The North East’s “second-largest” reservoir has been recommended as one of the best places to go wild swimming this summer.

If you fancy taking a dip in the water to cool off safely, why not head to Derwent Reservoir in County Durham?

The Telegraph’s Jack Hudson praised the reservoir  “tucked into the North Pennines” of the county for being “large enough for lunging strokes and an idle meander”.

Commenting on his guide to wild swimming across Britain, Jack said: “These are the waters we go to when the world feels too small, or when we want to trade the malady of the workplace for the wild. If our homes are still castles, think of these swim spots like stony chapels. They offer shaded banks for us to sit and ponder life and cool depths to plunge into when the mercury soars. 

@andydmitch

Flying My DJI Mini 2 SE drone at Derwent Reservoir in County Durham. really peaceful place.

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“For this list, I’ve mined the wisdom of fellow swimmers and used a water safety website to rate the water sources from sufficient to excellent. Of course, plenty of you will plant watery flags in spots that go unmentioned, but wherever you are in our great isles, you should be able to find a pond, beach, lake or river calling out for your best and most inelegant dive on a summer’s day.”

What did The Telegraph's Jack Hudson say about Derwent Reservoir?

Jack explained in his article: “Tucked into the North Pennines in County Durham, this reservoir is large enough for lunging strokes and an idle meander.

“There’s a sense of freedom out there as you distance yourself from the green surroundings.

“It’s the region’s second-largest reservoir and is open to non-members on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

“The Millshield Picnic Area is a great place to stop after you swim. Just remember to bring a tow float so the boats can see you."

How to go wild swimming in Derwent Reservoir

Jack shared: “Park at the base of Derwent Dam beside the Fairholmes Visitor Centre.

“Facilities include a food kiosk, public toilets, ranger base and cycle hire.”

The water quality at Derwent Reservoir is currently listed as “good”.

Wild/open water swimming is available to non-members of Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club on Wednesdays between 2pm and 4pm and Saturdays and Sundays between 9am and 10am.

The sailing club website adds: “This activity is open to visitors for a charge of £10 per session.

“Pre-Booking a place prior to your visit is essential and can be done via our website.

“All swimmers must collect a wristband and make a card payment before entering the water.”

How to Cope with Hot Weather?

Swimmers should also note: “Safety is provided using a kayak which is equipped with a radio and whistle and manned by a member of the safety team.

“The swim course is 200 or 420 metres. Swimmers must wear a swimming hat (not white, silver or blue) and tow float.

“Those wearing a wetsuit are not required to wear a tow float. Once swimmers have completed their swim they must return their wristband to a member of the safety team on the leaving the water.”

Recommended reading:

RNLI wild/open water swimming safety tips

The RNLI has shared the following summary for wild/opening water swimming safety tips:

  • Be prepared. Check the weather and tides, choose your spot, go with a buddy, have the right equipment
  • If in doubt, don’t go out. No matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesn’t feel right there is no shame in getting out of the water straight away, or not entering
  • Make sure you acclimatise to avoid cold water shock
  • Be seen. Wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float
  • Stay within your depths
  • Float to live. If you get into difficulty in the water and are in shock, turn onto your back and tilt your head back in the water, submerging your ears. Relax and try to breathe normally, using your hands to helps you stay afloat. Wait until the shock passes then call for help or swim to safety
  • Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard in an emergency

Visit the RNLI website for more information before you get into the water.