Located on the Hertfordshire-Essex border, Redricks Lakes offers open-water lake swimming, water slides, and lakeside glamping pods just a short train ride from London or Cambridge
Searching for somewhere to make the most of the warmer weather forecast for the UK?
Glamping is an excellent option, allowing you to embrace the great outdoors without having to kip on an inflatable mattress or a bumpy field. And if you’re after somewhere that’s not too far from civilisation, this particular spot could well be worth your attention.
At the centre of Redricks Lakes sits a tranquil stretch of water, ideal for kayaking or even a refreshing swim, nestled amongst dense woodland and open green areas. Yet this picturesque setting is far from remote; there’s actually a train station just five minutes away, with direct services from London or Cambridge to this retreat on the Hertfordshire-Essex border.
The open water swimming lake is accessible throughout the year, meaning you can cool down during summer or, for the truly daring, take a brisk dip in the winter months. Beginners can sign up for introductory lessons, or join one of the atmospheric Full Moon Swims to experience the lake at its most serene.
Between May and September, the Aqua Splash water park throws open its doors, offering a thrilling inflatable assault course featuring slides, bouncy surfaces, and much more besides. Children and grown-ups alike will relish hurtling across the course or leaping into the lake on scorching days. There’s also a café and soft play area on site, reports the Mirror.
For those wishing to savour the peaceful surroundings for longer, glamping pods and bell tents are available to book, each complete with a proper bed, so there’s absolutely no fussing about with groundsheets. Glampers also benefit from access to a shared entertainment area and a BBQ space for mingling. One reviewer noted: “Perfect for a last-minute getaway. This campsite has everything you need. Toilet block, outdoor hot showers under the stars, swimming in a beautiful lake.”
Just a short distance away, visitors can discover the Hertfordshire countryside, including RSPB Rye Meads. This 58-hectare nature reserve is teeming with wetlands rich in wildlife, such as Common Terns, Kingfishers, Water Voles, waterfowl, and much more along the River Lee.
River Lee Country Park stretches from Essex to Hertfordshire, offering a number of stunning walks, including strolls along the canal towpaths. Visitors can hire their own vessel, ranging from a small pedalo to an electric boat, or even a traditional narrow boat, drifting along the tree-lined waterways of this tranquil park.
Also within easy reach of the campsite is The Gibberd Garden, a collection of immaculately kept gardens conceived by celebrated architect Sir Frederick Gibberd, showcasing outdoor artwork and acres of vibrant blooms. The gardens also play host to a variety of fascinating events, from beer to book festivals, with the distinctive surroundings providing a truly memorable backdrop.
