Open water swimming at St Andrews Lakes is all about quality, safety, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Our crystal-clear, spring-fed lake offers a refreshing and clean environment for every swim. The designated swim course is always monitored by professional lifeguards, so you can focus on your technique – or simply enjoy a relaxing paddle – with total confidence.
Whether your open water swim journey is just getting started, or you’re an experienced swimmer training for an event, our friendly team is here to support you every stroke of the way.
SWIM SESSIONS & EVENTS
Password protected booking area for inducted swimmers to book
OPEN WATER SWIM INDUCTION
Required to swim at St Andrews Lakes
SWIM MEMBERSHIP
Enjoy unlimited swims PLUS discount off other experiences too!
Important TO NOTE
Your safety is our number 1 priority, so we do have some simple rules that have to be followed:
INDUCTIONS
- To swim at St Andrews Lakes, you must first complete an induction with one of our open water swim staff to ensure your safety and confidence on site.
- If you have not swam with us for over one year, you will be required to book another swim induction with us.
- All swimmers must hold a valid NOWCA membership and wear the NOWCA safety wristband during sessions.
- All swimmers are required to wear a brightly coloured swim cap and be equipped with a safety tow float.
- All our sessions are lifeguard supervised; you’re always being looked after!
- If the swimmer is aged 10-16, they come under our Youth Open Water Swimming policy which means that the water temperature must be at least 14ºc before being allowed to swim.
BECOME A SWIM MEMBER!
Inducted swimmers can enjoy unlimited swims PLUS discounts off other experiences too!
Our Swim Membership includes:
- Unlimited swims (during opening hours)
- 20% discount on our Wellness Experience
- 20% discount on our swim events
- 20% discount on classes
- 10% discount off retail
How much does the membership cost?
- £38 per month when you commit to 12 months
- £55 per month on a rolling contract – cancel anytime
NOWCA MEMBERSHIP Required
We have partnered with the National Open Water Coaching Association (NOWCA), adopting the NOWCA safety system with wristbands to tap in and out, before and after swims.
To swim with us at St Andrews Lakes you must be a current member of NOWCA (£20 per year) or this can be purchased with us onsite for £24.
FAQS
Do I need to complete a swim induction to swim?
How long does my induction last?
Do swimmers have dedicated changing rooms and showers?
What equipment do I need for swimming at St Andrews Lakes?
How much is it to swim at St Andrews Lakes?
How long are your swim courses?
- During summer, we have three courses; 300m, 600m and 1000m.
- During winter, we have a 150m and 300m course.
- All courses are marked with coloured buoys and you must swim in the correct direction.
What is NOWCA?
Can I just dip in the lake when I’m here?
I can’t find where to book a swim
COLD WATER THERAPY
(RESTARTING OCTOBER 2026)
“Brilliant! I did it and it was so informative, highly recommend this workshop.” – Penny Oliver
COLD WATER WORKSHOPS (RESTARTING OCTOBER 2026)
Cold water is classed as anything below 15°C – and swimming in it safely takes knowledge and preparation. Our 1-hour Cold Water Workshop is designed to give you the skills and confidence you need to enjoy the chill while staying safe.
We’ll begin lakeside with a friendly, interactive chat covering:
Cold water risks & how your body responds
Preparation — kit, mindset & safety planning
Exiting & recovery — how to warm up safely after your swim
Then it’s time to put learning into action — join us for a short dip (not a swim) to experience cold water with guidance and support.
GUIDED COLD WATER DIPS (RESTARTING OCTOBER 2026)
Join our Cold Water Guru for a refreshing, guided cold‑water dip in the lagoon — a safe, supportive way to experience the benefits of cold immersion.
Sessions last 15 minutes, are for over‑18s, and cost £7.50 per person.
