Ask the Expert: Your Wild Swimming Questions Answered

We've noticed a fair few questions bubbling up about wild swimming in our beautiful lake. 

So, we thought we'd gather some of your queries and have our resident expert, Tom, share his insights. 

Taking the First Dip

A common question we receive is about getting started with wild swimming. Our advice is always to start gently - and we mean that literally! 

Dip your toes in first, feel the temperature, and acclimatise gradually. Don't feel pressured to swim a long distance on your first go. A short, comfortable swim is a wonderful way to introduce yourself to the experience. It's all about finding your comfort zone and building from there. 

Many of you also wonder about the ideal time of year to begin. While some hardy souls swim year-round, the warmer months certainly offer a more inviting introduction. 

With the right preparation and appropriate thermal wear, swimming during the cooler seasons can be incredibly rewarding too, offering a unique connection with nature's cycles. It truly depends on your personal preference and how your body responds to the cooler temperatures.

Swimming Smart

Understandably, safety is a big topic for many of you, and quite rightly so. Open water is different from a swimming pool, and respecting that is important. We always recommend swimming with a friend, especially when you're new to a location. 

Knowing someone is looking out for you provides reassurance and assistance if needed. We always have trained lifeguards for every session as well.

We clearly mark swimming areas and provide information about any potential hazards. Before you enter the water, take a moment to observe the conditions. 

Wearing a brightly coloured swim cap and tow floats makes you easily visible to other water users, which is always a sensible precaution, as well as our lifeguards.

What You'll Need

You often ask about what kit is essential for wild swimming. The beauty of it is that you don't need a great deal to get started. A comfortable swimsuit or wetsuit is, of course, the first thing. 

Many swimmers also find that a good pair of goggles enhances the experience, allowing them to see clearly beneath the surface.

Also invest in a tow float. This brightly coloured inflatable device attaches around your waist and floats behind you. It increases your visibility and can also provide support if you need a rest. 

For cooler days, a neoprene wetsuit can make a significant difference in keeping you warm and extending your swim time. A warm drink and cosy layers to change into afterwards are always a welcome treat, particularly as the air cools. You will also need a brightly coloured swim hat.

All of the equipment that you need can either be hired or bought on-site as well. 

More Than Just Exercise

There's a unique sense of freedom that comes with swimming in open water, a feeling of being truly immersed in nature. The ever-changing light on the water, the sounds of the natural world around you, the refreshing coolness against your skin it's an experience that engages all your senses, way more than your local indoor swimming pool could.

People often describe a feeling of calm and connection with nature that they don't find in a chlorinated pool. It's a chance to escape the everyday and find a sense of peace and tranquillity. We hear stories of feeling invigorated, both mentally and physically, after a swim in the lake. It's a wonderful way to de-stress and reconnect with yourself and the natural world.

Sauna Sessions at Divers Cove

For those looking to add an extra layer of relaxation and warmth to their wild swimming experience, we offer our ever-popular sauna sessions. 

Many of you have enquired about how to book these, and it's as simple as booking a swim! Just select 'Sauna Session' in our booking system.

Once booked, you'll receive an email prompting you to fill out a waiver – a quick formality to ensure everyone's comfort and safety. This link can easily be shared with others in your group. If you're a member, your discount will automatically apply to your sauna session. And if a friend is a member and wants a discount, they'll need to log in and book their session. It's a wonderful way to unwind after a refreshing dip!

Intro to Open Water Swimming Course

We understand that taking the plunge into open water swimming can feel a little daunting for some. That's why we offer an 'Introduction to Open Water Swimming' course, designed to help you develop the skills and confidence you need to enjoy wild swimming safely and effectively.

For £39.99, this one-hour course focuses on key techniques, such as developing a good sighting technique (as knowing where you're going is a tad trickier than following a lane in a pool!) and acclimatising to the unique temperature of open water. You can find more details about the course here. It's a brilliant way to start your open water journey!

Our Little Slice of Paradise

A few of your queries are specific to Divers Cove itself. You often ask about the water quality. 

We take great pride in maintaining the cleanliness of our lake, regularly monitoring the water to ensure it meets high standards. We want everyone who swims here to feel confident and comfortable in the water.

We also receive questions about access and facilities. We strive to make Divers Cove as welcoming and accessible as possible for all swimmers. We have designated entry and exit points, and we aim to provide clear information and support to everyone who visits. Our team is always on hand to answer any questions you might have on the day and to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

We hope this has answered some of your burning questions about wild swimming, and we hope to see you down at Divers Cove for a swim or sauna soon.