Canary Wharf will soon be home to a 50-metre-long, 12-metre-wide freshwater lido. From June 19, the recently redeveloped Eden Dock will welcome swimmers to the floating lido, which uses naturally filtered freshwater (no, you’re not actually swimming in the Thames). It comes complete with renewable energy-powered saunas and a clubhouse for post-swim recovery.
To mark the opening, former Olympic swimmer Katy Sexton will lead coaching sessions for swimmers of all abilities, offering Londoners the chance to christen the new lanes under expert guidance.
This is one of many events in Canary Wharf’s second annual Wharf Wellness festival, a month-long programme running from June 2 to 26 comprising run clubs, rooftop Pilates, after-dark sauna sessions and more, that will spill across the Wharf’s parks, rooftops and waterside spaces.
Here are a few you can book:
Swim coaching with an Olympian
Former Olympian Katy Sexton – who became the first British swimmer to win a World Championship title in 2003 – will lead two open-water coaching sessions in the Wharf’s new floating lido. Designed for swimmers looking to improve pacing, positioning and confidence in open water, the sessions offer a rare chance to learn from one of Britain’s most accomplished swimmers – and try out London’s newest lido.
June 25, 5.30pm and 6.30pm.
A 5-kilometre run and an Atis salad for £6.50
Nothing says London wellness culture like a run club and a salad bowl – and in this session, you’ll get both for just £6.50. At this midweek social run starting and ending at the Canary Wharf branch of the ever-popular healthy food brand Atis, participants will tackle a 5-kilometre route around the Wharf at a conversational pace before returning for complimentary bowls of Atis salad.
June 9, 6.15pm.
Pilates by the water
Early starts are easier to justify when they involve Pilates by the water – and Third Space’s intimate mat classes cost just £5 during the festival and take place on the newly redeveloped Eden Dock.
June 10, 17 and 24, 7.30am.
A free Barry’s first-timer class
For the Barry’s-curious but uninitiated, this free class is an introduction to the brand’s treadmill-and-weights formula. Expect pounding music, high-energy intervals and instructors adept at making even the most apprehensive newcomers feel part of the action.
June 13, 3pm.
