Wild Swimming Spots in the UK
From shimmering lakes to tranquil rivers, wild swimming is liberating, refreshing, and exciting. We’ve put together a list of the most beautiful places to go swimming in the wild in the UK.
Remember that swimming in open water is never risk free. Do your research, take precautions, and don’t swim alone.
1. Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire
Located among the rocky cliffs of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the Blue Lagoon is one of the most picturesque settings for wild swimming. Nestled close to the idyllic Welsh village of Abereiddi, Blue Lagoon is a former slate quarry, which is what gives the water its incredible colour.
This is a popular place for coasteering, rock climbing and hosts events like the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Our St Davids Club Site is just minutes away from the Blue Lagoon and surrounding coast.
2. River Dart, Staverton, Devon
Winding through the heart of Devon, from Dartmoor to Dartmouth, the River Dart is an ideal location for a swim. Catch the steam railway from Littlehempston to the idyllic village of Staverton; home to a 300m stretch of water ideal for lap swimming. Enter the water down the footpath between the railway station and the old mill; the swimming spot is opposite the weir.
Our California Cross Club Site in South Hams is a brilliant base to explore all that Devon has to offer.
3. Grantchester Meadows, Cambridgeshire
Passing through the university city of Cambridge, the River Cam winds through some of the country’s most idyllic towns and villages.Situated in the quaint village of the same name, Grantchester Meadows is a green open space with the River Cam flowing merrily through the centre. The meandering river is navigated simultaneously by swimmers and punters. Dive in from the deep banks, or wade in from the shallow banks near the Orchard Tea Garden.
Our Cambridge Club Site is the perfect base to explore the city.
4. Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland
Thought to be the inspiration for Narnia in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the Mourne Mountains are an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The mountains are home to shimmering loughs, ideal for wild swimming. Framed by several peaks including Slieve Loughshannagh and Slieve Doan, Lough Shannagh is a wide-open lake with cold, clear water and a stunning backdrop. Our Delamont Country Park Club Site is our wonderful campsite in County Down with plenty to do nearby, including the Mourne Mountains.
5. Skye’s Fairy Pools, Scotland
Located near the village of Carbost, the Isle of Skye’s Fairy Pools are mystical rock pools fed by a series of waterfalls from the Cuillin Mountains. Popular among wild swimmers, the pools are also one of the island’s most popular tourist attractions.
Submerge yourself in this fairytale setting and take a dip in crystal-clear waters tinged with green and pink. Swim beneath the underwater archway connecting two pools, here you’ll see the rock face encrusted with quartz. Stay on the Isle of Skye on our Skye Club Site.
6. River Stour, Fordwich, Kent
Nestled beside the river, Fordwich is a remnant market town often labelled as England’s smallest town. The river is at first open and sunny, but after two miles becomes wooded and secluded. The water is so clear you can see fish swimming alongside you. Our Canterbury Club Site is just a few minutes away and offers wonderful access to the coast and local attractions.
7. River Trent, Anchor Church, Ingleby, Derbyshire
Passing through the northern midlands and emptying in the North Sea, the Trent is the third-longest river in the United Kingdom and home to some of the best spots for swimming.
Close to the hamlet of Ingleby, the alluring caves of Anchor Church overlook a quiet lagoon popular with wild swimmers. Access the water from the southern edge and swim lengths of approximately 100m. Stay on our Conkers Club Site to enjoy a break away in Derbyshire.
8. Treyarnon Rock Pool, Cornwall
Located on the Cornish coastline, Treyarnon Bay is a small sandy beach, bordered by low cliffs and dunes.
Along the north edge of the beach, the rock pool is refilled each high tide with natural fresh seawater. Take a dip in this tidal pool, approximately 8ft deep, and marvel at the panoramic views. Enjoy a break in Cornwall on our Tregurrian Club Site.
9. Windermere, Cumbria
No article about watersports in the UK is complete without mentioning at least one of the lakes in the wonderful Lake District National Park. Windermere is one of the most popular lakes for swimming and with our Bowness-on-Windermere Club Site right on the shoreline, you can pitch up and explore straight away.
10. Linhope Spout, Northumberland
In the beautiful Breamish Valley you'll find this spectacular waterfall, tumbling into the pool below which makes a wonderful spot for a dip. The surrounding forest is a wildlife hot spot and red squirrels can often be spotted so make sure to keep your eyes peeled.
Our Dunstan Hill Club Site is a wonderful place to pitch up and explore the best attractions and beauty spots that Northumberland has to offer.