High temperatures across Worcestershire have once again prompted a surge in people looking for places to cool off. But not every stretch of water is safe. Recent warnings in the Malvern Hills about cold water shock and a swimming ban at Gullet Quarry underline the risks of unsupervised dips in quarries and unknown waters.
Where you can swim safely
Visit the Malverns has highlighted seven local venues that offer a safer alternative to wild swimming in unsupervised or prohibited locations. The sites operate under set sessions, membership rules or supervised activities — and many combine swimming with on-site wellness facilities.
- Wild‑Wood UK (Leigh) – a wellness studio and outdoor spa with a bookable lake available for wild swimming.
- Escape to the Lake (near Leigh) – a lake surrounded by wildflowers; the site also offers sauna, yoga, sound‑baths, breathwork and creative workshops.
- Orchard Holiday Park and Fishery – a caravan park and fishery that runs bookable swimming sessions; swimmers must be NOWCA members and book through the NOWCA app.
- Lenches Lakes (near Evesham) – two lakes that can be booked for sessions during the summer.
- Watersedge (Bishampton) – an 11‑acre lake with a dipping area; the site also offers a studio, spa and accommodation options.
- Broadfields Wild Swimming and Wellbeing (near Cutnall Green) – includes social seating areas and sauna sessions alongside the swimming.
- Lakeside Adventures (Hartlebury) – a spring‑fed lake offering cold‑water swims, paddle sessions and an Aqua Park.
Safety and practicalities
The venues listed above generally operate on a booked‑session basis, and some require specific membership. For example, Orchard Holiday Park and Fishery requires NOWCA membership and bookings via the NOWCA app. Other sites combine swimming with additional facilities such as saunas and supervised activities, which can reduce some of the risks associated with wild swimming in unsupervised locations.
| Site | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wild‑Wood UK | Leigh | Bookable lake |
| Escape to the Lake | Near Leigh | Wellness activities alongside swimming |
| Orchard Holiday Park and Fishery | — | NOWCA membership required; book via app |
| Lenches Lakes | Near Evesham | Summer sessions, two lakes |
| Watersedge | Bishampton | 11‑acre lake with dipping area |
| Broadfields | Near Cutnall Green | Social seating and sauna sessions |
| Lakeside Adventures | Hartlebury | Spring‑fed lake, Aqua Park and paddle sessions |
Local authorities and landowners continue to warn against swimming in disused quarries and unsupervised open water because of hidden hazards such as submerged objects, steep drop‑offs and cold water shock. In the Malvern Hills, officials have already issued warnings after groups attempted to swim at Gullet Quarry, where a swimming ban is in force.
For those planning to take a dip this summer: check availability and booking requirements in advance, ensure you meet any membership conditions, and follow on‑site guidance from hosts and lifeguards. Choosing an organised session or a supervised venue reduces risks compared with unsanctioned wild swimming.
If you are unsure about a site’s rules or safety measures, contact the venue directly before travelling.
