she'll be taking the opportunity to recharge on holiday so I think she will be in bikinis and comfy clothes. 'She's enjoyed experimenting with maternity style and sustainable ways to be comfortable while staying true to her usual style – renting and buying pre-loved items.' Vick announced earlier this week that it was her final Going Home show with co-host Jamie Laing, as she headed on maternity leave. Flaunting her bump in a blue dress, she posted: 'Thank you for the love and the laughs these last few months Jamie, all the team and our amazing listeners.' DUA ON POINT IN SILVER DUA LIPA gives a shining example of how to wow an audience by flaunting her figure in a cool silver corset. The Levitating hitmaker kicked off the French leg of her Radical Optimism Tour at the Paris La Defense Arena in style. 9 9 She also sported a black ensemble and knee-high boots, right, during her set, which included hits Training Season and Be The One. I can't wait to see Dua play London's Wembley Stadium in June. FERGIE SET TO REBUILD BRIDGE FERGIE definitely left her mark on the UK's capital with her 2006 hit London Bridge. Now I can reveal that the Black Eyed Peas singer is gearing up for a musical comeback this year by re-recording the track. 9 A source said: 'Fergie is heading to London next month to remake the song. 'She will be filming with American actress Megan Stalter, who is the star of Netflix's upcoming rom-com Too Much. 'The song is set to form the soundtrack of the ten-part series, which has been created by Lena Dunham.' The London-based rom-com is to hit the streamer in July and will also star White Lotus actor Will Sharpe and Emily Ratajowski. London Bridge peaked at No3 on the UK charts 19 years ago and formed part of Fergie's debut solo studio album, The Dutchess. The American singer last released music in 2022, with six-track EP, Fergie: Celebrating Pride. I can't wait to see her back in the capital. JEREMY CLARKSON has admitted he is 'useless' when it comes to jobs on his Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds. The former Top Gear host spoke as his Prime Video show, Clarkson's Farm, returned for a fourth series. 9 He said: 'I am completely impractical. I can be told 100 times how to attach the top link to whatever I'm putting on the back of a tractor, and still can't get my head around it.'
Daily Mail
24-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Alarming 1000% rise in bug-ridden FAECES detected in some of UK's swimming hotspots - is your favourite pool contaminated?
It's the trendy health kick making a splash in the UK. But some of the UK's most popular wild swimming spots have seen a shocking 1000 per cent rise in potentially life-threatening bacteria, concerning data has revealed. The Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park, London recorded a 1,188 per cent rise in levels of the diarrhoea-causing bug in just a year. The pathogen, which typically also causes a fever, can be spread through contaminated water—with faeces a major source of such contamination. The same open water swimming spot also saw a 1,085 per cent increase in intestinal enterococci in the same year—another types of bacteria found in human faeces. Experts, who warned the pathogens pose 'one of the biggest threats to human health', urged the authorities to test for such viruses more vigorously. The Bathing Mobility Advisory Service (BMAS), who analysed the Environment Agency figures, said there was still much work to do to tackle pollution. The agency tests for harmful bacteria during the official swimming season—May and September. These tests monitor for sources of pollution known to be a risk to bathers' health, specifically E. coli and intestinal enterococci, before each bathing site is given a ranking of excellent, good, sufficient or poor. According to the BMAS analysis, the Serpentine Lido—rated sufficient by the Environment Agency—logged an count of 580 in 2024, up on the 45 in 2023. North London's Hampstead Heath mixed pond, meanwhile, recorded an count of 310 in 2024, a 230 per cent increase on the 100 in 2023. The men's pond followed with a rise of 24.65 per cent over the same time period. By contrast, the ladies pond saw a drop of 34 per cent, from 350 to 230. In the majority of cases symptoms fade naturally within days. However, for vulnerable populations, the infection can get into the blood and travel to the organs, causing catastrophic damage. A handful of Brits die from complications of an infection every year. Large amounts of rain water can cause an increase in the presence of bacteria such as E. Coli because of the UK's water laws. But it can be spread by touching infected animals or their faeces directly, as well as coming into direct contact with infected people's waste. BMAS analysis also found intestinal enterococci levels at The Serpentine Lido rose 1,085 per cent between 2023 and 2024, up 27 to 320. Hampstead Heath ladies pond, meanwhile, recorded a 25 per cent rise over the same time period from 8 to 230. The men's and mixed ponds, however, logged drops of 33 and 75 per cent respectively. Professor Davey Jones, a soil and environmental scientist at Bangor University, urged health authorities to implement more rigorous monitoring of pathogens in water including viruses, which are currently not routinely tested for. 'They're one of the biggest threats to human health,' he said. 'Some pathogens, like 0157, can enter groundwater through agricultural runoff and pose serious health risks, even in small amounts. 'As recreational water use increases, especially in urban settings like London, it's vital we broaden our testing frameworks to include viral contaminants.' Amelia Hornsby from the BMAS, added: 'Water quality is a key indicator of environmental health and public safety. 'Consistently high standards are essential not only for protecting ecosystems, but also for ensuring safe and enjoyable access to our natural waters for local communities and visitors alike.' It comes as fresh figures released last November found dozens of locations along coasts, lakes and rivers in England failed to meet the minimum water quality standard for 2024, meaning they contained disturbingly high levels of faecal matter. It marked a two-fold rise on the number rated 'poor' in just a year and is the highest figure recorded since the current rating system was introduced in 2015. Open water swimming has surged in popularity in recent years. Proponents of the sport claim it helps boost the immune system, speeds up weight loss, improves your mental health and even increases your sex drive. Research has suggested managed cold water exposure can trigger the release of fat-busting hormones, which can help to protect against obesity and heart disease. In 2022, a review of 104 studies looked at the effects of cold water blood circulation, the immune system, inflammation and oxidative stress. Taking a dip in water with temperatures below 20C (68F) was found to activate brown adipose tissue, a type of body fat which burns calories to maintain body temperature. It also increased production of adiponectin, a protein which plays a key role in protecting against insulin resistance, diabetes and other diseases. As well as this, some experts have also said the shock of cold that comes from outdoor swimming can boost levels of dopamine and the release of endorphins — feel-good hormones — in the brain. Some GPs in England actively prescribe cold water swimming on this basis. But no studies have shown that cold water immersion alone boosts mental health.
The Independent
23-05-2025
- Health
- The Independent
The hidden health danger of London's outdoor swimming spots
E. coli levels at London 's Hyde Park Serpentine Lido surged by 1,188.8 per cent between 2023 and 2024, raising concerns about the safety of wild swimming. Hampstead Heath Mixed Ponds also saw a 230 per cent increase in during the same period, which can cause life-threatening infections and severe food poisoning. Despite the increase, the Serpentine Lido received a 'sufficient' rating from the Environment Agency, meeting minimum standards for bathing water. Experts advocate for more comprehensive water testing, including viruses, to ensure public safety. The increased popularity of wild swimming since the pandemic has highlighted concerns about water quality and the need for stricter monitoring.
