28/05/2026
Fun in the sun 🌞
I managed to time my short work break with the beautiful weather and we have certainly been making the most of it!
Spent the bank holiday Monday out in Derbyshire having a paddle 💧
It's important to remember safety when entering any body of water, no matter how shallow. Before venturing out I did my research! We all took swim shoes / sandles to paddle in and this particular place the water was never really deeper than your legs.
Wild swimming / paddling is often a divisive subject same as foraging! And I have similar feelings on both topics... Education is the key!!!
There are some places that are definitely not safe to swim in, but there are lots of places that are where you are told you shouldn't. It's hard to know the difference sometimes.
Educating yourself, and in turn others when you can is a far better option in my opinion. People need connection to nature! Whether that's swimming, foraging, exercising whatever... We need more safe ways to do it!
Of course you MUST remember to leave no trace you have been there and watch out for nesting birds and ducklings. They don't need the bother! If you spot some, move away.
We are blessed with the gang at Colwick lake who offer wild swimming in sessions with lifeguards etc. They truly are a fab bunch with great facilities and I highly recommend a visit.
BUT! It's not enough! I wanna see more river cleanups, better education, better access and less excuses as to why we can't enjoy them.
I've got a BIG project I am currently squirrelling away on - one I plan to get LOTS of you involved in and YES there will be paddling and foraging!!
Looks like we have today left with the hot hot heat before normal service resumes - I'm staying in Nottingham today but planning on finding a good paddle spot if I can 👀
Enjoy what's left of the sun (or stay hidden for one more day if that's what you prefer!)
Stay safe! If you plan on dipping your toes in anywhere I'll pop a link in the comments / bio with some helpful information.
