Spring Lakes: The Ultimate Watersports and Leisure Destination in Nottinghamshire
If you are looking for an exciting family-friendly destination in the heart of the East Midlands, Spring Lakes is the perfect choice. Situated in Long Eaton, Nottinghamshire, this remarkable outdoor adventure hub offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From open water swimming to wakeboarding and inflatable aqua parks, Spring Lakes has transformed into one of the UK’s most talked-about leisure centres.
This family-run business has grown rapidly since its founding in 2019, offering locals and tourists an unforgettable experience amidst stunning natural surroundings. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Spring Lakes Watersports & Leisure Centre, including its history, activities, facilities, and why it has become such a popular attraction in Nottinghamshire.
The Story Behind Spring Lakes
From Gravel Pit to Adventure Park
The site where Spring Lakes Watersports and Leisure Centre now stands has a fascinating history. Originally, it was used for sand and gravel extraction from the 1960s. In the 1990s, a redevelopment scheme saw the pits flooded, forming three pristine spring-fed lakes.
For years, the land fell into decline, until a visionary family-run team secured planning permission in January 2019 to transform the 133-acre site into a watersports paradise. Today, Spring Lakes Nottingham combines natural beauty with innovative leisure activities, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Why Choose Spring Lakes?
A Unique Watersports Experience
Unlike traditional leisure centres, Spring Lakes Long Eaton offers an incredible mix of water and land-based activities. Families, thrill-seekers, and fitness enthusiasts can all find something to enjoy.
Highlights include:
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A giant inflatable aqua park for all ages.
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A natural sandy beach with a gentle slope into clear water.
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Cable wakeboarding lessons for beginners and advanced riders.
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Open water swimming in lifeguard-supervised areas.
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Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and pedalos for relaxing fun.
Activities at Spring Lakes
Water-Based Adventures
Aqua Park Inflatable Fun
The Spring Lakes Aqua Park is one of its biggest attractions. Visitors can climb, jump, slide, and bounce their way across inflatable obstacles. It is ideal for families, groups of friends, and even corporate team-building days.
Open Water Swimming
For those who love fitness and wellness, open water swimming in the spring-fed lakes is an unbeatable experience. Swimmers are required to wear tow floats and swim caps for safety, and lifeguards are always on duty.
Wakeboarding and Kneeboarding
Spring Lakes is one of the few locations in the UK where you can learn to wakeboard using a cable system. Both beginners and professionals can enjoy tailored lessons, while kneeboarding offers a fun alternative for all skill levels.
Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and Pedalos
For a calmer day on the water, paddleboarding and kayaking provide a scenic and relaxing way to explore the lakes. Pedalos are also available, making it a family-friendly activity for younger children.
Land-Based Fun
Natural Sandy Beach
The Spring Lakes Beach Resort is a hidden gem, offering more than 50 metres of sandy shoreline. Families can relax, sunbathe, or paddle in the shallow waters. It has even been featured in national newspapers as one of the UK’s best inland beaches.
Camping and Glamping
Visitors can extend their stay with camping and glamping options. Bell tents are available for hire, creating the perfect weekend getaway for families or groups.
Café and Dining Pods
The Waters Edge Café is a popular spot for refreshments, offering a selection of food, cakes, and drinks. Unique dining pods provide a cosy and private space for meals with a lakeside view.
Key Information About Spring Lakes
Company Overview
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Business Name: Spring Lakes Watersports & Leisure Centre
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Website: https://springlakes.co.uk
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Phone: +44 115 972 7788
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Headquarters: 15 Pasture Lane, Long Eaton, Nottingham NG10 2FZ, United Kingdom
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Founded: 2019
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Specialties: Watersports, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUPs), Wakeboarding, Pedalos, Banana Boat Rides, Inflatable Fun, and Open Water Swimming
Visitor Experience
Reviews and Feedback
Visitors consistently praise the friendly staff, high safety standards, and variety of activities at Spring Lakes Nottingham. Many reviews highlight how the park provides fun for both adults and children, with something for everyone to enjoy.
The Waters Edge Café is often mentioned as a highlight, serving freshly prepared food, cakes, and hot drinks — the perfect way to refuel after time on the water.
Popular Times and Duration
According to visitor insights, most people spend around 2 to 3 hours at the centre, with weekends and late afternoons being the busiest times.
Spring Lakes as a Community Hub
Beyond being a leisure centre, Spring Lakes Long Eaton also plays a vital role in the local community. It hosts school trips, corporate events, and fitness sessions. The centre provides a safe space for children to learn swimming and water skills while giving adults the opportunity to embrace outdoor activities for health and wellness.
The Future of Spring Lakes
The team behind Spring Lakes Watersports & Leisure is continually improving the site. With new activities being added regularly, repeat visitors always have something fresh to experience. Fishing, camping upgrades, and expanded leisure facilities are among the exciting future developments.
Conclusion
Spring Lakes has successfully turned a once-forgotten gravel pit into one of the most exciting outdoor attractions in the UK. With its blend of thrilling watersports, relaxing beachside activities, and family-friendly facilities, it has quickly become a must-visit destination in Nottinghamshire.
Whether you’re searching for an adrenaline rush on the aqua park, a peaceful paddleboard session, or simply a relaxing afternoon on the sandy beach, Spring Lakes Watersports and Leisure Centre has it all.
