Public fountains in London
Where to cool off when the weather heats up
The Appearing Rooms - © Scott Wishart
Where can you paddle in a public fountain in London? Cool off with our guide to Zone 1's most sploshable water features.
Are there any we've missed? Tell us about your favourite fountains in the comments below.
-
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain
London, W2 2UHLocated in Kensington Gardens near the ever-popular Diana Playground, the fountain takes the form of a shallow stone ring of trickling water that's perfect for paddling.
-
Edmond J Safra Fountain Court at Somerset House
The Strand, London, WC2R 1LAChildren never tire of running through the choreographed fountains which erupt at Somerset House from spring to autumn.
-
Trafalgar Square Fountains
London, WC2N 5DNTrafalgar Square is the heart of London, and the famous fountains have been in situ since 1845.
-
John Madjeski Garden Fountains
Cromwell Rd, London, SW7 2RLThe V&A's Italianate courtyard is home to a beautiful lake fringed with water jets.
-
Royal Academy of Arts Fountains
Piccadilly, London, W1J OBDThe nozzles of the courtyard fountain are laid out to match the position of the stars and planets on the night in 1723 when Sir Joshua Reynolds, artist and RA Founding President, was born.
-
The Scoop Fountains
More London Riverside, between London Bridge and Tower Bridge, London, SE1 2DBThe king of alfresco venues, The Scoop amphitheatre has it all: a riverside location, seasonal fountain that delights kids and enough space for 800 picnicking people.
-
Barbican Centre Fountains
Silk St, London, EC2Y 8DSThe lakeside terrace, complete with friendly resident ducks, is a good spot to take a rest from visiting the arts venues within the complex.
-
Hyde Park's Joy of Life Fountain
Serpentine Rd, W2 2UHThe Joy of Life Fountain, next to Aldford Street North Gate, alongside Park Lane, is a popular spot for splashing around in when the weather heats up.
-
Broadgate Fountains
Exchange Place, London, EC2M 2QTBroadgate offers amenities for those working around or travelling through Liverpool Street Station, with calming water features, sculptures, shops and restaurants.
More outdoor London features
- London's best park cafés
- London's best barbecues
- London's best beer gardens
- London's best riverside pubs and bars
- London's best markets
- London’s best farmers' markets
- Lidos and outdoor swimming in London
- Great London walks
- London's major parks
- London gardens
- City farms in London
- Open-air theatre in London
- Public fountains in London
- London's best rooftop drinking
- Top ten car boot sales around London
