In the heart of England lies Leicestershire and Rutland, two counties within the East Midlands region. With picturesque villages and stunning rural landscapes encompassing the diverse city of Leicester, no matter where you are in the county, there's always a nearby spot to enjoy a refreshing swim in open waters.
It is essential to remember that engaging in open water swimming poses specific hazards. In order to fully embrace the physical and mental benefits of swimming in natural bodies of water while prioritising safety, it is vital to acquaint oneself with the suggested safety protocols.
Race Hub
- Location: Melton Mowbray
- Price: £6-7
- Swim course length: 350m or 700m
- Supervised?: Yes
- Requirements: None
Race Hub offers supervised wild swim sessions at Frisby Lakes, catering to both recreational swimmers and triathletes throughout the year. To participate in these sessions, you will need NOWCA membership and Race Hub membership, which costs £10 annually. Once you are a member, you can swim at Frisby Lakes for £6 per session. If you're unsure about committing, you have the option to do a £7 trial swim before purchasing membership to get a feel for the venue.
During the busier summer sessions, a 700m swim circuit will be available, while the quieter winter sessions will feature a 350m loop. Coaching sessions, both one-on-one and in groups, are offered to help swimmers of various skill levels enhance their wild swimming techniques, including sighting and swim technique. The venue does not have specific equipment requirements as there is a safety team present. However, we strongly advise wearing a bright swim cap and using a tow float or dry bag to enhance your visibility in the water, despite the supervision provided by the team.
Rutland Water
- Location: Whitwell
- Price: £8
- Swim course length: 250m & 500m
- Supervised?: Yes
- Requirements: Bright coloured swim cap & wetsuit (in water temperatures under 14°C)
During the summer season, Inspire2Tri offers swim sessions at Rutland Water, providing two options: a 250m and a 500m swim circuit. Rutland Water boasts excellent facilities including showers, changing rooms, and toilets, ensuring a comfortable experience for your wild swim. Additionally, lockers are available for secure storage of your belongings, although we recommend leaving valuables at home, in your car, or placing them in your dry bag.
Swim sessions are priced at £8 and require advance booking. If you wish to improve your swimming skills and technique, coaching sessions are also available at Rutland Water. However, for coaching sessions, it may be necessary to bring a tow float in addition to the usual venue equipment requirements.
Stoney Cove
- Location: Stoney Stanton
- Price: £6
- Swim course length: 1000m
- Supervised?: Yes
- Requirements: Tow float/bag, emergency whistle, light (when swimming at night), & a swim buddy
Experience the wonders of this 13-acre, spring-fed wild swimming venue, offering supervised swimming sessions all year round. Embark on a captivating 1000m swim circuit that leads you along the picturesque perimeter of the lake. It is advisable to maintain a distance of 10m from the lake's edge to ensure safety in case of debris falling from the surrounding cliffs.
To partake in swimming activities at this venue, it is essential to utilise a tow float or dry bag, accompanied by an emergency whistle. For those venturing into night swims, a light source is also required. While not mandatory, Stoney Cove strongly recommends wearing a wetsuit and a swim cap for added comfort and protection. Additionally, swimming alone is strictly prohibited at Stoney Cove. You must swim in a group, alongside a swim buddy, or with a dedicated spotter on land.
Stanton Lakes
- Location: Stoney Stanton
- Price: £6
- Supervised?: Yes
- Requirements: Bright coloured swim cap
In the southeastern village of Stoney Stanton, there is more than one swim location to explore. Just a short distance from Stoney Cove, you will discover Stanton Lakes. From May to September, swimming sessions are held at Stanton Lakes, offering an opportunity to enjoy the open water. For those seeking to enhance their outdoor swimming skills and boost confidence, coaching sessions are also available. The cost of swim sessions is £6, and it is necessary to pre-book your spot before your swim.