Kent’s largest shopping centre has become the latest venue to go dog-friendly as it launches a unique experience for pets.

Hangloose Adventure has opened dog swimming slots at the lake in Bluewater, in Greenhithe, after being asked by a visitor if they could bring their four-legged friend along.

As part of its series of adrenaline-fuelled attractions, the firm already runs cold water and wild swimming sessions all year around aimed at adults looking to keep fit or train for events.

However, specific slots will now be made available to book to allow dog owners to bring their pets for a doggy paddle too.

Director at Hangloose Adventure, Brian Phelps, said: “When we were asked by a swimmer if they could bring their dog, we thought why not?

“Of course, not everyone wants a dog in the same swimming area, so we have created special slots and implemented safety measures to ensure dogs and their owners are safe.”

The sessions, which are designed to enhance fitness and fun for pets, are open for dogs of all sizes and swimming abilities and are free for monthly subscribers and annual members. You can find out more here.

The water in the lake is filtered through chalk which helps make it clear and means its water quality is one of the highest in the country.

It is also regularly sampled and tested by an independent ecologist.

The dog swimming sessions are the latest activity to be added to Hangloose Adventure’s offering at Bluewater.

It already boasts a zipline, a swing, an outdoor skydiving machine and an aerial trekking course.

Last month plans to add an aqua park and floating observation deck were approved by Dartford council.

In its planning application, Hangloose stressed the deck was “very unlikely to reach” its maximum capacity of 153 people standing, and boasted that it offers “a panoramic view of almost all existing activities”.