Evie: Your story is such an inspiring one. How did Yoke Hill Leisure begin?

Emma & Steve: It all started when we moved our family out into the countryside after a long struggle to find a home that suited us and was within budget. In January 2024, we opened our wellbeing centre — and shortly after, the opportunity came up to rent an old fishery next door.

After a cuppa with the landowners, a deal was struck, and we were given the chance to reopen the lakes as an open‑water swimming venue. It had been a dream of ours for over 10 years. We’d already been helping maintain the lakes when they weren’t in use, and we always felt the space was far too special to stay quiet.

With an online bank account and a £1,000 budget, Yoke Hill Leisure was born.

Evie: Wow! What do you offer visitors today, and what makes your space so unique?

Emma & Steve: We offer open‑water swimming, a sauna, and a coffee shop — a place where people can truly connect with nature. We’re passionate about creating a warm, welcoming environment for the wild‑swimming community. For us, community is everything.

We’re based on the outskirts of Upper Benefield, between Corby and Oundle. Most people can’t believe we’re so close to town yet feel a million miles away.

Evie: A true hidden gem! You’ve already achieved so much in such a short time. What milestones stand out?

Emma & Steve: Reaching the finals of the NNBN Business Awards in October 2025 was huge for us. We were runners‑up, but considering we’d only been operating for six months, we were incredibly proud.

We also love supporting others in the wellbeing sector. We regularly offer heavily discounted venue hire to people just starting out. Sometimes it costs us financially, but it helps build the community we care so deeply about.

Evie: That's a huge achievement after running for such a short amount of time! And you recently won a Northamptonshire Tourism Business Award...

Emma & Steve: We did! We won New Tourism Business. It’s our proudest moment. Honestly, we felt a bit out of our depth and were just happy to be there. Winning was unbelievable.

Evie: Huge congratulations. What does this recognition mean for you?

Emma & Steve: Everything. It’s opened doors, helped us make new connections in the tourism sector, and given us real confidence. We’re moving forward with proud enthusiasm and a strong belief in what we’re building.

Evie: I bet it's given you even more fuel for an already exciting year ahead?

Emma & Steve: It really has. We’re planning to open our second lake for swimming this year, and we’re working on improving our facilities while keeping the natural feel of the space. We’re also developing nature walks and sensory trails to help people feel grounded and connected.

Evie: It sounds like such a beautiful site. Do you have a favourite spot?

Emma & Steve: The decking under one of our large willow trees overlooking the swimming lake. We try to spend a few quiet moments there each day. The only thing better than the peace is when it’s gently interrupted by laughter and encouragement from swimmers.

Evie: And to finish, we're asking businesses if they could pick a theme tune for themselves, what would it be?

Emma & Steve: A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay — uplifting and hopeful.