Venue and maps
Tooting Bec Lido, Tooting Bec Road, London SW16
The hosts from the first ever championships to be held outside Finland will be the South London Swimming Club (SLSC) - one of London's oldest outdoor swimming clubs and proud resident of Tooting Bec Lido. Tooting Bec Lido is the UK's largest swimming pool - a staggering 91m by 30m, filled with 4 million litres of cold water.
Opened in July 1906, Tooting Bec Lido nestles amongst the trees at the South Eastern end of Tooting Common. In summer, thousands come to sunbathe and cool off. In winter, the pool has a different side. Many people describe it as a peaceful haven and come simply to relax in its special atmosphere.
The best way of getting to the Lido is on foot, by bike or by public transport as parking space for cars during the Championships will be limited.
Streetmap link
Google maps link
FREE Shuttle bus
There is a WWSC dedicated bus running to and from the Lido from
Tooting Bec underground station and from Streatham railway station
(see map).
When you arrive look out for the Routemaster bus. The bus will have "Private Hire"
on the front, with WWSC posters prominently displayed
in the windows.
By foot
Take one of the many footpaths across Tooting Common – print off the map
below to see the Lido’s exact location.
By bike
There are bike stands just inside the Lido fence, although competitors and
spectators will need to arrive early to ensure they get a space.
By tube and bus
Take the Northern Line tube to Tooting Bec. At Tooting Bec tube station,
take the free shuttle bus to the Lido (see map) or take the 249 or
the 319 bus – there is a stop right outside Tooting Bec Lido.
By Train
Take the Southern trains service to Streatham Hill or Balham overground station
or take the Thameslink to Streatham station.
From Streatham Hill, take the 319 towards Sloane Square and alight at Tooting Bec
Lido. From Balham, take the 155 or 355 and alight in Garrad’s Road or the 249 and
alight at Tooting Bec Lido. From Streatham take the free Routemaster shuttle bus
to the Lido (see map).
Alternatively take the 249 towards Balham and alight at Tooting Bec Lido
The 2008 Winter Swimming Championships have been awarded to SLSC by the International Winter Swimming Association. The event has not been sanctioned, or is otherwise endorsed in any way, by either the Amateur Swimming Association or FINA.
