Located in the heart of England, you can discover Leicestershire and Rutland, two counties situated in the East Midlands region. These counties are adorned with delightful villages and picturesque landscapes, encompassing the vibrant and multicultural city of Leicester. No matter where you find yourself in the county, there is always a nearby location where you can indulge in a revitalising swim in the serene open waters.
It is crucial to bear in mind that swimming in open water entails certain risks. To fully enjoy the physical and mental advantages of wild swimming while ensuring your safety, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the recommended safety guidelines.
Race Hub
- Location: Melton Mowbray
- Price: £6-7
- Swim course length: 350m or 700m
- Supervised?: Yes
- Requirements: None
Race Hub organises supervised wild swim sessions at Frisby Lakes, welcoming both recreational swimmers and triathletes throughout the entire year. To participate in these sessions, you will be required to hold NOWCA membership as well as Race Hub membership, which costs £10 per year. Once you have become a member, you can enjoy swimming at Frisby Lakes for a fee of £6 per swim. If you prefer to try out the venue before making a commitment, you have the option of participating in a £7 swim without purchasing membership.
During the busier summer sessions, a 700m swim circuit will be available, whereas the quieter winter sessions will offer a 350m loop instead. Swimmers of various abilities can take advantage of one-on-one and group coaching sessions to enhance their wild swimming skills, including techniques for sighting and swimming. As there is a safety team present, this venue does not impose any specific equipment requirements. However, even with supervision, we strongly recommend wearing a bright swim cap and utilising a tow float or dry bag to enhance your visibility for the safety team while in the water
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)
Throughout the summer season, Inspire2Tri arranges swim sessions at Rutland Water, offering a choice between a 250m and a 500m swim circuit. Rutland Water provides excellent amenities such as showers, changing rooms, and toilets, ensuring a delightful wild swimming experience. For added convenience, lockers are available to securely store your belongings while you enjoy your time in the water (although we recommend leaving valuables at home, in your car, or bringing them in your dry bag).
Swim sessions are priced at £8 and require advance booking. If you wish to enhance 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
This wild swimming venue, spanning 13 acres and fed by springs, offers supervised swimming sessions throughout the year. The swim circuit covers a distance of 1000m, guiding you along the lake's perimeter. It is advisable to maintain a distance of 10m from the edge of the lake to account for potential debris falling from the surrounding cliffs.
To swim at this venue, it is mandatory to use a tow float or dry bag, as well as carry an emergency whistle. If you plan to swim during nighttime, you must also bring a light source. While not compulsory, Stoney Cove strongly recommends wearing a wetsuit and a swim cap. Additionally, swimming alone is prohibited at Stoney Cove. You are required to swim in a group, with a designated swim buddy, or under the supervision of a 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 swimming location to explore. Located just a short distance from Stoney Cove, Stanton Lakes offers another fantastic option. From May to September, you can participate in swimming sessions at Stanton Lakes, allowing you to enjoy the open water experience. Additionally, coaching sessions are available to help improve your outdoor swimming technique and build confidence. The cost of swim sessions is £6, and it is important to pre-book your spot before heading out for your swim.