SURFACE WATER TEMP: 18.5
°C UPDATED: 07-10-2026
SURFACE WATER TEMP: 18.5
°C
13th April 2026
CHANGES TO OUR SWIM COURSES
WINTER/SUMMER SWIM
LOOPS TO OVERLAP
LOOPS TO OVERLAP
Spring has arrived and with it some important changes to our swim courses including the return of our popular 750m loop. This year, though, we've taken the decision to do things a little differently to aid those not quite ready for the longer swim distances so please take a few moments to read this important announcement.
As we move out of the coldest months of the year, we’re making a small change to how we open and close our swim courses. This season, we’ll be opening the 750m course earlier than usual, before we close the 140m 'crack and back' Winter swim loop.
WHY THE CHANGE?
Each year, many swimmers return after the winter break which, whilst welcome, does bring with it some safety concerns. Early‑season water temperatures can still feel very cold, and the jump straight to our 350m or 550m courses can be a bit much for those rebuilding their confidence and cold‑water tolerance. Keeping the 140m 'crack and back' winter course open for a short transistional period gives swimmers a shorter, safer option as we ease into longer Summer swim distances.
We’re really pleased to offer this more flexible transition into spring swimming, and we hope it helps you enjoy the water more comfortably and confidently.
KEY POINTS
- The 750m course will open on Monday 13th April 2026
- The 140m winter course will remain open during an initial period of overlap. This creates a safe stepping stone for returning swimmers as temperatures rise.
- Safety remains our top priority: keeping swimmers close to the entry/exit point in colder water helps us provide faster support if needed.
A few safety reminders...
- All swim courses should be swum in a clockwise direction. As you progress around the swim course, keep all large yellow buoys on your right-hand side until you reach the shared final yellow buoy (labelled #10 on the swim map below) - keep this buoy on your left-hand side, then turn and swim back to the green start buoy.
- If you are a faster, head down swimmer, please be mindful of and sight regularly for other swimmers in front of you, particularly as you approach and round the turn buoys. Please do not swim directly at or too close to swimmers in front of you, who may be less confident in the water than you.
- If you are a slower swimmer or swimming with friends heads up and having a chat, please swim on the course described above, but slightly to the left of the direct "racing line" buoy to the buoy and swim slightly wide of the turn buoys in order that you do not impede faster swimmers.
- Please do not stop directly behind or on turn buoys, as you may be obscured to other swimmers, which increases the risk of collisions.
- Please avoid swimming 3 or more abreast, as this blocks the swim course and leads to potential collisions.
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Welcome to Vobster Quay - the UK's friendliest open water swimming, scuba diving and freediving venue. Based in the heart of the Somerset countryside, Vobster Quay is committed to delivering the perfect blend of inspiring open water activities and events, with a great range of facilities to ensure that your visit is fun, relaxed and, above all, safe.
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