*The Lake is back open! View opening times here*
(Our Performance Lake is free to use for all Bicester Hotel guests)
Bicester outdoor performance lake is a 200m body of water that is perfect for advanced and amateur swimmers looking to enjoy the benefits of outdoor swimming in Bicester. Open-water swimming has a variety of benefits and can revolutionise the way you swim.
What better way to enjoy exercise than in the great outdoors? Just a 25-minute drive from Oxford, our stunning grounds provide a perfect backdrop to your workout as you swim lengths in our refreshing outdoor lake.
Taking your exercise routine outside has a variety of benefits and can improve the impact of your workout. So, want to give open water swimming in Bicester a go? Get in touch below to book your session.
Cold water therapy is a new health and fitness trend that is sweeping the country. If this sounds like something you’re ready to brave, our open-water lake is the perfect place to try cold water swimming. Ready to brave the water? Book your slot today and feel the benefits of cold water swimming in Oxford today!
Want some more information on cold water swimming? Read our blog on the health benefits here.
Oxford United FC visited Bicester Performance Lake to experience our range of outdoor activities – find out about their experience below
Non-members – Pay as you go: £7 or 10 sessions for £60
Children: £6 or 10 sessions for £50 (Children aged 10-15 must be accompanied by an adult, 1:1 ratio in supervised sessions only).
Wetsuit Hire: £10
Swim hat purchase: £5
Tow Float: £1 to hire and £15 to purchase
Open Water Swim & Assault Course Joint Session: £10
We also offer Paddleboarding on our performance lake. Available for beginners and those with more experience and their own boards. All prices are per hour.
Members board hire: £10 p/h
Non-members with own board: £7p/h
Non-members + board hire: £17 p/h
Winter 2026 Timetable starting Monday 28th September
Monday: Lake Swim (14:00-15:00)
Tuesday: Lake Swim (08:00-09:00)
Wednesday: Lake Swim (14:00-15:00)
Thursday: Lake Swim (08:00-09:00)
Friday: Lake Swim (14:00-15:00)
Saturday and Sunday: Lake Swim (8:30-9:30 & 14:00- 15:00) & Paddle-boarding (13:00-14:00)
Do I need to book?
No, we are operating without a booking system currently to avoid large groups turning up at one time.
Do I need a Tow Float?
Yes, this is compulsory and is for your safety.
How long can I stay in the water for?
You can stay in the water for the duration of your swimming session, which will typically be 1 hour long.
How is the water kept so clean?
01869 241 204We have pumps in the water to keep it moving, bore hole to feed fresh water into the lake and an overflow to keep the water changing. The water is tested regularly is ensure it is as clean as possible.
Do you have a swimming membership?
All our memberships include the use of a lake and assault course so please speak to us or email memberships@bicesterhgs.com for more information.
How deep is your lake?
Average depth is 2metres.
Can children swim in the lake?
Yes, minimum age is 10 and if under 16 then a parent needs to be on site. A lifeguard will be present but it is important they can swim 200m comfortably. Please tell staff if it is there first time to open water swimming.
How close are you to Oxford?
We are only a 25-minute drive from Oxford. Join us today and start feeling the amazing benefits of cold-water swimming!
Try your hand at Paddleboarding on the Bicester Performance Lake! Paddleboard hire is available or you can bring your own.
Our Members love at Bicester Health & Fitness
Gorgeous hotel and Spa, excellent rooms, friendly staff.
Amazing staff and amazing hotel. Very hospitable. Excellent spa facilities.
My favourite place in Bicester/Chesterton. I’m pretty much here every day working out in the gym or using the spa. It’s my happy place. Excellent facilities, friendly staff and a really good bar as well. Also the roof top terrace is one of best hidden gems in Oxfordshire.
Fantastic facilities, love the outdoor swimming lake!
Beautiful day to visit the lake for my 1st open water swim. I called before to find about about how things worked and received great advice and support when I attended. Easy to get to, reasonably priced, clean and good facilities, great communication and safety monitored at all times. A beautiful location! Will definitely be visiting again.
It’s diversity. There’s something for everyone. Gym, Swim, Pilates, Cycle, Personal Trainers, Zumba, Tai Chi, Dance, Barre and much more. Where can you get all this except at BHC!
What a lovely club with some really friendly members and welcoming staff.
Had an amazing hour-long facial from Victoria – so relaxing and beautiful Elemis products used. Have booked another one already!
Fantastic day, staff were lovely, lunch was fab and my facial was heavenly, highly recommend and thank you to all the staff.
Great place, helpful staff with a cracking view of the golf course.