Weekend swim retreat: Watersedge, Worcestershire

Digital editor Abi finds a swimmer’s haven on the edge of a Worcestershire lake

When you enter Watersedge in the middle of the Worcestershire countryside, you feel as though you’ve stepped into a swimmer’s village. Or should I say… a swimmer’s paradise? A cute signpost near the entrance marks the way to things like ‘Watering Hole’, ‘Wild Spa’ and ‘SUP launch’. I followed the sign for my accommodation – a cosy and stylish cabin on the edge of an 11-acre lake. When I plonked down my bag and helped myself to one other complimentary gooey biscuits on the coffee table, I knew I was going to be in for a treat during this stay.

The accommodation 

I stayed in ‘Lapwing’, a lodge for two on the water’s edge. It has its own hot-tub, fire pit and decking overlooking the lake, plus fluffy robes are provided for you to lounge around in. There are also cosy shepherds huts and a luxury 3-bed apartment on site, or 1.5 miles away on the Watersedge farm there are more lake lodges and a luxury barn conversion that sleeps 4-5 – so lots of options depending on the size of your party.

The swimming

Watersedge has an 11-acre swimming lake, with its northern end equipped with 150, 300m and 750m loops, so ideal for triathletes and swimblers. There’s also a dipping area for less confident swimmers. All swim sessions are attended by a lifeguard, and tow floats are provided. 

During my stay I joined one of the evening swim sessions and enjoyed lovely chats with Watersedge members during my loops. 

Next to the lake are wood-fired saunas, hot tubs and an ice cabin, plus a spa treatment room and a lakeside studio that hosts yoga, pilates, sound baths and breathwork sessions. 

The food

The lakeside lodges are quipped with a fridge, dual hob, microwave/oven and BBQ, and milk, tea and coffee are provided for guests.

Watersedge has its own coffee hut that’s open for every swim session, offering locally roasted coffee and fresh cakes. The nearest shop in Bishampton (just two minutes away) is very well stocked should you need to pop out for groceries.

There are superb options nearby for eating out, including Rise & Grind, a farmhouse-inspired cafe that’s great for breakfast and brunch. For lunch or dinner there’s Ounce, which offers hand-crafted, personalised beef cuts, or The Boot Inn, a traditional country pub that specialises in ‘the steak on a stone’.

Best of the rest

The location of this swim retreat is close to the edge of the Cotswolds. The pretty village of Broadway is only a short drive away, filled with independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Close to the village is Broadway Tower, an 18th century folly with epic views of the Cotswold countryside.

For some retail therapy, head to The Valley, which has a nicely curated selection of shops and places to eat. It’s right next to Evesham Country Park, for woodland and meadow walks.

Alternatively, just stay and soak up the relaxing vibes at Watersedge, which has a lively swim community and an array of wellbeing and swim sessions to keep you occupied!

My fave thing

Soaking in the hot tub after my swim, watching lapwings and swallows swooping over the lake at sunset. 

Find out more about Watersedge at watersedge.club