Open water swimming

No, you do not need to complete an induction. Due to the current social distancing measures to protect swimmers against the spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19), we can not currently hold open water swimming inductions – therefore swimmers are not required to complete an induction before swimming but must have agreed to our online waiver and terms and conditions at the time of booking. However, all new swimmers will have an introductory safety talk with the team on your first visit before entering the water. 

Yes, it is essential for bookings to be made via the Better UK app. For videos and step by step guides on downloading the app and how to book your swim session, click here.

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.

Each customer is allowed one swim booking per day. Multiple bookings can be made during the week, as long as they are not on the same day.

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.

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 West Reservoir, please see and take on board official advice from Swim England for open water swimmers.

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. If you do not have a tow float we have some for swimmers to use. 

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

As changing rooms will not be in use, please only bring the essentials (towel, water bottle). You will be required to wear a red swimming cap. Red swimming caps can be purchased at the centre via contactless payment. Cash payments will not be accepted. During colder months we also highly recommend bringing a hot drink to help with warming back up after your swim.

Our cafe has now re-opened for you to get a hot drink or bite to eat after your activity. However we only have external seating or a take away service available.

We now stay open all year round and allow swimming no matter the water temperature. However as the water temperature drops the course size reduces and times are restricted.

For the daily water temperature, check our webpage or follow West Reservoir Centre on Facebook.

Yes, sessions still go ahead during the rain - you are going to get wet anyway! Sessions will only be cancelled if the water temperature drops below 10 degrees and in cases of dangerous environmental conditions (i.e. lightning storms, snow, serious fog) where swimmers are less visible to our safety team.

As changing rooms will not be in use, please arrive changed and bring only the essentials (towel, water bottle). 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.

Visit our price and membership page for more information.

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 swim with a tow float and wear a green swim hat.

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.