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Open Water Swimming

Open Water Swimming

Stanborough Park is the perfect training venue for open water swimming.
Our sessions are run on our 400m course.

Sessions are 50 minutes and run on a trickle flow system every 10 minutes. This should minimise queing and maintain space for changing.

To train at Stanborough Park you should be a competent swimmer and must only swim during one of the set swimming sessions.

Lake swimmimg is not permitted outside of our Open Water Swimming sessions.

Please see Swim England for official advice for open water swimmers.

Cost: £7 per session, bookable via the BETTER UK App up to 5 days in advance.

Free hot drinks will be available after your swim on cold weather days.

  • Saturdays from 23rd April 2022 - 08.00 to 10.00

  • Wednesdays from 27th April 2022 - 17.30 to 19.30

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is safety cover provided?

On water safety cover is provided, by our qualified team, during every swim session at Stanborough.

How long is the swim course

The course is 400m long.

Do I need to wear a swimming hat?

You must wear a brightly coloured swimming hat; we have some to purchase at check in if required.

Do I need to wear a wetsuit?

Wetsuits are not compulsory but are advisable is colder temperatures. If you choose to wear a wetsuit you will need to supply your own, suitable for swimming.

 

Do I need to use a tow float?

You are required to use a tow float if you are swimming without a wetsuit;or if you are aged 14 to 17. You may use your own or you are welcome to borrow one of ours at no extra cost.

Is there anywhere to change and leave my belongings?

Our changing rooms and showers are available to use. 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.

Can Children take part in Open Water Swimming at Stanborough?

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

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, serious fog) where swimmers are less visible to our safety team.

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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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