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Outdoor Swimming

BEFORE YOU VISIT

Our sessions are currently for experienced open water swimmers. If you are not used to swimming in open water, we strongly urge you NOT to start now unless you can do so under supervision and guidance. Before you plan a visit to Jesus Green Lido, please see and take on board official advice from Swim England for open water swimmers. 

At Jesus Green Lido we pride ourselves in offering the best and safest environment for open water swimming in Cambridge. All of our sessions are fully supervised by our qualified safety team.

BOOKINGS ARE ADVISED

To reserve your place at Jesus Green Lido, we recommend that you book your slot ahead of time so that you can guarantee your swim. Book your timeslot today online or on the Better UK app and choosing Jesus Green Lido as your preferred club. Click the link below for everything you need to know about creating a booking account and booking a swim through the Better UK app.

 

BOOKING ACTIVITIES THROUGH THE APP

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to complete an induction?

No, you do not need to complete an induction, however all of our swimmers will be given a cold water safety briefing before entering the water if it is below 14°C. If you would like any advice on open water swimming and how long to swim for, please speak to one of our team on site.

How long can I swim for?

We need to ensure a fair allocation of time for each swimmer so all sessions will be limited to one hour. The one hour slot will include the allowance for safe arrival, 50 minutes in the water and leaving the premises. As the water and air temperature drops swimmers should stay in for a shorter time - speak to staff on maximum swimming time during the winter.

How many sessions can I book a day?

Each customer is allowed two swim booking per day.

What time do I need to arrive at the centre?

To avoid congregation outside the facility or queuing, we ask that you arrive on time for the beginning of your session (no earlier or later). Swimmers will be admitted in a regulated order based on session start times.

I am a first time open water swimmer, can I just turn up?

No, our sessions are currently for experienced open water swimmers. If you are not used to swimming in open water, we strongly urge you NOT to start now unless you can do so under supervision and guidance. Before you plan a visit to Jesus Green Lido, please see and take on board official advice from Swim England for open water swimmers.

Do I need to wear a wetsuit or tow float?

Wet suits are no longer compulsory when the water temperature is below 16 degrees. However we strongly recommend wearing a wet suit once the water temperature drops below 14 degrees.

Can I hire a wetsuit?

For your safety, we are not offering wetsuit hiring services at this time.

Is there anything else I need to bring?

Apart from the essentials, there is nothing else that you will need to bring with you. During colder months we also highly recommend bringing a hot drink to help with warming back up after your swim. This can also be purchased from our café.

Is there a café at the centre?

Our cafe has now re-opened for you to get a hot drink or bite to eat after your activity. You can drink this on poolside if you desire.

What temperature does the water need to be for me to swim?

There is no minimum water temperature to swim in, however we do strongly recommend wearing wetsuits to avoid hypothermia.

How will I know what the water temperature is?

For the daily water temperature, check our webpage.

Do the sessions still go ahead when it rains?

Yes, sessions still go ahead during the rain - you are going to get wet anyway! Sessions will only be cancelled in cases of dangerous environmental conditions (i.e. lightning storms, snow, serious fog) where swimmers are less visible to our safety team.

Is there anywhere to change and leave my belongings?

Our changing rooms are open, and lockers are available, they take 20p non-refundable.  A non-secure bag drop area will be available outside, so if you are planning to bring belongings, consider a waterproof bag to store your essentials and avoid bringing any valuable items.

What does it cost to swim?

Visit our price and membership page for more information.

Can children swim?

Yes, but they need to be minimum of 14 years old. Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult from the same household and it is mandatory for them to wear a wetsuit.

What is the last entrance time?

Please refer to our timetable for session times. To avoid congregation outside the facility or queuing, we ask that you arrive on time for the beginning of your session (no earlier or later). Out of consideration for fellow swimmers, you may be refused entry to your booked session if you are more than 10 minutes late.

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Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398 VAT registration no: 219749179.

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