Dive into Community: Your Weekly Social Swim with Goslings
Looking for a welcoming and inclusive swimming community in London? Look no further than Goslings Swimmers, a long-standing gay men's swim club meeting weekly at the Oasis outdoor pool in Covent Garden.
With over 40 years of history, Goslings offers a relaxed social atmosphere perfect for swimmers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. We're not just a swim group; we're a community.
A Weekly Routine Reimagined
Unfortunately, the Oasis indoor pool is currently closed for repairs, forcing a shift in our Thursday evening swim schedule.
Individual advance bookings are now the norm, using the GLL Better App. While we've missed our dedicated Thursday evening private hire sessions, we're actively pursuing reinstatement and hope for a positive outcome soon. For now, bookings open 5 days in advance via the app, making it simple to secure your spot from Saturday evening.
Bear in mind, that various membership tiers might provide alternative booking options and potentially save you money.
Navigating New Locker Procedures
The Oasis has implemented a new locker system, necessitating a 30p token from a cashless vending machine. This is a temporary adjustment, but a necessary one, for seamless facility management.
More Than Just a Swim: Building Community
One thing remains constant—the warm atmosphere.
Goslings are recognizable for their lively demeanor. While the outdoor pool's popularity does fluctuate throughout the year, especially during the winter, our swim sessions usually attract a solid presence from around 7 PM, and we gravitate towards the nearby Bloomsbury Tavern for post-swim drinks.
This is a fantastic opportunity for friendly chats and community building.
Who We Are, and Who We Welcome
Goslings Swimmers is predominantly made up of gay men, but we welcome everyone. It's a space where individuals of all swimming abilities can socialize and enjoy the camaraderie.
We're not focused on competition; instead, we prioritize the shared love of swimming and the company of our members. While we don't offer swim lessons, we provide a fantastic opportunity for socializing.
Beyond the Oasis: Expanding Horizons
Goslings Swimmers isn't just a London-centric experience.
GOC, the organization encompassing Goslings, has a strong presence in various cities. The flexibility of the individual booking system offers a level playing field that accommodates a variety of needs. This approach enhances the accessibility of the swim sessions for a wider range of individuals and enables the continuation of the social aspect.
The outdoor environment, especially in spring, summer, and early autumn, is fantastic, though we still offer a comfortable, heated pool experience year-round.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Are Goslings Swimmers exclusive?
- A: Absolutely not.
While our membership is predominantly gay men, everyone is welcome.
- Q: Can I join with no experience?
- A: Absolutely! All levels of experience are welcome.
- Q: Is there a cost to join?
- A: Memberships are available through various tiers, providing different benefits and potential discounts depending on your use of the facilities.
Beyond Goslings: A Wider Perspective
Similar clubs exist across the UK, fostering similar communities and providing diverse opportunities for socializing and connection, reflecting the growing recognition of the importance of inclusive spaces in the LGBTQ+ community.
If you're looking for a similar experience, exploring other clubs like Northern Wave in Manchester, or the wider GOC network, could be a great choice.
We welcome new members any Thursday, but advanced bookings are required. To join the fun, simply visit the GLL Better app.
Join us and experience the unique combination of exercise, social connection, and personal development. We look forward to your participation!