Growing up near Dartford, I remember that going to Lakeside Shopping Centre was a big deal. Driving over the river meant there was a toll to pay, so as kids we only went to Lakeside for special occasions or to buy something specific. Visiting my parents for the weekend, I took the opportunity to go to Lakeside, this time not to shop, but to swim.
Swim Lakeside offers swimming on the Quay next to Lakeside shopping centre with a 200m straight loop rather than circular making it super easy to sight, and really nice to swim in. The water was surprisingly clear - I’d expected it to be murky as in an urban area, but it didn’t taste of ‘city’ at all.