Cool for the summer: open water swimming at Canary Wharf re-opens

Canary Wharf’s popular summer swimming spot has re-opened, welcoming swimmers to cool down as temperatures rise. Open throughout the week, Middle Dock will once again provide a spot for residents, visitors and office workers to take a dip and practise their strokes in the heart of the Wharf.

The initiative is a continued partnership from last year with the Canal and River Trust and established swimming operator Love Open Water. Canary Wharf’s waters offer a safe-to-swim, clean water course of 200m up to 400m, when weather and safety permits. The vibrant and picturesque spot welcomes competent open water swimmers of all levels, from advanced swimmers to those who are at the start of their open water journey.

Supported by NOWCA, the UK’s largest network of safe open water venues, Love Open Water uses their software and systems to safely manage swimmers. The water in Middle Dock is crystal clear and regular testing has shown it is excellent quality, in accordance with EU Bathing Standards. Love Open Water will continue water testing throughout the summer to ensure it is safe to swim. Every session is lifeguarded and can be enjoyed by competent swimmers as young as 10 years old.

To cool off in warm weather, swimmers must purchase a NOWCA membership for £15.00 per year – granting them access to over 40 locations nationwide, insurance cover for personal accident & injury, and lots of discounts from top brands. Members can also benefit from the ACTiO app which allows swimmers to book and pay online, check their swim stats and update medical information. Swims at Canary Wharf cost £8.50 per visit and the free NOWCA Swim events will be hosted regularly for NOWCA members throughout the summer.

Swimmers looking for more information can download the ACTiO app, available on the App store and Google Play, where they can view session times and make a booking.

Lucie Moore, Associate Director Arts+Events at Canary Wharf Group said: “We’re excited to be welcoming back open water swimming to Middle Dock, providing people with the opportunity to swim in an iconic part of London. Last year’s reception to open water swimming was incredible and seeing so many people choose Canary Wharf as a spot for their swim session has allowed us to continue the partnership with Love Open Water and Canal & River Trust.”

Swimming is a welcome addition to the Estate’s huge mix of summer activities including GoBoat, free to play minigolf, ping pong and Summer Screens playing a selection of movies and sporting events. If you’re a fitness fanatic looking to try something different, look no further than the Raise Your Art Rate trail. Enjoy art on-the-go while you admire the sculptures across Canary Wharf by taking a leisurely walk, jog or run.

With over 70 cafés, bars and restaurants, Canary Wharf offers plenty of options to choose from when it’s time to refuel post swim. There’s something to suit everyone’s tastebuds, especially with our new restaurant openings including Blacklock, Dishoom, and Zizzi.

To find out more about swimming at Canary Wharf this summer visit https://canarywharf.com/whats-on/