Is there a shallow area for toddlers and young children?

Yes. The leisure pool includes shallower areas suited to younger and less confident swimmers, and the water temperature is warmer than the main competition pool.

Do we need to book in advance?

Yes, booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially for weekend family sessions. You can book online through the centre's website. Walk-ups may be turned away if sessions are full.

Is the London Aquatics Centre easy to get to by public transport?

Very easy. Stratford station (served by the Tube, Overground, DLR, and Elizabeth line) is about a 10-minute walk. The centre is clearly signposted from the station.

London Aquatics Centre

Name: London Aquatics Centre
Address: London, UK, US
Telephone: 020 8536 3150
Rating: 4

Rating

4.0(1,627)

Family of 4

USD 40-65 for a family swim session

Duration

1.5-2.5 hours

Best Ages

All ages

About

London Aquatics Centre is one of the most architecturally stunning public swimming facilities in the country, and families lucky enough to visit get to swim in genuine Olympic heritage. Designed by the late Zaha Hadid for the 2012 Games, the undulating roof and soaring interior create an atmosphere that feels a world away from a standard local pool.

The centre operates public swimming sessions across its competition pool, training pool, and a dedicated leisure pool with features suited to younger swimmers. Family sessions are well-structured, with lifeguards positioned throughout and clearly marked depth indicators that help parents keep tabs on children at different swimming abilities.

Toddlers and infants can enjoy the warmer, shallower leisure pool, while confident swimmers can stretch out in the 50-metre competition pool lanes. Older kids and teens often gravitate to the diving platforms during appropriate sessions — a genuine thrill for those who want to try something new.

The changing facilities are modern, spacious, and well-maintained with family changing cubicles available. The centre is run by the London Legacy Development Corporation and is committed to keeping public access affordable. Membership options are available for local families who want to swim regularly.

East London's Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park surrounds the centre, so a swim session pairs nicely with a walk through the park, a visit to the playground, or a stop at one of the many cafes and food vendors in the area.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

true

Kid Meals

Cafe on site with snacks and drinks

Setting

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings for quieter lanes and more relaxed family sessions

Wait Times

Minimal — timed entry sessions

Nearby Food

On-site cafe; Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park has multiple cafes, food kiosks, and the Westfield Stratford City mall is a 10-minute walk away

Why Kids Love It

Swimming in the same pool that Olympic champions trained in gives kids an instant confidence boost and makes the whole experience feel special. The wave pool and leisure water area add splashy fun beyond the serious lanes. The iconic Zaha Hadid building is dramatic and exciting even before you get in the water.

Pro Tips from Parents

Family swim sessions fill up quickly on weekends — book at least a week ahead through the centre's online portal.
Bring your own towels; rental towels are available but add to the cost.
Pair the swim with a walk through Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park right next door for a full day out.