Embrace the outdoors and enjoy the refreshing benefits of open-water swimming in our spring-fed lake, while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and distant hills.
Surrounded by beautiful Herefordshire countryside, open skies and the tranquillity of our adults-only campsite, the lake provides an idyllic setting for a leisurely swim. The calm waters and stunning rural backdrop create the perfect escape from the pace of everyday life and a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Whether you’re an experienced wild swimmer or trying it for the first time, swimming in natural water offers a wonderful way to unwind, boost wellbeing and immerse yourself in the landscape around you.
Wild Swimming Opening Hours
Our wild swimming lake is open to both campsite guests and the general public. Whether you’re staying with us for a camping holiday or simply visiting for a swim session, we are proud to offer a friendly environment where experienced open-water swimmers, cold-water enthusiasts and complete beginners can all enjoy the benefits of swimming in nature.
Our regular swim sessions are:
Monday-Sunday
7-8:30 am, 8:30-10 am, 5-6:30 pm, 6:30-8 pm.
We also offer a 1-hour express swim, Monday to Friday: 1-2 pm.
Please note, when booking swimming sessions only those with availability will show.
Why Choose Burhope Farm for Wild Swimming?
Our lake offers:
- Fresh, spring-fed open water in a beautiful rural setting
- Easy access for swimmers of varying abilities
- A peaceful countryside environment with stunning views across the Herefordshire landscape
- Free parking for visitors
- Friendly and welcoming atmosphere
All visitors to Burhope Farm Campsite can enjoy access to our well-maintained facilitites, designed to help you warm up and refresh after your swim. After your dip, take advantage of our hot showers, and toilet facilities ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for all swimmers.
Swim Responsibly
The safety of our visitors is important to us. As with all open-water swimming, we encourage guests to enter the water responsibly. Conditions can vary throughout the year and swimmers should assess their own abilities and comfort levels before entering the water.
Wild swimming is undertaken at your own risk and we recommend that guests never swim alone. View our Wild Swimming Rules
Stay, Swim & Unwind
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or a longer countryside retreat, wild swimming at Burhope Farm adds another memorable experience to your stay. Wake up to mist rising over the lake, enjoy a refreshing dip surrounded by nature and discover why so many guests fall in love with the peace and beauty of our Herefordshire setting.
Our campsite offers a unique opportunity to experience the growing popularity of wild swimming in Herefordshire, combining the freedom of open water with the comfort and relaxation of a rural camping retreat. If you prefer a more luxurious stay we also offer our lakeside Shepherds Huts.
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Book Your Wild Swimming Tickets Here!
DISCLAIMER
Outdoor swimming is an outdoor activity involving natural water environments and carries inherent risks including but not limited to:
- Slips, trips and falls
- Cold water shock and hypothermia
- Uneven ground and submerged obstacles
- Deep water
- Injury, illness or drowning
- Changes in weather and water conditions
Participation in wild swimming at Burhope Farm Campsite is entirely at your own risk.
By agreeing to our Terms & Conditions and Swimming Guidelines, participants confirm that they:
- are voluntarily participating at their own risk and are physically fit, capable and free from any medical condition that may adversely affect the ability toswim safely in open water;
- hold all responsibility for any injuries that may occur during an open water swim or as a result of an open water swim at Burhope Farm Campsite;
- accept that the organisers, landowners and their agents cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to property however caused;
- release and discharge Burhope Farm Campsite, its owners, staff and representatives from any liability for injury, loss, damage or death arising from participation in wild swimming activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is wild swimming at Burhope Farm Campsite open to the public?
Yes, we are open to the public for all of our bookable swim sessions. To view availability and book onto one of our sessions please follow the link:
Do I need to book a swimming session?
Yes, wild swimming must be booked. You are not permitted to swim without having pre-booked one of our sessions.
Can beginners try wild swimming?
Absolutely. We recommend that beginners enter the water gradually, stay within their comfort zone and ideally swim with a companion.
Are changing facilities available?
Yes, we have a fully services shower block with loos and hot showers available to all wild swimming participants.
Do I need a wetsuit?
A wetsuit is entirely optional and depends on personal preference and water temperature.
Is the lake monitored by lifeguards?
No. There are no lifeguards or members of staff on duty. All swimming is undertaken at your own risk.
Can I swim at any time of day?
No. Swimming is only available at the times shown on our booking system. Additional sessions may be added during busy periods or periods of hot weather. Please check our booking system for up to date times and availability.
Can I turn up and pay cash on the day?
Generally no, booking is important for us to facilitate the smooth running of the session. If you have not booked in advance or are unable to book, please give us a call.
What are the benefits of wild swimming?
Many swimmers report benefits such as:
- Improved wellbeing
- Reduced stress levels
- Increased connection with nature
- Enhance mood and relaxation
- Improved circulation
- A sense of achievement and adventure
What is the water temperature?
As a natural lake, water temperatures vary throughout the year depending on weather conditions and the season.
Can I bring inflatables or paddleboards?
No, we do not currently allow the use of inflatables or paddleboards; however, toe floats are permitted.
Can I swim with my dog?
No, unfortunately we can’t allow swimming with dogs.
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To ensure that the swimming experience is enjoyable for all participants please be aware of the following rules. These allow us to keep the lake safe for everybody to use.
Please note, there is no lifeguard on duty and the lake is used at your own risk. A member of staff may not be on site at all times. You are responsible for ensuring that all members of your party/group are made fully aware of and adhere to the rules before using the lake. As such, lone swimming is not recommended.
- You must be medically fit and well to attend a session.
- You should come prepared with swimwear and water bottle, and weather dependent; warm/waterproof layers, dry-robe/towel.
- Swimwear must be worn at all times whilst using the lake and facilities.
- We recommend that you do not participate if you have had a large meal in the 90 minutes prior to your booking.
- No swimming at night, after dark or in poor visibility conditions (heavy rain, fog etc.).
- No diving.
- No dogs in the lake.
- Please use designated entry and exit points.
- Please be respectful to ALL life in our lake and on our land.
- In order to protect the ecosystem of the lake, please remove all chemical products such as sunscreen, oils and moisturiser.
- Please report any injury/accident to a member of staff immediately. If in an emergency, call 999 immediately. A member of staff may not be on site at all times.
- Please place all litter in the rubbish bins provided or take home with you. Please do not bring glass into the lake area.
- All sessions and attendances must be in accordance with the Burhope Farm Campsite timeslots only.
- In order to protect the Biosecurity of our lake, please ensure all swim kit is washed thoroughly in-between swims and only use clean equipment and swimwear.
- You must not access any adjacent farmland or other property within the vicinity of the lake, access is only permitted for the use of the lake, carpark and lakeside areas.