Tooting Bec Lido, the UK’s largest freshwater swimming pool, turned 120 this week, marking more than a century as one of London’s most iconic lidos.
Originally opened on July 28 1906 as the “Tooting Bathing Lake” it was initially founded to serve as a communal bath at a time when most local homes had no private bathrooms.
The project to build the 90m pool was supported by 400 men from the local area, part of a work scheme for the unemployed.
The lido’s early years reflected a very different era. Segregation of the sexes was strictly enforced, with women and girls confined to just one morning of access per week. The pool was modernised in the 1930s, when mixed bathing was introduced and it gained the “Lido” name it’s still known by today, along with a new fountain and cafe.
“What makes Tooting Bec Lido so special is the sense of community it fosters,” said Karen Wells, General Manager at Places Leisure. “It is much more than a swimming facility, it’s a valued local landmark that brings people together across generations.”
The lido, based in the borough of Wandsworth, today holds one million gallons of unheated water and welcomes up to 3,300 visitors a day during peak summer months. Its distinctive look, with rows of red, yellow and green changing cubicle doors set against turquoise water, has also made it a magnet for film and photo shoots. It’s perhaps best known for hosting Brad Pitt’s boxing “pool” scene in Guy Ritchie’s 2000 cult classic Snatch.
Weeks after the Lido opened the South London Swimming Club was founded, making it one England’s oldest swimming clubs.
Fast forward 120 years and club members still swim there every day even during the winter months when they run events like the UK Cold Water Simming Championships. For the rest of the public the pool is only open from April to September.
Matthew Eady, Director of Culture and Leisure at Wandsworth Council, said: “Tooting Bec Lido is one of Wandsworth’s most iconic landmarks and a much-loved part of local life. For 120 years, it has brought people together to swim, relax and make memories. This milestone is a chance to celebrate its remarkable history and the generations of residents and visitors who have enjoyed this special place.”
Featured Image Credit: London Metropolitan Archives
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