First Visit

Welcome to Whitmore Lakes, a peaceful place to enjoy open water swimming, paddleboarding, wood-fired saunas, cold dipping, wellness classes and time in nature.

To help keep your visit calm, safe and enjoyable, all activities must be booked online before you arrive and every visitor taking part must complete a waiver in advance. When you arrive, please check in at reception before heading to your chosen activity. For water activities, check in at Whitmore Lakes reception. For classes and wellness experiences, please check in at Whitmore Hall.

Whitmore Lakes is an un-lifeguarded open water venue, so all water-based activities are undertaken at your own risk. Age restrictions apply: children must be aged 11+ for swimming and 8+ for watersports, with adult supervision in the water required at all times. Visitors must be confident in the water, able to follow safety guidance and medically fit to take part.

If you are new to open water swimming, returning after a break or would simply like to feel more confident before getting in the lake, we recommend booking an Introduction to Open Water or Open Water Safety Course with our on-site coach, Ian from Kuotos Swim. These sessions are designed to help you understand the water, build confidence and enjoy your first swims feeling safe, calm and supported.

Please come prepared for an outdoor lakeside environment. Paths may be uneven, muddy or slippery depending on the weather, so suitable footwear and clothing are recommended. If you are swimming, please bring appropriate swimwear, warm layers for after your session, a drink and a tow float where required.

Tow floats are compulsory for solo swimmers and during the winter months. They are also strongly recommended at all other times for added visibility and safety. All watersports participants must wear a suitable buoyancy aid or life jacket.

There is free on-site parking available, but please stop and be directed by the stewards on where best to park. Once you have checked in at reception, visitors attending paddleboarding or watersports sessions may be directed to drive closer to the relevant lake.

After your activity, you can relax and refuel at The Cake Shack, the independently operated lakeside café serving breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes, bakes and drinks. You do not need a Whitmore Lakes activity booking to visit The Cake Shack.

Whitmore Lakes is designed as a peaceful space for relaxation, wellbeing and enjoyment, so we ask all visitors to respect the water, wildlife, natural surroundings, staff and other guests throughout their visit.