Natural Water Lido to Open at Eden Dock

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01 September 2025 | Updated 02 September 2025

A 50m long natural water lido will be the latest addition to the landmark regeneration of Eden Dock.

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A planning application for Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will be submitted to the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. Canary Wharf Group proposes a new health and wellbeing destination with a natural water lido, saunas, a community clubhouse and food and beverage offerings with courtyard seating. There will also be 54 cycle spaces, floating plant beds, solar panels, and a no single-use plastic policy.

The site, in a small dock inlet where Eden Dock (formerly Middle Dock) expands northward, has been allocated for a future waterfront residential development, but Canary Wharf Group will submit a planning application for a temporary change of use. 

If approved, the facility will be delivered and operated by Sea Lanes, which opened the UK’s first National Open Water Swimming Centre in 2023. According to the Institute of Swimming, the number of regular open water swimmers in the UK is now an estimated 550,000.

“Natural water, open-air swimming offers proven benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing – from improved circulation and stress reduction to enhanced mood and resilience”, said Pippa Dale, Associate Director Arts & Events at CWG.

“By creating this dedicated swimming destination, we’re bringing these transformative health benefits directly to our community of residents, workers and visitors, making the therapeutic power of swimming accessible year-round in the heart of Canary Wharf.” 

The lido will be fully lifeguarded with six lanes and a fixed depth of 1.3 metres. The site will appear to “float” in the historic Middle Dock, which was reimagined as the waterfront oasis Eden Dock via a partnership between Eden Project and Canary Wharf in 2024. It includes aquatic islands, marine habitats, art installations and water activities.

The water quality in Eden Dock is consistently rated “Excellent” by EU Bathing Standards and is regularly tested by Canary Wharf Group and Love Open Water.

“Sea Lanes Canary Wharf will build on the success of Eden Dock as a unique wellness destination, where access to nature, leisure and world-class amenities are seamlessly integrated,”  said Shobi Khan, CEO at Canary Wharf Group.

The lido could be open by June 2026, subject to planning approvals. 

Picture:a CGI showing the proposed pool and courtyard seating area. Image Credit: Canary Wharf Group

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 01 September 2025

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