- 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 6 and 8 may swim but only with an adult (18+) swimming with them
- All participants must wear a brightly coloured swim cap
- In addition all participants must wear either a wetsuit or tow float
Bristol's premier open-water, outdoor, natural swimming destination
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 swimming lake is 220 metres long and 230m wide. The open-water swimming lengths vary throughout the year; in summer, the loop is around 500m, and in winter, reduced to 100m.
Our facilities are world-class. Indoor changing rooms, toilets, Coffee Shop, restaurant and fully trained RLSS Lifeguards are ready to make you feel special. You are special and we won’t let you down.
The West Country Water Park swimming lake is open almost 365 days a year. Opening hours vary depending on the season.
The West Country Water Park is extremely passionate about supporting the environment and delivering fantastic outcomes for everyone that visits our park.
We look forward to wasting time wisely with you soon.
Key Information
Everything to know before you book
Swimming Sessions Types We Offer
Overview
Whether you’re a solitary or a social swimmer, we’ve got sessions to match your needs.
At West Country Water Park, we offer a range of swimming sessions to help you to enjoy the lake to its full potential. Choose which session is right for you when you book.
We also offer hireable 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.
Open Water Swimming
Training for a triathlon or Just getting your daily dip in
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, we reduce this to 100m and the course is placed 25m from our entry stairs and ramps.
Swimming sessions at West Country Water Park are £8, which gives you 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.
We constantly review our outdoor swimming sessions, so please leave feedback with a West Country Water Park team member. We are listening and will make changes to accommodate as many requests as feasible.
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.
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
Swimming FAQs
If your question is not answered below, please don’t hesitate to contact us via phone or email.
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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.
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Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Booking is essential to secure your place.
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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.
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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.
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Are there any changing rooms?
Yes, we have changing rooms and toilets on site.
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Is there parking?
Yes. Parking charges may apply during peak periods.
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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
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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