Stoke Newington West Reservoir reopens for wild swimming

Taking the plunge: West Reservoir swimmers last year (and no, that’s not a shark’s fin in the background). Photograph: Capital Tri

Open water swimmers who have been forced to keep a lid on their passion for splashing through big outdoor lakes during the coldest winter months are finally able to plunge into the cool, clear waters of Stoke Newington’s West Reservoir again.

The reservoir behind the Castle Climbing Centre on Green Lanes was thrown open to swimmers last year. It has been closed over the winter but is now open again.

‘Wild swimmers’ have to wear a wetsuit and pay £15 for an induction, which takes place Thursday evenings or Saturday mornings.

From then on sessions costs £5 for Better Gym members and £10 for everyone else.

You can book open water swimming in the reservoir for Thursday evenings, or Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday mornings. Call 020 8442 8116 for a slot and more information.