IF you’re searching for a place to cool off without the crowds this weekend, this lake has been described as a ‘secret oasis’.
Tucked away in Surrey is Divers Cove which not only has bright blue swimming waters, but lakeside sauna pods and a cafe.
Divers Cove is a 7.3-acre reservoir in Surrey and is described as a ‘haven for wild swimming’.
One visitor said: “It’s a fabulous place to go for a swim in natural and beautiful surroundings – it’s like a secret oasis in the middle of Surrey.”
Another added: “I really don’t want to say too much about Divers Cove, but this is because rather selfishly I want it kept a secret!”
Others described it as ‘gorgeous’ and the water as being ‘gin clear’.
After a cold dip at Divers Cove, swimmers can warm up in one of the lakeside saunas, which is open on weekends.
The handcrafted pods aren’t far from the waters and can be booked from £11.99 per session.
During the winter season, there are ice barrels by the side for a chilly dip before warming up in the sauna.
The capacity of a sauna pod is eight people – but they can be booked for sole use too.
Also on the lakeside is a small cafe selling fresh pizzas, drinks and snacks.
While Divers Cove is popular for locals who have memberships, there is a ‘pay as you go’ option for visitors costing £11.99 which run from 9am to 6pm.
There are a few conditions of swimming at Divers Cove for safety – visitors will need to wear a wetsuit if the water temperature is under 16C.
You can check the temperature on the website before heading down for a swim.
And everyone entering the water must wear brightly coloured swim hats.
Swimmers can bring their own or hire these out at the venue.
For those keen to get into wild swimming, Divers Cove runs an ‘Introduction to Open Water Swimming Course’ as well as improvement sessions too.
The lake is an hour from central London – on public transport, the easiest way to get there is on the Thameslink to Redhill.
Then take a bus to Waterhouse Lane which is a short walk from the Divers Cove.