Love Exploring - The UK's secret wild swimming spots you didn’t know existed

Posted on 20 August, 2021

Written by and for Love Exploring

Maybe you’re a seasoned open-water swimmer, or perhaps you’re looking to dip your toe in this thrilling activity during the warmer months. Whatever your motive, there are some stunning UK wild swimming spots, from secluded rocky pools to unspoiled hillside lakes. Here we reveal some of our favourites. Don’t forget to check out Swim England’s advice for open-water swimming before you go.

Lady Falls, Brecon Beacons, Wales

Also known as Sgwd Gwladys Waterfall, this stunning 33-foot (10m) cascade in Wales’ Brecon Beacons is well worth the trip. Surrounded by dense woodland, the wild swimming spot is about as tranquil as they come. Don’t be tempted to dive straight in from the top of the waterfall, as the water can be shallow – your best bet is to swim underneath it. Afterwards, head to the Angel Inn at Pontneddfechan to warm up and get some post-swim refreshments.

Cuckmere, East Sussex, England

Head to the picturesque Cuckmere Valley in East Sussex for some seriously serene swimming. Easily accessible from Seaford train station, there are two safe options for those wishing to take a dip. Either opt for one of the large, shallow oxbow lakes, which aren’t affected by the river’s currents, or check out Cuckmere Haven, the point where the river joins the English Channel and is flanked by the chalky Seven Sisters cliffs.

Kisdon Force, North Yorkshire, England

A secret waterfall tucked away in lush green woodland – what more could you want? Kisdon Force comprises two falls with drops of 39 feet (12m) and 16 feet (5m), with two plunge pools that are ideal for open-water swimming. The first is wide, open and a bit of a sun trap. The other is dark, deep and freezing at any time of year. Take your pick. You’ll find the pools less than an hour's drive from Sedbergh.

Porth Wen, Anglesey, Wales

Anglesey has lots of brilliant coves and secret swimming spots, but none are quite as atmospheric as Porth Wen. Accessed via a narrow, little-used path, the hidden bay is home to an abandoned brickworks, which certainly makes a unique backdrop for a swim. Plus, there’s even a rock arch you can swim under. To get there, take the first right after Bull Bay – it's a couple of miles (3.2km) away – and then park up by the footpath.

Stoke Newington West Reservoir Centre, London, England

London might not seem the most obvious location for wild swimming but there are a few spots to dive in (not the River Thames, though, which is forbidden). The West Reservoir Centre in Stoke Newington, northeast London, is a lesser-known gem. You won’t have the reservoir to yourself, but it’s a safe place to dip your toe into the world of outdoor swimming without leaving the city.

Wey Navigation, Surrey, England

A tributary of the Thames, the River Wey is certainly the way to go for a chilled-out swimming spot in Surrey. There are two locations which are known for wild swimming: a sandy stretch near Guildford, and a slightly quieter stretch near Godalming (close to The Manor Inn). Both are utterly picturesque.

Grantchester Meadows, Cambridgeshire, England

Frequently named one of the best wild swimming spots in the country, Grantchester Meadows has managed to stay relatively quiet and unspoiled. The 1.2-mile (2km) stretch of meadows along the River Cam in Cambridgeshire has a multitude of swimming opportunities. When you're done, stop for a warming brew at the famous Orchard Tea Garden (which is just as idyllic as it sounds).

Soar Mill Cove, Devon, England

It doesn’t get much more secluded than Soar Mill Cove, only accessible by a steep, narrow footpath. A tiny inlet just off the South West Coast Path, the sheltered spot is the perfect place for a wild swim, surrounded by the craggy South Devon cliffs. Since it’s so remote, you’re unlikely to meet many other people here, although if you’re lucky you might see a seal or two.

Dancing Ledge, Dorset, England

Not just a great place to scout out fossils, Dorset’s Jurassic Coast has some stunning swimming spots too. Dancing Ledge got its name from the way in which waves seem to dance over the edge of the magical-looking tidal pool. To get there, park up at Durnford Drove in Swanage and make your way down to Dancing Ledge by foot

Llyn Cau, Snowdonia, Wales

Putting the “wild” into wild swimming, this deep-blue glacial lake is located at the base of a 1,312-foot (400m) mountain, around a 20-minute walk from the nearest car park. Once you’ve made it there though, it’s more than worth it for the peace and seclusion. Bear in mind that the walk is steep, so it might be a good idea to bring walking poles.

Mermaid’s Pool, Staffordshire, England

Would you dare dive into a pool that’s (apparently) got an evil mermaid in it? According to local legend, the mythical creature has been spotted swimming around in Mermaid’s Pool (also known as Blakemere Pond), and there are even stories of her drowning travellers in the pool. It’s said that birds refuse to fly over it too. If you’re not put off by the spooky stories, this tranquil Staffordshire spot is one of the best places to get your wild swimming fix.

Lumb Hole Falls, West Yorkshire, England

Locals to Hebden Bridge might well know of Lumb Hole Falls, but the beautiful semi-circle spot with its mossy waterfalls is harder to find if you aren't familiar with the area. It's located around a 40-minute walk north of Shackleton and when you get there, you’ll be rewarded with an idyllic plunge pool, surrounded by rock ledges. The water depth can vary, so it's best to avoid jumping in. It's also worth packing an Ordnance Survey map so you don’t get lost.

Cotswold Water Park, Wiltshire/Gloucestershire, England

An ideal place for newbies and less-experienced wild swimmers, Cotswolds Water Park is set amid stunning countryside, straddling Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. The 42-square mile (109sq km) water park contains 180 lakes, providing ample opportunity for swimmers of all abilities and ages to get stuck in. Plus there are changing rooms and showers too.

River Dart, Newbridge, England

The 47-mile (75km) River Dart is a stalwart spot for outdoor swimmers. But, as with all river swimming, it’s only recommended for experienced, highly competent swimmers. The best spots are Lady’s Pool in Newbridge and the section of the river’s lower course, where you can swim into the sea from the river.

Stanley Ghyll Force, Cumbria, England

Stanley Ghyll Force in the Lake District is a huge waterfall, plunging 60-foot (18m) down a steep canyon, and you’ll probably hear it before you see. It's situated in Eskdale in the Lake District, and its plunge pool has become a hit with daring types looking to splash about under the falls. However, with its steep, slippery surroundings and deep waters, this one is best left to advanced swimmers.

Mullion Cove, Cornwall, England

While holiday-goers are splashing around Cornwall's beautiful but busy Kynance Cove, smart swimmers will take a scenic stroll to lesser-known Mullion on the Lizard Peninsula. The walk between the two coves takes a little under two hours and you'll be richly rewarded. There’s a small fishing harbour that’s popular, but you’ll probably want to swim out to the rocky beach. Head through the cave if it’s low tide. It comes highly recommended by the Outdoor Swimming Society.

Easdale Island, Slate Islands, Argyll and Bute, Scotland

There’s nothing easy about getting to Easdale, but it’s well worth the trip. Visitors should take the passenger ferry (the island is car-free) from Ellenabeich on Seil island to the tiny, 25-hectare isle. The L-shaped quarry has crystal-clear, perfectly still water that acts as a mirror for the surrounding rocky peaks. It’s also home to the annual World Stone Skimming Championships, which typically takes place each September.

Linhope Spout, Northumberland, England

You won’t exactly be able to swim lengths in this circular plunge pool, which is just around 6-foot (2m) wide. Yet what it lacks in area it more than makes up for in depth. The best bet for visitors is to park up at Hartside, from which point the road becomes a private road. It’s roughly a 45-minute walk to Linhope Spout from there. For those who can’t bear to take the plunge (literally), there are shallower paddling areas in a nearby beck too.

Pedn Vounder, Cornwall

One of the reasons that Pedn Vounder beach in Cornwall remains so unspoiled is that there’s no direct path to it. There are two ways to get there: by boat, or by scrambling down the steep hillside. It’s worth the trouble, though, for beautiful water and a secluded view of the Minack Theatre, an open-air theatre carved into the cliffs. The bay has sandbars which become shallow lagoons when the tide is high, so be sure to check tide times before you go.

Wastwater, Cumbria, England

Quieter than the Lake District’s popular Windermere and Ullswater, Wastwater doesn’t hold back on jaw-dropping scenery. Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, overlooks the glistening water. The best way to take it in? With a swim through the (decidedly refreshing) water. As the deepest lake in England, this one’s for confident swimmers only.

Stair Hole, Dorset, England

Tucked along the coast near Durdle Door, this lesser-known cove is perfect for a dip. Easily accessible from Weymouth and Bournemouth, the spot boasts catacombs of caves and tunnels, which make it perfect for snorkelling. Do keep an eye on weather conditions and avoid swimming when the waves are especially strong.

Murlough Bay, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s stunning Antrim Coast is best known for its rugged geology, with formations including Giant’s Causeway drawing in the crowds. But sheltered within these storied cliffs are plenty of little coves and Murlough Bay, a sandy beach between Fair Head and Torr Head, is one of the finest.

Unst, Shetland Isles

This is the most northerly island in the UK, so it goes without saying that a wetsuit is a must if you’re swimming here. Skaw is the northernmost beach on the island (and therefore in Britain) and getting there is pretty simple – just hop on one of the daily ferries from Toft on the mainland or Gutcher on Yell Island. Be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes and post-swim refreshments.

Bryher, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall, England

Just half a mile (0.8km) wide, the island of Bryher is an idyllic spot for wild swimmers. Head to Popplestones Bay for white sands and a sheltered swim. Be warned, though, you might be off the coast of Cornwall, but the water here is always cold. Boats to Bryer leave from various points of Cornwall and the Scilly Isles – Penzance, Land's End and St Mary’s all have connections.

Falling Foss, North Yorkshire, England

It takes a little scrambling to get down the steep path to Falling Foss, located six miles (10km) south of Whitby. But when you arrive, you’ll be rewarded by the sight of a gorgeous 30-foot (9m) high cascade trickling down the rock face into a plunge pool. It’s advisable to check the water depth before you swim and wear shoes with good grip for the walk.

Houghton Mill, Cambridgeshire, England

The tranquil stretch of the River Great Ouse at Houghton Mill is a favourite spot for taking a dip. With its calm waters and shallower areas for paddling with little ones, it’s good for novices and seasoned swimmers alike – just avoid swimming directly in front of the mill itself. With nearby tea rooms and, of course, the 18th-century working mill to explore, there’s plenty to do here besides getting wet.

Prince's Beach, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

The tiny Isle of Eriskay in the Outer Hebrides is home to the historic and beautiful Prince’s Beach. It was here that Bonnie Prince Charlie landed after his attempted invasion of France in the 18th century. Nowadays, you can channel your inner warrior by taking on its freezing cold depths (a wetsuit is a must) before drying off and getting something to eat at the island’s only pub, Am Politician. You can reach the isle by taking a ferry from Oban on the mainland.

River Derwent, Chatsworth House, Derbyshire

For a wild swimming experience with a stunning backdrop, head to the stately grounds of Chatsworth House. From here, you can easily take a dip in the River Derwent – its chilly waters are perfect for cooling off after walking round the panoramic surrounding peaks. Go early in the morning before the crowds start arriving, then have a picnic before exploring the historic house.

River Stour, East Anglia, England

The River Stour has it all: charming waterside villages, picturesque walking routes and (of course) excellent places to take a dip. However, do bear in mind that river swimming isn’t recommended for the inexperienced, since it can involve slippery surfaces and strong currents. Competent swimmers can head to the mooring platform in Fordwich, where you can bathe surrounded by wildlife and weeping willows, before heading to the nearby Fordwich Arms for some much-needed refreshments.

Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales

A disused quarry area turned world-class swimming destination, Blue Lagoon, located just north of Abereiddy Beach, has long mesmerised visitors with its electric-blue waters. It’s also a favourite with watersports enthusiasts: the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series has taken place here several times, and kayaking and coasteering are highly popular too. It’s best avoided at weekends, when it can get pretty busy.

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