Looking for the best wild swimming spots in Cornwall? Look no further as I’ve got an extensive list of my favourite spots to go for a dip in the ocean in Cornwall.
Cornwall has got to be one of the best areas for wild swimming in the UK. After all most of it is surrounded by the ocean, but it’s not just the sea that provides some great opportunities for a dip!
Check out my eight favourite spots for wild swimming in and around Cornwall below! Plus I’ve even included some of my favourite swimming pools in Cornwall too.
A few notes on swimming in Cornwall: Wild swimming has grown hugely in popularity the last few years but it’s important you stay safe and remember to check for dangers before you take a dip! Always ensure you tell someone of your location and expected timings before you leave, be wary of potential hazards and cold water shock. Lots of the coastal locations for swimming might not be managed or manned all year round so be sure to have a swimming buddy with you and always check the tide before swimming.
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Best wild swimming spots in Cornwall
1. Golitha Falls, Liskeard
How to get there: Park at the Golitha Fall car park next to the river Fowey at Liskeard PL14 6RX.
Swim amongst an ancient oak woodland, in a series of magical pools and waterfalls at Golitha Falls. This whole area is a designated National Nature Reserve and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty! There is nothing more magical than swimming amongst the trees in this beautiful spot.
2. Bude Sea Pool
How to get there: Closest parking is the Summerleaze car park.
Bude Sea Pool might be one of Cornwall’s most popular outdoor swimming spot! It is easy to see why with free entry and beautiful views. The pool is open year round, 24/7 although if you plan to swim after dark it is recommended you go with a group. This in my opinion is one of the best swimming pools in Cornwall.
Credit: Bude Sea Pool
3. Goldiggins Quarry, Bodmin Moor
How to get there: Park in the Minions Village, and then follow the trail routes (20 minute walk) to reach the quarry.
Goldiggins Quarry is a little pocket of paradise for wild swimming! The quarry has depths up to 10 metres but there is also plenty of shallow areas if you just want to dip your toes in- perfect for any level of wild swimmer. Here you can enjoy your dip surrounded by beautiful wildlife in the summer, as the quarry is also home to a variety of species including newts, frogs, peregrine falcons, dragonflies, and ravens! A face wild swimming spot in Cornwall.
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4. Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth
How to get there: You can park just behind the beach on Queen Mary Road, TR11 4NA
Falmouth’s largest and most popular beach is the perfect swim spot for those looking for a more active spot. Gyllyngvase beach also has disability access and public toilets for those looking for a more accessible swim.
5. Porthtowan Tidal Pool, Porthtowan
How to get there: The closest parking is in the Porthtowan Council car park- from here you can make your way to the beach and pool.
This magical looking tidal pool is actually a man made structure built in the 20th century! It is well hidden by the cliffs and gives a beautiful spot for a dip. It is best visited 2 hours before/after low tide so be sure to check the tide times before you set off! This spot has become quite popular however, remains relatively quiet aside from mid- summer.
Have you been to any of these wild swimming spots in Cornwall?
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6. Jubilee Pool, Penzance
How to get there: The closest parking is free on street next to the Prom and surrounding roads. Otherwise, you can park at the Antony’s gardens or Wharfside car park- TR18 4FF
Jubilee Pool is the largest sea water pool in the UK, with an iconic triangular shape and art deco style; it is not to be missed on a visit to Cornwall! Even better, after you’ve enjoyed your swim, you can dip into the geothermal pool to warm right back up again!
7. Lizard Peninsula
How to get there: The most southerly point of the British mainland is near Lizard Point at SW 701115; Lizard village, also known as The Lizard, is the most southerly on the British mainland.
Enjoy the southernly tip of mainland England with this challenging coastal walk around the Lizard Peninsula, with opportunities to spot basking sharks, seals, coastal birds, and the lizard lighthouse it is perfect for nature lovers. You will also be able to spot colourful serpentine stone in the cliffs and rock features which was formed millions of years ago by tectonic pressure in the earth.
Which of these wild swimming spots in Cornwall is your favourite? Or which is your favourite swimming pool in Cornwall? Let me know!
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