Your Questions, Answered

General Enquiries
Membership
Swimming
Sauna
The Site
Accessibility

General Enquiries

  • Swillington Wilds is set within the parkland of Swillington Farm, on the eastern edge of Leeds. Our address is Swillington Wilds, Coach Road, Swillington, LS26 8QA.

    The easiest way to find our site is to use What3Words ///moved.splash.healthier

    This what3words address refers to a 3 metre square location. Tap the link or enter the 3 words into the free what3words app to find it.

  • No, all swims and sauna visits must be booked in advance. This helps us manage numbers and maintain a safe, calm environment.

  • Yes, wild swimming will be available year-round to members. The sauna will also operate year-round, moving with the seasons.

  • This is something we’re looking into and will announce on our website and social media if we decide to go ahead with it. 

  • The lake hasn’t been fished for over three years and most fishing equipment that could cause injury is designed to naturally break down in freshwater within months, usually under two years.

    We have taken several steps to clear hazards, including magnet fishing, physical checks of key areas, and test swims over the past year. That said, this is a natural outdoor environment and no open water site can ever be completely risk free.

    We advise wearing swim shoes as a sensible precaution when entering and exiting the lake.

  • Yes we regularly test the water to ensure it reaches the standard needed for bathing level status.

  • As we are on the same land as a working farm with livestock we cannot allow dogs on site.

  • No, Swillington Wilds is an adults-only space and is open to those aged 18 and over.

Membership

  • Yes. Membership is required to swim at Swillington Wilds. You can find out more here.

  • Yes, we’re operating a waitlist for initial membership places. We are releasing memberships in batches so we can manage the number of people coming and enjoying the space. 

  • At the moment bookings are pay as you go for all members, we will explore monthly passes once we have a clear view of demand. 

  • The membership means you can book onto swimming and sauna sessions, you will also be added to the whatsapp broadcast list and private Facebook group. See this page for full details. 

  • Keeping Swillington Wilds members-only allows us to manage numbers and maintain a calm, natural environment. It helps protect the space and create a better experience for everyone who visits.

  • To have your card resent please enter your email address here.

Swimming

  • This varies by season. In winter, the water can drop to 3°C or below. In summer, it may rise to around 18°C or more.

  • Staff with safety qualifications are on site, but swimmers enter the water at their own risk and must be able to swim independently. We always recommend swimming with a friend. 

  • Swillington Wilds is not a lifeguarded venue. However, staff are trained in first aid and open water safety.

    Safety equipment, including throw ropes, life rings and airhorns, are positioned around the lake, and a defibrillator is on site.

  • You should be confident in open water and be able to swim independently a minimum distance of 50m. If you are a beginner to wild swimming you should get an induction with one of our coaches.

    If you are a beginner to wild swimming, coaching sessions are available to book with one of our swim coach partners.

  • Swimwear, towel, warm layers for after, and a hat and gloves and footwear for colder weather. Wetsuits are optional. We advise you to bring a towfloat. 

  • No, they are not mandatory, but many swimmers choose to wear them in colder months. If you come for a sauna session you shouldn’t wear a wetsuit in the sauna. 

Sauna

  • You need to join our membership here to book.

  • Yes. You can swim or dip for 30 minutes before and after your sauna session, as well as during it, making the most of the contrast between hot and cold.

  • No, you will need to book the Sauna slot which will then include swimming. 

  • Our wood-fired sauna seats 8 people comfortably.

  • Yes you can come just for the sauna. 

  • Bring a towel to sit on, drink plenty of water, and be mindful of others. We have also published full sauna guidelines on the booking page. The team will also brief you when you arrive for the sauna. 

Facilities on Site

  • Parking is available around 200m from the lake. A designated accessible parking spot is available for Blue Badge holders.

  • There are simple changing shelters, a mobile sauna, and a toilet trailer. Coffee and cake will be available on site.

  • Changing is informal and outdoors, under shelter. There are no showers.

  • Yes, a portable toilet trailer is provided, including basic facilities.

  • Yes, we’ll have a mobile coffee van on site offering hot drinks.

Accessibility

  • The terrain is natural and uneven, which may not be suitable for all wheelchair users.There is level access to the lake from the car park for wheelchair users.

    Parking closer to the lake is only available in special circumstances and must be arranged in advance.

    If you have accessibility requirements, please contact us ahead of your visit so we can discuss the best way to support you.

  • It’s approximately 200m across grass and soil paths. Surfaces can vary with the weather.

  • Yes. If you have a valid Nimbus Access Card, an essential companion is welcome free of charge, subject to availability.

  • Not at present. Our facilities are basic and may not meet all accessibility needs.

  • Please email hello@swillingtonwilds.co.uk to talk through your requirements.