A man with a wild vision

What if every swim you took helped protect the landscape you were swimming in? Words by NOWCA

Behind this stunning new open water swimming destination in the heart of the Cotswolds is Will Trippett, a man whose vision stretches well beyond the water’s edge. Wild Leisure – Cleveland Lakes sits within the Cotswold Lakes – one of the UK’s most significant wetlands, spanning over 180 lakes across 42 square miles, and nationally important for wildlife. Most of the lakes are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and support over 20,000 wintering waterbirds alongside otters and water voles. It is, quite simply, a breathtaking place to swim.

Will has created something rare: a venue where membership means something beyond access. A portion of every NOWCA membership fee is donated to the Cotswold Lakes Trust – the charity dedicated to the conservation of the Cotswold Lakes, and the owners of Cleveland Lakes. Founded in 1991, the Trust manages nature reserves and conservation projects across the area. It’s a model that turns swimmers into stewards, and membership into something genuinely meaningful. Supported by the Cotswold Lakes Trust and NOWCA, Will has built a venue that takes safety as seriously as it takes conservation. Fully lifeguarded sessions, managed capacity, and NOWCA’s trusted safety system mean swimmers can immerse themselves in this spectacular natural environment with complete confidence.

Book a swim via the ACTiO app or learn more at nowca.org. Join the NOWCA Wild group
WILD LEISURE – CLEVELAND LAKES.