Dive in with Wild Swimming
2 February 2023
Wild swimming is the perfect way to reconnect with nature, soak up glorious landscapes and enjoy a whole host of health benefits.
Britain offers some of the most idyllic spots to take the plunge. From lakes, rivers, seas to lochs, waterfalls and scenic waterways, there are a number of magical hidden gems to explore.
Rising in popularity in recent years, there is no doubt that wild swimming is a growing trend, and one that shows no signs of drying up.
Wild swimmers vary from those looking to take a refreshing dip on a balmy summer’s day to the more intrepid who enjoy an invigorating winter’s plunge. There is one thing they all agree on: wild swimming is an uplifting tonic for the mind and body that is proven to raise fitness levels, circulation and, crucially, to increase endorphins. As cold water sends impulses to the brain due to the change in temperature, many will see an increased sense of happiness and energy levels as these feel-good endorphins are released. Swimming also provides a perfect full body low-intensity workout that’s ideal for those with injuries or arthritis, while a variety of studies have shown that swimming may help with blood pressure and controlling blood sugars.
As well as these amazing health benefits, wild swimming in rivers and lakes also offers people the chance to take in natural beauty spots from a new and immersive perspective.
With all this in mind, it is no surprise that people have been flocking to wild bodies of water, from Hampstead’s famous ponds to some of Britain’s most magnificent beaches. While these might be the first spots for many to dip their toe into wild swimming, we’ve selected five hidden gems from all corners that deliver on wild and wonderful waterholes, stunning surroundings and fascinating backstories.
Llyn Tegid, Snowdonia National Park
Five miles long and backing onto a small beach, Wales’ largest natural freshwater glacial lake is famed for its incredible mountain scenery and deep, crystal clear waters. With a shoreline lined with ancient oak trees, water temperatures in this mile-wide lake range between a very pleasing 14-18 degrees Celsius, so no wetsuits needed. While legend has it that there’s a sunken town beneath the surface, the Welsh version of Atlantis has yet to be discovered…
Post-Dip Tip: Indulge at nearby Palé Hall Hotel, a restful destination featuring individually styled bedrooms dotted around estate grounds, plus a sumptuous selection of dining options from Head Chef Gareth Stevenson. Just what’s needed after a bracing bout of wild swimming!
Easdale Slate Quarries, Scotland
Take a dip like no other at the magnificent slate quarries of Easdale. Once the centre of the Scottish slate industry, this small car-free island can be found 16 miles from Oban and is the smallest inhabited island of the inner Hebrides with just 71 houses.
With one former slate quarry now filled with water, the most striking part is the bright turquoise hue that awaits due to the tiny reflective limestone crystals in the water and only adding to the sense of pure magic, this spot is great for both new and experienced wild swimmers. Shallow at one end and thought to be up to 90m at its deepest point, one great benefit of this enclosed body of water is not only can you skip the cold Atlantic chill, but it heats quickly in the summer sun.
Hardraw Force Waterfall, Yorkshire
Lights, camera, action: this showstopping spot was made famous in the much-loved 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. It may be a while since Kevin Costner last stopped by, but this is a location that continues to deliver on Hollywood glamour. While there are many incredible swimming spots in the Yorkshire Dales, the Hardraw Force Waterfall is 100ft high, making it England’s largest unbroken waterfall and is definitely one to put on any wild swimmer’s to-do list.
Post-Dip Tip: Treat yourself with a stay at chic and contemporary Yorebridge House. The twelve rooms are individually designed, many of which have outdoor hot tubs - perfect for winding down after a day spent exploring the stunning local scenery.
Compton Lock, Winchester
This spot has become so popular with locals that the council have built wooden steps to increase accessibility and help swimmers get in and out safely, and it’s clear to see why. Just three miles south of Winchester and part of the River Itchen, which helped to transport the stone for Winchester Cathedral from Caen in France when it was the capital city of England, this pool of water is surrounded by the prettiest of wild meadows and is the picture-perfect place for a paddle. The shallow areas are ideal for tentative beginners, while also being deep enough to enjoy a proper swim. What’s more, animal-loving swimmers will be happy to share the path to the pool with the local grazing cows.
Crazy Well Pool, Dartmoor, Devon
Sitting high on the moors and hidden away from view, Crazy Well is a large man-made body of water that’s over a mile long and thought to be a flooded tin mine shaft. Given that the water is a little murky, this is a place best suited for more confident swimmers and those who don’t mind not being able to see the bottom as they do their lengths.
Post-Dip Tip: Relax at historic Bovey Castle. Nestled in the rolling valleys of Dartmoor National Park, it offers unrivalled luxury with award-winning dining, an indulgent spa and a wide array of activities from falconry to clay pigeon shooting.
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