Open Water Swimming
Open Water Swimming at Splash
Swim in a Hidden Quarry Lake
There’s something special about swimming in natural water.
The quiet of the lake.
The fresh spring water.
The moment you step in and feel the cold.
At Splash, open water swimming takes place in a beautiful spring-fed quarry lake surrounded by the countryside of Mid Ulster. The lake was once an abandoned quarry that has slowly filled with clear water from underground springs, creating a unique and refreshing place to swim.
Whether you’re swimming at sunrise, dipping under the moon, or simply enjoying the calm of the water, the lake offers an experience very different from a swimming pool.
Many swimmers come once and quickly find themselves returning again and again.
A Growing Community on the Water
Open water swimming has become increasingly popular across the UK and Ireland in recent years, with people discovering the physical and mental benefits of spending time in natural water.
At Splash, a small but growing community of swimmers regularly meet at the lake throughout the year.
Some come for exercise.
Some come for the challenge.
Others come simply for the feeling of stepping into the water and leaving the day behind.
After a swim, many gather beside the fire pit or warm up in the wood-fired saunas overlooking the lake.
It’s a simple ritual. Water, heat, fresh air and good company.
Why People Love Open Water Swimming
Taking a swim in natural water offers more than just exercise.
Many swimmers report benefits such as:
• improved circulation and metabolism
• increased energy levels
• better sleep
• reduced stress
• a boost in mood and wellbeing
Cold water immersion also stimulates the body’s natural response systems, which can improve circulation and release endorphins that promote a feeling of wellbeing.
But for many people, the real benefit is simpler.
It just makes you feel alive.
Important Information
Open water swimming at Splash is supervised by our trained team and takes place during designated session times.
Please note:
• swimmers must be confident in the water
• tow floats or buoyancy aids must be worn
• a whistle should be attached to your tow float
• a short safety briefing is required for first-time swimmers
Tow floats are not supplied, so swimmers are encouraged to bring their own. Buoyancy aids can be provided on site if needed.
Our lifeguards are trained in Open Water Life Saving through RLSS, ensuring all swimming sessions are carefully monitored.
GALLERY
Pristine clear and clean water awaits
Opening Times
Our current Open Water Swimming times are as follows
Open Water Swimming
Open water swimming is available throughout the year during scheduled session times.
Typical sessions include:
• early morning swims
• daytime sessions
• evening swims
Please check our Opening Times page for the latest schedule.
Membership
For regular swimmers, we offer an Open Water Swimming Membership, allowing you to swim throughout the season and become part of the Splash swim community.
Membership includes:
• unlimited open water swimming during session times
• 50% off Saunas
• 20% off our Top Deck eatery and Sipway Coffe Hut
• invitations to seasonal swim events such as sunset and moonlight swims
Membership is ideal for anyone who plans to swim regularly throughout the year.
Give our office team a call on 028 867 48881 to get started.
Pricing
Membership Options
Full Season Membership
April – March
Enjoy open water swimming throughout the year.
- £250 per year (paid upfront)
- £25 per month via standing order
(Please note: we do not set up direct debits. Monthly payments must be arranged through a standing order with your bank.)
Peak Season Membership
April – September
Perfect if you prefer swimming during the warmer months.
- £180 per season
Family Membership Scheme
Swimming is even better when shared. We offer discounted rates for additional family members who would like to join.
Full Season
- First Member – £250 upfront or £25 per month
- Additional Family Member (over 16) – £125
- Additional Family Member (under 16) – £62.50
Peak Season
- First Member – £180 upfront.
- Additional Family Member (over 16) – £90
- Additional Family Member (under 16) – £45
Joining Part Way Through the Year
If you decide to join later in the season, memberships are available for £20 per month (paid upfront) until the following April, when you can renew for a full year.
To set up your membership, please call:
📞 028 867 48881
How to join
If you’d like to become one of our Open Water Swimming members, give us a call on 028 8674 8881.
Occasional Swims
If you’re not ready for membership, you’re very welcome to join us for individual sessions.
Single Swim Session
£5 per person
There’s no need to pre-book. Simply arrive during one of our swimming sessions and enjoy the lake.
Swim, Sauna, Repeat
Enjoy a unique blend of cold water swimming and wood fired saunas to relax and rejuvenate
Many swimmers combine their lake dip with time in our wood-fired saunas, located right beside the water.
The experience is simple:
Step into the heat of the sauna.
Walk a few steps to the lake.
Take the plunge.
The contrast between hot and cold is invigorating and deeply relaxing.
It’s an experience that keeps many swimmers coming back week after week.
Your Sauna Session at Splash: During your sauna session, enjoy the freedom to dip in and out of the lake, allowing for a unique thermal experience. The cold plunge into the lake complements the warmth of the sauna, promoting circulation and rejuvenation.
Full Access to Splash’s Amenities: As a sauna user, you’ll have full access to all Splash facilities, ensuring a comfortable and rejuvenating visit. Modern bathrooms, hot showers, and our indoor space with panoramic views of the park and surrounding countryside await you.
Check out the following link for more info:
SAUNAS AT SPLASH
Check out the wood-fired saunas
Ready to Take the Plunge?
Whether you’re a regular swimmer or trying open water for the first time, the lake at Splash offers a safe, welcoming and unforgettable place to swim.
Come and experience the feeling for yourself.
