This is almost unheard of - wall to wall sunshine, temperatures topping 30 degrees and no end in sight (yet!)

I checked the forecast again this morning thinking "I'm sure it'll be over by the weekend" but it looks like it's heading for more of the same.

Now I'm not complaining - far from it. After what seemed like 2 years of grey, damp and generally disappointing weather, I promised myself that should we see any decent weather this summer, not a murmur of a complaint would pass my lips.

But cooling down is key when it's so hot, it's the only way to keep sane! And what better way to do it than with a dip in a refreshing pool!

Unfortunately, within Bromley itself, outdoor options are a little scarce, so if you're after an alfresco dip, then you do need to cast your net just a little wider. So be prepared for a day out - and make the most of it. Pack up the picnic, the swimmers & towels, head out for the day and enjoy yourself.

You don't need to travel too far for some outdoor swimming locations, they're really only 5-6 miles away. I'd suggest making the most of it by heading out early to reserve your spot.

The favourites are;

Brockwell Lido in Lambeth is a short 6 miles from Bromley and is endearingly known as Brixton’s Beach. A much-loved local landmark since 1937, Brockwell Lido is nestled in the corner of Brockwell Park, surrounded by a superb Grade II listed art deco building boasts a heated Olympic size 50 metre pool.

Charlton Lido in Shooters Hill is a little further afield at 7 miles away and is a cracking venue, especially after its £2 million refurbishment.

This 50-metre heated outdoor pool in south east London was reopened to the public in March this year and is more popular than ever. It is currently open until 8pm on weekday evenings - excellent news if you fancy having a swim after work.

Belvedere Splash Park in Belvedere may not be a swimming pool but is the largest free access public wet play park in the UK. Great entertainment for the children who can paddle in a lagoon surrounding a desert island. The safety surfaced beach is fully equipped with bubble jets, water sprinklers, showers and sprays - truly a fabulous and fun way to entertain the young ones and keep them cool.

Even when the weather does eventually cool down (an inevitability we can be quite certain of!) there are still some fantastic options that make great days out for all the family during the summer holidays.

Right on our doorstep is West Wickham Leisure Centre. Here we have a varied swimming programme including Kids' Splash, aquafit and Swim Zone. There are also diving facilities with a 1m springboard!

Wet n Wild at Waterfront Leisure Centre in Woolwich boasts a leisure pool has a 65m snake slide, wave machine, waterfall, volcano, water jets and five lane waterslide! There are several pool features with family changing, plus a spa on the pool side.

So make sure you take advantage of the excellent swimming facilities right on your doorstep this summer!