Spending time swimming outdoors offers space, fresh air, and the chance to move at your own pace in open water. These sessions are designed for confident swimmers who want freedom in the water, while knowing safety systems and experienced supervision are in place. There is no coaching or structured format, allowing each swim to be as short or as steady as you choose.
On arrival, swimmers check in and attend a short but thorough safety briefing delivered by the safety team. This covers the layout of the designated swim bay, entry and exit points, water conditions on the day, and the emergency recall signal. The swim area is clearly marked with buoys, forming a defined loop so you can focus on your swimming without needing to navigate or avoid other water users.
Once the session is underway, swimmers are free to move at their own pace within the marked zone. Some choose steady continuous laps, while others prefer shorter swims with rest breaks between. There is no set distance or requirement to stay in for the full hour, giving you complete control over how long you swim and how you use your time in the water.
Throughout the session, lifeguards remain on duty with safety craft on the water and spotters positioned on the bank. Conditions such as temperature, visibility, and weather are monitored constantly, and supervision levels may be adjusted if needed. For those planning to return regularly, 5-swim, 10-swim, 20-swim, and season passes are also available, offering flexible access across multiple visits.
Swimming takes place near Forest Row, within a designated open water swimming bay set aside specifically for swimmers. This bay is separated from other on-water activities, helping to create a controlled and predictable space for swimming.
The area features clearly defined entry and exit points, with the swim course marked by buoys and kept under constant observation from the water and the shoreline. The layout is designed to keep swimmers together within a supervised zone, making it suitable for both first-time open water swimmers and those who swim regularly.
All swimmers must be confident in open water and able to meet the minimum swim competency for their age group. These requirements ensure everyone in the water can swim independently without instruction or assistance, maintaining safety across the session.
Children and younger swimmers are subject to specific supervision rules, including in-water or bank-side adult supervision depending on age. All swimmers must follow the equipment guidance and safety instructions provided during the briefing before entering the water.
Sessions are set up to balance independence with reassurance, giving swimmers space to enjoy open water without feeling restricted. Clear boundaries, visible safety cover, and well-communicated procedures mean swimmers can relax into their swim rather than worrying about what’s happening around them.
By keeping the format unstructured and flexible, the experience suits a wide range of swimmers, from those building confidence outdoors to regular open water swimmers looking for a reliable place to swim. The focus is on good organisation, clear safety practices, and letting swimmers shape their own session.
These sessions are not coached, guided, or structured. Once the safety briefing is complete, swimmers are free to swim independently within the marked area without instruction or direction from staff.
This format works well for confident swimmers who want the feel of open water without being led through a set programme. If you are looking for technique support or training, this session is focused on access rather than tuition.
Each booking allows up to one hour of access to the water, though there is no expectation to stay in for the full time. Many swimmers adjust their swim length based on water temperature or personal comfort.
You can exit the water whenever you choose during the session window, with safety cover remaining in place throughout.
Every session is overseen by trained lifeguards, supported by safety craft on the water and spotters positioned on the bank. Emergency equipment and clear communication systems are in place at all times.
Supervision ratios are managed carefully and may be reduced if conditions such as visibility or temperature change, ensuring safety remains appropriate on the day.
A bright, high-visibility swim cap is mandatory so swimmers can be easily seen in the water. A tow float is also required, offering both visibility and a point of support if you need a brief rest.
Wetsuits are strongly recommended in cooler conditions and may be compulsory for under-18s below certain water temperatures. Swimmers should plan to bring their own equipment.
Yes, swimmers aged 8 and over are welcome, provided they meet the required swim competency for their age group. These standards help ensure younger swimmers are capable of managing themselves safely in open water.
Supervision rules vary by age, with some children needing an adult in the water and others supervised from the bank. These measures are in place to keep the swim area safe for everyone.
The designated swim bay is outlined with buoys, creating a clear loop that swimmers must stay within. This helps swimmers judge distance and keeps everyone within the supervised zone.
Defined boundaries also make it easier for safety staff to monitor the group and respond quickly if assistance is needed.
About the centre
East Sussex
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