1. River Isis, Port Meadow, Oxford
Resembling a scene from a Gainsborough landscape, Port Meadow is a vast common land by the Thames, known locally as the Isis. Popular for swimming on warm days, prime spots include Fiddler’s Island in central Oxford or Godstow and Wolvercote upstream, where remnants of a former bathing area can be found.
2. Linhope Spout, Northumberland
Discover an enchanting wild swim setting with a fairytale plunge pool, an 18-meter waterfall cascading into it. Nestled within a wooded glade in Northumberland National Park, this foaming pool offers a perfect spot for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
3. Falls of Falloch, Crianlarich, Scotland
Nestled under the snow-capped Ben Lui, this outdoor swimming spot boasts a ten-meter waterfall and surrounded by woodland. Located near the West Highland Way, accessible through a bumpy farm track, the circular plunge pool, locally known as Rob Roy’s Bathtub, provides a tranquil setting for a relaxing hour or two in the cool water.
4. Goldiggins Quarry, Minions, Cornwall
Hidden in the rugged charm of Bodmin Moor, an old quarry transforms into an enticing swimming spot. Despite its inaccessibility by car, reaching it requires a trek from the highest village in Cornwall, Minions. The journey across windy moorland, adorned with eccentric rock formations, proves rewarding. The jewel-bright pool, fed by a nearby spring, offers crystal-clear waters. For the more adventurous, the high quarry cliffs beckon for exhilarating jumps into the expansive pool below.
5. Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, Margate
Margate's hidden tidal pool remains concealed during high tide, only revealing its concrete walls when the sea retreats. In the winter, this four-acre enclosed section of Walpole Bay attracts dedicated pro swimmers braving the chilly waters from the North Sea. When the sun emerges, even the less adventurous take the plunge.
6. Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Skip the trip to Iceland; Wales has its own captivating version of the Blue Lagoon. Formed by the sea flooding a former quarry, this glistening, seemingly bottomless pool takes on a mesmerizing azure hue in the sunlight. Nestled amid sandy beaches and craggy cliffs, the lagoon's depth invites thrilling dives from high cliffs, often part of organized group activities like coasteering and kayaking.
7. Loch Morlich, Highlands
Scotland's open-access laws allow for swimming in most of its scenic lochs, and Morlich is an excellent starting point. Nestled in the foothills of the country's largest mountain range, it boasts Britain's highest beach – a sandy expanse perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or taking a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the loch. For water sports enthusiasts, the on-site activity center offers paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes.
8. Hampstead Heath Ponds, London
Escape the heat in London by immersing yourself in Hampstead Heath's vast green spaces and taking a refreshing plunge into one of its three swimming ponds (ladies, men, and mixed). Originally clay pits dammed off, these ponds, managed by the City of London Corporation, remain open throughout the year. Enjoyed by a dedicated local community, the ponds faced a potential closure in 2004, prompting regular swimmers to take legal action and successfully preserve this cherished London institution.
9. Kailpot Crag, Ullswater, Cumbria
Amid the bustling wild swimming season in the Lake District, Kailpot Crag offers a quieter experience on Ullswater's east side, away from the main road. Accessible by walking from Sandwick or Howtown, reach the high rocky cliff for a thrilling jump into the tranquil, deep waters. Alternatively, a small lakeside beach provides a more relaxed entry point.
10. Appletreewick, River Wharfe, Yorkshire
In the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the charmingly quaint village lives up to its idyllic name. Venture down a track road opposite the New Inn, away from the picturesque stone cottages, to reach the River Wharfe. There, rocks and shingle line the way to a pool with a small rocky island and gentle rapids. For a more daring experience, try the rope swing hanging from one of the waterside trees.
Know a great place to go wild swimming? Add it in the comments below.
