A swimming pool is one of those extra features which turn a good hotel experience into an amazing one. It’s a way to unwind after a day in the city, keep on schedule with fitness plans or an opportunity for parents to splash around with the kids. However not all indoor pools are created equal, and last thing you want is to show up and find a lacklustre pool with peeling paint.
While it’s not immediately apparent to all visitors, London is a haven for a wide range of pool designs. The city is home to the highest pool in Western Europe, as well as a number of pools which are family-friendly or boast chlorine free solutions – perfect for guests with medical sensitivities. More importantly these amazing indoor pools aren’t just limited to 5-star hotels.
Read on to discover our list of London’s best indoor pools guaranteed to make your stay one to remember.
Luxury Swimming Pool
Bulgari Hotel
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Sporting one of the longest indoor pools in London, the Bulgari’s private 25-metre swimming pool is reminiscent of the great Roman bath houses. Clad in textured Vicenza – a signature of great Italian architecture – and surrounded by loungers and cabanas, guests can enjoy an atmospheric swim in this signature indoor pool.
The Bulgari Spa is regarded by many to be the hotel’s crowning glory. Offering some of the most advanced beauty and health-enhancing treatments available, guests can indulge in a 24-carat gold anti-aging facial or even try Gwyneth Paltrow’s favourite therapy, glass cupping.
The Superior Rooms are located on the hotel’s higher floors and feature a comfortable king-size bed, an intimate seating and working area and a large bathroom. Offering unparalleled luxury, The Bulgari Suites are some of the world’s most sumptuous and exclusive hotel rooms. Guests who book a stay in one of the suites can expect to enjoy two bedrooms, a master bathroom, a contemporary kitchen with all the latest appliances, plush furnishings and a spacious dining room that accommodates 10 guests.
Pool Bar
Haymarket Hotel
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Described as more of a bar than spa, The Haymarket’s spacious pool area is fitted with a pewter bar and covered in hundreds of fibre-optic lights – making for an atmospheric ambience. The chic indoor pool is 18-metres in length and is the ideal spot for evening swims accompanied with a delicious cocktail.
The Soholistic Gym & Beauty salon offers a full range of beauty and body therapies and there’s even the option for guests to have their treatments in-room. The spa’s specialist therapies include reflexology, deep tissue and a mum-to-be massages, as well as serene aromatherapy facials – we highly recommend the indulgent Champagne and Truffle Facial.
Thanks to the colourful design, the hotel feels full of personality and character. Guests are sure to feel right at home here, whether it’s drinking morning coffee in the conservatory or lounging in one of the Superior Rooms.
Underground Pool
The Langham
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Nestled beneath the luxurious Langham hotel, you’ll find an opulent swimming pool which, in a previous incarnation, used to be a large bank vault. The pool is 16-metres in length and offers visitors the chance to relax in cosy, yet stylish surroundings. Now guests can deposit themselves in the pool’s turquoise waters and withdraw refreshed, reinvigorated and ready for the world.
Besides its unique indoor pool, The Langham boasts Europe’s first Chuan Spa. The spa’s philosophy is steeped in the values of traditional Chinese medicine and boasts an array of healing therapies such as, acupuncture, Ho Guan (cupping) and moxibustion.
The hotel’s range of suites and rooms offer an elegant combination of classic luxury and contemporary style. The Grand Langham Club Room in particular, is a well-appointed bedroom with a charming interior design, which features elegant soft furnishings, a king-size bed and a marble bathroom. Guests who book a night in the Grand Langham Club Room are entitled to complimentary access to the hotel’s exclusive Langham Club, where they can enjoy fine dining and butler services.
Deepest Pool
Le Méridien Piccadily
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Le Méridien Piccadily is not just an amazing luxury hotel, it’s also a record-breaker. Unbeknownst to many, the hotel boasts one of the deepest indoor swimming pools in London. The pool is over two metres deep and is found in the hotel’s lower ground floor. The swimming pool’s décor is reminiscent of classical antiquity, with its columns and marble, making it an unexpected space in the heart of London.
The Piccadilly Health Club, ensures no guests will have to forget their exercise regime, with their state-of-the-art gym and exercise equipment. If you’re in need of some motivation, there’s even a team of personal trainers on hand to whip you into shape. A variety of spa treatments and therapies are also available, including holistic massages, reflexology and facials.
The hotel’s rooms are tastefully decorated and come with all the modern comforts one would expect from a five-star hotel. The Classic Rooms invite you to stay in relaxing surrounds and are fitted with a 32-inch flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi and complimentary soft bathrobes.
Highest Above Ground Pool
Shangri-La Hotel
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Found on 52nd floor of The Shard, The Shangri-La boasts the highest indoor swimming pool in Western Europe. The Infinity Skypool offers a tranquil escape for guests, as well as breathtaking views over St. Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye and Westminster. The 11 x 4 metre heated pool is the ideal place to watch the sun rise, whilst enjoying your morning swim.
Shangri-La hotels are renowned for their luxury interiors and amenities, and Shangri-La at The Shard is no different. Each of the 202 guestrooms feature sumptuous soft furnishings, a body-contouring Shangri-La Bed and exclusive Acqua Di Parma lotions. All rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer amazing views over London’s cityscape.
If swimming in the highest pool in Europe isn’t enough, why not sip champagne in London’s highest bar? GŎNG offers all the allure of the orient in a modern Asian-inspired bar. The venue’s Asian design was inspired by the mythical aspect of Cinnabar – a mineral that has been used historically to create the ‘dragon red’ found in the walls of Chinese Imperial Palaces.
Rooftop Pool
The Berkeley
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High on the 7th floor of The Berkeley, beyond the green leaves and scented blooms of the hotel’s secret garden, is one of London’s rare rooftop pools. Beautifully tiled in white and gold mosaics, the pool sits beneath a retractable roof, which is opened when the British weather allows.
The Bamford Haybarn Spa, located within The Berkeley Health Club and Spa, offers many relaxing day retreats and holistic treatments. Guests can book in for a range of therapies like the Bamford Deep Tissue Massage or the Bamford Jade Hot and Cold Stone Treatment, however we thoroughly recommend an OSKIA Facial. The luxurious facial uses an exceptional mineral source called MSM – a natural form of organic Sulphur – to boost collagen, detoxify cells, decrease inflammation and promote even skin tone. Fans will leave with gloriously healthy and happy skin.
The hotel’s rooms and suites are individually designed and offer a chic yet sophisticated feel. The Superior King Room is both spacious and light, and is the ideal place to unwind in after a long day exploring London.
UV Swimming Pool
Connaught
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For those who suffer from sensitive skin or asthma, finding a chlorine-free swimming pool can be a nightmare but London’s Connaught hotel is here to help. The hotel’s 60-square metre swimming pool is ionised with a natural ionic solution using a UV system that is both environmentally friendly and safe.
The Connaught’s Aman Spa is known for its individually-tailored treatments, tranquil atmosphere and professional staff. Visitors can indulge in a range of therapies, including traditional Chinese acupuncture, holistic massage and the Aman signature facial.
After your day in the spa, guests can retreat to their peaceful rooms, where they can relax in luxury surroundings. All rooms feature bespoke modern furniture, elegant soft furnishings and are equipped with comfortable beds, which are all dressed in luxury Italian linen and cashmere throws – guaranteeing a good night’s sleep.
Ozone Pool
The Landmark
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Boasting one of the capital’s few chlorine-free ozone indoor pools, The Landmark’s pool is a cosy serene retreat from which to escape the stresses of city living. Measuring 15 metres in length, the heated swimming pool is ideal for anyone who suffers from allergies or has delicate skin. The hotel’s Spa and Health Club also comes equipped with a Jacuzzi, aromatherapy experience showers, steam rooms and sauna.
The hotel’s spa specialises in anti-aging treatments and facials. One of the most innovative therapies is the Clinical PHA & AHA Facial Peel, which aims to achieve the reduction of wrinkles, pigmentation and broken capillaries by boosting anti-oxidants and skin-renewal.
For anyone look to shed those last stubborn pounds, why not check out the spa’s Lipo Reduction or Shape and Lift treatments? The Lipo Reduction treatment uses radio frequency alongside vacuum therapy to help breakdown accumulated fat cells.
Resistance Pool
The Milestone Hotel
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A hotel for the discerning, The Milestone features a resistance pool as part of its modern and luxurious spa. The pool has a flow of current running through the water which creates a resistance for the swimmer to push against, toning the muscles and allowing for slightly more of a workout. It’s also great for therapeutic purposes for those looking to ease stiff joints or move at a slower pace.
The hotel is an excellent choice for those looking to keep up their fitness regime throughout their stay. The fully equipped gym features modern cardio-vascular technology, en-suite changing rooms, plus post-workout fruit and water. To make the most of your work-out book a session with Andy Elliott, a former professional athlete who has teamed up with The Milestone to offer tailored training sessions to improve your fitness and overall well-being.
The hotel is located very close to Kensington Gardens, The Serpentine boating lake and Hyde Park – perfect for a day out with a picnic or for young children to enjoy the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. The hotel is also within easy reach of many of London’s top attractions, including many shops and restaurants such as Harrods or Nobu.
Lap Pool
Jumeirah Carlton Tower
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If a pool really takes your hotel to the next level, then the bigger the better! The pool at London’s Jumeirah Carlton Tower is the kind of hotel pool you can do laps in and get a real work-out whilst soaking in the calm and relaxing atmosphere. The pool is located on the 9th floor and is housed beneath a glass ceiling, which allows you to feel like you’re swimming amongst the clouds. From the pool, guests have easy access to the rest of the spa’s facilities and a comfortable seating area.
The Health Club is one of the premier health and beauty centres in London, offering anything from HydraFacial’s to rejuvenating body wraps. A Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room are available to help you unwind and make the most of your time at the spa.
In the heart of Knightsbridge, London’s most exclusive neighbourhood home to Harrods, Harvey Nichols, close to Hyde Park and within easy access of London’s top attractions. Treat yourself to an Executive Suite or even the superbly luxurious Royal Suite to enjoy panoramic views of London’s iconic skyline.
Underwater Music and Chlorine Free
One Aldwych
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Nestled in the heart of the One Aldwych Health Club, is the inviting chlorine-free swimming pool. Slip into the soft waters and feel a million miles from the hustle and bustle of the city outside. The deep-blue pool is lit with soft mood lighting and uses a state-of-the-art relaxing underwater music system to create the ultimate chill-out vibe.
The 18-metre pool is cleaned using a mineral-based cleansing system, a healthy alternative to the harsh chemicals of chlorine pools that dry out the skin and eyes. The pool area also features a steam and sauna room to detoxify the skin and once you are feeling utterly relaxed you can enjoy the pool-side lounge area with fresh fruit and daily newspapers.
The well-equipped spa offers a range of treatments from facials to scrubs, wraps and full body massages, using the finest skincare products from British brand OSKIA. Be sure to check the hotel’s offers page for spa deals and discounts.
One Aldwych sits in the centre of Covent Garden, a bustling shopping marketplace full of exciting restaurants, and London’s world famous opera house. A two minute walk from The Strand – home to many West End theatres, and a ten minute walk from Leicester Square, there can be no better location for a London city-break.
Heated Swimming Pool
Novotel London Brentford
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Located in West London amongst the leafy and historic neighbourhood of Richmond, the Novotel is just a few minutes’ drive from the idyllic Kew Gardens and Twickenham Stadium. The indoor heated-pool is open all day, along with the sauna and gym and is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing and shopping in town.
The pool is under-water themed and is surrounded by screen projections of tropical fish in their natural habitat, which will make you feel a million miles away from the on-the-go city lifestyle. If you’re feeling energetic the hotel also offers access to a nearby 18-hole golf course – ideal for practising your swing.
Novotel is designed to meet the needs of every guest that walks through the doors, wherever you are in the world and whatever your needs. Head to the hotel’s Social Hub, where guests can enjoy the stylish surroundings and sample a drink or a tasty meal – perfect to fuel your time in the city.
Swimming Pool For Kids
Marriott Hotel County Hall
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The Club at County Hall includes a large indoor swimming pool that channels a tropical vibe, surrounded by palm trees and skylights. The pool is family friendly and open to children from 9am to 7pm – making it one of the most child-friendly hotel pools in London – whilst early mornings and evenings are reserved for adult-only swims. There is also a sauna offering you the chance to relax and enjoy the cleansing heat.
The hotel offers complimentary fitness classes and the on-hand personal trainer is there to direct you in your workout, in order to get the best of your time there. If you’re looking specifically for strength training then CrossFit, functional training and power-plates are also on offer.
The hotel has a rich history and its prime location in Westminster offers panoramic views of the London Eye, Big Ben, and London’s stunning cityscape. For families visiting London the hotel is in walking distance of the multiple attractions on the Southbank, alongside the museums and galleries located in Trafalgar and Leicester Squares.
Public Pool
Pestana Hotel
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Voted one of the best spas in London, the pool at the Pestana Hotel is an oasis of calm with soft lighting and a relaxed seating area. The pool accompanies the spa which includes a state of the art sauna, steam room and beauty treatment room. The spa has also been featured on the popular TV series Made in Chelsea, and is definitely a great place to relax amongst friends.
The pool is open to non-hotel guests for a small fee, so you can bring a couple of your friends to enjoy the exclusive atmosphere.
Located just a few steps from the iconic Chelsea Bridge, the Pestana is the perfect hotel for those looking to enjoy the highlights of West London. In particular the green parks, ample shopping along The King’s Road and Knightsbridge, the exclusive restaurants of Sloane Square, as well as the incredible museums such as the Natural History Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum – both of which offer free entry for all.
In need of a holiday that involves a rooftop pool? Look no further. Check out these hot rooftop pools.
Or if a day in a London spa takes your fancy, read our guide to London’s top luxury spa hotels.
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