Adventure, swimming and paddlesports
Something for every kind of water day
Whether you want high-energy fun, a calmer session on the lake, or time to build confidence on the water, there is an Alderford activity to match.
Aquapark sessions for families, friends, and group days out
Open water swimming with regular water testing
Paddlesports hire, self-launch, and coached sessions on the lake
Aquapark
Aquapark is the headline adventure at Alderford, with climbing features, slides, obstacles, and plenty of splash-filled fun out on the lake.
It is a brilliant choice for families, friends, birthday groups, and anyone after a high-energy water challenge during the warmer months.
Open water swimming
Open water swimming at Alderford gives you the chance to swim in a private lake with qualified lifeguards on duty, regular water quality testing, and a setting that suits both first-timers and regular swimmers.
Tow floats are mandatory, coaching is available, and full day swim passes make it easy to settle into the water at your own pace.
Paddleboarding, kayaking & canoeing
Paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing offer a calmer way to enjoy Alderford, whether you are trying something new, heading out with family, or spending a relaxed hour on the lake.
Equipment and buoyancy aids are provided for hire sessions, and no previous experience is needed to get started.
- Stand up paddleboard hire on the lake
- Kayaks and canoes for different ages and group types
- Hourly sessions that are easy to fit into the day
- Friendly support for first-time paddlers
Self-launch sessions
If you already have your own paddleboard, kayak, or canoe, self-launch gives you direct access to the lake without needing to hire equipment on site.
Check in on arrival, follow the lake guidance, and enjoy time on the water with your own gear.
More ways to enjoy the lake
Group activities
From birthdays and hen or stag celebrations to team days and get-togethers, Alderford can help shape a water-based session around your group.
Aquapark, paddlesports, and time on the lake can all be part of the day, with the team helping you plan around numbers, dates, and the kind of experience you want to create.
Lessons and courses
Alderford also offers coached and qualification-led routes for visitors who want to build confidence, improve technique, or work towards recognised open water training.
From beginner support through to professional training, this route helps visitors move beyond a casual day out and into more structured learning.
Good to know before you go
Water quality and safety
Safety sits behind every water session at Alderford, with qualified lifeguards supporting swimming activity and regular water quality testing helping visitors book with confidence.
Tow floats are mandatory for open water swimmers, and clear guidance is in place across the lake so visitors know what to expect before they arrive.
Make the most of your visit
Alderford is easy to reach from across Shropshire, Cheshire, and North Wales, with parking, changing facilities and showers. After your session, stay for a drink or bite to eat at the Alderford café and make more of your day by the lake.
1
Choose your activity
Pick the lake experience that best suits your group, pace, and confidence on the water.
2
Book ahead for busy days
Popular summer sessions can fill quickly at weekends and during school holidays, so it is worth planning in advance.
3
Arrive ready for the lake
Give yourself time to check in, get changed, and make the most of the on-site facilities before your session starts.
Choose your next step
Choose your next step
Whether you are ready to book a water adventure, plan a swim, or get organised before your visit.
Open Water Swimming
Find swim information, safety guidance, and the best next route for swimmers.
Open water swimming
Plan Your Visit
Check the practical details that help your day on the water run smoothly.
Plan your visit