Welcome to our Activity Lake at Lavender Hall Fishery

During the winter of 2024, we completely drained Dragon Lake, removed all fish and underwater obstacles, gave it a thorough tidy-up, and refilled it—transforming it into our brand-new activity lake!

Now dedicated to open water swimming and paddle boarding, the lake is a stunning, tranquil spot with excellent water quality. The lake spans 1.25 acres and features a 200-metre full loop swim—equivalent to four lengths of an Olympic-sized swimming pool—with an average depth of 4–6 feet.

The lakebed is naturally lined with clay, consistent across our entire complex. To help prevent weed growth, a natural dye is added to the water—this is completely safe and commonly used in open water venues.

To make your visit more comfortable, we’ve installed a swimming platform with pool-style steps for easy access. Beside the steps, you’ll find a wooden structure with hooks for robes and towels, plus plenty of lakeside seating for you or your guest to relax and take in the view.

A changing room (no shower) is available inside the café building, conveniently located less than 20 metres from the lake. Parking is directly alongside the lake, so you can almost step out of your car and into the water!

Session Times:

Swimming sessions are available Thursday to Sunday, with 1-hour time slots running from 8:00am to 6:00pm. We have also added Tuesday evening sessions running from 4:00pm to 7:00pm.
Please note: the café and changing room are open from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Access to the changing room is only available during these hours.

A portaloo is available on-site at all times and is cleaned daily.

Important:
All swimming and paddle boarding sessions must be booked online via our website.
By booking, you confirm you’ve read and agreed to the terms & conditions.
All water-based activities are undertaken at your own risk.

Swimming Rules (Summary)

Please make sure you follow these essential safety rules when using the lake for swimming.
Full rules are detailed in the Terms & Conditions upon booking.

• All swimmers must book online before entering the water.

• You must check in before your session.

• Children under the age of 12 are not permitted in the water (due to insurance requirements). Those aged 12–18 must be accompanied by a participating adult.Please supervise children at all times (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).

• All swimmers are advised to wear a bright-coloured swim cap or use a tow float for visibility, this is not mandatory though.

• No diving or jumping from the platform.

• Swim within the designated lake loop.

• You swim at your own risk—no lifeguard is present.

• Please be respectful of other lake users and follow staff instructions.

Paddle Boarding Rules (Summary)

The activity lake is a peaceful and safe environment for paddle boarding. Please observe the following key rules:
Full rules are detailed in the Terms & Conditions upon booking.

• All sessions must be booked online in advance.

• PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) must be worn at all times.

• Dogs are welcome to join you on your paddle board during paddle board sessions only.

• Paddle boarding is only permitted during designated sessions.

• Launch and exit only from the designated area/platform.

• No alcohol or substance use before or during sessions.

• Children under the age of 12 are not permitted in the water (due to insurance requirements). Those aged 12–18 must be accompanied by a participating adult. Please supervise children at all times (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).

• All users enter the water at their own risk.