Swimming in one of London's open-air waterways is something many Brits would call absurd. Spooked by fears of dirty water and what lurks beneath the depths, many prefer to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground while enjoying the capital's offerings. However, London's latest swimming pool could change how Brits view open water swimming in the big city forever.
Sea Lanes Canary Wharf: A New Floating Pool
Sea Lanes Canary Wharf has opened a brand new floating pool in the heart of London, offering Brits a stepping stone between traditional pool swimming and open water. Located in Eden Dock, Canary Wharf, the 50-metre, six-lane pool strives to offer a one-of-a-kind swimming experience. The Daily Star sent a reporter to investigate this cutting-edge waterway to see if it could make a splash in how Brits perceive open-air swimming.
First Impressions: A Cityscape Like No Other
Before even dipping toes into the pool, the breath-taking cityscape of Canary Wharf promised a swim like no other. Floating in the heart of London's business hub, the fusion of Canary Wharf's glass jungle and Eden Dock's green natural beauty makes you feel like you have left the UK and landed in an urban oasis. The murky grey streets of London were nowhere to be seen in this East London metropolis. Before the dip, eyes were met with a myriad of beautiful colours from the emerald shrubbery, the bronze wooden walkways, and turquoise water.
Taking the Plunge
Despite not being fond of cold water, initial apprehensions were stomached, and the plunge was taken. The water was far from warm, but after the initial cold shock, it was refreshing, rejuvenating, and revitalising. Any fears about the water not being clean enough were quickly cast away upon feeling how fresh and crisp the pool was. After plunging into the deep, a couple of laps were taken, and despite waning swimming skills, it was one of the best swims in years. However, the swim was limited by a lack of cardio, leaving the reporter gasping for air after a mere 15 minutes.
Facilities and Water Quality
The swimming site comes accompanied by a medley of other facilities, including two saunas powered by 100% renewable energy, a vibrant bar, and a clubhouse perfect for hosting community events all year round. The Canary Wharf Group prides itself on the impeccable water quality of Eden Dock, the body of water in which the open-air pool is located. Eden Dock is independent from the River Thames and is not actually connected to the London river. The waterway has its water filtered constantly, helping the oasis consistently earn an 'excellent' rating under the EU Bathing Water Standard.
History of Eden Dock
The former dockland, where the swimming lanes are located, has a long history. Eden Dock was formerly called a 'Middle Dock' and was used to export sugar, rum, and tobacco during the 19th century. However, the dockland was completely closed from the Thames after its stint of use during the colonial period. Now, the dock has been transformed into a nature-focused public waterfront and floating park in a collaboration between the Canary Wharf Group (CWG) and the minds behind the Eden Project.
Grand Opening and Future Plans
Brits can enjoy Sea Lanes' watery wonderland on Friday, June 19, to mark the venue's grand opening. CWG is urging swimmers to jump into the deep and enjoy the marvellous attraction. During the venue's opening ceremony, Mete Coban, Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, joined Sea Lanes and the CWG for the momentous new addition to London. He said: 'Sea Lanes Canary Wharf provides a fantastic new open swimming opportunity for Londoners and visitors in the heart of our city. The Mayor and I are committed to transforming London's waterways – cleaning them up, improving biodiversity, and opening up more blue spaces for Londoners to relax, walk and swim in safely.'
Commitment to Clean Waterways
Sea Lanes' recent addition to the east London business hub is part of the CWG's ongoing efforts to transform Eden Dock and the surrounding areas to create better harmony with natural areas in the heart of the city. CWG has also signed the global Swimmable Cities Charter, showing their commitment to providing Brits with clean, open-air waterways. There is yet to come for the open-air waterways as non-lane open water swimming, paddleboarding, freediving, surf-fit sessions, and winter scuba diving are all planned to be introduced to the former London dock.
For water-lovers of all skills, backgrounds, ages, and abilities looking for an incredible experience in the water, Sea Lanes Canary Wharf offers a swimming experience like no other.
