Access Information for Love Open Water London Royal Docks

Overview

Our open-water swimming venue is set in a  dock surrounded by modern buildings and wide, level pathways. The area is spacious, well-lit, and designed to help swimmers and visitors of all abilities feel comfortable and confident. The main access route follows a broad, flat walkway leading down to the pontoons, which provide direct water access.

Access to the Water

• Approach: The dockside has a level paved surface with low chain barriers marking the edge.
• Ramp: A metal ramp with a gentle slope leads to the floating pontoons, which are covered in artificial turf to provide a non-slip surface.
• Water Entry: The pontoons offer stable access to the water for swimmers. Swimmers can enter and exit the water via ladders. Staff are on hand to assist anyone who may need additional support.
• Lighting: The area is well-lit during early morning and evening sessions, with additional light from surrounding buildings.

Changing Facilities

• There are two mixed-use changing cubicles located off the main cabin area.
• These cubicles are accessed via three steps with a handrail.
• Please note: these changing areas are not step-free, and there are no accessible toilets or changing facilities onsite.

Warm Area and Staff Cabin

• The small office area attached to the cabin is used as a warm space for swimmers in winter months.
• This area is not generally accessible to swimmers unless they are receiving treatment or support from lifeguards.
• Staff are always available to provide assistance or first aid if required.

Toilets

• There are no toilets onsite.
• The nearest toilets are located at the Good Hotel, approximately 400 metres from the venue along the dockside path.
• These facilities are on ground level and can be accessed without steps.

Bag Drop and Storage

• A swimmer bag drop area is provided on a floating pontoon with a roof.
• This area is for swimmers only (“wetside”) and not accessible to the general public.
• Please note that lockers are not available, so swimmers should bring only essential items and use the bag drop for temporary storage.

Additional Support

• Venue staff and lifeguards are available during all swim sessions to assist with entry, exit, and any accessibility needs.
• If you require additional help or have specific accessibility requirements, please contact the venue team before your visit so we can ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable.

	Waterfront Approach: Level dockside with ramp access to the water.
	Entry Area: Ramp and floating pontoons with turf surface and safety railings.
	Dock Course View: Open water with buoys marking swim routes.
	Evening Lighting: Well-lit pontoons suitable for early or late sessions.

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