West Country Water Park Bradley Stoke — What To Expect 2025

West Country Water Park is a lake-based outdoor venue in Bradley Stoke, north of Bristol — ideal for families, first-time dippers, triathletes and groups seeking a water park Bristol day with real open water. Lifeguarded sessions run on a spring- and rain-fed lake with café and changing on site.

Key Attractions: Year-round Open Water Swimming, monthly Night Glow Swimming (full-moon nights), the seasonal Aqua Park (inflatable obstacle course), Paddle Boarding, and a one-of-a-kind floating sauna on the lake.

Practical Information: Pre-book online for best rates (on-the-day is +£2). Swimming and sauna operate all year; the Aqua Park is summer-led. Parking available — charges may apply in peak periods.

What Makes It Special: Full-moon night swims, a lakeside floating sauna, and hot-outdoor-shower comfort — a natural, well-run alternative to indoor slides for “What to do in Bristol” plans.

Today at a glance

Open/close windows vary; on-the-day +£2; parking may be charged in peak.

West Country Water Park is a purpose-built outdoor water park near Bristol, centred on a spring- and rain-fed lake with lifeguarded sessions and a relaxed, lakeside setting. It focuses on safe, structured open water swimming and family-friendly water sports — from paddle boarding and the inflatable Aqua Park to occasional charity and “Night Glow” swims — with a café, changing facilities, and hot outdoor showers on site.

For visitors searching “water park Bristol”, “Bristol water park” or “water park South West”, this venue offers a broad mix of open water swimming, a floating water park, and year-round dips, rather than indoor slides.

Sessions are supervised by RLSS-qualified lifeguards, with clear kit guidance — bright swim caps are required for all open water swimmers, and if you choose not to wear a wetsuit you must use a tow float. Families will find defined age ratios for juniors, while adults training for triathlon can use marked loops when available. The atmosphere is deliberately welcoming — a “waste time wisely” ethos — supported by a lakeside café for post-swim warm-ups.

If you are looking for an outdoor water park in Bristol UK that blends “lake swimming near me” with accessible facilities, West Country Water Park is one of the most versatile options in the region — equally suited to first-time open water swimmers, returning triathletes and groups seeking an inflatable water park on a lake. We will detail exact prices, booking rules, and opening hours later in this guide.

Seasonal Availability

Open water swimming and lakeside dips run year-round — including monthly full-moon “Night Glow” swims — while the Aqua Park operates seasonally, concentrated in summer.

West Country Water Park Address & Directions

Trench Lane, Bradley Stoke, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, BS36 1RY, South West England

🗺️ Directions to West Country Water Park

Official Website

https://westcountrywaterpark.co.uk

General enquiries:

• Phone: +44 (0)14 5453 8538
• Email: hello@westcountrywaterpark.co.uk

Main Attractions

Open water swimming

The signature experience at West Country Water Park — runs year-round on a marked lake loop (approximately 750 m in summer, reduced to around 100 m in winter once the water drops below 15°C). Sessions are lifeguarded, with clear kit rules: all swimmers must wear a bright cap and either a wetsuit or a tow float. If you are planning Bristol open water swimming for training or leisure, this is one of the most popular options in the region.

Inflatable Aqua Park

A floating obstacle course on the lake — operates through the warmer months. Sessions are 45 minutes on the water; minimum height is 1.2 m; everyone must be able to swim 25 m unaided; and there are dedicated “Little Oke’s” sessions tailored for ages 6–12. If you are searching for an inflatable water park on lake near Bristol, this floating water park is the big seasonal draw.

Paddle sports include paddle boarding (SUP) and inflatable kayaking.

You can hire kit or bring your own inflatable board, and the park provides buoyancy aids. There is also a crowd-pleasing Super Jumbo SUP (for 4–9 people) — ideal for groups.

Special Rides

Looking for a water tow thrill? Private-booking tow sessions introduce tube rides and towed disciplines — kneeboarding, wakeboarding and waterskiing — behind a boat or jet ski. Tube ride options include the Sombrero, Doughnut, Double Trouble and Batwing; the listed guide price is £25 for 10 minutes (for one to four riders). These are bookable experiences rather than turn-up public sessions.

Kids & Family Areas

For families seeking a swimming water park in the South West, the Aqua Park’s Little Oke’s sessions reduce adult traffic on the course so younger participants can build confidence. Standard Aqua Park rules apply — 1.2 m minimum height; ages 6–8 must be accompanied on the park at a 1:2 adult-to-child ratio; ages 9–15 need an adult on site.

For paddle board sessions, children aged 2–6 may join at a strict 1:1 ratio with an adult; ages 6–8 at 1:2; ages 9–15 require a supervising adult on site; 16+ can participate independently. These age rules make it an approachable outdoor water park Bristol families can plan around.

Relaxation Areas

Post-dip recovery is part of the appeal. The lakeside café serves hot drinks and food during operating hours, and there are indoor changing rooms plus hot outdoor showers.

A standout is Bristol’s only floating sauna — positioned right on the lake — which pairs perfectly with cold-water dips for contrast therapy. If you are weighing up laid-back water sports days in the South West, this blend of facilities makes the Bristol water park a comfortable base for both athletes and casual visitors.

Unique Features

What sets West Country Water Park apart from other water parks in the UK is its commitment to open-air adventure, natural scenery, and sustainable recreation. It is not confined to indoor pools or artificial slides. Instead, it embraces its outdoor setting, making it a great water park for those who enjoy nature with their thrill-seeking.

Highlights include:

• Night Glow Swims under the full moon — a distinctive, community-feel take on Bristol outdoor swimming.
• Early morning sunrise swims.
• Remote controlled boating with a dedicated RC zone.
• RLSS Open Water Lifeguard training (OWL).
• Winter swimming for cold-water therapy enthusiasts.
• Windsurfing on Wind SUPs with inflatable rigs.
• Open water coaching and swim lessons.
• Paddle boarding and kayak hire.
• Triathlon and aquathlon events.
• Paddle Board Yoga and seasonal “Sunset Session” socials

The combination of sport, leisure, and natural beauty places it among the most memorable family water parks and water fun parks in the South West.

Baby Changing Facilities

The venue lists indoor changing rooms and toilets alongside hot outdoor showers. However, they does not explicitly mention dedicated baby-changing tables. Expect standard changing rooms rather than family cubicles; if baby-changing space is essential, it is wise to ask staff on arrival in the main changing block by the lake.

Bottle-Warming Stations

While there is no formal bottle-warming station listed, the friendly café staff are usually happy to assist parents with warming milk or baby food upon request. The café is located adjacent to the main viewing and picnic area, and many families report that staff go out of their way to help with young children’s needs.

Baby Pools

West Country Water Park is a lake-based outdoor water park — there are no indoor pools or baby splash pools. Water activities are either in open water, on the inflatable Aqua Park, or via paddle sports. Families with infants generally enjoy the grassy banks and café area while older children take part in sessions.

Minimum Age Restrictions

Under 6 years: not permitted for most water activities; permitted for paddle boarding and RC boating only, with strict supervision rules.

Paddle boarding child ratios:

• Ages 2–6: allowed on a paddle board at 1:1 adult-to-child ratio (buoyancy aid provided by the park).
• Ages 6–8: allowed at 1:2 participating adult-to-children ratio.
• Ages 9–15: may participate without a supervising adult on the water, but an adult must be on site at 1:12.
• Ages 16+: may participate independently.

Open water swimming: ages 5–14 may swim only if an adult (18+) swims with them at 1:2; anyone 15 or younger must be visibly monitored by an adult at all times. Bright swim caps are required for all swimmers, and if you do not wear a wetsuit you must use a tow float.

Aqua Park: minimum height 1.2 m applies, with additional supervision rules for younger participants.

Practical tips for families with infants

• Bring a large, waterproof changing mat and warm layers for post-session time — lakeside venues can feel breezy even in summer.
• Pack your own sterilised bottles, thermos of hot water, and wipes — bottle-warming is not guaranteed.
• Use the café and seating areas as your base between older siblings’ sessions, and allow extra time for check-in and changing during busy periods. (The park asks guests to arrive well ahead of session start times.)

Entry Fees

• VIP Annual Membership: £350 upfront, or £33/month on a 12-month plan. Includes unlimited open water swimming, unlimited own-board paddle access, and unlimited floating sauna use, plus member discounts.
• RLSS Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) course: £250.
• Super Jumbo SUP hire (2 hours): £50 (4–9 people).
• Aqua Park add-ons: Wetsuit hire £7.50; Aqua Park grip socks £5.
• Floating Sauna: 60-minute sessions; price shown in the booking flow. (Members have unlimited use; Summer Pass holders could add sessions for £7.00 during the pass period.)
• Gift Cards: from £5.00.

Discounts & Offers

Member savings: up to 20% off activities, equipment and general events admission, plus 10% off café purchases.

Summer Pass (seasonal): when on sale (1 May – 30 September), includes one 2-hour open water swimming session per day, one 2-hour paddle boarding session per day with your own board, and sauna sessions available at £7.00 each.

*Sales currently closed; 2026 tickets to be announced.

West Country Water Park Booking

Bookings are strongly recommended, especially during summer months and weekends. All sessions can be reserved through the official website. The online booking system allows users to choose time slots, hire equipment, and pre-pay for sessions.

Some limited walk-in spaces are available for last-minute visitors, but availability cannot be guaranteed without prior booking.

Refund/Cancellation Policy

• No refunds on standard sessions once purchased.
• Transfers — you may transfer your ticket to another person.
• Date/time changes — up to 3 days before your session, you can move your own booking via your online account; less than 3 days, email support and the team may assist if availability allows.
• Admin fee — £5 may apply to booking amendments.

Other costs to consider

• Parking — available on site; charges may apply during peak periods.
• Equipment hire — tow floats, caps and wetsuits are available as add-ons in checkout for open water swimming; published prices vary by item and appear in the booking flow.

Daily Schedule

Open water swimming

Sessions run most days, with multiple time blocks across the day in peak season and fewer, shorter blocks in winter. Evening swims also appear around full-moon dates as part of the Night Glow programme (for example, 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm on a recent event). The café follows lake hours.

Aqua Park (inflatable water park on lake)

Scheduled in set blocks through the warmer months, typically clustered late morning through afternoon. Exact start times appear in the booking flow.

Paddle boarding / kayak

Bookable in defined slots throughout the day; frequency reduces in winter.

Seasonal Changes

Although the park is open year-round, its offerings adjust seasonally:

Spring & Summer (May–September): Full range of activities available, including the Aqua Park, water tow, paddle boarding, and special events like outdoor cinema nights. Extended opening hours and family sessions are introduced during school holidays.

Autumn & Winter (October–April): Focus shifts towards open water swimming, cold-water training, and private hire of facilities like the floating sauna. Reduced hours, fewer daytime blocks, and a shorter marked swim loop when the lake drops below about 15°C — still popular with Bristol outdoor swimming regulars.

Night Glow swims continue monthly, weather permitting.

Some early-morning and evening swim sessions are offered year-round, particularly for regular swimmers and triathlon trainees.

Peak & Off-Peak Info

Busiest periods: school holidays, sunny weekends, and mid-day Aqua Park slots — these often sell out first. Parties and events also create peaks, so book early. The park’s own advice is to plan ahead and secure slots in advance.

Quieter times: mid-week term-time, early or later sessions for open water swimming and paddle boarding. If you are training for the West Country Water Park triathlon formats, earlier blocks are calmer. Recent event listings also show early-morning tri sessions and evening swims, indicating useful off-peak windows for training.

Good to know: the café operates during lake hours; timetable posts on Facebook/Instagram summarise each month’s hours, and the website reiterates that booking on the day incurs a higher price than booking ahead.

See FAQs for Night Glow and Aqua Park schedules.

West Country water park is praised for its unique lake setting, exciting inflatables, and friendly staff. Families, in particular, highlight the site as a fun day out for children and teenagers. Visitors often mention the ease of booking, helpfulness of the staff, and the cleanliness of the facilities.

West Country Water Park

4.5

Based on 258 reviews

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Henry W.

09:08 29 Jun 25

Loved it here and swimming in the open air (among fish!) is always exhilarating. We went for the Sauna package which felt a little unnecessary on such a hot day, but it was nice nonetheless and I bet it’s lovely in cooler seasons.
There were a few minor niggles, though. We cycled there; there are no bike parking provisions (we had to lock our bikes to a railing) and it was tricky to negotiate the gravelly car park. If it was more cycle-friendly I could imagine a lot of people cycling up on a hot day to cool off.
Also just felt as first-time visitors we could have been given the lay of the land a little more. I had to ask a swimmer in the sauna about how it all works. The changing rooms are a little basic and we couldn’t find any showers, and there are only small lockers for valuables (take your own padlock).
That said, it’s still a lovely place and the atmosphere is a lot nicer than another nearby lake-based attraction.

Alina A.

18:39 19 May 25

A friend and I came here for the first time yesterday to paddle board.

The website describes “Grassy green banks, a walking path, beautiful trees and nature” and while I suppose the description is technically true, we were disappointed to see that the setting is not as tranquil as the description would have you believe. The lake is basically surrounded by a huge gravel car park and cars were regularly coming by while we sat on the narrow segment of grassy bank. It’s not particularly set back from the roads so you could clearly hear traffic noise too. The trees are a bit of a distance away from the lake.

The website also says that “Our facilities are world-class. Indoor changing rooms, hot outdoor showers, in and outdoor toilets”.

I’m not sure that you could describe cramped changing rooms with undecorated chipboard walls, an insufficient number of toilets and toilet with a broken flush (my friend had to put her hand inside the cistern to flush it manually) “world class facilities”.

In terms of the paddle boarding – the boards were clean and in good condition and the buoyancy aids seemed fine. However, my friend and I had a really rushed safety briefing and at no point were we asked if we’d paddle boarded before or knew how to, we were just sent on our way!

I didn’t give it 1 star because there were some decent aspects (the price is reasonable, cafe looked nice) but sadly I wouldn’t come again.

sue H.

12:13 16 May 25

Lovely facilities, friendly staff. Perfect place for a relaxing swim.
There’s an inflatable water activity for children.
A good range of snacks including bacon sarnies, toasties, chocolate bars, cakes, and drinks are on offer but be aware that they don’t accept cash, only cards!

Gareth N.

14:20 20 Jul 24

Fantastic open water swimming and water sports facility. Visitors can stand up paddle board, swim the 750m lap of the lake, or there’s a brilliant and huge inflatable obstacle course ideal for kids.

The water was warm in summer (23 degrees C) and felt clean and fresh. Wet suits can be hired if wanted though.

There’s a great coffee / snack / food bar. Plenty of seating. A big and free car park. Decent changing facilities etc etc

Would thoroughly recommend.

helen D.

13:14 04 Jul 24

I absolutely love coming here! I started swiming here with open minds active through social prescribing and I’ve never stopped! It’s my fave place to come! Amazing staff! Amazing cake! Amazing coffee! And absolutely bliss even in the cold! It’s a beautiful place to be! So glad I found this gem!

“Went with my extended family on the aqua park — pretty fun. The instructors push you a little out of your comfort zone.”

— Skye U, TripAdvisor

“Amazing inclusive place for open/cold water swimming… staff are amazing and genuinely care about your experience.”

— sneakypigeon, TripAdvisor

“I come here every week… fantastic place with a great atmosphere.”

— Gemma R, TripAdvisor

Safety & Cleanliness

The park is noted for maintaining high safety standards. Every water activity is monitored by trained lifeguards, and parents feel confident allowing older children to participate.

Cleanliness also receives consistent praise. The water quality in the lake is regularly tested and meets open water swimming standards. The on-site changing rooms and toilet facilities are cleaned frequently, even during busy weekends.

While there are occasional mentions of long wait times during peak periods, most reviews describe an enjoyable, safe, and well-managed experience. The general consensus is that this is a top Bristol attraction, especially for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Food & Drink

West Country Water Park has a lakeside café serving hot/cold food and drinks with indoor and outdoor seating. Outside food and drink may not be consumed on site; group packages can include catering add-ons.

Accommodation

There is currently no on-site accommodation at the park itself. However, several nearby hotels and B&Bs serve the Bradley Stoke and north Bristol area. Recommended options include:

• Aztec Hotel & Spa (approx. 10 minutes’ drive)
• Premier Inn Bristol Cribbs Causeway
• Local Airbnb stays in the Almondsbury and Patchway areas

The park’s website occasionally partners with nearby accommodations to offer experience packages, so it is worth checking seasonal promotions.

Seating & Lounging Areas

In addition to the lakeside cafe seating, there are multiple lounging areas around the lake where guests can relax between activities. These include grassed banks, wooden picnic benches, and sun-facing corners near the water’s edge. While not luxurious sunloungers, they offer a pleasant place to unwind and watch the action.

First Aid & Medical Assistance

There is a dedicated first aid point on-site, and trained staff are always present during operating hours. Lifeguards are stationed around all key water zones, including the Aqua Park and open water swimming lanes. The team is quick to respond to injuries or concerns, and first aid is well-reviewed by parents and regular visitors.

Water Fountains

Visitors are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, especially during the warmer months; ask the café team about refilling a reusable bottle.

Smoking Areas

The park is a non-smoking venue in activity and café areas. Smoking and vaping are only permitted in designated smoking zones away from the lake and main guest areas. Clear signage directs smokers to these locations.

Toilets

Toilets are located next to the changing area and are kept clean throughout the day. Additional portable toilets are brought in during high season to accommodate larger crowds.

Changing & Locker Facilities

The site offers indoor changing rooms with:

• Private cubicles.
• Communal areas.
• Hot outdoor showers are adjacent to the lake and the floating sauna.

Lockers are available but are limited in number. They operate on a bring-your-own-padlock basis or you can hire a padlock from reception for a small fee. During busy periods, changing areas can become crowded, so arriving early is recommended.

Baby friendly?

Yes—though limited in some respects. The site caters well to families with:

• Dedicated baby-changing is not explicitly listed — ask staff for the best place to change.
• Breastfeeding-friendly seating.
• Café support for bottle warming.

However, there are no formal baby pools or soft play areas specifically for under-5s.

Lost & Found

The park does not manage lost property due to storage and liability constraints. If you think you have left something, you will need to return to the venue to collect it; assistance over email/phone is not offered.

Wi-Fi availability

There is no public Wi-Fi across the park, and mobile reception can be inconsistent in parts of the site. While this may be inconvenient for some, many visitors appreciate the opportunity to unplug and enjoy the outdoors.

Dog-Friendly Details

Dogs are not permitted in the water park. If you are travelling with an assistance dog, contact the team in advance to discuss arrangements.

General Rules

Booking and waivers

• Book online in advance to secure the best rate — on-the-day bookings cost £2 extra per activity.
• A digital waiver is required for everyone who uses the lake or enters the building; under-16s must have a parent/guardian sign.

Arrival and briefings

Plan to arrive 30–60 minutes early — the Aqua Park page specifies at least 30 minutes; the FAQs advise up to 1 hour for check-in, changing and safety briefing. Follow your activity’s pre-arrival guidance.

Alcohol, drugs and outside food

• The venue is fully licensed; however, no participation after alcohol or drugs — staff may refuse entry without refund. No alcohol or drugs may be brought on site.
• No outside food or drink to be consumed on site; use the lakeside café or pre-book catering with group packages.

Open water swimming — essentials

• Wetsuits are optional; hire is available.
• Certain special swims/events (e.g., Night Glow, Bluetits, Solstice) require a bright swim cap and either a tow float or a wetsuit — check your event’s listing.

Aqua Park rules (inflatable water park on lake)

• Minimum height 1.2 m; all participants must swim 25 m unaided. Ages 6–8 require a participating adult at 1:2; ages 9–15 need an adult on site.
• Buoyancy aid must be worn and checked by staff. No jewellery, watches, shoes/boots, phones or cameras. No diving; check water is clear before jumping. Use black handles to access the park; follow lifeguard whistles and instructions.

Paddle sports (paddle board / kayak) — participation ratios

• Children 2–6: allowed on a paddle board at 1:1 adult-to-child with park-provided buoyancy aid.
• 6–8: 1:2 participating adult-to-children.
• 9–15: may take part without a participating adult on the water, but an adult must remain on site at 1:12.
• 16+: may participate independently.

Night swimming — extra kit

Bright cap and an illuminated tow float are mandatory; wetsuits optional. Sessions align with the full moon and are fully lifeguarded.

Cameras, eyewear and clothing

• No cameras/phones on the Aqua Park. All jewellery must be removed; bring tape to cover recent piercings.
• Goggles are allowed. Glasses are strongly discouraged on the Aqua Park; if worn, only plastic frames/lenses at your own risk — metal frames or glass lenses are not permitted.
• No shoes or wetsuit boots on the Aqua Park; standard swimwear only — fancy dress only on designated sessions.

Weather, lateness and session control

• Storms may cancel sessions; if the park cancels, you will be refunded or rebooked. Rain alone does not stop sessions.
• Late arrivals may be refused entry once a session starts; you may leave early but cannot re-enter that session.

RC boating (radio controlled boating)

Bring your own RC boat; if it sinks, the park charges £35 per hour to retrieve it, and you are not permitted to enter the water unless authorised by the Duty Manager.

Health & Activity Prohibitions

Pregnant guests are not permitted on the Aqua Park, sauna, or high-impact activities. No smoking, littering, or feeding wildlife; recycling bins and signage support a clean environment.

If you are planning a West Country Water Park day across open water swimming, the seasonal inflatable water park, paddle board sessions or radio controlled boating, these house rules are designed to keep things safe, fair and efficient — please read your activity confirmation carefully and follow lifeguard instructions on the day.

Due to the nature of the activities at West Country Water Park—particularly the Aqua Park, wakeboarding (water tow), paddle boarding, and open water swimming — each experience comes with its own safety rules and participation requirements. These rules are designed to prevent accidents and ensure guests are confident, capable, and properly equipped.

Open Water Swimming (daytime sessions)

• Ability: You must be able to swim; standard sessions use a marked loop that varies by season.
• Kit: A brightly coloured swim cap is required, and if you are not wearing a wetsuit you must use a tow float. Hire is available at checkout/on site.
• Ages & ratios: Ages 5–14 may swim only with an adult (18+) in the water at 1:2; anyone 15 or younger must be visibly monitored by an adult.
• Timing & entry: Sessions run within fixed windows; you may arrive during your window but may be refused entry if fewer than ~20 minutes remain. Pre-book online; sign the digital waiver.

Night Glow Swimming (full-moon swims)

Fully lifeguarded open-water sessions aligned to full-moon dates. Bring a bright swim cap and an illuminated tow float (or head light). Wetsuits are optional. Book online in advance.

Paddle boarding & Kayaking

• Buoyancy aid: Provided by the park and mandatory; you may not use your own. Everyone entering the water needs a session pass (including board-sharers).
• Own kit: You may use your own inflatable paddle board or inflatable kayak; hire is also available.
• Wetsuits/footwear: Wetsuits optional; footwear not needed on the water (wear for the walk to launch).

Open Water Swimming Rules

• Only permitted during designated swim sessions
• Participants must sign in and out for each session
• Swim caps are encouraged for visibility
• Lifeguards monitor all swimmers and may end sessions in adverse weather
• No unsupervised swimming
• Swimming is only allowed within the buoy-marked lanes
• All swimmers must be confident swimming 25 metres unaided

Floating Sauna Rules

• Age: 16+ only
• Prohibited: No alcohol/drugs; no phones/electronics in the sauna; do not use if pregnant.
• Hygiene & conduct: Sit on a towel; remove metal jewellery; suitable bathing attire required; keep noise low.
• Session format: 60-minute slots; you may dip in the designated dip area during your hour. Full swims require a separate swim booking.

Radio Controlled Boating

• Permitted craft: Sail or electric-powered RC boats.
• Recovery: If a boat sinks, the park charges £35 per hour for retrieval. Guests are not permitted to enter the water unless authorised by the Duty Manager.

Events & Triathlon Training

• Event swims (e.g., Bluetits, Solstice): all participants must wear a bright cap and either a tow float or wetsuit. Follow the specific listing for arrival times and route length.
• Triathlon sessions: Observe marshals’ directions on the shared course and café/spectator zones; standard lake safety rules apply. (Times and capacities vary per event.)

Safety is a top priority at West Country Water Park. The park follows strict health and safety protocols, particularly because it operates a natural, open water environment with a range of physically demanding activities. The following guidelines help ensure the wellbeing of all visitors:

Lifeguarding, supervision and session control

All water sessions at West Country Water Park are supervised — the venue states trained RLSS lifeguards are on duty, and it also hosts RLSS Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) training on site. Follow all pre-arrival emails, on-site signage and lifeguard instructions.

• Open water swimming runs on marked courses with set entry windows. Arrive early, complete the waiver, and note the age ratios: ages 5–14 must swim with an adult (1:2), and anyone 15 or younger must be visibly monitored by an adult.
• Night swimming is fully lifeguarded and scheduled around the full moon. Additional lighting kit is required.

Water quality and environmental conditions

The water park publishes live water information and a dedicated Water Quality page, reporting monthly testing and an “excellent bathing water” status on site. As with any natural lake, conditions can vary after heavy rain — visibility, debris and wildlife are normal features of lake swimming. If in doubt, speak to staff before entering the water.

Equipment — caps, tow floats, buoyancy aids and lights

• Daytime open water: a brightly coloured swim cap is required, and if you choose not to wear a wetsuit you must use a tow float. Hire is available.
• Buoyancy-aided swims: everyone wears a park-provided buoyancy aid; for this specific session type there is no cap or tow-float requirement.
• Night swimming: bring a bright cap and an illuminated tow float or light — both are available to hire or buy on site.
• Aqua Park: buoyancy aids are compulsory; remove jewellery; do not bring phones or cameras on the park; minimum height and swim-ability rules apply.

Cold-water safety and acclimatisation

The open-water loop length is adjusted seasonally — approximately 750 m in summer, and reduced to around 100 m in winter once the lake drops below 15°C. Cold water increases shock risk, breathing rate and fatigue. Enter gradually, maintain easy conversational pace on your first laps, and exit to warm layers promptly. Use the hot outdoor showers and café to re-warm, and consider the floating sauna for contrast sessions if you are 16+.

Health considerations and when to avoid swimming

• Do not swim if you feel unwell, have a fever, open wounds, stomach upset, or if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The venue is licensed, but participation after alcohol is not allowed.
• Pregnancy: participation on the Aqua Park and sauna is not permitted; for other activities, follow your clinician’s advice.
• Ear, nose and throat care: consider earplugs and rinse after swimming.
• Sun and hydration: apply water-resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before sessions; hydrate before and after.

Weather, algae and wildlife

Rain alone does not usually stop sessions, but thunderstorms and high winds can trigger cancellations or early exits — always follow lifeguard instructions. Natural lakes may contain algae and aquatic plants; avoid swallowing water and shower after sessions. If you see surface scums or unusual odours, check with staff before entering. (The venue updates water status on site.)

First aid, facilities and hygiene

Lifeguards provide first aid during activity hours. Use changing rooms and the hot outdoor showers to warm up after cold swims; store valuables in lockers (bring a padlock) and keep walkways clear for rescue access.

Best Time to Visit West Country Water Park

• Summer (May–September) — widest choice of sessions, longer lake loops, and the seasonal inflatable water park. Ideal for families searching for a water park Bristol day out. Check the live timetable before travelling.
• Winter (October–April) — quieter atmosphere for Bristol open water swimming; the marked loop shortens when the lake drops below about 15°C, so pace your effort and bring warm layers.
• Full-moon Fridays — the monthly Night Glow swim is a memorable way to experience open water swimming in the UK.

What to Pack

• Swim kit essentials — bright swim cap; tow float if you are not wearing a wetsuit; goggles if preferred. Tow floats and caps can be hired or bought on site.
• Warm layers and footwear — a beanie, insulated layers and slip-on sandals for the lakeside.
• Padlock — useful for lockers (store valuables; follow staff guidance on what to bring to the lakeside).
• Cashless ready — the café accepts cards; outside food and drink may not be consumed on site.

The Wave, Bristol (Easter Compton) — A world-class inland surf lake using Wavegarden technology, typically 10–15 minutes’ drive from the water park near M5 J17. Great for confident swimmers who want a different kind of “open water” challenge, plus a café bar on site.

Aerospace Bristol (Filton) — Home of Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last ever Concorde to fly, with interactive galleries on aviation past and present. Ideal for families and a strong wet-weather backup.

Bristol Zoo Project (Easter Compton) — Fifty acres of outdoor trails and habitats, including giraffes and lemurs. A good match for nature-loving families who enjoyed lake time and want a land-based stroll afterwards.

Cribbs Causeway shopping & leisure (Patchway) — The Mall and surrounding leisure park for food, cinema and bowling — practical if you need kit, snacks or a rainy-day Plan B after your Bristol water park session.

Blaise Castle Estate (Henbury/Brentry) — Historic parkland with woodland ravines, play areas and a folly castle; free to roam and perfect for a relaxed cool-down walk.

Clifton Suspension Bridge & Visitor Centre (Clifton/Leigh Woods) — Iconic views over the Avon Gorge and a small free museum; combine with Clifton Village cafés for an easy post-swim city wander.

Severn Beach promenade — Flat estuary walking and big-sky sunsets under the Severn bridges — a brisk recovery walk after a cold-water dip. Check tides before you go.

I wrote this guide to help readers cut through guesswork and plan a confident day at West Country Water Park. Rather than promote generically, I focused on the details visitors actually need — from session rules and family ratios to night-swim kit and the realities of lake conditions.

Information has been checked against the official website, booking pages and recent visitor feedback, with exact figures included where verifiable and clear notes where pricing varies by slot.

If you are exploring a water park Bristol day — whether for open water swimming, the seasonal inflatable water park, or a relaxed paddle board session — you should find everything here to book safely, save money, and arrive prepared. Where policies change seasonally, I flag this so you know what to double-check before you travel.

West Country Water Park is an exciting and refreshing alternative to the typical indoor water park experience. Its unique location—surrounding a natural lake just outside Bristol—offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventure, family fun, and water sport training. Whether you are tackling the inflatable Aqua Park, enjoying a peaceful open water swim, or simply relaxing lakeside with a picnic, the park delivers a well-rounded experience for visitors of all ages.

What stands out most is the park’s versatility. It is not only one of the best options for open water swimming in the South West, but also one of the top family water parks in the region. With safety at the heart of every activity, and thoughtful touches such as clean facilities, and friendly staff, it is clear that the team are committed to delivering a high-quality day out.

While some amenities—such as baby pools or on-site accommodation—are not yet available, the park’s growing popularity and seasonal events, like floating cinema nights and sunrise swims, show it is constantly evolving. It caters equally well to adrenaline-seeking teenagers and families looking for fun things to do in Bristol.

If you are looking for a Bristol water park that is more natural, flexible, and outdoors-focused than traditional leisure centres, West Country Water Park is well worth a visit.