Henleaze Lake
Bristol
Consider walking or using public transport to visit Henleaze Lake to reduce congestion and parking issues.
Henleaze Lake, near the bustling city centre of Bristol, offers a serene retreat for swimming enthusiasts. Operated by Henleaze Swimming Club, this tranquil spot is a former quarry enveloped by lush lawns and mature trees, providing a natural oasis for its members. The club focuses on open water swimming and diving activities in an expansive lake that measures approximately 400 meters in length and varies in width. The depth ranges from three to six meters beneath the diving platforms, which include a springboard and fixed boards at five and seven and a half meters.
Members can enjoy the refreshing waters, with swimming conditions adapting to the season from a 70-meter area in winter to a more extensive 220 meters during the warmer months. The facility includes a sauna for warming up or unwinding after a swim. Henleaze Lake maintains a community-oriented philosophy, requiring prospective members to demonstrate swimming competency with a 50-meter test to ensure safety and suitability for the club's challenging open water environment.
The picturesque setting supports a vibrant ecosystem, and members are advised to be mindful of natural conditions, such as blue-green algae levels monitored regularly for safety. As the community embraces sustainability, visitors are encouraged to walk rather than use cars to help minimize environmental impact. With its lush surroundings and focused amenities, Henleaze Lake is an inviting destination for seasoned swimmers seeking a peaceful and invigorating experience close to the heart of Bristol.
Reviews
This place is incredible. A gem in Bristol,s crown. I'm lucky enough to have a friend who is a member so I'm able to tag along as a plus one as its members only. To be able to swim in the lake with surrounding greenery amd wildlife is a wonderful experience. I'm smiling even thinking about it.
Brilliant place to swim and relax...worth getting on waiting list for membership.
Peace, quiet, and has the facilities you need for the session/day
Its lovely, I went as a guest with a friend. I'm one of the people that sides this shouldn't be as elitist and exclusive as it is. Its a beautiful place and deserves to be loved and enjoyed by everybody. This could so easily be achieved by allowing people to book sessions. Equally allow membership but when sessions aren't even 50% full allow Jon members to book on maybe a few days in advance. The mens toilet/changing room is grim so I'd recommend waiting until you're home to shower. Its a lovely place, and I hope one day it will be accessible for all.
