Bank Holiday weekend fun at Willen Lake as local charity hosts family walk and open water swim 

Families, fundraisers and thrill-seekers are invited to Willen Lake this May Bank Holiday weekend as Willen Hospice partners with Willen Lake to host Love Willen Day on Saturday 23 May.

The community event features two exciting fundraising activities sponsored by Brioche Pasquier – the Family Fundraising Walk and Make Waves for Willen, an open water swim challenge – alongside a full day of family fun around the lake. 

The day begins with Make Waves for Willen, where participants can take on an open water swim challenge in Willen Lake. Swimmers can choose from two start times, at 10am or 11am, and will have up to 30 minutes to complete as many laps of a 300m course as possible. Registration costs £25 and includes free wetsuit hire courtesy of Aqua Parcs, a tow float and a finisher’s medal. The lake is regularly inspected to ensure safe swimming conditions. 

In the afternoon, families can enjoy a fun-filled 4km walk around the lake, featuring interactive games and activities along the route. Highlights include a Teddy Trail featuring 10 hidden teddies and a treasure map, bubbles and puzzle stations, refreshments stop and opportunities to learn more about the local environment.

Entry costs £10 per adult, with each adult ticket including two free child places. Participants are encouraged to fundraise £50 for individuals (1 adult and up to 2 children) or £85 for teams (2 adults and up to 4 children) to help support Willen Hospice’s specialist care.

Willen Hospice Community & Events Fundraising Manager Nikki Poole said, “We’re delighted to be working with The Parks Trust and our neighbours at Willen Lake for this special community event. 

As a charity, providing care for local people and families, community support means everything to us. Every step walked and every lap swum will help us raise the £9.6 million each year to continue providing expert, compassionate care for people living with a life-limiting illness.”

The event is being delivered in partnership with Willen Lake, who are offering free activities throughout the day, including taster sessions for Splash ‘N’ Play, Treetop Extreme, Pedalos, Adventure Golf and more.

Registration will also be available on the day. To find out more or sign up online, visit willenlake.org.uk/lovewillen