As a general rule filming and photography are not allowed at the Ladies’ Pond. However, from time to time we and the City of London do give permission for photographers and film-makers to work at the pond. The videos in this gallery were shot with permission at the Ladies’ Pond and other ponds on Hampstead Heath, while the photographs used throughout this website are reproduced by kind permission of Sarah Saunders.
The KLPA’s archive is now held by the Bishopsgate Institute and a gallery of images from the archive can be viewed here.
SWIM FOR VICTORY
To get a sense of the history of the Corporation of the City of London’s past dealings with Heath swimmers, we recommend watching City Swimmers, a film directed by swimmer and KLPA life member Margaret Dickinson. As well as celebrating wild swimming, the film shows how in 2004-2005 the City attempted to close the Mixed Pond and introduce charges at the other two swimming ponds. A vigorous campaign by swimmers succeeded in keeping all the ponds open but, in spite of opposition, the Corporation did introduce charges in 2005, with assurances that they would remain modest and be lightly enforced.
In March 2020, the unprecedented decision of City management to disregard the recommendation of its own advisory committee and introduce strictly enforced charges at double the previous rate launched a new era of controversy and protest. A summary of the background can be read here.
KLPA members will be kept up-to-date with the campaign to oppose the Corporation’s new regime, if you are not already a member please join us.
Below you will find films that reflect the joy of the ponds in happier times and represent the traditions we aim to protect.
You may also be interested in the Lockdown Gallery showcasing a variety of creative contributions from KLPA members inspired by their experiences during 2020’s Covid-19 lockdown.
The KLPA Archive, including photographs of the pond and swimmers over time and other visual materials, is now housed at the Bishopsgate Institute.