Swillington Wilds Safety Code

Swillington Wilds is a natural wellness environment. These guidelines exist to protect your safety, the experience of others, and the integrity of the landscape.

1. Core Safety Principles

  • Open water swimming is not lifeguarded. Swimming is at your own risk

  • You must be a competent swimmer and able to swim at least 50 metres unaided in open water

  • Seek medical advice if you have any pre-existing medical conditions BEFORE entering the lake or sauna. Be aware of your own health limitations

  • No under 18s are allowed on site either independently or accompanying an adult participant

  • Always assess conditions before entering the water. Enter slowly, no diving or jumping

  • Prior to entering water familiarise yourself with safety equipment provided (safe entry and exits, throw ropes, life rings, defibrillator) and emergency instructions

  • If you feel unwell, exit the water immediately and inform staff

2. Cold Water Guidance

To support safe and restorative experiences, you agree to:

  • Enter the water gradually and calmly; expect a gasp reflex on entry

  • Use designated entry/exit points only

  • Limit time in cold water according to temperature and personal tolerance

  • Remain attentive to signs such as numbness, dizziness or breathlessness

  • Rewarm slowly using dry clothing and warm drinks; be aware of after-drop (continued decrease in core temperature after leaving water)

3. Sauna Guidance

You agree to:

  • Follow recommended temperature, time and occupancy limits

  • Hydrate thoroughly, sit on a towel

  • Ensure you feel fully recovered before leaving the site

  • Avoid rapid cycling between sauna bathing and cold water immersion – hot sauna temperatures and cold lake temperatures can put stress on the body

  • Report any dizziness or feeling unwell to our staff

  • Avoid contact with the stove, hot rocks and any other hot surfaces

4. Equipment and Visibility

  • Use appropriate thermal protection where conditions require it – follow signage recommendations

  • Tow floats or visibility aids may be required in colder conditions or low visibility – follow signage recommendations

5. Respectful Conduct

Swillington Wilds is a calm, inclusive wellness space. The following are not permitted:

  • Jumping or diving into the water

  • Alcohol or illegal substances; anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be refused entry or asked to leave without refund; we have a zero tolerance policy on site

  • Smoking or vaping

  • Glass containers

  • Reckless or unsafe behaviour

  • Harassment, intimidation or disruptive conduct

  • Drones or unauthorised filming

6. Environmental Stewardship

  • Respect wildlife, plants and natural habitats.

  • Leave no trace: take litter home or use bins provided

  • No fires or BBQs

  • Follow signage and staff guidance at all times.

  • Please use water-friendly sun cream and insect repellent. No DEET products

7. Water, Weather and Environmental Conditions

  • Swimming is not permitted during thunderstorms or unsafe weather conditions

  • Ice swimming will only be permitted with express permission of on-site staff and following the rules displayed

  • Remain aware of other swimmers, water users and wildlife at all times

8. Facilities, Access and Site Use

  • Access is only permitted for pre-booked visits during published opening hours. No entry outside these hours unless expressly agreed

  • Inflatables, paddleboards, kayaks, flotation craft or similar items are not permitted

  • Music and amplified sound are not allowed around the lakes

  • Personal photography is permitted only where it respects the privacy and consent of others

  • Stay within signed areas and routes. Do not enter farm, yard, field or private campsite areas

  • Swimming is only permitted in designated swim areas. Do not enter any other waterbodies or watercourses

  • Do not park on the access track or lane. This is a working farm. Be alert to farm vehicles, contractors and deliveries on access tracks

  • Park only in designated car parks or marked bays. Do not park on verges, gateways or tracks

  • Keep gates closed

  • No dogs, except registered assistance dogs

  • Do not disturb or feed wildlife or livestock and do not approach nests or eggs

  • Follow any biosecurity instructions in place (for example footwear cleaning or restricted areas)

  • Vehicles, contents and personal belongings are left at your own risk.

  • Please respect the privacy of residents, guests and other Venue users and do not enter any signed private areas

  • Sessions or access to the water or facilities may be modified, suspended or cancelled at any time for safety reasons, including weather, water quality, staffing or operational requirements

9. Tickets and Bookings

  • A valid ticket is required for all visitors

  • Tickets are non-refundable unless otherwise stated

  • Changes to bookings are subject to Venue policy

  • Breaches of this Code may result in removal from site without refund

  • We may refuse entry or ask anyone to leave for safety, rule breaches or disruptive behaviour

  • Weather or water conditions may change between the time of booking and the time of your visit, and also during your visit.

  • If we take the decision to close the Venue and/or evacuate the site for safety reasons, we may do so immediately without an obligation to issue refunds for tickets purchased

10. Shared Responsibility

Swillington Wilds operates on a culture of self-awareness, mutual respect and personal accountability. By entering the site, you agree to uphold these principles and contribute to a safe and supportive environment for all.