Safety matters at Alderford
We take safety seriously and want everyone to have a fantastic time in a way that feels safe, clear, and well planned. Please take a moment to read this page before visiting the park or entering the water.
Water Quality
At Alderford, water quality is monitored regularly so visitors can enjoy the lake with confidence. Frequent testing checks algae and bacteria levels, helping the team spot potential issues early and respond quickly.
That monitoring sits alongside an active water management plan. Alderford uses non-toxic pond dyes to reduce the sunlight that algae and submerged weeds rely on, helping to slow growth and keep the water clearer.
The lake is also treated with Byofix, a natural bacteria blend used to break down organic pollutants, support healthy dissolved oxygen levels, reduce odours, and help limit sludge build-up on the lake bed.
Latest
algae results
Water Quality Update
Following our green results last week, we promised we would continue to keep a close eye on our water quality, so we took another sample on Wednesday.
Those results came back this evening and have shown that our algae levels have increased again.
The latest results show moderate levels of algae, slightly above our threshold of 20,000 cells per ml.
Of course, we would have loved another green result, but this is exactly why we continue to test even when results have improved.
So, what does this actually mean?
Firstly, it does not mean that everyone who goes into the lake is going to become ill.
The presence of algae does not automatically mean the water is toxic or harmful. It simply means that as the cell count increases, the potential risk increases too, so we need to take some extra precautions.
Think of it a little like rain clouds. Seeing some clouds doesn’t mean there will be a thunderstorm, but as more clouds gather, the potential increases.
It’s similar with algae. As cell numbers increase, there is greater potential for a bloom to develop. That is why we have thresholds in place and why we introduce additional precautions when our results move above them.
What happens now?
The lake remains open, but from tomorrow we will be reintroducing the additional precautions we had in place previously.
We ask everyone entering the water to avoid swallowing lake water, shower thoroughly afterwards, wash their hands before eating, clean equipment after use and avoid entering the water with open wounds or if feeling unwell.
We will also be reintroducing the additional algae waiver for anyone entering the water.
If you already have an activity booked and would prefer not to enter the lake while levels are raised, please get in touch and we can talk through your options.
We’ll continue to monitor the lake closely, keep testing and, as always, share the results with you.
We appreciate that algae has been a bit of a recurring theme for us this summer, and believe us, we would much rather not be talking about it again! But we think it’s important to be open about our results, even when they aren’t the ones we were hoping for.
Clear guidance helps everyone enjoy the water safely
Age and supervision rules
Age and supervision requirements are in place to help families plan ahead and make sure children are supported appropriately while visiting the lake.
- Children 8 and under: one adult aged 18+ for every 3 children, and that adult must go in the water with them if they enter the water.
- Children aged 9-12: one adult aged 18+ for every 10 children, and that adult must go in the water with them if they enter the water.
- Children aged 13-17: a supervisor aged 21+ must stay on site and supervise from the side, with a maximum of 10 children per supervisor.
- Visitors must be 18+ to enter site without an accompanying adult.
A little preparation goes a long way
Core lake safety rules
Please read these key lake rules before heading into the water so everyone can enjoy the site safely.
- Buoyancy aids and tow floats: all lake users must wear a buoyancy aid, or a tow float if they are just swimming.
- Lifeguards: the lake outside the aquapark area is not lifeguarded, so visitors need to understand and follow the rules themselves.
- Know your ability: visitors should be able to swim 25 metres confidently in open water before entering the lake.
- Wear your leash: paddleboard users should wear their leash at all times.
- Buddy up: Alderford recommends entering open water with someone else and carrying a means of communication such as a whistle or phone.
Peace of mind starts before the day begins
Do you do water quality tests?
Yes, we carry out a water quality test regularly, including Algae bloom tests.
The latest swim safety water quality results can be found here.
Why do I need to sign a waiver?
The waiver has been introduced for the safety of both customers and our employees. If you have visited us before you will remember we asked you to read the T&Cs at admissions and wear a wristband to confirm you have read this. We didn’t feel customers had a sufficient amount of time to understand the T&Cs, therefore by moving the waiver digitally, it enables visitors time to digest and understand the information. A copy of our waiver can be found here.
Can I fly my drone?
Sorry, no. We don’t allow any drone flying.
Do I have to wear a buoyancy aid?
Yes, tow floats or buoyancy aids are mandatory for all lake users.
We have both of these available to hire on site.
Do I need to sign a waiver if I am just visiting for a walk?
No, the waiver is just required to be signed by lake users only.
I haven’t tried open water swimming before can I still come along?
Yes you can, however, we would advise you speak to a coach first to assess your ability. Open water swimming is much different to indoor pool swimming.
You can read more about coaching here.
Please read our terms and conditions.
What is the maximum capacity for the islands?
The capacity for each of the islands is 8.
If you have more than 8 guests, you can book more than one island.