Head down to the Hampstead Heath ponds on a summer’s day and you can expect to see queues at the gate and crowds of people sunbathing and enjoying the water.

As the weather gets colder, fewer people brave the icy waters, and the beloved ponds are quiet and tranquil.

Cold water swimming is all the range at the moment, and the benefits include boosting your metabolism, your immune system, and reducing stress.

Lauren Wagland, 24, started swimming in the ponds because she found it an amazing way to destress.

The fashion talent assistant said: “I began to crave it. When you do it you feel better for the rest of the day.

“The nature around the ponds makes you feel like you’re in a dream universe, and in the winter it feels calmer and more tranquil with fewer people there.”

A woman and a man holding hands as they tread waterA woman and a man holding hands as they tread water (Image: Pixabay)

If you’re convinced to give it a try, don’t dive in too quickly: it is important to be careful when cold water swimming, as it can be dangerous.

1) Bring warm clothes

The thrill of cold water swimming and the mental health benefits quickly subside if you come out and promptly freeze. Come equipped with warm clothing and a hot drink, and you should start to warm up quickly.

Make sure you have towels and a warm change of clothesMake sure you have towels and a warm change of clothes (Image: Pixabay)

Cold water swimming guidelines warn that you shouldn’t warm up too quickly, however, as taking a hot shower or doing vigorous exercise straight after swimming can be dangerous.

2) Don’t push yourself too hard

Don’t expect to be able to swim for long in the chilly water, even if you’re a strong swimmer and comfortable in summer.

“Don’t be afraid to just dip in and out”, Lauren added.

You don't have to be in the water the whole timeYou don't have to spend every moment in the water (Image: Pixabay)

Start off slowly and don’t dive straight in, as the dangers of cold water swimming can include hypothermia, cold shock, and Sudden Immersion Syndrome. Knowing your limits and when to leave the water is key.

3) Do it regularly

Lauren’s advice to others considering swimming during the colder months is to keep to a routine of going every week. She said: “Once you start swimming regularly, you’ll be surprised at how quickly your body acclimatises.”

Build a regular swimming habit and your body will get used to the cold waterBuild a regular swimming habit and your body will get used to the cold water (Image: Pixabay)

The Hampstead mixed pond is open from May to October, while the Highgate men’s and Kenwood ladies ponds are open all year round.

All the ponds have lifeguards and changing facilities.