Lido and outdoor swimming pools in and around west London which are perfect for summer

On a hot summer's day, there is nothing better than splashing about in an outdoor pool.

Whether you fancy relaxing on a sun lounger or taking a swim in a refreshing lake, visiting an alfresco pool is a great day out.

From lidos with cascading fountains to heated pools, take a look at the outdoor options dotted in and around west London.

Things to do this summer with the kids

1. Hillingdon Outdoor Pool

Make a splash at Hillingdon's outdoor pool (Image: TMS)

Formerly known as Uxbridge Lido, the Grade II-listed, 50m, open-air swimming pool was reopened in 2010 as is now one of the best lidos in the country.

The outdoor pool has been restored to its 1930s glory, complete with cascades (fountains) at both ends and a new heated shallow splash pool for children.

The outdoor pool is now open for the season through to the autumn. Opening hours: Monday- Friday 6am- 10pm. Weekends 8am-8pm. Address: Gatting Way, Uxbridge, UB8 1ES.

2. Pools on the Park Richmond

Since 1966, Pools on the Park has provided countless people with one of the most holistic leisure facilities in the area.

Located just a minutes’ walk from Richmond train station, Pools on the Park lido, is a great spot to watch life go by and enjoy a cooling swim on a hot summer’s day.

Richmond Council begun managing the pools in April last year and has invested significantly to improve both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, including introduction of the surround lights to enable evening swimming.

Pools on the Park lido is open during summer months from 6.30am on weekdays and 8am on weekends. Address: Old Deer Park, Twickenham Road, Richmond, TW9 2SF.

3. Tooting Bec Lido

Take a splash at Tooting Bec Lido (Image: The Daily Mirror)

Built in 1906, Tooting Bec Lido is one of Britain’s oldest lidos.

It is also the biggest open-air freshwater pool in the country, measuring 91.44 metres long by 30.18 metres wide.

The alternating bright red, yellow, and green doors of the changing cubicles seen above the turquoise water make the Lido a popular location for filming -Brad Pitt's boxing scene in Snatch was filmed there.

Opening hours: May - August: 6am - 8pm, September: 6am - 5pm.

Address: Tooting Bec Lido, Tooting Bec Road, London, SW16 1RU.

4. Oasis Sports Centre

Kensal Rise teenager Perry Saxon joins The Duke of Cambridge at the lido at Oasis Sports Centre in London's West End (Image: UGC TMS)

Oasis Sports Centre, located in the heart of Covent Garden, is a delightful heated outdoor swimming pool.

The pool is open all year round and is surrounded by patio areas, a sunbathing deck and sauna.

Even Prince William is partial to a swim!

Opening hours: 6.30am-10pm. Address: 32 Endell Street, London, WC2H 9AG.

4. Hampstead Heath Swimming Ponds

Take a dip at Hampstead Heath ponds (Image: Rowan Griffiths)

Hampstead has three different ponds for swimming: one for men, one for women and one mixed.

The Men’s and Ladies’ Ponds are open all year round but to use the Mixed Pond in the winter season you must join the Hampstead Heath Winter Swimming Club.

The ponds can be chilly, even in the summer.

Address: Hampstead Heath, London, NW5 1QR. Open year-round: Men's and Ladies' Ponds 7am-8.30pm summer, winter (Sept-March) times vary; Mixed Ponds 7am-6.30pm daily.

5. Serpentine Lido

The Serpentine Lido and its accompanying paddling pool are great for both adults and children. It is open seven days a week from June 1 to September 12.

Alongside the Serpentine Lido is a café, sun terrace and children's play area. Opening hours: 10am-6pm. Address: Hyde Park, S Carriage Drive, London, W2 2UH.