It's a unique corner of London that hasn't changed for decades. Now a new film has been made about what makes Hampstead pond so special. Report by Thomas Magill.
When I go to London (from NY) my first priority is to swim in the men’s pond. I’ve not been in the super-cold months (yet), and am sure I couldn’t plunge if I did; one needs to work up to this day by day. But every single swim I’ve done, down to 13°C has been bliss. I know of no phenomenon quite like this anywhere else on earth. A city like London, with all its art, culture and charm, possessing also a bucolic setting like the Hampstead Ponds. Heaven. Also-while I am solo when I visit the pond, I’ve noticed they are a deeply social place. This adds to their magic. Oh, LONDON❤❤❤
Filmed a driving tour around leafy Hampstead earlier this month, it was very therapeutic to say the least. Love the steep roads with sharp twists and turns. Not sure about swimming though!
Dear BBC London, Wow! Lucky! It costs to swim in a lake out in Michigan USA. Water isn't free. 5 lakes here and no free water. Something doesn't stir the Kool Aid here. So I use the bath. Gotta pay for bottled. bathing and any park out here. Sad :( I *love* swimming. Rules apply like a large and heavy dictionary where I reside too. Peace!
Swimming in the Hampstead Bathing Ponds isn't free either. According to the City of London website, it's currently £2 for a single adult pass, £15 for a winter pass, £125 for an annual pass (and half price for concessions), and £222 for an annual pass to the three ponds and the lido nearby. Not cheap. They accept cash and cheque though, which is nice.
