The United Kingdom, in general, is not well equipped with outdoor swimming pools, with swimmers usually preferring to take a dip in the much ‘safer’ indoor pools, which Britain has in abundance.

London however, being often blessed with considerably better weather than the rest of the country and being the capital, is home to several outdoor pools, or ‘lidos’ as they are often known as.

So if you are yearning for some outdoor water fun, grab your swimmers and head on down to your nearest lido – here are three of the best London lidos.

Brockwell Lido

Known locally as ‘Brixton’s Beach’, Brockwell Lido, nestled snugly in the corner of Brockwell Park, has been at the heart of the community since it was opened in 1937.

The outdoor swimming pool is open until October 2011 and its relaxed atmosphere and strong community spirit makes Brockwell Lido a great family day out or for relaxing and topping up that suntan.

Tickets cost £5.35 for adults and £2.10 for children.

Tooting Bec Lido

Tooting Bec Lido is the biggest open air swimming pool in Europe, which features a giant 90 metre pool and a children’s paddling area. Visitors can lounge by the water, and take in the picturesque and historical surroundings of tooting Bec Common. There is a café at the pool meaning that you don’t have to travel far for refreshments.

Brad Pitt’s famous boxing ‘pool’ scene in the film Snatch was even filmed at Tooting Bec Lido, so you never know; you may even bump into Brad Pitt there!

Tooting Bec Lido is open until 30 September 2011.

Serpentine Lido

Open until 12 September 2011, the Serpentine Lido at Hyde Park, provides one of the best places to swim and sunbath in London, taking you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Its 110 yard outdoor pool caters for all levels of swimmers, and with an attached paddling pool and children’s playground, Serpentine Lido is a fantastic day out for all the family.

With plenty of loungers available for sunbathing and enjoying the tranquillity and greenery of Hyde Park, Serpentine Lido is the perfect place to start your tan before your holiday.