Advice

Welcome new Swimmers

New swimmer inductions take place during our normal swim sessions.  Inductions can be booked only by messaging us on facebook, instagram or email.  

We absolutely thrive on welcoming new swimmers to our lake; We pride ourselves on making sure you have a really positive experience so that you will want to come back.  Please remember to bring some cash with you because we cannot accept cards for your swim.  Your swim only costs £6 and £5 for a swim hat which is compulsory for ALL swimmers.  Any snacks require cash but wetsuit hire by Zone 3 (available during all our opening times) can accept cards.

Please note that children are not allowed to swim in our lake unless they are booked in with our swim coach.  We will ask for proof of age if we question if they are under 16 years old.

Sadly we spend a lot of time helping swimmers that have gone to other lakes who did not look after them or who have had a bad experience at a race. It is our mission to work with all our swimmers to turn that negative into a positive and we have yet to be beaten :-) We have had swimmers who have spent a whole season swimming in the safe area around the beach - we are happy to support you and work at your pace.

SOWS swim tests are carried out every 15 mins when we are busy or ad hoc if we are quiet so you do not need to arrive at a particular time if you are new.  To clarify = there is no need to book the compulsory swim test. 

Why do we have a swim test? Our swim test helps us identify those swimmers who are not so comfortable in the open water environment and gives us the opportunity to offer support to those who need it most.  Surfing style wetsuits are not made to help you swim and therefore can sometimes create drag.  Swimming wetsuits are specifically designed and the materials have been developed to help with bouyancy and flexibility where you need it to swim easily.  Swimming Wet suit hire is available at all times we are open and is run by Zone 3 who are the leading wetsuit brand.  Hire or try before you buy is £20 for the basic Zone 3 suit and more for the high end suits - you can pay for your wetsuit hire with a card (no amex)  

Our safety procedures make swimmers feel comfortable and safe which ultimately leads to a much more enjoyable swim. If you are unsure, nervous, interested or just plain nosey just ask one of our staff who will be more than happy to help you.

OK so now to the practicalities:

What do you need to bring?

• Suitable swimwear
• Towel
• Health Form Completed (also available at the lake)
• £6 cash to pay for swim
• Brightly coloured swim hat* (you can buy one at the lake for £5 cash)
• Goggles* are not compulsory but are advised and can help

* Available at the lake at Shepperton Swim's Little Shop provided by Zone 3 are:

• Wetsuit hire which costs from £20 and is provided by Zone 3 wetsuits who are market leaders in this field.
• A Range of swim equipment - hats, goggles, swim aids, etc
• Wetsuits available for purchase
• Training Aids
• Unique equipment packages and bundles
• Other ranges and pieces that are constantly updated
• Various Demo days will be hopefully be organised throughout the season