Swimming pond

Building our natural swimming pond in 2019 might have been the best thing we ever did. It has been a continual source of connection to the natural world and provided many a cooling dip in summer and a few bracing ones in the winter for guests and ourselves! 

What was an old horse pond has been turned into a stunning natural swimming spot. The vibrant ecology of plants and animals condition the water so there is no need for any chemical disinfectants. The water holds a diverse ecosystem teeming with freshwater microorganisms constantly filtering the water.

Swimming in a swimming pond is quite a different experience to a ‘normal’ pool or the sea. As you float among flowering plants of lilies, iris and marsh marigolds you may see newts, frogs, dragonflies (and even a grass snake); but all are completely harmless and they will keep well out of your way! There’s no nasty chlorine or salt and the water feels like silk against your skin, eyes and hair.

The temperature in the summer is 20-25 Celsius, but I love it a bit colder! The benefits of cold immersion are well established now (read our blog here) and even better when combined with hot. So do book a session in our new Sauna Glade for the ultimate refreshment. 

We would dearly love for you enjoy sitting by the water, or even better swimming in it during your stay. You will find a few guidelines and a plan of the pond in your room, if you need to hire a robe and/or towel you’ll find them for hire in the Workshop, as we ask that you leave the fluffy white towels for baths and showers only.

As Dragonfly Cabin sits right on the water, we like to preserve their privacy during the mornings and evenings (mainly because it is impossible to get in quietly!). All our guests are able to access the pond from 11-5pm using the steps at the far right of the water. Guests in Dragonfly Cabin enjoy private access to the pond the rest of the time.