Nestled in a village near the Surrey and Croydon border, Divers Cove in Godstone offers one of the most stunning open-air swimming experiences. Just a 20-minute drive from Sanderstead in Croydon, via Warlingham and the Caterham Bypass, this 7.3-acre reservoir feels worlds away from the bustling London streets. Due to the Godstone sinkhole, it is advisable to take the A22 to the Eastbourne Road roundabout and then head back to Godstone to reach the cove.
A Mediterranean Escape in Surrey
The shimmering turquoise lagoon, surrounded by lush woodland, boasts excellent water quality thanks to its natural biodiversity and sandy bottom. During this time of year, the water warms up to around 25°C, making it perfect for newcomers to open-water wild swimming. All sessions are supervised by a lifeguard, ensuring peace of mind while you complete your laps. After swimming, you can hop onto the grassy shore and bask in the glorious rays, as if you were in the Mediterranean and not a stone's throw from the A25.
More Than Just Swimming
Divers Cove offers more than just swimming. The hand-built wooden sauna pods and whisky barrels are located right by the lake, providing an idyllic view as you enjoy a unique relaxation experience. A café serves delicious pizzas every Friday evening, and there are ample changing rooms, toilets, and parking spots available. Originally a sand extraction site, the cove will soon offer morning yoga in a cabin beside the water.
Qualified yoga instructor Anna Rooke runs yoga and wild swimming retreats at the cove, allowing participants to connect with nature. Her half-day retreats on June 20, July 5, August 30, and September 6 include revitalizing yoga flow, replenishing yin yoga, and a blissful deep relaxation experience (yoga nidra). The intimate and relaxed experiences include wild swimming or dipping in the lake, time to unwind in the lakeside barrel saunas, and hot drinks and tasty treats. No previous yoga or wild swimming experience is required, as Anna tailors sessions to participants, emphasizing enjoyment over perfection.
How to Get There and Costs
Divers Cove in Godstone is accessible only from North Park Lane off the A25. Take the first right turn on North Park Lane and turn right immediately. Drive up the slope and through the gates to find the car park. For single visits or casual swimmers, pay-as-you-go costs £11.99 for 60 minutes in the water. A yearly Bronze membership is available for £4.99, making each swim just £9.99. Silver (£24.99) and Gold (£49.99) memberships offer additional benefits like discounts on food and drink. For safety, you must hire a tow float and bring or hire a brightly colored hat.
For more information or to book, visit the Divers Cove website.
