A stunning former quarry known for its crystal-clear lake is a hidden gem home to swimming and watersports. Nestled on the outskirts of Gloucestershire, The Lake, situated at the former Cromhall Quarry offers an idyllic setting for open water swimming, scuba diving and paddle boarding.
With underwater wreckages to explore and the opportunity for night-time swims, it’s a haven for aquatic enthusiasts of all levels. Managed by the South West Maritime Academy, The lake, near Wotton-Under-Edge also serves as an excellent training ground for those wanting to learn how to scuba dive or undertake specialised diving sessions.
South West Maritime Academy, renowned for its comprehensive training courses in maritime safety, medical training, fire training, maritime leisure training, and renewables safety training, utilises its state-of-the-art facilities at Cromhall Quarry to deliver these courses.
The academy expanded its operations when it took over the water body previously managed by Cromhall Dive Centre, which shut down during the UK lockdown in 2020. Since then, the academy has reopened the site to swimmers and divers alike, reports Gloucestershire Live.
Paul Breen, Outdoor Activities Manager at The Lake, said: “Here at The Lake, we’re incredibly proud to offer a truly unique and exceptional experience for water enthusiasts of all levels. Our crystal-clear waters surrounded by the dramatic landscape of Cromhall Quarry provide the perfect backdrop for our activities.
“Whether you’re a seasoned open water swimmer seeking a challenging workout, a beginner taking your first dip, a scuba diver exploring our diverse underwater attractions, or a paddleboarder enjoying a peaceful glide across the lake, we have something for everyone.
“Above all, we’re committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all our visitors, with a range of facilities, expert classes and instructors, and convenient services like our on-site shop and food truck – we guarantee you’ll leave feeling refreshed and invigorated.”
The Lake boasts an on-site food truck where guests can refuel and recharge. Whether in the mood for a quick snack or a hearty lunch, the food truck offers a tasty selection of both hot and cold treats.
There you can warm up with a hot tea, coffee, or chocolate or cool down with a cold drink.
For those with a penchant for sweets, there’s an array of cakes, flapjacks, and chocolate bars. Savoury cravings can be satisfied with crispy bacon rolls, nourishing soup with a roll, classic toasties, and the new addition of fish finger sandwiches.
It’s the ideal spot to replenish after a swim or dive.
The Lake also features an on-site shop stocked with all the essentials for a comfortable swim. Divers will find the IDEST-certified Technical Services Department ready to provide thorough testing, servicing, and repairs for cylinders, regulators, BCDs, and dry suits.
Air, oxygen, nitrox, and mixed gas fills are also available.
Each swimming session lasts for two hours and is priced at £6. During the winter, it offers two sessions on Tuesdays and three sessions on both Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 3pm.
As spring and summer approach and the days lengthen, an additional weekday session is added on Thursdays, with sessions extending into the evening. The Lake also provides access to a dive site on Saturdays and Sundays.
Diving costs just £16 per diver, with arrivals starting from 8.30am and departures required by 4.30pm. Paddleboarding can be booked online during the summer months, with prices ranging from £7.50 for those bringing their own equipment to £25.00 for our beginner coaching sessions.