While the English weather has earned a reputation of being unpredictable, when summer rolls in temperatures are likely to go very high indeed. Luckily London is blessed with many lakes and pools which are ideal for both swimming and boating. Here are a few such places worth heading to when the heat gets unbearable.

Hyde Park with its Serpentine Lake is one of the most popular spots in London during the hot summer months. Pedal and rowing boats can be hired out, while the Serpentine Lido and its paddle pool are great spots in which to cool off. The sizeable lake at Regent's Park is also ideal for boating and is home to several species of water birds as well.

Another good spot for swimming is Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill Fields which are located a little away from Central London. The 3 natural ponds you will find here are a big attraction so you're sure to have plenty of company during your swim. While there is plenty of room in the ponds, children have to be over 8 in order to swim in them. There is a paddling pool close by at Parliament Hill Fields which is ideal for smaller children.

The Tooting Bec Lido (as seen in the movie "Snatch") is also worth a visit during summer. This huge outdoor London pool is normally open to the public from the end of May until the end of August and has a delightful paddling area equipped with model animals which children will love.

So the next time the heat gets too hot to handle in London, just slip into your swimwear and head to the nearest pool or lake and enjoy the summer weather.