There’s something special about a warm, bright day out at the water’s edge. The light on the reservoir, the fresh air, the sound of the birds, it’s exactly the sort of day we love sharing with you. When the temperature rises, though, that cool, still water can start to look awfully tempting, and it’s the one invitation we’d ask you to decline.
Please don’t go into the reservoir, not for a swim, not for a paddle, not even for a quick dip to cool off. We know that’s a big ask on a hot day, but it comes from a good place: we want every visit to end with happy memories, and open water hides real dangers that catch out even the strongest, most confident swimmers. Wherever you’re visiting us at Hanningfield, Derwent, Kielder Waterside or any of our other reservoirs, the good news is that there are plenty of lovely ways to cool down while you’re here, and we’ve rounded up our favourites below.
“Our message is simple: stay safe and don’t swim in reservoirs. They’re working sites, not places for a dip — so please enjoy the water from the bank and make the most of your summer safely.” –
David Hall, Head of Leisure and Commercial Services, Northumbrian Water
Why we ask you to stay out of the water
Reservoirs aren’t like the sea or a pool. They’re beautiful to look at, but they were built to do a job, and that job creates hidden hazards:
- Cold water shock is real, even in a heatwave. The surface can feel pleasant, but just a metre or two down, the water stays bitterly cold all year round. That sudden cold can make you gasp involuntarily, tighten your chest and drain the strength from your arms and legs in seconds, long before you’ve had a chance to react.
- There are currents and movements you can’t see. Reservoirs are constantly at work, with water moving through them for treatment and to manage river levels. What looks perfectly calm on top can be pulling and shifting underneath.
- The bottom drops away fast, and there’s machinery below. The banks are often steep and slippery, the water is cold and murky, and there’s working equipment beneath the surface. One step can take you from ankle-deep to out of your depth.
- These are working sites first. Our reservoirs supply drinking water to homes and businesses across the region. Enjoying them from the bank helps keep both you and these important places safe.
Cooler ways to beat the heat — the Waterside way
Skip the reservoir and treat yourself instead. There’s a surprising amount you can do to stay cool right here on the park:
- Grab an ice cream. Our cafés serve ice creams, sweet treats and proper cold drinks — the easiest way to cool down on site, and far more enjoyable than cold water shock.
- Head for the trees. Our woodland walks and shaded trails are noticeably cooler than open ground, and they’re a gorgeous way to explore. A gentle stroll around the reservoir is lovely first thing or later in the afternoon when the heat has eased.
- Refill and stay topped up. Bring a reusable water bottle so you can keep hydrated as you wander; it makes a real difference on a hot day.
- Picnic in a shady spot. Pack a cool bag, find a bench under the trees and make an afternoon of it — we’ve plenty of beautiful spots to choose from.
- Time your activity for the cooler hours. Walks, cycle routes and outdoor activities are all best enjoyed in the morning or early evening, when it’s fresher for little legs and big ones alike.
- Watch the wildlife. Our bird hides and quiet viewing points are shaded, restful places to sit still and see what comes to you.
- Stick around for stargazing. Our parks in the North East can be found in the region’s Dark Sky spots. They’re wonderful places to stay into the cool of the evening and watch the stars come out.
Looking out for each other
We love sharing this place with you, and a little care goes a long way. Enjoy the sunshine, keep back from the water’s edge, and if you’re ever unsure about anything at all, come and find one of the team — we’re always happy to help. Have a wonderful, safe day with us.
