What Can I Expect

Discover the freedom of open water swimming! These small group and private lessons introduce you to the wet and wild world of going for a swim outdoors, well away from the chlorinated waters of a man-made swimming pool.

Exhilarating, liberating, invigorating and exciting - all these words describe the sensations felt by open water swimmers. It's a very different sport to swimming lengths in lanes of your local council pool. This is all about embracing the outdoors, the elements and maybe even confronting your fears!

Of course, swimming out on open rivers, lakes or reservoirs is very different to being in a surveilled pool. This is why all sessions start with a discussion about safety, hazards and risks of swimming in nature's waters.

Your coaches for these open water swim lessons are Alex and James, both qualified instructors who are passionate about water sports and the wellbeing benefits of wild swimming. They are both great at getting your confidence up and getting you mentally and physically prepared for your swim.

The question most ask is whether open water swimming is cold? For sure it's not the heated waters of an indoor pool, so you may very well want to wear a wetsuit. Goggles and swim hats are advised. A pair of water shoes is a must at any time of the year and gloves are good if it's a little chilly. You'll also be shown how a tow float is essential for open water swimmers too.

Lessons take place on the calm waters of the River Avon near Pershore. It's a lovely setting, with good onsite changing facilities, parking and even a farm shop and cafe just along the path. If you want to give open water swimming a try, this is the place to do it! Buy vouchers for private lessons with one-to-one teaching, or a voucher to join in as part of a small group

When Is It Available

• Selected weekdays and weekends throughout the year
• Participants should arrive 15 mins prior to their session time 

Suitable For

• Minimum age 10
• Under 16s must be accompanied by a participating adult
• Participants must be able to swim confidently in a pool

Spectators

• Spectators are welcome

Anything Else

• Participants should wear a swimming costume/old clothes/wetsuit water shoes or a pair of old trainers
• Please bring a change of clothes (something warm)
• Between April and mid May participants will need to wear a wetsuit (not provided-please bring one)
• From Mid May onwards wetsuits are optional
• Onsite toilets, showers and changing rooms
• Light refreshments are available to purchase
• Picnic tables and secure parking onsite