The days are long and hot but we’re not complaining, though it’s not so much fun for our pets. Instead of your usual walk, check out these places where your dog can have a cooling dip.
Here’s a handy list of safe swimming spots but please ensure social distancing guidelines are adhered to:
Bramford Picnic Site
Mills and Meadows walk, Bramford, Ipswich, IP8 4AP
Set alongside the River Gipping, Bramford Picnic Site is a fantastic place to spend the day with the family. With a hard standing path running alongside the river and plenty of places for your dog to hop in and out of the water, it’s no wonder this is a popular place to take your dog swimming. There’s a large green open space with picnic benches and plenty of room to run about with a ball or a Frisbee. If it’s too hot, head into the woods which are a short walk along the path towards Sproughton.
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Needham Lake and Nature Reserve
Coddenham Road, Needham Market, IP6 8NU
Needham Lake is popular for dog walkers, nature enthusiasts and families alike. Take the lovely circular walk around the lake then finish up on the footpath along the river where there are many opportunities for your dog to have a swim. Keep an eye out for signs where your dog can and can’t be off lead in the park. Please note that Saturdays there is a car boot sale and Sunday mornings there is a local run so the car park may be busier than normal.
Willen Lake
Brickhill Street, Milton Keynes, MK15 0DS
This really is the place to go if you want to enjoy a day out with the family. As well as lots of places your dog can jump in and out of the lake around the circular route, there’s also plenty for the little ones too. With a large children’s play park, treetop assault course, not to mention water sports for the more adventurous, there’s certainly something for the whole family to enjoy. Finish up at the bar where you can sit outside and enjoy something to eat as you watch the little ones feeding the ducks.
Priory Country Park
Barkers Lane, Bedford, MK41 9DJ
Just a stone’s throw from the busy town of Bedford, it’s hard to believe this calm oasis exists a short distance away from such an urban area. Head for the spot known as “the beach”, which is shallow enough for your dog to wade in and swim if they’re comfortable. You can kick back and relax on this sandy area with a picnic while your four-legged friend frolics in the water.
Southern Country Park
Thorley Lane East, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 4BH
Green flag award-winning Southern Country Park is a lovely place to explore with your dog, made simple with the help of their interactive map. Why not challenge your dog and yourself and have a go on the purpose built agility course? Wind down with a stroll around the lake, which is also used for fishing. Do take care if anglers are there and your dog wants to swim, and be respectful of the local wildlife!
Canine Dip and Dive
Potash Lane, Wyverstone, Norfolk, IP14 4SL
If you want a really safe swimming environment, it doesn’t getter any better than Canine Dip and Dive in Wyversone. Chose from their services which include; puppy, senior and dip and dive sessions. Have a nervous dog? No need to worry, you can book out the pool all to yourself so your dog can enjoy swimming without the worry of other dogs. How about a doggy water photography session? They really have all bases covered here.
Hylands Park
London Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8WQ
Hylands Park is part of the historic grade II listed Hylands Estate covering an impressive 574 acres so you’re not short of open space for you and your dog to have a run around. The park hosts music festivals and concerts so do check before visiting as you might find it a little busy. It boasts the gorgeous Serpentine Lake for your dog to have swim and plenty of facilities ensures you can spend the day exploring the stunning grounds.
Finally we have to share Canine Dip & Dive in Barkway, Hertfordshire. Emma, our Eastlife Editor and our resident canine reporter Fletcher trialled it last summer with huge success! To read all about it head over to Tails About Town: Dog Swimming Pool
For more information on up-to-date info and things to do indoors, garden days and exercise whilst social distancing why not check out our Facebook Page or Groups dedicated to your county Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk. Those dog lovers out there would be barking mad not to join our Doglife Group and vegan’s, you’ll be pleased we have one dedicated to you too.
You can also find us on Twitter and Instagram for all the latest info, competitions and stunning images of our beautiful counties in the Eastlife.
