Can anyone recommend a place to stay in London that has a pool on site suitable for some serious swimming? I've already found out about the Kensington Close, would like some additional recommendations. Don't know if it's possible, but would really love a place with some charm, though that plus swimming pool may not exist. Thanks in advance.

Try the Marriott County Hall - on the south bank next to the London Eye - it has a swimming pool

I think there was a thread on here within the past year about swimming in London - someone was going to visit with a child who was a competitive swimmer (I think). You might be able to find it with a search. IIRC, there were some clubs recommended.

Well, here's one thread (but it's not the one I was remembering):
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34550558

The Rembrandt Hotel across from the Victoria & Albert museum has the Aquilla Spa which includes a pool. Guests at the hotel can use that facility for a small charge. Check it out here:

http://tinyurl.com/z8rbu

I stayed at the Dolphin Square Hotel/Apts. a few years ago and was impressed with their pool. At the time it was supposed to be the largest in London. They did not have lanes roped off for lap swimmers but there were not too many people in the pool so I was able to pick a lane in the middle and swim without having to dodge others. I'm not sure how long it is - maybe 20 yds. but I know it was a good deal longer than many other hotel pools. Long enough to do a flip turn and still have to stroke to the other side. I think at the time they sold memberships to people who did not stay at the hotel.

Unfortunately, Dolphin Square is no more (the apartment hotel portion, that is - the regular residential flats are still there but not for vacation lets anymore)

Jury's Inn Clifton Ford might be a reasonably affordable option. It's in the West End, a few blocks north (and therefore away from the crowds) of Oxford Street shops, and very close to Soho etc. I used to live in this neighbourhood (upscale but not glitzy) and found it to be a very convenient base for London activities. It's close to a number of tube lines and stops and near a charming small concert hall, Wigmore Hall, that often has Sunday morning coffee concerts (as well as the usual evening events). Check out: http://londonhotels.jurysdoyle.com/cliftonford_london

These are great suggestions. I will look into all of them. Thank you very much!

check out swimmersguide.com. They offer a list of pools, locations, sizes, hours, etc around the world. We use it a lot.

WOW - what a great site. Thanks!

There are some public pools. My DH goes to the Porchester in Queensway. Both have long enough pools with separate lanes. Costs less than a fiver--hard to beat this one!--though you'll need to bring your own towels.