The Ponds feature film can now be viewed on NETFLIX (UK and Europe).

It played to sold out cinemas across the UK with over 150 screenings across 56 sites.

The BBC also commissioning a one hour version of the film titled ‘Swimming through the Seasons’.

It was also nominated for a Screen Award and a National Film Award.

"Full of uncomplicated happiness" ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ – The Guardian

"Graceful and cinematic" ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ – Filmuforia

"A joy to watch" – Outdoor Swimmer

In a world of constant flux and chaos, it is almost a shock to discover some experiences remain natural, unhurried and unchanged. In the middle of London lies Hampstead Heath, 320 hectares of forest, parkland and wildlife plus three swimming ponds. People swim in them all year round, whatever the weather, just as they did in the time of Keats and Constable. Capturing the beauty of the English seasons, Samuel Smith and Patrick McLennan filmed the swimmers over 12 months as they laughed, sang, complained, ruminated, philosophised or simply sought respite from all that life threw at them. The Ponds is the resultant feature documentary.

PRESS

The Guardian review (Peter Bradshaw)

Deep dive into Hampstead Heath's swimming culture ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Filmuforia review

The Ponds ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

'Every Film' review

The Ponds 7/10

Outdoor Swimmer magazine review

The Ponds - A delightful film packed full of swimmers' humour

London's Evening Standard

The swimmers who bathe at Hampstead Ponds whatever the weather

Cineuropa

Indie documentary The Ponds becomes an unexpected hit

Close-Up Culture

This 'Angel Delight' of a documentary ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Outdoor Swimmer feature article

The living water of Hampstead Heath