Love Open Water Nottingham is a vibrant swimming lake situated at Notts County Sailing Club in Hoveringham, Nottingham. The lake offers a range of facilities and services to cater to swimmers of all abilities.
Swimmers are encouraged to come prepared for their swim, either by arriving swim-ready or bringing a changing robe. Additionally, it is advisable to bring warm clothes to change into after the swim. During winter months, a small and warm changing cabin is available for use. Swimmers are allowed to use the toilets in the clubhouse, but these should not be used for changing purposes.
Belongings can be left near the Love Open Water gazebo, where a member of staff will be present during sessions. It is advised to leave valuable items at home as Love Open Water does not take responsibility for any lost or stolen items. Any items left behind will be held for a few weeks, and swimmers can check the lost property box when they visit the venue again.
Love Open Water Nottingham is committed to ensuring that all swimmers, including those with different access requirements, can enjoy the facilities. If swimmers are unsure about the suitability of the venue, they can get in touch with the staff via the HELP page or the Facebook Group.
Upon arrival, swimmers are requested to arrive early to allow ample time for changing and check-in at the desk near the cabin. First-time NOWCA members can collect their wristband on their initial visit. Swimming slots serve as entry times to the water, and swimmers have an open-ended swimming time until 10 minutes before closing. If swimmers wish to swim for longer, they should book an earlier timeslot.
Love Open Water offers a 100m out and back and a 500m loop at Hoveringham Lake. The availability of these loops is dependent on weather conditions and will be determined by the Venue/Duty Manager at the start of each session for swimmer safety. Swimmers are advised to ask the staff about the loops operating and familiarise themselves with the course and direction before entering the water.
To swim at Hoveringham, swimmers need to download the ACTiO app, set up and pay for their NOWCA membership (priced at 15/year), and select Nottingham for swim/event prices or to book a swim. Swimmers can also book swims and coaching courses using the desktop version of ACTiO. Information regarding swim bookings and available coaching courses can be found under “Available Activities”.
While wetsuits are not compulsory at Love Open Water venues, swimmers should be aware of the recommendation from the Royal Life Saving Society to wear wetsuits in water below 15C. Love Open Water does not offer wetsuit hire at this venue, but NOWCA members have access to various wetsuit discounts through the NOWCA perks programme. Swimmers are required to have a valid NOWCA membership, which includes a safety wristband used for scanning in and out of the water. Brightly coloured hats are mandatory for all swimmers, whether it be a swimming cap or a warm hat/headband, to provide visibility to other swimmers and safety staff and to retain vital core heat.
All swimmers must also use a tow float, which is an orange float with a strap that clips around the waist. The float increases visibility and can be used as a support if the swimmer experiences discomfort or cramping. For first-time swimmers, Love Open Water has a limited number of tow floats available onsite. Tow floats can also be purchased onsite.
In conclusion, Love Open Water Nottingham offers swimmers a fantastic location for open water swimming, with a range of facilities and services to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.