Open Water Swimming at Canary Wharf

Open water swimming returns to Canary Wharf for the summer, in partnership with Love Open Water.

Whether you live or work locally or are just visiting the area, take a dip in the surprisingly crystal-clear waters of Middle Dock. The area is fed by spring water from deep below the city, creating a cool, clean oasis in the heart of the Wharf. Love Open Water, supported by NOWCA (the UK’s largest network of safe open water venues), ensure that the water quality at Canary Wharf is regularly tested and it has consistently exceeded the minimum requirements for bathing standards, meaning it is clean and safe to swim in.

Swimmers need to purchase a NOWCA membership for £15.00 per year, which gives them access to Canary Wharf as well as over 40 other safe open water locations nationwide; it also includes insurance cover for personal injury, premium access to the NOWCA Wild app and access to a wide range of perks. Members can also download the ACTiO app which enables swimmers to book and pay online, check their swim stats, and save emergency contacts and medical information.

Every swimming session has a lifeguard present. Access to the water is from the pontoon next to Humble Grape on Mackenzie Walk. Dedicated facilities are available for swimmers at the base of Cubitt steps, including male and female changing rooms, toilets and a warm-water rinse shower. In October 2024, Eden Dock was opened as a waterfront oasis with interconnected pontoons and aquatic islands. Open Water Swimming is an ideal way to get up close to these gorgeous floating gardens.