Wild Swimming
at Waresley Park Estate

I’m honoured to be the Lake and Wellness Manager at Waresley, a role that brings together my passion for water, wellbeing, and the natural environment. As a qualified lifeguard, I’m committed to creating a safe, calm, and supportive space where people can feel confident and at ease in the water.

Swimming has always been a central part of my life. While Waresley is a place I care deeply about, I’m also drawn to wild swimming in rivers — particularly at Felmersham — where the ever-changing water and surroundings offer a unique sense of connection and perspective.

I believe in the restorative power of water, not just for physical health but for mental wellbeing too. Whether you’re here to swim, unwind, or simply spend time by the lake, my aim is to help you feel welcome, safe, and connected to the experience.

Lifeguarding at Waresley Park Estate lake is a genuine joy — it’s such a special place. The community who come to swim are an absolute pleasure to look after, and there’s nothing better than seeing others step away from the busyness of life, relax, enjoy themselves, and experience the benefits of cold water.

I’ve been river swimming for over five years now, and it’s completely transformed my relationship with the cold and winter. It helps keep my arthritis pain at bay and does wonders for my mental wellbeing.

As well as lifeguarding at Waresley Park Estate, you’ll also find me leading the Introduction to Cold Water workshop on Saturday afternoons, as well as facilitating Sound Bath sessions  in the spa pool, on the lake, and in the tipi.

If there’s water nearby, chances are I’m already in it, beside it, or encouraging someone else to enjoy it. As an Open Water Lifeguard, Open Water Swimming Coach, and Swimming Teacher, I blend technical expertise with a grounded, reassuring presence whether I’m safeguarding the wild swimmers during lakeside dips or helping new swimmers discover their flow.

When I’m not gliding through my beloved Waresley (my number‑one swim spot), you’ll find me at Jesus Green Lido — because once a lido lover, always a lido lover! And if I’m not in the water at all, I’m probably leading Children’s Yoga with the Waresley Adventurers, helping little adventurers stretch, balance, wobble and beam with pride.

I bring professionalism, warmth and a playful spark to everything I do — whether you’re dipping a toe, building confidence, or diving deeper into open‑water wellbeing.

I began wild swimming in winter to challenge myself. Despite the cold, the experience left me feeling energised and alive—I was instantly hooked.

Wild swimming is a uniquely immersive, physical, and emotional experience. While it challenges your comfort zone, it is consistently fulfilling. Simply put, you are only one swim away from a great mood.

As a Waresley Park Estate lifeguard, I have gained the skills to ensure our swimmers remain safe and protected, supported by a competent, qualified team. This role also allows me to work in a stunning location among a community of nature-loving, positive individuals. I have truly found my tribe.

While I am new to the world of open water swimming, I am not new to being around water. I have been a pool lifeguard and a swimming teacher for several years, and recently qualified as an RLSS trainer assessor, so I get the opportunity to teach new lifeguards how to do the job! I have a passion for swimming, being in and around water and nature, and Waresley Park Estate is the perfect combination of the two. I look forward to spending more time here.

Waresley is a beautiful place to be. 

I enjoy meeting, chatting and helping the swimmers, new and regulars. 

I also work in mental health, so I appreciate the relaxation and space at Waresley. 

I started wild water swimming two years ago and quickly fell in love with everything it offers. I find the cold water has many health benefits and is especially good for mental wellbeing. Being in the water, surrounded by nature at Waresley Park, is something I find both beautiful and deeply relaxing.

My passion for open water swimming recently inspired me to take my lifeguarding qualification, allowing me to support and encourage others in a place I truly love. I really enjoy meeting new people and welcoming first timers, as well as experienced wild swimmers, into such a friendly and supportive community.

Waresley Park has quickly become my happy place, and I feel very lucky to be part of such a special environment.

I’ve been swimming at Waresley Lake since the day it opened, and what started as a personal challenge — to keep swimming through my first winter — quickly became part of my routine. Three years on, I’m still getting into the cold water and still loving the sense of calm, focus, and community it brings.

Waresley has become an important place for me, so offering to train as a lifeguard was any easy decision. I’m proud to be part of the team, helping to keep the Lake safe and welcoming for everyone who comes to swim, dip, or simply enjoy the space.

I’m an open water lifeguard at Waresley, and I genuinely love what I do. Every day gives me the chance to meet new people, create a welcoming environment, and support customers so they can enjoy their time safely and confidently. Being able to combine my passion for helping others with such a unique and rewarding role makes this job incredibly fulfilling.

As I've always had a love for swimming from a very young age, going from indoor swimming to indoor lifeguarding and then moving to the challenge of swimming in the freezing lake, it's always been a passion in my heart. Now that I'm lifeguarding at a place as special as this, I don't think I'd ever want to go back.

Every time I'm at Waresley Park, I always find myself enjoying it. There's always something new and interesting there, whether it's the people at the lake or the nature and animals around it. This place always seems to bring a smile to my face.

Swimming has always been such an important part my life, having competed in the pool for years. While my journey into open water swimming is still early, lifeguarding here at Waresley Park Estate has opened up a whole new world of opportunities. What makes this role even greater is the incredible community of wild swimmers. I absolutely love being a lifeguard and being part of something so meaningful. If you haven't visited yet, you're missing out! The lake is incredible and welcoming for all levels. 

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a first-timer, I’m here to keep you safe. Come say hi next time you’re down at Waresley Park Estate!