Wild swimming has become a huge hit with Brits in recent years, as the UK's lakes, rivers and natural pools have been attracting those looking to escape crowded beaches and swimming pools.
There are some spectacular places for those who want a regular paddle or are planning a staycation, from beautiful fairy pools with cascading waterfalls, to tidal rock pools with epic views of the British coast.
To give you a helping hand, we've picked out 10 beautiful spots that are popular with open water swimmers, not just because of their water quality but also because of their stunning surroundings.
Check out our top picks below...
(If you've never been wild swimming before, you can find more about the rules and safety guidelines on gov.co.uk ).
Mum snaps up four-night Butlin's break for just £41 using money-saving tricks
1. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
A view of the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye (Getty Images)One of our picks of the UK's most beautiful places, as their name suggests there's something magical about these beautiful crystal-clear blue pools, nestled on the River Brittle in the Isle of Skye. The pools and their cascading waterfalls are popular with wild swimmers, although you'll want to pack a wetsuit as those waters can be COLD.
The Isle of Skye itself was also recently named one of the most beautiful places in the world, so make sure to leave plenty of time pre-dip to meander along the gorgeous trails and take in the views.
2. Hampstead Heath Ponds, London
A Wild Swimming Women's Group take an autumnal swim at Hampstead Heath ponds (Getty Images)Hampstead Heath is home to three outdoor ponds as well as a lido, so you'll be spoiled for choice if you're after a leisurely swim.
Expect picturesque views of Hampstead Heath and its green scenery, although be warned that the waters can be cold.
This summer they're also giving the facilities an upgrade including larger changing rooms and toilets at the Ladies' Pond, so you may see construction workers although the opening times are remaining the same.
You'll need to buy a ticket to swim, and the site has lifeguards on duty as well as changing rooms. Tickets start from £4.50 for a day's session, and there are season passes too. You can find out more and book through cityoflondon.gov.uk.
3. Golitha Falls, Cornwall
Golitha Falls on the River Fowey in Cornwall (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Waterfalls? Check. Surroundings that look like an enchanted forest? Check. You'd be forgiven for thinking you'd stepped into a storybook when arriving at these beautiful falls along the River Fowey, but they're very much a real spot.
The waters are quite shallow and ideal for a paddle, and there is a plunge pool to be found - just be wary of the surrounding rocks as they can get quite slippy.
In recent years the falls have become popular with tourists, so you'll find some nearby facilities including a car park and cafe, if you want to make a full day of it.
4. Abereiddy Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire
The Blue Lagoon in Abereiddy (Getty Images)With its turquoise waters and rugged coastal surroundings, this National Trust site has long drawn in adventurers looking to enjoy watersports.
Staycations boom for half term as Brits look to swerve strikes hitting holidays
You can have a swim - although this will need to be "as part of an organised activity group". (The water is both deep and cold). Kayaking is also a popular sport at this location.
Tourists and locals have warned that the walk there can be a little rocky, so wear some sturdy shoes for the trail.
You can find out more on nationaltrust.org.uk.
One holidaymaker wrote on Tripadvisor: "This was such an amazing place! Some groups of people were with a guide and jumping into the lagoon and others were there to watch. It is a little high up and a bit tricky to get down to the lagoon but not impossible. It was very busy and had to pay to park. It was a beautiful day and families were sat on the rocks with picnics. Some were walking their dogs. I was glad that I had sensible shoes on but some wore flip flops which I’m guessing were locals.".
5. Lake Windermere, Lake District
A view of Bowness-on-Windermere on the shores of Lake Windermere (Getty Images)Lake Windermere is a popular holiday destination for Brits, and the lake waters lend themselves to heaps of activities from boating to paddleboarding and kayaking, as well as swimming. It's recommended that swimmers stick to the shorelines to stay out of the path of boats.
You can find a map with all of the lake's best swimming spots on lakedistrict.gov.uk.
Exploring the Lake District itself just got easier as you can now visit the best places from £2 thanks to a new bus fare cap. For those planning a long weekend break, you may also want to check out our guide to the best places in Cumbria for a dose of inspiration.
6. Keeper’s Pond, Blaenavon
Keeper's Pond, Blaenavon (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Originally built in the early 19th century for the Garnddyrys Forge, nowadays this pond has become a beautiful spot with spectacular views of the Blorenge Mountains. The lake is easy to access and caters to everyone from those who want a day out with a picnic and a swim, to holidaymakers who can make a minibreak of it thanks to the nearby campsites.
7. Lough Shannagh, Northern Ireland
Lough Shannagh in Mourne Mountains (Getty Images)Surrounded by the Mourne Mountains and offering swim-friendly waters, Lough Shannagh is a must-visit for wild swimming - the views while you take a dip will be amazing. There's also a small pebbled beach, as well as plenty of walking trails nearby for adventurers to discover.
8. Loch Ness
Urquhart Castle at Loch Ness (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Loch Ness is open to swimmers year-round (although the water is VERY cold in the winter so pack a wetsuit). One of the most popular spots tends to be the shore facing Urquhart Castle - the views are particularly incredible. Oh, and of course you may want to keep an eye out for the world-famous mythical creature said to inhabit the waters...
9. Llyn Geirionydd
Llyn Geirionydd (Daily Post Wales)Canoeing, kayaking paddleboarding and open water swimming are just some of the activities you can enjoy at Llyn Geirionydd. The waters are crystal-clear and the landscape is lush and green, making this a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
10. Treyarnon Tidal Pool, Cornwall
Treyarnon bay in Cornwall (Getty Images/iStockphoto)This natural tidal pool, which is full at low tide, offers up a chance to take a paddle with some pretty epic views of the Cornish coast, and it can be a popular spot with families. There are also nearby cafes and facilities, making it an ideal spot if you're planning a full day out at the beach.
Never been wild swimming before?
The NHS advises: "For competent swimmers, there's a world of swimming opportunities beyond the pool, such as rivers, lakes and the sea.
"Open water swimming can be great fun as long as you take the necessary safety precautions.
"Avoid swimming alone. Plan your swim: check the water temperature, entry and exit points, currents and tides (where relevant), weather conditions and water cleanliness.
"For more information, including a wild swim map, visit the Outdoor Swimming Society."
You can also find more about the rules and safety guidelines on gov.co.uk.
Think we've missed somewhere amazing off the list? Let us know where in the comments below.
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
