Women’s Pond Reflections and Experiences

At the Pond

Recently, I visited a local bookstore in Highgate and stumbled upon a gem—a collection of stories from 14 female writers about the women’s pond in Hampstead and their personal experiences.

For those who aren't familiar, Hampstead Heath has three swimming ponds: one for men, one for women, and a mixed one. These ponds were originally excavated in the 17th century as reservoirs to address water shortages.

My husband and I swam together in the mixed pond during the summer, and he occasionally goes to the men’s pond. It gives you a sense of being far from the city, surrounded by lily pads and ducks, and then—just like that—you’re back home, gazing out at central London from a tower window.

The ponds are open year-round. In the summer, they are lively with half of London enjoying the water and the chatter all around. However, in winter and autumn, they transform into something truly special. Some people visit to boost their spirits or for a cold-water challenge, while others swim there to remind themselves, “I can do this,” and some have been doing it for decades.

“The pond can support you through crises. It helped me with the death of my parents.”

“This pond holds a lot of tears.”

“I suddenly feel like I have reached a place that is a sacred part of many women’s lives.”

All in all, this book is incredibly inspiring. I find myself at a crossroads: Should I commit to swimming there once a week for a year (to ease into cold water swimming), or will I wait for the next summer?

P.S. Here’s a photo of the mixed pond in August.