The hidden lido in London's biggest park branded 'perfect little gem'

With summer right around the corner, temperatures are finally on the rise. And what better way to make the most of the warmer days than to go for a swim while taking in the beautiful views.

Luckily for city dwellers, you don't have to venture far to find a nice spot. Hidden away in London's largest Royal Park is a lido perfect for enjoying an afternoon in the sun.

Only a short walk from Richmond station, Pools on the Park has both an outdoor heated pool and an indoor one, set in a Grade II listed building. Located in the heart of Richmond Park, it also makes a great picnic spot after a swim.

READ MORE: London's best wild swimming, lidos and open water spots for this summer

Built in the 1960s in Old Deer Park, it is surrounded by fragrant, brightly-coloured flowers and lush green lawns. And as it no longer has any deer, it's safe for children to run and play.

The site has a total of three pools: a teaching pool heated to 31C, an outdoor pool heated to 24C and a main indoor pool warmed to 28C. There is also a fitness room, an indoor cycling studio and a class studio.

The venue also offers a range of adult group exercise classes and swimming lessons for all ages and abilities. Swimming bookings cost from £3 for two hours, while gym and class bookings start from £11.

A reviewer on TripAdvisor wrote: "I absolutely loved this outdoor pool, the water was warm and all the staff were friendly and helpful. The pool was divided into three wide lanes and none of the lanes were too busy, and I was impressed with the lockers in the changing room , with compartments for coats shoes etc."

Pools on the Park is located at Old Deer Park, Twickenham Road, Richmond TW9 2SF.