Hatchmere
Safety warning
- Swimming access withdrawn
- Access for swimming was withdrawn following a significant decline in wildlife around the lake. Check signage at the reserve for the current position. — Cheshire Wildlife Trust
- Toxic blue-green algae reported
- Blue-green algae has been reported here, with signage advising against entering the water and keeping dogs out. It is toxic to people and animals if swallowed. — Cheshire Wildlife Trust signage
Do not swim
Swimming at Hatchmere is reported as closed: Cheshire Wildlife Trust withdrew swimming access after a significant decline in wildlife around the lake, and toxic blue-green algae has been reported here. Check current signage at the reserve before any visit — this is a managed nature reserve, not a monitored bathing water, and its access rules can change.
Checked against the Environment Agency (England).
About this spot
Hatchmere is a small lake and nature reserve on the edge of Delamere Forest in Cheshire. It is unusual in having had a recognised swimming arrangement with the wildlife trust, which is why it is still widely listed as a wild swimming spot.
Common questions
- Can you swim at Hatchmere right now?
- Hatchmere is currently marked "Do not swim". Swimming at Hatchmere is reported as closed: Cheshire Wildlife Trust withdrew swimming access after a significant decline in wildlife around the lake, and toxic blue-green algae has been reported here. Check current signage at the reserve before any visit — this is a managed nature reserve, not a monitored bathing water, and its access rules can change. This reflects the latest data published by the Environment Agency (England). Conditions change quickly — always assess the water yourself before entering.