Outdoor Open-water Swimming

Outdoor Swimming in the safest, most convenient way possible

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Overcast
11°C
excellent bathing
water quality*
Water Temp: 16.8° C
Sauna Temp: 16.4° C
Wind Speed: 9 mph

Bristol's premier open-water, outdoor, natural swimming destination

West Country Water Park is Based in Bradley Stoke, Winterbourne, North Bristol. The outdoor natural swimming lake is 8 miles from Bristol city centre and 4 miles off the M4 and M5 motor Way junctions.

Grassy green banks, a walking path, beautiful trees and nature surrounds the swimming lake.
The Lake is 200 metres long and 210m wide. The open-water swimming lengths vary throughout the year; in summer, the loop is around 600m, and in winter, reduced to 100m.

Our facilities are world-class. Indoor changing rooms, hot outdoor showers, in and outdoor toilets, Coffee Shop, Sauna and fully trained RLSS Lifeguards are ready to make you feel special. You are special and we won’t let you down.

Opening hours vary depending on the season.

Key Information

Everything to know before you book

  • Participants must be 9 or older to swim on their own
  • Any participants 15 or younger must have an adult with them on site
  • Participants between the ages of 5 and 14 may swim but only with an adult (18+) swimming with them.
  • All Open Water Swimmers must wear a brightly coloured swim cap in addition to either a wetsuit or tow float
  • All Buoyancy Aided Swimmers must wear the buoyancy aids we provide. Please do not bring your own.
  • All Night Glow Swimmers must wear a light on you head or in your tow float. We do provide lights.
  • You can hire Wetsuits, Swim Caps & Tow Floats on site.
Book Now!

Swimming Sessions Types We Offer

Overview

At West Country Water Park, we offer a range of swimming sessions to help you to enjoy the lake to its full potential.

  • Open Water Swimming: Book your session and swim any distance of our loop in your allotted session time.
  • Buoyancy Aided Swims: From April until the end of September, or whilst the water is above 15c this session is for people aged 5+ and everyone wears a Buoyancy aid. There is no requirement for a swim cap or tow float and wetsuits are optional. We provide the Buoyancy Aids, please do not bring your own.
  • Night Glow Swims: These swims are always run on the Friday evening closest to the full moon.

We offer hire wetsuits, tow floats and swim caps which you can add to your session when you book. Or if you want to purchase your own swim cap and tow float, there are a variety of colours to choose from.

 

Book Now

Open Water Swimming

Training for a triathlon or Just getting in your daily dip

Whether you are training for a triathlon, prepping to swim the channel or just love getting your daily outdoor wild swim in, our Outdoor Open Water Swimming sessions are perfect. Bring your brightly coloured swim cap and wetsuit or tow float and hit the water.

We set out a circular swim course, approximately 600m in the summer. In the winter, once the water drops below 15c, we reduce this to 100m and the course is placed 25m from our entry stairs and ramps.

Open Water Swimming sessions at West Country Water Park allow for a 2-hour window to enjoy the water. You can arrive up to 15 minutes before your session ends, after which you will have missed your chance to swim.

Book Now!

Full Moon Night Swimming

You read that 100% correctly, Night swims under the full moon

Swimming by moonlight is truly magnificent and enchanting.

On the night, you’ll be supported by the West Country Water Park team, who will be on hand to keep you safe in our lake and cheer you on as you bravely climb down the steps into the lake with your fellow dippers, lighting the way with your illuminated float.

Once you’re back on dry land, cosy in our indoor café to warm up with a celebratory hot drink, where hot food will also be available.

This is a non-competitive event that is beginner friendly and accessible for everyone to enjoy. This is one event you do not want to miss.

Learn more and pick your night swim

Fancy Dress Swims for Charities

Get a bit crazy for good causes

Looking for a unique and exciting way to cool off this summer? Look no further than the West Country Water Park’s fancy dress swim! These swims will always be in aid of a charity.

Put on your favourite costume and take a dip in our beautifully clean freshwater lake, where you’ll find plenty of fun and adventure waiting for you. Our fancy dress swim is the perfect opportunity to show off your creativity, have some fun with friends and family, and make lasting memories.

But don’t worry; safety is always our top priority at West Country Water Park. We have strict safety protocols, including trained lifeguards on duty, regular water quality checks, and mandatory life jackets for all participants.

So, whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking for a unique way to stay cool this summer, our fancy dress swim is a can’t-miss experience. Join us at West Country Water Park and dive into the fun today.

We are always looking for charities to support. If you want to host a Fancy Dress Swim please contact hello@westcountrywaterpark.co.uk and we will get you booked in.

Lake Amenities

Here at the West Country Water Park, we have everything you’ll need for a safe and enjoyable swim. You can hire a long wetsuit (simply add to your basket when you book your swim) or bring your own. There are changing rooms for your use at the park with toilet facilities.

Swimming from Our Social Media

📚 Term 5 21st April – 25th May Opening Times
🌞 May Half Term 26th May-1st June 
(Open from 8am on 26th May Bank Holiday)

✅ Mondays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
✅ Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
✅ Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
✅ Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
✅ Friday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM
✅ Sat/Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

📚 Term 5 21st April – 25th May Opening Times
🌞 May Half Term 26th May-1st June
(Open from 8am on 26th May Bank Holiday)

✅ Mondays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
✅ Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
✅ Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
✅ Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
✅ Friday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM
✅ Sat/Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
...

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What an evening

What an evening ...

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🌊 Windsurfing Legends on the Big Screen – for a Great Cause! 🎬💙

Charity Film Night in support of the RLSS (Royal Life Saving Society) 🛟
📍 Venue: West Country Water Park, Trench Lane, Bradley Stoke, BS36 1RY
📅 Date: Friday 28th June
🕖 Time: Doors open 5:30pm | Talk & Film start 7:00pm
💷 Tickets: £10 – All proceeds go to the RLSS
Ages 8+: Children do not need tickets but will not be allocated seats during the movie.

🎥 We’re screening Born to Windsurf – a breathtaking documentary following Björn Dunkerbeck, the most successful windsurfer of all time, on his world speed record journey 🌍💨
✨ Featuring a live talk from Zara Davis, Women’s World Speed Windsurfing Record holder
🎮 Test your balance on our Windsurfing Simulator — no wetsuit required!
🍻 Drinks available – come early and enjoy lakeside vibes

➡️ Book now: 
https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/product/1051254?date=2025-07-10

#BornToWindsurf #CharityFilmNight #SupportRLSS #WestCountryWaterPark #ZaraDavis #Windsurfing #LakeSideCinema

🌊 Windsurfing Legends on the Big Screen – for a Great Cause! 🎬💙

Charity Film Night in support of the RLSS (Royal Life Saving Society) 🛟
📍 Venue: West Country Water Park, Trench Lane, Bradley Stoke, BS36 1RY
📅 Date: Friday 28th June
🕖 Time: Doors open 5:30pm | Talk & Film start 7:00pm
💷 Tickets: £10 – All proceeds go to the RLSS
Ages 8+: Children do not need tickets but will not be allocated seats during the movie.

🎥 We’re screening Born to Windsurf – a breathtaking documentary following Björn Dunkerbeck, the most successful windsurfer of all time, on his world speed record journey 🌍💨
✨ Featuring a live talk from Zara Davis, Women’s World Speed Windsurfing Record holder
🎮 Test your balance on our Windsurfing Simulator — no wetsuit required!
🍻 Drinks available – come early and enjoy lakeside vibes

➡️ Book now:
https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/product/1051254?date=2025-07-10

#BornToWindsurf #CharityFilmNight #SupportRLSS #WestCountryWaterPark #ZaraDavis #Windsurfing #LakeSideCinema
...

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Sunset sessions starts tonight

Sunset sessions starts tonight ...

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Sunset sessions tonight

Sunset sessions tonight ...

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Start your bank holiday off right!

📍 Lakeside Tikki Bar | 7 PM – Midnight
🎶 Deep house, electronica, and sunset vibes
🏊 Optional open water swim & paddleboarding during sunset
🍔 Street food & cocktails available

https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/product/1027560?date=2025-05-23

https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/product/1027560?date=2025-05-23

#BRISTOL #BRISTOLEVENTS #EVENTSBRISTOL🏄‍♀️

Start your bank holiday off right!

📍 Lakeside Tikki Bar | 7 PM – Midnight
🎶 Deep house, electronica, and sunset vibes
🏊 Optional open water swim & paddleboarding during sunset
🍔 Street food & cocktails available

https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/product/1027560?date=2025-05-23

https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/product/1027560?date=2025-05-23

#BRISTOL #BRISTOLEVENTS #EVENTSBRISTOL🏄‍♀️
...

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THIS FRIDAY... SUNSET SESSIONS BEGIN!

Start your evening with a refreshing swim or paddleboard session, then settle in for a night of smooth beats, handcrafted cocktails, and laid-back lakeside vibes. 

Whether you’re catching up with friends or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this is your perfect start to the bank holiday!

📍 Lakeside Tikki Bar | 7 PM – Midnight
🎶 Deep house, electronica, and sunset vibes
🏊 Optional open water swim & paddleboarding during sunset
🍔 Street food & cocktails available

#bristolevent #bristolnightlife #bristol #party #bristollife #partybristol #swimming #paddleboarding

THIS FRIDAY... SUNSET SESSIONS BEGIN!

Start your evening with a refreshing swim or paddleboard session, then settle in for a night of smooth beats, handcrafted cocktails, and laid-back lakeside vibes.

Whether you’re catching up with friends or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this is your perfect start to the bank holiday!

📍 Lakeside Tikki Bar | 7 PM – Midnight
🎶 Deep house, electronica, and sunset vibes
🏊 Optional open water swim & paddleboarding during sunset
🍔 Street food & cocktails available

#bristolevent #bristolnightlife #bristol #party #bristollife #partybristol #swimming #paddleboarding
...

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Triathlon, Aquathlon and Relay Race season has begun! Check our website for upcoming dates and events!🌊💫

Triathlon, Aquathlon and Relay Race season has begun! Check our website for upcoming dates and events!🌊💫 ...

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South West VIP Pass is back! 🌈✨

Visit  https://westcountrywaterpark.co.uk
Book ANY activity with us between now and 1st June 2025 and enjoy an exclusive 20% DISCOUNT at our amazing partner attractions 🔥

🦇 @wookeyhole
⛰️ @cheddargorgeandcaves
🧗 @mendipactivitycentre
🦒 @noahsarkzoobristol
🐷 @puxtonadventurepark

Explore more, spend less and make memories that last lifetime ✨

Book your visit now: https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/home

 and your discount codes will be in your confirmation email 🥳

#SouthWestVIP #PlacesToVisit #FamilyAdventures #MustVisitPlaces #VisitSomerset #VisitEngland #Somerset #bristol

South West VIP Pass is back! 🌈✨

Visit https://westcountrywaterpark.co.uk
Book ANY activity with us between now and 1st June 2025 and enjoy an exclusive 20% DISCOUNT at our amazing partner attractions 🔥

🦇 @wookeyhole
⛰️ @cheddargorgeandcaves
🧗 @mendipactivitycentre
🦒 @noahsarkzoobristol
🐷 @puxtonadventurepark

Explore more, spend less and make memories that last lifetime ✨

Book your visit now: https://ecom.roller.app/westcountrywaterpark/activitiesfullcheckout/en/home

and your discount codes will be in your confirmation email 🥳

#SouthWestVIP #PlacesToVisit #FamilyAdventures #MustVisitPlaces #VisitSomerset #VisitEngland #Somerset #bristol
...

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Triathlon wave 2

Triathlon wave 2 ...

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⏰ LAST CHANCE for this weekends TRI! ⏰

Our SuperSprint & Sprint Triathlon is happening this Saturday, 18th May – and there's still time to join the action!

08:00 🏊‍♂️ Just starting out? The SuperSprint is made for beginners:
500m Swim | 10K Bike | 2.5K Run

09:00 💥 Want a bigger challenge? Go for the Sprint Triathlon:
750m Swim | 18K Bike | 5K Run

Don’t overthink it – you’ve got this! Come for the challenge, stay for the vibes.
📍 West Country Water Park
🎯 Make your weekend EPIC.
🔗 Book your spot now: westcountrywaterpark.co.uk

#LastMinuteTri #NoExcuses #TriathlonChallenge #BristolEvents #WestCountryWaterPark

⏰ LAST CHANCE for this weekends TRI! ⏰

Our SuperSprint & Sprint Triathlon is happening this Saturday, 18th May – and there`s still time to join the action!

08:00 🏊‍♂️ Just starting out? The SuperSprint is made for beginners:
500m Swim | 10K Bike | 2.5K Run

09:00 💥 Want a bigger challenge? Go for the Sprint Triathlon:
750m Swim | 18K Bike | 5K Run

Don’t overthink it – you’ve got this! Come for the challenge, stay for the vibes.
📍 West Country Water Park
🎯 Make your weekend EPIC.
🔗 Book your spot now: westcountrywaterpark.co.uk

#LastMinuteTri #NoExcuses #TriathlonChallenge #BristolEvents #WestCountryWaterPark
...

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Don’t forget, our first triathlons start on Sunday 🏊🚴🏃

Don’t forget, our first triathlons start on Sunday 🏊🚴🏃 ...

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Swimming FAQs

If your question is not answered below, please don’t hesitate to contact us via phone or email.

  • Do I have to wear a wetsuit?

    No, wetsuits are not compulsory here at our lake. However please note that if you are not swimming in a wetsuit you need to have a bright coloured swim hat AND a tow-float.

  • Do I need to book in advance?

    Yes. Booking is essential to secure your place.

  • How early should I arrive for my session?

    Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your session is due to End.

    You can join a session anytime during the allotted time.

    If you arrive with less than 20 minutes in the session we may not let you enter the water.

     

  • Do you provide wetsuits?

    We have long wetsuits for hire. Select the wetsuit of your choice at checkout. You will be able to hire a wetsuit on the day if available.

     

  • Are there any changing rooms?

    Yes, we have changing rooms and toilets on site.

  • Is there parking?

    Yes. Parking charges may apply during peak periods.

  • What do I need to wear?

    • A bathing suit
    • A brightly coloured swim cap
    • AND if you don’t wear a     wetsuit you must wear a tow float

  • Do you sell swim goggles?

    Yes. Buy as add-ons at checkout or click the link to buy online.

    HUUB Retro Goggles
  • Do you sell swim caps?

    Yes. Buy as add-ons at checkout or click the link to buy online.

    HUUB Silicone Swim Cap
  • Do you sell tow floats?

    Yes. Buy as add-ons at checkout or click the link to buy online.

    HUUB Tow Float
  • Do you sell swimming-specific wetsuits?

    Yes. Buy as add-ons at checkout or click the link to buy online.

    HUUB Alta Women’s Wetsuit – Blue
  • Can I cancel or transfer my session?

    You cannot cancel your session, and we do not offer refunds. You can transfer your ticket to another person and if availability allows, move your session to another date and time. Additional charges may apply

     

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