It’s hot outside. The only thing I want to do right now is throw myself into a huge body of water. But you will have to escape the hustle and bustle of Birmingham to find somewhere to cool off. Luckily, the perfect open water swimming spot—tranquil, natural and private—isn’t too far away, at Midlands Open Water.
Just outside of Tamworth, the Midlands’ first open water swim venue is open all year round for your swimming needs—whether dipping your toes in for the first time or training for your tenth triathlon, everyone can experience the benefits of open water swimming near Birmingham, heatwave or not.
What makes this private, family-owned swimming spot so special is that it’s sloped in and out, with no dropping off an edge (perfect for easing yourself into the temperatures slowly), while it’s also completely natural and uses no added chemicals in either of its two swimming lakes.
Taking the plunge at Midlands Open Water…
There are two swimming courses, 650m and 300m, both marked out by large yellow buoys, with easy access to the edge, so you can get out of the water wherever and rest or walk back if you like. You can book either a 1-hour or a 2-hour swim session, while you can also go paddleboarding if you own your own.
If you’re a bit of a newbie to open water swimming, don’t be put off. Midlands Open Water offers beginner courses for adults aged 16 and over, where you can learn everything from health and safety to getting used to the cold. Swimming sessions start from £8, but you will need £20 annual insurance. A peak season pass is £180.
Make a splash at Cliff Lakes…
If you’re looking for something a little less serious, then just a stone’s throw from Midlands Open Water is the family-friendly water park, Cliff Lakes. Here, you will find an array of water slides, climbing walls, and bouncy obstacles. It’s just launched the brand-new 12-metre X Tower, which is just one of eight floating obstacle courses…
To learn more about Midlands Open Water, head here.
