SWIMMING

Become a friend
Become a friend

Gaddings Dam is a reservoir, not a managed swimming venue — but swimming has long been a traditional activity here and you may see experienced open-water swimmers training and people enjoying a cold water dip.

Key safety points

  • Stay close to the walls so you can get out easily

  • Don’t swim across the reservoir

  • Keep a few metres away from the wall itself — there are rocks beneath the surface

  • Don’t dive in

  • Be prepared, the damn is high up and temperatures are way colder. Bring plenty of warm clothes and a hot drink.

  • Don’t swim alone. 

  • Help can be at least 40 minutes away (often longer in bad weather)

This is wild swimming: self-reliance, fitness, and good judgement matter.