The luxury Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa in the northern Lake District, UK, will launch a wild
swimming package in December, designed to introduce guests to the benefits of cold water
therapy.

Under the careful guidance of the hotel’s wild swimming coach, guests will be invited to choose a half-day or full-day package of exploring local natural water features.

This includes the chance to experience and immerse themselves in breathtaking water destinations such as a natural infinity pool; a string of spectacular waterfalls; and secluded locations, including the local ‘Gin Pool’, known for its crystal clear waters.

The new wild swimming retreat is designed to let guests discover the benefits of cold water swimming, including pain relief, a reduction in the stress hormone – cortisol and an increase in the happiness hormone – serotonin.

Participating guests will also be able to swim at their leisure in Bassenthwaite Lake, where they can take a dip directly from the hotel’s mile and half of lake frontage.

Although closed due to the UK’s second lockdown, Armathwaite Hall plans to offer the package once the hotel reopens after the lockdown period in early December.

The destination has confirmed the package will become a permanent feature on the spa menu, joining existing outdoors wellness programming, including forest bathing.

Available to residential and day spa guests, the package has a starting cost of £90 (US$118, €100) per person, and can be booked for a minimum of two people.

Each experience includes a short introduction to open and cold water swimming including safety requirements, plus all guests will be given the option of wet suits and provided with warming drinks and snacks after each cold water therapy.

Back in the hotel, guests can enjoy the warmth of the award-winning spa, locally-sourced food, spacious lounges and a bar.