This summer gave me lots of time to get outdoors, explore and of course go wild swimming near me. If you are looking for your next adventure fix, look no further than Wild Swimming.
Can there be any better way to cool down from the summer heat (or the winter chill for that matter) than by swimming up and down a river or lake in the great outdoors?!
When I first started wild swimming, I had no idea where to start and first googled ‘ wild swimming near me’ which gave me some resources, but not what I was looking for.
Which is why I’ve curated this complete guide to wild swimming, including all the tips you need.
I think not, so if you are ready to be inspired, keep reading. Here are the best 48 wild swimming spots near you, water safety and how to get started…
*Updated May 2025
Contents
What is wild swimming?
Wild swimming is essentially swimming outdoors in natural spaces, such as rivers, lakes or the sea. Over the past few years, there has been a big rise in wild swimming across the country which has been put down to people seeking alternative exercise regimes, wanting to immerse themselves in the great outdoors and
Is Wild swimming safe?
Wild swimming is safe, but only if you follow guidelines, know your own ability and follow proper safety measures. Swimming, in general, is a fun activity which can be enjoyed by everyone, but outdoor swimming does have its dangers.
Over the past decade, the rivers in the UK have become cleaner than they’ve ever been due to the fantastic work agencies like The River Trust, and The Environmental Agency. It is a great time to embrace wild water swimming!
“92.4% of our bathing waters were at Good or Excellent status in 2018. In 1995 over half would have failed.” – The Environmental Agency
What to wear wild swimming
If you’re new to wild swimming it’s wise to wear a wetsuit as it’ll keep you warm and adds buoyancy too. I have been swimming only in the summer this year, and managed to get away with a swimming costume only, but I am about to buy a wetsuit for the colder months.
Swimming costume or wetsuit – A wetsuit is ideal for colder months as it provides warmth and buoyancy. In summer, a swimsuit can be sufficient.
Thermal layers – Consider a thermal rash vest or base layer under your wetsuit for extra warmth.
Swim hat – Opt for a silicone or neoprene hat to retain body heat. Double up for colder waters.
Goggles – Essential for visibility and eye protection. Polarized lenses can reduce glare.
Neoprene swim boots/socks – Protects your feet from sharp rocks and keeps them warm.
Gloves – Neoprene gloves help maintain dexterity in cold water.
Earplugs – Prevents cold water from entering the ears, reducing the risk of ear infections.
Tow float – Increases visibility and provides a rest point if needed.
Dry bag – Keeps your valuables safe and dry. Some can double as a tow float.
Whistle – A simple but effective safety tool for signaling.
Safety buoy or float – Especially important if swimming alone or in unfamiliar waters.
Waterproof watch – Helps you keep track of time in colder water.
Changing robe/dryrobe – Ideal for quick changes and staying warm after a swim.
Insulated bottle with hot drink – Helps you warm up quickly post-swim.
Warm layers and beanie hat – Essential for the immediate post-swim rewarming phase.
First Aid Kit – For minor cuts, scrapes, or emergencies.
Flip Flops – For walking to and from the water.
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) – For remote or solo swims, a waterproof PLB can be a lifesaver.
Buddy system or Swim group – Not gear, but one of the most important safety considerations.
How to stay safe wild swimming
Wild swimming or open water swimming poses its risks, so it’s important to be aware of the dangers. Open water is usually cold and may be very deep, and wild swimming in rivers and lakes may include debris such as trolleys and slippery.
Here are my top 10 outdoor swimming water safety tips
- Check the current – if swimming in the sea, ALWAYS check the currents and winds
- Gauge the depth – always check the depth of the outdoor water spaces you are swimming
- Watch out for reeds in rivers – they can be dangerous if you get stuck
- Don’t get too cold – summer is the best time to go wild swimming near me, but if you do go in winter, be prepared
- Don’t ever swim alone! – always swim with someone, even if they’re not in the water and on land
- Avoid cold water shock – remove damp swimwear quickly and put on dryrobe or towel
- Have an escape plan – always know your escape routes in case you get in to trouble
- Cover open wounds – if you must swim whilst you have an injury ensure its covered to avoid infection
- Don’t go away from the shore – it’s easier for things to go wrong when you are further away
- Be careful of children – children can also wild swim, but they must wear a good quality buoyancy aid
75 Best Wild Swimming Near Me
There are so many amazing places to go wild swimming near me in the UK, and these are just ten of my favourites.
If you want to find more wild swimming spots, check out the Outdoor Swimming Society who have created a really cool interactive wild swim map where you can search for wild swimming spots all over the world and contribute your own secret wild swimming spots.
And remember if you are near the sea, you don’t need rivers and lakes and instead can do wild swimming in the ocean. You could team a swim up with coastal walks near me and spend the day by the coast.
Looking for a group to go wild swimming with? Check out Outdoor Adventure Girls!
1. Bude Sea Pool, Cornwall, England
Designed and Built by Dean Wronowski, Bude Sea Pool, Cornwall is a semi-natural pool and safe haven for beginners to wild swimming. Built in the 1930’s the pool gently fills up via the ocean waves and is a beautiful spot to go wild swimming. It is managed by local charity, Friends of Bude Sea Pool (FoBSP).
Location: Summerleaze Beach, Bude, EX23 8HN
2. Hampstead Heath Bathing Ponds, London, England
One of my favourite spots to go wild swimming is located just outside the centre of London at Hampstead Heath. There are lots of ponds here, but only three that are open to wild swimming. There’s the mixed pond, and the separate ladies and gents ponds. They are beautiful places to swim, read a book and watch the world go by and they’ve even made it into many films over the years.
Location: Hampstead Heath, London, NW5 1QR
Hampstead Heath Ponds
3. River Ouse, Buckinghamshire, England
I’ve added this one as it’s only down the road from me in Milton Keynes, down the end of a car park. In the summer this place is heaving with families and friends having BBQs and relaxing. You can park in the car park or in the village and walk down. Or you can also jump in near the lock and weir, and the green meadow. This is one of my favourite places to go wild swimming near me
Location: 4 Horn Ln, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1HZ
4. Grantchester Meadows, Cambridge, England
When I lived in Cambridge this was one of my favourite places to go wild swimming near me. The area of Grantchester is pretty quintessentially English anyway, so add it a river and warm summers, and it might feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Grantchester Meadows was allegedly visited by Lord Byron, so you’re in good company.
Location: Grantchester, Cambridge, CB3 9NE
5. Three Shires Head, Peak District
Three Shire Heads is the point on Axe Edge Moor where Cheshire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire meet and here you will also find the most perfect wild swimming spot, with it’s own waterfall and everything. Even on a cloudy day it’s the perfect spot for a stop mid-hike to have a picnic, go for a paddle and even have a swim if you are brave.
In addition to this amazing spot, check out the best wild swimming spots in Youlgreave.
6. Llyn Padarn, Snowdonia National Park, Wales
What an iconic spot for a swim! At the foot of Mount Snowdon, near the village of Llanberis, you will find the amazing Llyn Padarn. A glacial lake, it’s a popular spot and well known in the local area with families. The lake has a range of places to swim, including shallow lagoons, to deeper waters for more confident swimmers.
Location: A4244, Caernarfon, LL55 3NP
7. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Its true wild swimming doesn’t get much better than this. One of the most magical places I have ever gone wild swimming and it’s for good reason.
Fairy Pools Skye
Other recommended blog posts
- Best wild swimming in the Peak District
- Best wild swimming in Dartmoor National Park
- Best wild swimming near London
- Best wild swimming spots in Wales
- Best wild swimming in the Lake District
- Best wild swimming spots in The Yorkshire Dales
8. West Beach, Berneray, Isles of Harris, Outer Hebrides
The stunning clear waters of Berneray Sands is what has attracted thousands to its beaches every year. Found on the Isle of Berneray in the Outer Hebrides, the beach is stunning and you can enjoy incredible views across to the mountains of Harris. You can swim, wander the sand dunes and admire the island’s colourful landscape.
Location: Berneray, Isle of North Uist, HS6 5BD
9. River Barle, Simonsbath, Somerset, England
Located just outside Simonsbath, the best wild swimming near me, has to be past the Bluebell Wood to the secluded pools.
Location: Simonsbath, Minehead, TA24 7SH
10. Mermaid’s Pool, Derbyshire
Nestled on the slopes of Kinder Scout, Mermaid’s Pool is a mysterious and atmospheric wild swimming spot steeped in local folklore. Legend has it that the pool is inhabited by a mermaid who appears at midnight on Easter Eve, granting immortality to those she deems worthy. The waters are said to be slightly salty, a rare feature for a mountain tarn.
Location: Near Kinder Downfall, Hayfield, High Peak SK22 2LJ
11. Lake Windermere, Lake District
Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, offering stunning views of the surrounding fells and forests. With its calm waters and ample swimming opportunities, it’s a favorite among wild swimmers and those looking to explore the beauty of the Lake District from the water. Whether you prefer a leisurely swim or an adventurous dip, there are several access points around the lake, including the quieter sections near Ambleside and Bowness-on-Windermere.
Location: Lake Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3JH
Have you been to the Lake District? If you want to do some hiking you could also go up highest mountain in England, Scafell Pike.
12. River Wharfe, Ilkley, West Yorkshire
This stretch of the River Wharfe is the UK’s first to receive official bathing water status, ensuring its cleanliness for swimmers. It’s a beautiful spot if you live in Yorkshire and one of our favourite wild swim spots!
Location: Riverside Gardens, Ilkley, LS29 9EU
13. Pedn Vounder, Treen, West Cornwall
Pedn Vounder is a secluded gem on Cornwall’s rugged Penwith Peninsula, often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. With its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic granite cliffs, it’s a slice of paradise that feels more like the Caribbean than the Cornish coast.
Address: Pedn Vounder Beach, Treen, Cornwall TR19 6LQ
14. Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Bordered by beautiful beaches and craggy rocks, the lagoon is another amazing places to go wild swimming near me. It used to be a slate quarry till 1910 but then was abandoned. Today it’s an adventure centre for diving, coasteering and diving. It hosted the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series visited the Blue Lagoon in 2012 – the first time the event had ever been held in the UK.
Location: Abereiddy, Haverfordwest, SA62 6DT
Blue Lagoon Abereiddy
15. Buckstones Jump, Lake District
A secluded plunge pool in the Rydal Valley, offering clear blue waters and scenic views over Rydal Beck and Lake Windermere.
Location: Rydal Road, Ambleside LA22 9SD
16. Gaddings Dam, West Yorkshire
Known as the “highest beach in Britain,” this reservoir near Todmorden features a sandy shore and is a popular spot for year-round wild swimming.
Location: Gaddings Dam, Lumbutts Rd, Todmorden OL14 6JJ
17. Falls of Falloch, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
A picturesque waterfall with a deep pool beneath, offering a refreshing swim amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Location: A82, Crianlarich FK20 8RX
18. Derwentwater, Keswick
Derwentwater is a breathtaking lake surrounded by the dramatic fells of the Lake District, making it one of the most picturesque wild swimming spots in the UK. With multiple entry points and small islands to explore, it’s ideal for both leisurely swims and longer distances. The crystal-clear waters and panoramic views make it a must-visit for any outdoor swimmer.
Location: Lake Road, Keswick CA12 5DJ
19. Lake 32, The Cotswolds, England
If you are more triathlon than Sunday swimmer, Lake 32 is the best place to get your swim on. Located at the Cotswold country park, Lake and Beach is a go-to swim spot for more confident and competitive swimmers. The lake is approx 6ft in-depth, and has buoyed courses of 200, 400, 750 and 1,500 metres.
Location: Spratsgate Ln, Cirencester, GL7 6DF
20. Portmoon Bothy, Causeway Coast
A remote spot along the Causeway Coast, offering dramatic sea views and opportunities for coastal swimming.
Location: Ballintoy Harbour, Ballintoy, Ballycastle BT54 6NA
21. Watkin Path Pools, Snowdonia
Natural pools along the Watkin Path on Mount Snowdon, offering clear waters perfect for a mid-hike dip.
Location: Watkin Path Car Park, Nantgwynant, Caernarfon LL55 4NH
22. Rydal Water, Lake District
Rydal Water is a serene and sheltered lake nestled between Grasmere and Ambleside in the Lake District. Its calm waters make it a perfect spot for wild swimming, especially in the early morning when mist drifts across the surface. With a backdrop of lush woodland and the picturesque Rydal Mount, it’s a swim with a view.
Location: Rydal Water, Ambleside LA22 9SD
23. Treyarnon Bay Tidal Pool, Cornwall
This natural tidal pool offers a safe and enclosed sea swimming experience, perfect for families and those new to wild swimming. The pool fills with seawater at high tide, providing a unique swimming spot.
Location: Treyarnon Bay, Padstow PL28 8JR
24. Kailpot Crag, Ullswater, Cumbria
Located on the quieter eastern side of Ullswater, Kailpot Crag offers deep, calm waters ideal for swimmers of all abilities. The area is less crowded, even on sunny days, providing a peaceful swimming experience.
Location: Near Sandwick, Penrith, CA10 2NA
25. Marlow Open Water Swim, Little Marlow
Marlow Open Water Swim offers a managed and safe environment for open water swimmers, set within a beautiful lake surrounded by greenery. It’s perfect for those looking to dip their toes into wild swimming for the first time or for seasoned swimmers wanting to train. With lifeguards on duty and designated swim routes, it’s a great spot to build confidence in open water.
Location: Westhorpe Lake, Westhorpe Farm Lane, Little Marlow, SL7 3RQ
Grantchester Meadows, Cambridge, England
Looking for a group to go wild swimming with? Check out Outdoor Adventure Girls!
Other wild swimming spots in the UK
26. Warleigh Weir, Somerset
27. Willen Lake, Milton Keynes
28. Tellisford, Somerset
29. Bicester Performance Lake
30. River Wyre, Lancashire
31. Cromhall Quarry, Gloucestershire
32. Beckenham Place Park Swimming Lake, London
33. Durdle Door, Dorset
34. River Isis, Oxford
35. Clevedon Marine Lake, Bristol
36. Port Meadow, Oxford
37. Dundas Aquaduct, Bath
38. West Lydford, Somerset
39. Black Moss Pot (Langstrath)
40. Marsh Lock, Henley
41. Buttermere, Lake District
42. Linhope Spout, Northumberland
43. Llyn y Fan Fach, Brecon Beacons
44. Portstewart Strand, County Londonderry
45. Farleigh Hungerford, Somerset
46. Llynnau Mymbyr, Snowdonia
47. The Warren, Hay-on-Wye
48. Taplow Lakeside, Taplow
49. Dancing Ledge, Dorset
50. Cullever Steps, Dartmoor (check out our Dartmoor pubs recommendations!)
51. Clifton Hampden, Abingdon
52. Durdle Door, Dorset
53. River Wyre, Lancashire
54. Colonna Beach, Cornwall
55. Llyn Glaslyn, Snowdonia
56. Stainforth Force, North Yorkshire
57. Serpentine Lido, London
58. Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands
59. Burton Bradstock, Dorset
60. Llyn Cau, Snowdonia
61. Waveney River, Suffolk
62. Cromhall Quarry, Gloucestershire
63. The River Dart, Devon
64. Pool Bridge, Yorkshire
65. Blenheim Park, Oxfordshire
66. St. Ninian’s Isle, Shetland Islands
67. Loch Morlich, Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
68. River Avon, Bath
69. Cwm Idwal, Snowdonia, Wales
70. Woolacombe Bay, Devon
71. Loch Ness, Highlands, Scotland
72. Porthcawl, Bridgend, South Wales
73. Fairhaven Lake, Lancashire
74. Holy Island, Northumberland
75. The Serpentine, Hyde Park, London
Or if you fancy something a little less wild, check out these Lidos
- Hinksey Heated Outdoor Pool
- Chipping Norton Lido
- Wycombe Rye Lido
- Chesham Open Air Pool
- Thames Lido in Reading
Groups
Looking for a group to go wild swimming with? Check out Outdoor Adventure Girls!
It really is worth joining the Outdoor Swimming Society as they have 25,000 members and it’s the biggest wild swimming group in the UK and it’s free to join.
Resources
Check out some of these books on wild swimming too, if you want to learn even more.
- We like Wild Swim, by Kate Rew
- Wild Swimming by Daniel Start
- Wild Swimming: Hidden Beaches by Daniel Start
- Wild Swimming Walks (Dartmoor and South Devon) by Sophie Pierce and Matt Newbury
- Wild Swimming Walks (London) by Margaret Dickinson
If you on a bigger trip exploring more of Europe check out my guides to France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and United Kingdom.
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Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.
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Sophie X
